JP7262150B2 - Automotive electronics and programs - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an image recording device capable of continuously recording captured images, such as, for example, a drive recorder or a monitoring device.

Conventionally, for example, image recording devices such as a drive recorder that captures and continuously records the scenery in front of a vehicle and a monitoring device that captures and continuously records a predetermined monitoring area have been known (for example, patent Reference 1). For example, an image recording device such as a drive recorder erases captured images recorded at an older time point to secure a free space and record new captured images as long as the energized state continues after the ignition of the vehicle is switched on. Some records are recorded sequentially. According to a drive recorder or the like that performs such a recording operation, captured images over a predetermined period up to the present can be retained while being updated at all times.

The purpose of recording captured images over a predetermined period in the past in this manner includes the purpose of identifying the cause of a traffic accident or the like, and the purpose of managing the driving of a driver who is an employee by an employer. In recent years, as inexpensive drive recorders have been sold at mass retailers selling car accessories, some users have started using them for personal purposes, such as recording driving scenes or scenery of the city. .

JP 2012-64126 A

2. Description of the Related Art An image recording apparatus such as a drive recorder that continuously records captured images has a large difference in usage of a storage area from cameras, video cameras, and the like. That is, as long as an image recording device such as a drive recorder is in an energized state, it is possible to repeat operations of erasing old captured images and recording new captured images endlessly.

In such an image recording apparatus such as a drive recorder, when an operation of erasing and writing is repeated endlessly in order to continuously record captured images, other data is recorded in addition to the continuous recording of captured images. If writing or erasing is attempted, the frequency of data access to the storage medium may become excessive or the processing may not be completed in time. Therefore, when an operation of erasing and writing is repeated endlessly in order to record captured images continuously, the processes that can be executed at the same time are restricted, or a specific process cannot be executed. There is a problem.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made in view of the conventional problems described above. It is an invention to provide an image recording apparatus capable of relatively easily executing the processing related to.
In addition, conventional drive recorders, such as drive recorders that record on a memory card and that are equipped with only one memory card, have the following problems and problems.
(a) Recording cannot be performed if the memory card is damaged or defective. In particular, when continuous recording is being performed, the probability of damage is high because the recording is constantly overwritten (repeatedly deleted and stored) while driving. Also, if the memory card is removed during operation, there is a high possibility of damage. Most drive recorders turn the power on and off in conjunction with the engine key, but depending on the vehicle, voltage fluctuations, interruptions, and surges may occur, especially when the engine is started. These adversely affect memory card control. In some cases, an abnormality may occur in the memory card, resulting in damage or malfunction of the memory card.
(b) The main purpose of the drive recorder is to record the accident, and it is necessary to preserve the record of the accident so that it cannot be erased. Accidents are generally detected when a G-sensor or the like detects an impact greater than a predetermined amount, and images before and after the incident are often stored with overwriting prohibited. However, it is difficult to reliably detect only accidents, and impacts are also detected depending on the bumps and unevenness of the road surface, the way the driver drives, etc. There are many recordings that do not need to be saved. If the sensitivity of the sensor is lowered, it will not be possible to detect an accident. Also, witnessing dangerous or reckless driving, a dangerous experience that could lead to an accident, recording in a scenic place, etc., is a manual operation, and in many cases, the images before and after are not overwritten and saved, and depending on the user, Record more with no overwrite. If the memory card becomes full with such overwrite-protected recordings, no more recording is possible. It is necessary to replace the memory card, take out/delete images, initialize, etc., but there may be cases where it is not possible to do so immediately, such as while driving or traveling. It will not function as a recorder.
(c) It is common to store both constant continuous recording and overwrite-prohibited event recordings in the same memory card. It would be nice to perform maintenance/treatment on a daily basis, but it is difficult to do. There are cases where the continuous continuous recording area and the overwrite prohibited recording area are separated in the memory card, but in many cases, the overwrite prohibited recording is prioritized without dividing the area, and the more overwritten recording, the more the continuous recording area. In many cases, it is designed to reduce In this case, as in (b) above, even if the memory card is not full due to overwrite-prohibited recording, the constant recording area is reduced and the constant recording time is shortened. At the same time, there is a problem that the time for one cycle of overwriting is shortened, the frequency of repetition of erasing and recording increases, and the probability of damage or malfunction of the memory card increases. If the continuous continuous recording area and the overwrite-prohibited recording area are separated, of course, when the overwrite-prohibited recording area becomes full, no further recording is possible, and the possibility of the area becoming full is higher than in a method that does not divide the areas.
(d) In some cases, the memory card is removed from the drive recorder in order to confirm or retrieve the recorded image using a PC viewer or the like. If you forget to remove the memory card, or if you cannot use the removed memory card for some reason and drive without the memory card installed, you will not be able to record or store it, and it will not function as a drive recorder.
(e) When the drive recorder becomes a multi-functional drive recorder, the amount of data and information stored in the memory card becomes very large, and the processing speed may become slow, or some parts may not be processed. In addition, as the frequency of use of the memory card increases, the probability of damage or failure of the memory card also increases. In many cases, if the memory card is damaged or malfunctions, all functions cannot be used.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is an object of the present invention to provide an image recording apparatus and the like which can, for example, exhibit its function as a drive recorder more continuously and can solve such conventional problems.

(1) An image recording device comprising a control means having a function of recording an image captured by an image capturing means in a detachable storage medium,
Equipped with a plurality of medium storage units that detachably hold storage media,
The control means controls, during recording of a captured image in a storage medium mounted in at least one of the plurality of medium housing units, a storage medium mounted in any other medium housing unit. It is preferable that the image recording apparatus has a function of executing a predetermined writing process.

This image recording apparatus has a plurality of medium storage units, and can be loaded with a plurality of storage media. The control means controls, during recording of a captured image in a storage medium mounted in at least one of the plurality of medium housing units, a storage medium mounted in any other medium housing unit. It has a function to execute a predetermined write process by Therefore, this image recording apparatus can execute a predetermined writing process to another storage medium in parallel with the recording process of the captured image.

If the predetermined write processing is performed on a storage medium different from the storage medium for recording the captured image, even if the predetermined write processing is performed while the captured image is being recorded, the captured image will not be recorded. It is possible to reduce the possibility that the frequency of data access such as data writing or reading becomes excessively high for a storage medium to be recorded or a storage medium for executing a predetermined write process. As a result, it is possible to suppress the risk of causing a problem in recording the captured image by executing the predetermined writing process.

In this image recording apparatus, it is possible to execute, as the predetermined writing process, a process in which the frequency of data access to the storage medium is relatively high within a range in which the influence on the recording operation of the captured image is suppressed. If various writing processes can be executed while recording captured images, the image recording device can be used not only for recording captured images, but also for recording vehicle data such as engine speed and speed. can be improved.

As a configuration for executing another writing process during or during recording of a captured image, for example, a plurality of arithmetic units such as CPUs (Central Processing Units) are provided to record the captured image. and a process for executing another writing process may be executed at the same time. The processing for writing and the processing for executing other writing processing may be executed simultaneously in a time-sharing manner. For example, the writing process to another file may be performed without closing the file for recording the captured image. For example, after the recording operation of the captured image by the image recording device is started and before the recording operation is finished, the CPU may execute another writing process by an interrupt, for example.

For example, in an image recording apparatus comprising a control means having a function of recording an image captured by an imaging means in a detachable storage medium, the control means comprises a plurality of medium storage units that detachably hold the storage medium, wherein the control means Predetermined write processing is performed mainly on the storage medium loaded in at least one of the plurality of medium storage units, and by using the storage medium loaded in any other medium storage unit as a secondary storage medium. The image recording apparatus may be characterized by having functions.

(2) The control means erases captured images in order from the oldest captured image, and sequentially stores new captured images in the free area while securing free space in the storage area of the storage medium. , a control mode for recording a series of captured images over a predetermined period in the past using the storage medium,
A configuration in which at least two medium housing units are provided is preferable.

An imaging means for acquiring image information, a medium containing section for detachably containing a storage medium, and a control capable of executing control for recording an image captured by the imaging means on a storage medium contained in the medium containing section. In an image recording device comprising:
The control means erases the captured images in order from the oldest captured image and sequentially stores the new captured images in the free space of the storage area of the storage medium while securing the free space of the storage medium. A control mode for recording a series of captured images over a period using the storage medium can be executed,
It is preferable that the image recording apparatus is provided with at least two medium accommodating units.

As described above, an image recording device such as a drive recorder that continuously records captured images has a large difference in how a storage area is used from a camera, a video camera, or the like. That is, an image recording device such as a drive recorder endlessly repeats, for example, erasing an old captured image and recording a new captured image, as long as it is in an energized state. In the case of a camera or a video camera, an old captured image is not automatically deleted by overwriting a new captured image. For example, the captured image is deleted after being read by a terminal device such as a personal computer.

In this way, in an image recording apparatus such as a drive recorder that repeats erasing and writing endlessly in order to record captured images continuously, data writing errors, erasing errors, etc. occur while recording and erasing captured images are repeated. may occur, and there is a problem that a defect may occur in the recorded data in the storage area.

On the other hand, since the image recording apparatus has at least two medium storage units, it is possible to mount a plurality of storage media. By using a plurality of storage media, it is possible to reduce the number of times data in each storage medium is rewritten or erased, thereby reducing the load compared to the case where there is only one storage medium. As a result, the probability of occurrence of troubles such as writing errors and erasing errors when recording the captured image can be reduced, and the operational reliability can be improved.

As described above, the image recording apparatus is an apparatus for continuously recording captured images, and is a useful apparatus for improving the stability of the recording operation of the captured images.

The number of medium storage units provided in the image recording apparatus may be two, but it is particularly preferable to have a plurality of three or more.
The imaging means may be an imaging camera equipped with an imaging device such as a CCD or CMOS, or an imaging means using an area sensor such as a laser radar, a millimeter wave sensor, or an infrared sensor.
The image recording device is useful in applications such as drive recorders and monitoring devices.
As a series of captured images, for example, like so-called event recording, a predetermined period including the time of event occurrence (for example, a predetermined period consisting of a first predetermined period before the event occurrence and a second predetermined period after the event occurrence). However, it is particularly preferable that the recording is performed regardless of the event, and in particular, the so-called constant recording is preferable.

The control means deletes captured images in order from the oldest captured image and sequentially stores new captured images in the free area while securing free space in the storage area of the storage medium. can be executed in a control mode for recording using the storage medium and a control mode for not erasing the captured image, and the image recording apparatus is provided with at least two medium storage units.

(3) The control means uses each storage medium accommodated in any two or more medium accommodation units to record the series of captured images, and stores any one of the storage media. It is preferable to make it possible to execute a control mode for initializing the storage area of any other storage medium while a new captured image is being recorded on the medium.
The control means utilizes each of the storage media contained in any two or more medium containing units to record a captured image, and stores a new captured image in any one of the storage media. It is preferable that the image recording apparatus be capable of executing a control mode for initializing the storage area of any other storage medium during recording.

According to the above (3), when starting to record a captured image on any storage medium, recording can always be started from the initialized state. If recording is started from the initialized state, the probability of writing errors and the like occurring can be extremely reduced. During the initialization of one of the storage media, it is sufficient to record the captured image in the other storage medium. Therefore, it is not necessary to interrupt the recording operation of the captured image for the initialization work, and the processing efficiency of the recording operation is improved. not be damaged.
Note that the same data may be written in two or more storage media. If the same data is recorded in physically independent storage media, even if a problem occurs in one storage medium, the data can be read from the other storage medium, improving reliability.

(4) when the image recording device uses two storage media to record the series of captured images, alternately using the two storage media to record the series of captured images; It is preferable to enable execution of a control mode in which a storage area of any one of the storage media is initialized while a new captured image is being recorded on any one of the storage media.
When two storage media are used to record a captured image, the two storage media are alternately used to record the captured image, and a new captured image is recorded in one of the storage media. It is preferable that the image recording apparatus be capable of executing a control mode for initializing the storage area of any other storage medium while the recording is being performed.
According to (4) above, by alternately initializing the two storage media, it is possible to always start recording from the initialized state when starting to record a captured image in either storage medium.

(5) In the image recording device, when the number of storage media used for recording the series of captured images is three or more, two storage media selected from each of the storage media are exchanged in order, It is preferable to enable execution of a control mode for initializing a storage area of one of the two selected storage media while a new captured image is being recorded in one of the other storage media.
When there are three or more storage media used for recording captured images, two storage media selected from each of the storage media are switched in order, and one of the two selected storage media is selected. It is preferable that the image recording apparatus can execute a control mode for initializing the storage area of one of the storage media while a new captured image is being recorded on the other storage medium.

For example, when there are first to third storage media in an initialized state, captured images are first recorded in the first and second storage media in order, and then new captured images are recorded in the third storage medium. The first and third storage media are selected when recording an image, and the first storage medium is initialized while the captured image is being recorded in the third storage medium. After recording the captured image in the third storage medium, the first and second storage media are selected, and the second storage medium is initialized while recording the captured image in the first storage medium. After recording the captured image on the first storage medium, the second and third storage media are selected, and the third storage medium is initialized while recording the captured image on the second storage medium. By switching the two selected storage media in order in this way, it becomes possible to record captured images over a long period of time using a plurality of storage media of three or more.

(6) file management information for managing data recording positions in a storage area is recorded on the storage medium;
When any other storage medium is initialized while a new captured image is being recorded in one of the storage media, the other storage medium is recorded in conjunction with the operation of recording the new captured image. It is preferable to delete the recorded captured images from the oldest one at the time of recording, and after deleting all the captured images, delete the file management information to complete the initialization.

The file management information is information for managing which data is recorded at which position in the storage area of the storage medium, and is management information necessary when reading data such as recorded captured images. should be For example, after erasing such file management information, even the data before erasing cannot be read. If the file management information is erased at the start of the initialization work, it becomes difficult to read the captured images recorded on the storage medium at the start of the initialization work. On the other hand, if the file management information is erased at the end of the initialization work, it is possible to read recorded captured images even after the initialization work has started.

As a form of erasing a captured image in any other storage medium in conjunction with the recording operation of a captured image in any one of the storage media, for example, the time length of the captured image newly recorded in any one of the storage media and the length of time of the captured image erased from any other storage medium. In this case, it is possible to suppress the degree to which the length of time of the captured image that can be read from the storage medium fluctuates according to the progress of the initialization work. If the file management information is erased at the same time as the initialization work is started, the captured image recorded in the storage medium becomes unreadable in an instant. The length of time of a captured image that can be read from a medium is suddenly shortened.

(7) the control means can execute a plurality of types of control modes for recording data on the storage medium;
setting information corresponding to one of the plurality of types of control modes is recorded on at least one of the storage media;
The control means may be configured to execute control corresponding to the setting information read from the storage medium when the storage medium on which the setting information is recorded is accommodated in the medium accommodation unit.

In this case, by accommodating the storage medium in which the setting information is recorded in the medium accommodating section, it becomes possible to immediately start the control according to the setting information. By rewriting the setting information recorded in the storage medium, the operation of the image recording apparatus can be changed, which is very convenient. If the control mode of the image recording apparatus can be changed according to the setting information recorded in the storage medium, for example, there is no need to provide an operation means for changing the control mode in the main body of the image recording apparatus. In this case, the hardware configuration can be simplified and the cost can be suppressed, and troubles of the operating means, which are likely to break down, can be avoided and the operational reliability can be improved. Further, if it is made difficult for the user to change the setting information, it is possible to prevent, for example, a driver employed by a transportation company or a taxi company from changing the setting information arbitrarily. Such a configuration is advantageous in applications where an employer, such as a transportation company or a taxi company, manages the driving of an employee driver.

(8) The image recording apparatus includes change operation means for receiving an operation for changing setting information recorded in the storage medium;
and warning means for warning that data recorded in the storage medium may be erased by changing the setting information when an operation for changing the setting information is received through the changing operation means. It is better to have a configuration with
In this case, it is possible to prevent the recorded captured image from being erased due to carelessness or the like due to the change operation of the setting information. The risk of erasing an important captured image is reduced, and the image recording apparatus is easy to use.

(9) The image recording device incorporates storage means for storing various data,
The control means may read the setting information from the storage medium and store it in the storage means when the storage medium on which the setting information is recorded is accommodated in the medium accommodating section.
In this case, for example, even if the storage medium in which the setting information is recorded is removed, control according to the setting information can be realized. For example, when the storage medium in which the setting information is recorded is removed, the setting information in the storage means may be recorded in another storage medium. In this case, the setting information is recorded in two physically independent places, so that safety can be improved. As the storage means, means using an electronic device such as a non-volatile memory such as a flash ROM can be considered.

(10) When the storage area of the storage medium in which the setting information is recorded is initialized, the control means records the setting information stored in the storage means again in the storage medium that has been initialized. good.
In this case, it is possible to initialize the storage medium in which the setting information is recorded by temporarily erasing the entire storage area. By recording the setting information again after the completion of the initialization work, the original state in which the setting information was recorded can be reproduced.

(11) The control means records the series of captured images on some of the storage media accommodated in any two or more medium accommodation units,
Any of the remaining storage media can execute a control mode for recording a specific image that is a captured image of a specific time interval or a captured image that includes a specific time interval among the series of captured images. good.

By recording the series of captured images and the specific image in separate storage media, the captured image and the specific image can be efficiently recorded. As the specific time interval, for example, it is preferable to set a time interval in which it is necessary to save. Since the series of captured images recorded in the one storage medium needs to be updated as needed, it is not appropriate to prohibit overwriting. Recording is also good. In this case, the captured image recorded in the other storage medium can be saved with high certainty.

In general, when recording in a storage medium, the series of captured images are often managed, for example, in units of files. In such a configuration, it may be difficult to create a file only for a specific time interval. In this case, it is preferable to copy or move each file containing captured images in a specific time period.
The control means records a series of captured images over a predetermined period in the past in some of the storage media accommodated in any two or more medium storage units, while recording the remaining storage media. In either case, the image recording apparatus may be capable of executing a control mode for recording a specific image that is a captured image in a specific time interval or a captured image including a specific time interval among the series of captured images.

(12) It is preferable that the specific image is a copy of a part of the series of captured images recorded in the part of the storage medium, or a part of the picked-up image.
When copying a part of the series of captured images, the corresponding part of the series of captured images may be deleted or left as it is. For example, after recording as the series of captured images, by duplicating a part thereof, it is possible to record the specific image by subsequent processing after recording the series of captured images. Since it is no longer necessary to record both the series of captured images and the captured images of the specific time interval in parallel, the processing load can be distributed temporally and the occurrence of excessive load can be avoided.

(13) The image recording device is an image recording device mounted on a vehicle, and includes data acquisition means for acquiring vehicle data reflecting vehicle conditions,
While the control means records the series of captured images on a part of the storage media contained in any two or more medium containing units,
Any one of the remaining storage media may be configured to be capable of executing a control mode for recording the vehicle data acquired by the data acquisition means.

In this case, the storage medium for recording the captured image and the storage medium for recording the vehicle data are physically independent, so that the captured image and the vehicle data can be efficiently recorded. For example, vehicle data may be recorded in overwrite prohibition mode. In this case, it is possible to prevent important vehicle data from being inadvertently erased.

For example, it is also possible to record a signal for synchronizing the timing of the series of captured images and the vehicle data. If such a signal is recorded, it becomes possible to synchronize the captured image and the vehicle data in terms of time and reproduce them.
The vehicle data includes, for example, information flowing on an in-vehicle network that transmits vehicle control information, information obtained based on the information, and the like. For example, speed, average speed, maximum speed, 5 seconds speed, average 5 seconds speed, maximum 5 seconds speed, rpm, average rpm, maximum rpm, engine load, average load, maximum load, throttle opening, average throttle Opening, maximum throttle opening, ignition timing, fuel level, intake manifold pressure, maximum intake manifold pressure, MAF, INJ, cooling water temperature, maximum cooling water temperature, intake air temperature, maximum intake air temperature, outside temperature, maximum outside temperature, remaining fuel , Fuel flow rate, Maximum fuel flow rate, Fuel consumption, Lifetime fuel consumption, Instantaneous fuel consumption, Current fuel consumption, Maximum current fuel consumption, Lifetime fuel consumption, Average fuel consumption, General road average fuel consumption, Highway average fuel consumption, Moving average fuel consumption, Maximum moving average fuel consumption, Driving time, driving time, idle time, idle ratio, mileage, lifetime mileage, 0-20km/h acceleration time, 0-20km/h average acceleration, 0-20km/h shortest acceleration, 0-40km/h acceleration time , 0-40km/h average acceleration, 0-40km/h shortest acceleration, 0-60km/h acceleration time, 0-60km/h average acceleration, 0-60km/h shortest acceleration, 0-80km/h acceleration time, 0 -80km/h average acceleration, 0-80km/h shortest acceleration, 0-20km/h running time, 20-40km/h running time, 40-60km/h running time, 60-80km/h running time, 80km/h There are vehicle data such as driving time, lifetime engine mileage, lifetime engine running ratio, etc.

(14) The control means preferably records the specific image when a predetermined event occurs.
For example, the series of captured images is recorded while being updated at any time regardless of the occurrence of an event. The specific image may be recorded when the predetermined event occurs. Also, for example, it is preferable to prohibit overwriting of the storage medium in which the specific image is recorded. In this case, the recording state of the specific image, which is the captured image when the predetermined event occurs, can be maintained with high certainty, and the captured image can be reliably referred to later.

(15) The control means may record the vehicle data when a predetermined event occurs.
For example, the series of captured images may be recorded while being updated at any time regardless of the occurrence of an event. Further, for example, it is also possible to prohibit overwriting of the storage medium in which the vehicle data is recorded. In this case, the vehicle data when the predetermined event occurs can be stored with high certainty, and the vehicle data can be reliably referred to after the fact.

(16) The image recording device incorporates storage means for storing various data,
Preferably, the control means can execute a control mode in which, when a predetermined event occurs, a specific image, which is a captured image in a specific time interval among the series of captured images, is recorded in the storage area of the storage means. .

(17) An image recording device mounted on a vehicle, which includes data acquisition means for acquiring vehicle data reflecting vehicle conditions, and storage means for storing various data. and
Preferably, the control means can execute a control mode for recording the vehicle data in the storage area of the storage means when a predetermined event occurs.

In these cases, the specific image or vehicle data when the predetermined event occurs can be recorded in the storage means. Unlike the storage medium, the storage means is built-in, so the specific image and vehicle data can be recorded even when the storage medium is not stored in the medium storage section.

(18) The specific image or vehicle data recorded in response to the occurrence of the predetermined event is a captured image or vehicle data of a specific time period including temporally before and after the occurrence of the predetermined event. good.
In this case, it is possible to record captured images or vehicle data in a specific time period including the moment when the predetermined event occurs and starting from the time before that moment. Captured images and the like from a time point before the moment when the predetermined event occurred are useful materials for post facto analysis of the cause and progress of the event occurrence, for example. For example, if the event is a traffic accident or the like, it is useful for specifying the cause of the accident or the like. For example, if it is an event that specific vehicle data indicate a specific situation, it is useful to identify the behavior of the vehicle at that time and how the situation occurred via what kind of vehicle operation. .

(19) It is preferable to include storage operation means for receiving an operation requesting recording of the specific image or vehicle data, and the predetermined event includes at least an operation of the storage operation means.
In this case, an operation on the user side can be used as a trigger to record captured images in a specific time period. When a scene or the like to be recorded appears, the user of the image recording apparatus can record the captured image of the scene by operating the save operation means.

The storage operation means may be a real-time operation when recording the captured image, or may be an operation during playback of the series of captured images later. For example, in order to record captured images by an operation during playback, it is preferable to provide display means such as a liquid crystal display for reproducing and displaying the series of captured images.

(20) The image recording apparatus includes data acquisition means for acquiring a measured value of a predetermined physical quantity, and the predetermined event indicates a state in which at least the measured value of the predetermined physical quantity is predetermined. should be included.
In this case, the captured image or vehicle data can be recorded when the measured value indicates a predetermined state. The captured images and the like recorded are useful for post-mortem analysis of the cause and progress of the occurrence of the condition.

In addition, as a mode in which the measured value indicates a predetermined state, for example, the measured value exceeds a predetermined threshold value, the measured value shows a predetermined change, and the predetermined combination condition/pattern is satisfied. etc., there are various aspects. Measured values include, for example, acceleration and velocity in three axial directions. As the predetermined event, detection of approach to a pre-stored position may be set. Approach to a specific position can be detected using, for example, GPS position information.

(21) The image recording device is an image recording device mounted on a vehicle, and includes data acquisition means for acquiring vehicle data reflecting vehicle conditions,
The predetermined physical quantity may be a physical quantity acquired as the vehicle data.
In this case, a captured image or vehicle data can be recorded when the vehicle data indicates a predetermined state. It becomes possible to identify the cause and progress of the occurrence of the state using the captured image or vehicle data.

(22) In the image recording apparatus, the display unit for indicating that data recorded in the storage area of the storage medium is being read or data is being written to the storage area is attached to the medium storage unit. It is good to set it corresponding to .
In this case, the storage medium being accessed for data can be clearly identified, thereby suppressing the risk of the storage medium being unintentionally removed during data access. In addition, as a configuration in which the display section is provided corresponding to the medium storage section, for example, the display section may be provided individually for a plurality of medium storage sections. It is particularly good to provide a display unit.

(23) The image recording device incorporates storage means for storing various data,
alternately using a storage area of a storage medium accommodated in one of the medium accommodating units and a storage area of the storage means for recording the series of captured images, and storing the captured images in one of the storage areas; It is preferable that the control mode for initializing the other storage area can be executed while an image is being recorded.
The storage area of the storage medium accommodated in one of the medium storage units and the storage area of the storage means are alternately used for recording the captured image, and the captured image is recorded in one of the storage areas. It is preferable that the image recording apparatus be capable of executing a control mode in which the other storage area is initialized while the other storage area is being processed. In this case, even if only one storage medium is mounted, the storage medium and the storage means can be alternately used to initialize one while recording the picked-up image in the other. It becomes possible to execute the control of going.

(24) Preferably, the control means can execute two or more control modes in parallel.
In this case, data of a plurality of systems can be recorded in parallel, and the data logger-like function is improved.
Each control mode may, for example, be configured as a unique mode that is distinguished from other modes. do it.

(25) In the image recording apparatus, it is preferable that at least one of the medium housing units has a configuration in which the operation of inserting and removing the storage medium is different from that of the other medium housing units.
In this case, it is possible to preferentially remove the storage medium accommodated in the easier-to-operate medium accommodating portion. For example, the storage medium recording the setting information may be accommodated in the medium accommodating section with the higher difficulty level of operation. In this case, careless removal of the storage medium in which the setting information is recorded can be prevented.

(26) The control means has a function of individually executing data writing, reading, erasing, and initialization controls for each of the storage media mounted in each of the plurality of medium storage units. Also good.
If control of writing, reading, erasing, and initialization of data can be individually executed for each storage medium, the effect of increasing the types of recording operations that can be executed in parallel in the image recording apparatus can be obtained. As a result, the functions of the image recording apparatus are diversified and convenience is improved. For example, it is possible to record vehicle data such as the number of revolutions of the engine and vehicle speed in another storage medium while executing recording of a captured image on a specific storage medium. Also, for example, when recording captured images using two or more storage media, during recording of the latest captured image, the storage area of another storage medium with an older captured image is used. Initialize it. In this case, when the storage area of the storage medium in which the latest captured image is being recorded becomes full, recording of subsequent captured images can be continued using another initialized storage medium. By using an initialized storage medium, captured images can be efficiently recorded with little risk of writing errors.

(27) The control means controls the storage medium attached to any one of the medium storage units as a first storage medium for recording a new captured image by overwriting a captured image that has already been recorded,
It is preferable to provide a function of controlling a storage medium attached to any other medium storage unit as a second storage medium in which recorded captured images are not erased due to overwrite prohibition.
In this way, if the first storage medium is a storage medium for overwrite recording and the second storage medium is prohibited from being overwritten by overwrite prohibition, for example, the first storage medium In addition, the second storage medium can be used to record captured images that are particularly desired to be saved, while continuous recording is performed to continuously record captured images. The control means controls the storage medium attached to any one of the medium storage units as a first storage medium for recording a new captured image by overwriting a captured image that has already been recorded. The image recording apparatus is characterized in that it has a function of controlling the storage medium mounted in the medium storage unit as a second storage medium having an area in which recorded captured images are not erased due to overwrite prohibition. .
For example, it is also possible to store data whose overwriting is not prohibited in the second storage medium. For example, if the G-sensor detects a predetermined impact in one of the event recordings and records before and after that, it is better to prohibit overwriting if the impact detection is the detection of an accident, but in reality the road surface conditions such as bumps on the road, etc. The driver's driving operation may also be detected as an impact, and if overwrite is prohibited, unnecessary overwrite-prohibited data will be accumulated more and more. In order to prevent this, it is preferable to set a predetermined capacity and provide a function of overwriting within that range.

In particular, if multiple storage media (e.g. memory cards) can be installed, and one of them is used as the main and the others are used as sub, the main storage medium is removed or the above problem or malfunction occurs. , a secondary storage medium having a supplementary function.
By doing so, it is possible to function as a drive recorder more continuously than in the past.
In particular, in the main storage medium, it is preferable to store images that should be saved, such as records of accidents and places with good scenery, so that overwriting is prohibited or the probability of erasure is low. In addition, the secondary storage medium should be used to constantly record images while the vehicle is running. It is preferable to have a function of at least one of moving or copying to a storage medium that stores data.
As mentioned above, constant recording has a higher probability of causing damage or malfunctions to storage media such as memory cards. Even if a problem occurs, the damage will be small.
For example, the first storage medium in (27) to (38) may be used as a secondary storage medium, and the second storage medium may be used as a main storage medium.
The main storage medium is not fixed, and multiple storage media are used in order as the main and secondary storage media, and a function is provided to initialize the secondary storage medium while recording is being performed on the primary storage medium. configuration. By doing so, it is possible to further reduce the probability of occurrence of damage or trouble.
In this case, it is preferable to provide a function for recording both overwrite constant recording and overwrite inhibit event recording in the same main storage medium.
In particular, it is preferable to store recording data that is the basis of the drive recorder in a main storage medium, and store data that is not the basis of the drive recorder in a secondary storage medium and separate them. By doing so, it is possible to prevent the processing speed from slowing down and the occurrence of unprocessable portions, especially in multifunctional drive recorders.
In addition, the separation reduces the frequency of use of one storage medium, and the probability of damage or failure of the storage medium can be further reduced.

(28) The control means has a function of performing continuous recording in which new captured images are successively recorded by overwriting old captured images at the time of capturing among the captured images recorded in the first storage medium. It is good to have
Continuous recording of captured images is possible, and captured images in a predetermined temporal range in the past can be recorded with the current time as a reference. For example, it becomes possible to record a photographed image at the moment when an accident or the like occurs, and secure evidence useful for investigating the cause of the accident.

The second storage medium, whose overwriting is prohibited, can store, for example, an image captured by event recording when an event occurs, an image captured by manual operation recording in response to manual operation, a static recording, and so on. It is better to record a captured image other than the above.
When the number of attached storage media is too small to be divided into the first storage medium and the second storage medium, the attached storage medium is treated as the first storage medium, and captured images are continuously recorded at all times. Recording is also good.

(29) Preferably, the control means has a function of recording a captured image in the second storage medium when a specific recording condition is met.
In this case, an image captured when a specific recording condition is satisfied can be saved with high certainty in a state in which overwriting is prohibited. In particular, if captured images are recorded in a second storage medium that is different from the first storage medium for constant recording in accordance with the establishment of a specific recording condition, continuous recording of captured images in the first storage medium is in progress. Even if some kind of trouble occurs in the
As the specific recording condition, for example, it is preferable to set some event, a manual operation by the driver, or the like. The event may be the occurrence of an accident such as the deployment of an airbag, the occurrence of sudden braking or sudden steering, or the occurrence of large acceleration.

(30) When the first storage medium is removed in a state where the first and second storage media are installed and the state shifts to a state where only the second storage medium is installed, the control means It is preferable to provide a function of setting an overwritable storage area in a part of the free area of the storage area of the second storage medium.
In this case, even after the first storage medium is removed and only the second storage medium is used, constant recording for continuous recording of captured images is possible, thereby suppressing deterioration in function or convenience of the image recording apparatus. can.

In the configuration provided with the function of controlling a second storage medium having an area in which recorded captured images are not erased due to the overwrite prohibition, the control means controls the When the first storage medium is removed and only the second storage medium is attached, the first storage medium is stored in a part of the free area of the storage area of the second storage medium. It is preferable that the image recording apparatus has a function of setting an overwritable storage area for storing the data corresponding to the storage of the image.

(31) When only one storage medium is mounted, the control means provides an overwritable storage area and an overwrite-prohibited storage area in the storage area for only one storage medium. It is also good to have a function to control as a storage medium of No. 3.
Even if there is only one storage medium, for example, data such as an overwrite-protected captured image can be recorded in addition to the constantly-recorded captured image. The overwrite-prohibited captured image may be an image captured by event recording, an image captured by manual operation recording, an image captured by still recording, or the like. After that, for example, when a storage medium that can be used as a first or second storage medium is newly mounted, that storage medium may be handled as the first or second storage medium. If it is handled as the first storage medium, all or part of captured images that are rewritably recorded, for example, can be transferred to the first storage medium and recorded. If it is handled as a second storage medium, all or part of data such as captured images that are overwrite-protected recorded in the third storage medium may be transferred to the second storage medium and recorded. Also good.

In the configuration provided with the function of controlling as a second storage medium having an area in which recorded captured images are not erased due to the overwrite prohibition, the control means controls the storage medium when only one storage medium is mounted. It is preferable that the image recording apparatus has a function of controlling only one storage medium as a third storage medium having data storage areas corresponding to the storage of the first storage medium and the second storage medium.

(32) The control means has a function of controlling the storage medium as the second storage medium when a new storage medium is loaded while only one storage medium is loaded. Also good.
When a newly mounted storage medium is handled as a second storage medium, data such as captured images can be stored with high certainty by recording data in the second storage medium in which overwriting is prohibited. When there is a large amount of data such as captured images to be stored, it is possible to use a storage medium as a second storage medium. Furthermore, when the saved data is taken out to an external personal computer or the like, it is sufficient to take out the second storage medium.
If there is no storage medium controlled as the second storage medium and there is only a storage medium controlled as the first storage medium, a part of the storage area of the first storage medium is an area where overwriting is prohibited. on the other hand, after that, when a storage medium controlled as a second storage medium is newly mounted, all or part of the data recorded in the first storage medium with overwriting prohibited is transferred to the second storage medium. It is also good to transfer and record to a medium.

(33) When a new storage medium is loaded while only one storage medium is loaded, the control means controls the storage medium as the second storage medium, and controls the storage medium as the third storage medium. It is also preferable to have a function of recording data recorded in a storage area in which overwriting is prohibited among the storage areas of the storage medium into the second storage medium.
In this case, by transferring and recording the data recorded in the overwrite-prohibited storage area of the third storage medium to the second storage medium, the data can be stored with high certainty. .

A mode is provided to control all storage media as the first storage medium even when a plurality of storage media are mounted and the first storage medium and the second storage medium can be sorted. It's also good. In this case, since the storage area of the first storage medium is increased, it is possible to lengthen the recording time when continuously recording captured images. In this way, when there are a plurality of first storage media, when the amount of data recorded in one of the storage media becomes full, the other first storage medium is selected as the target storage medium for continuous recording of captured images. It is better to switch to In this case, it is possible to alternately use one of the plurality of first storage media to efficiently and continuously record captured images. The storage medium should be configured so that recorded data can be erased and initialized individually.

In the configuration provided with the function of controlling as a second storage medium having an area in which recorded captured images are not erased due to the overwrite prohibition, the control means controls the storage medium in a state in which only one storage medium is mounted. When newly installed, the storage medium is controlled as the second storage medium, and the recorded data corresponding to the storage of the second storage medium in the storage area of the third storage medium is transferred to the storage area of the third storage medium. An image recording apparatus having a function of recording on a second storage medium may be used.

(34) display means for displaying a reproduced image of the picked-up image recorded in the storage medium; The image recording apparatus may also include storage operation means for receiving an operation for saving.
In this case, after confirming the reproduced image in the image recording apparatus and determining whether or not to save it, the original captured image of the reproduced image determined to be saved can be recorded while prohibiting overwriting. If it can be confirmed by the reproduced image, it is possible to record the captured image to be saved with high certainty in a state in which overwriting is prohibited. For example, it is also possible to transfer and record a part of the captured image to the second storage medium while reproducing the captured image recorded in the first storage medium by continuous recording. Alternatively, captured images before and after the location marked during reproduction may be transferred to the second storage medium and recorded.

(35) When the storage operation means is operated during display of the reproduced image, the control means overwrites a portion of the corresponding captured image corresponding to a temporal section based on the time point of the operation. It is also good to have a function of recording to a storage medium in a prohibited state.
In this case, by operating the save operation means when a reproduced image to be saved is displayed, the original captured image can be recorded with high certainty in a state in which overwriting is prohibited. By performing the operation while displaying the reproduced image, there is little possibility that an image different from the captured image to be saved is mistakenly recorded. The time interval of the captured image recorded in the overwrite-prohibited state is a time interval that goes back a predetermined time from the point of time when the operation was performed, a time interval from the time of the operation until a predetermined time passes, or It is preferable to set it as an interval that spans before and after the point in time when the operation is performed.

The image recording apparatus may be provided with a sensor such as a G sensor for detecting impact and an external input function. In the case of controlling one of a plurality of attached storage media as a first storage medium and one of them as a second storage medium, a sensor or an externally input signal is used as a trigger signal input. A captured image in a time interval up to a predetermined time before the point in time when there was a reference point, a captured image in a time interval up to a predetermined time point in reference to that point in time, or both of these captured images in the second It is also possible to record in a storage medium in a state in which overwriting is prohibited.

In the configuration provided with the function of controlling as a second storage medium having an area in which a captured image that has been recorded by prohibiting overwriting is not erased, the control means controls, when the saving operation means is operated while the reproduced image is being displayed, , of the corresponding captured image, the part corresponding to the temporal section based on the point of time when the operation was performed, or the function to record in the storage medium in a state in which overwriting is prohibited including the part corresponding to the temporal section It is preferable to use the image recording device provided. Data is often moved or copied on a file-by-file basis, and in many cases files include not only "the part corresponding to the time interval based on the point in time when the operation was performed" but also other parts.

(36) In addition to the function of storing data, the second storage medium has a communication function of transmitting data to the outside, and the control means controls the image pickup image recorded in the second storage medium. to an external device.
In this case, it becomes possible to externally transmit the captured image recorded in the second storage medium in a state in which overwriting is prohibited, and the captured image can be browsed at the destination. Such a configuration is particularly effective in the event of an accident or the like. For example, when a driving situation such as drowsy driving occurs in a taxi or the like, if the captured image at that time is immediately sent to the taxi company, it will be possible for the administrator to grasp the dangerous situation before an accident occurs. . Further, for example, when an accident occurs later, if the captured image at that time is immediately transmitted, the administrator can immediately grasp the situation and quickly take measures after the accident.

When a storage medium with a communication function and a storage medium without a communication function are loaded, the storage medium with the communication function is controlled as the second storage medium, and the storage medium without the communication function is controlled as the first storage medium. good to control. Then, all or part of the data recorded in the second storage medium may be preferentially transmitted. Here, it is preferable that the priority transmission is automatic transmission.

(37) the image recording device;
It is preferable that the image recording system includes a terminal device including setting change means for changing setting information recorded in a storage medium, and change operation means for accepting an operation for changing the setting information.

(38) When receiving an operation to change the setting information via the change operation means, the terminal device constituting the image recording system warns that the data recorded in the storage medium may be erased. It is preferable to have a configuration provided with warning means.
In this case, it is possible to prevent the recorded data recorded in the storage medium from being erased by careless operation. Depending on the relationship between the original setting information and the changed setting information, there is a possibility that the recorded data recorded on the storage medium will not be erased. It is also possible to provide judgment means for judging the risk of recorded data being erased by comparing the original setting information and the changed setting information, and deciding whether or not to warn according to the possibility. good.

(A) The descriptions of "first storage medium" and "second storage medium" described in (27) to (38) above are exchanged, and the first storage medium is mainly used, and the second storage medium is used. It is good to set it as the composition which made it sub. For example, the following (B) to (E) may be used. Regarding (27), it is particularly preferable to have the following configuration (B).
(B) The control means controls the storage medium attached to any one of the medium storage units as the main first storage medium having an area in which recorded captured images are not erased due to overwrite prohibition. and controlling a storage medium attached to any other medium storage unit as the secondary storage medium for recording a new captured image by overwriting a captured image that has already been recorded. It is preferable to use an image recording apparatus that
The first storage medium may also be configured to store data whose overwrite is not prohibited. It is preferable that the first storage medium be used as the main storage medium and the second storage medium be used as the secondary storage medium. For example, if the G-sensor detects a predetermined impact in one of the event recordings and records before and after that, it is better to prohibit overwriting if the impact detection is the detection of an accident, but in reality the road surface conditions such as bumps on the road, etc. The driver's driving operation may also be detected as an impact, and if overwrite is prohibited, unnecessary overwrite-prohibited data will be accumulated more and more. In order to prevent this, it is better to determine a predetermined capacity and perform overwrite recording within that range.
For example, for (30), it is particularly preferable to have the following configuration (C).
(C) When the second storage medium is removed from the state in which the first and second storage media are mounted and the state shifts to the state in which only the first storage medium is mounted, the control means Assume that the image recording apparatus has a function of setting an overwritable storage area for storing data corresponding to storage of the second storage medium in a part of the free area of the storage area of the first storage medium. good.
For example, for (31), it is particularly preferable to have the following configuration (D).
(D) When only one storage medium is mounted, the control means stores data corresponding to storage in the first storage medium and the second storage medium for only one storage medium. It is preferable that the image recording apparatus has a function of controlling as a third storage medium having a storage area.
For example, for (32), it is particularly preferable to have the following configuration (E).
(E) When a new storage medium is loaded while only one storage medium is loaded, the control means controls the storage medium as the first storage medium, and controls the storage medium as the third storage medium. It is preferable that the image recording apparatus has a function of recording recorded data corresponding to the storage of the first storage medium in the storage area of the storage medium in the first storage medium.
For example, for (35), it is particularly preferable to have the following configuration (F).
When the storage operation means is operated during the display of the reproduced image, the control means selects a portion of the corresponding captured image corresponding to a temporal section based on the time point of the operation, or It is preferable that the image recording apparatus has a function of recording in a storage medium in a state in which overwriting is prohibited, including the portion corresponding to the interval.
Data is often moved or copied on a file-by-file basis, and in many cases files include not only "the part corresponding to the time interval based on the point in time when the operation was performed" but also other parts.
(39) It is preferable to provide a program for causing a computer to realize the functions of the image recording apparatus.

(a) An image recording apparatus having a plurality of medium storage units to which storage media for recording recorded data, which are data of captured images to be recorded, are mounted, and recording by distinguishing a recording method and a type of recording data in each medium storage unit. good to do
When the recording method and the type of recording data are to be distinguished for each medium container, it is preferable that the function can be differentiated for each medium container. When loading the storage medium, it is possible to select the medium accommodating portion in accordance with the recording data and the like, which makes it easier to use. For example, it becomes easier for the user to grasp different recording methods for each medium container, and mistakes such as removing the storage medium during writing can be prevented. For example, it is preferable to use different recording methods, such that overwriting is permitted in one medium container and overwriting is prohibited in the other. It is also possible to use different recorded data, such as constant recording for one medium container and event recording for the other.

(b) It is preferable that the image recording apparatus is provided with a plurality of medium storage units in which storage media for recording recorded data are loaded, and controlled so that the recorded data is erased in each medium storage unit differently.
For example, one medium containing section has a high probability that recorded data will be erased by overwriting, and the other medium must have a sufficient storage capacity for the amount of recorded data so that overwriting is prohibited or the probability of erasing by overwriting is low. It is better to keep Also, even if both are overwritten, one of them records a large amount of data, such as constant recording data, and the other stores a small amount of data, such as event recording, so that the recorded data is erased at different probabilities. It's good to be

(c) It is preferable that the image recording apparatus has a plurality of medium storage units that are not arranged side by side vertically or horizontally, that are made different in conspicuity, or that their order is known.
In this case, the ease of access from the user side can be differentiated for each medium container. For example, a storage medium/medium container that is frequently attached/detached should be placed in an easy-to-understand location, and a storage medium/medium storage unit that is not frequently attached/detached should be placed in a location that is relatively difficult to find. It is preferable to enclose the edge of the storage medium/medium container with a line or color it so that it is easy to understand. For those who do not attach and detach frequently, it is better to put the lid on so that it is relatively difficult to understand. Alternatively, print or engrave near the medium storage unit so that the order can be seen such as 1, 2, etc., or A, B, etc., and take out the storage medium/medium storage unit that is frequently attached and detached as 1 or A. It is also good to make it difficult to mistake the storage medium.

(d) At least one of the plurality of storage media may be an image recording device having a shape or size different from that of the others.
In this case, it is possible to obtain the effect that it is possible to suppress mistaking of a plurality of storage media. For example, the storage medium/medium storage section that is frequently attached/detached can use a standard type storage medium, such as an SD card, and the low storage medium can use a different type of SD card, such as a micro SD card. It is better to make it difficult to mistake the storage medium.

(e) In the control of having a plurality of medium storage units to which storage media for recording recorded data are loaded and initializing another storage medium while recording is being performed on one storage medium, the initialization is performed under a predetermined condition. It is preferable that the image recording device is controlled so as to automatically or semi-automatically perform the following steps.
If the initialization is performed automatically or semi-automatically, it is possible to avoid problems such as the inability to read data recorded in the storage medium, and to maintain high data recording efficiency in the storage medium and record data. You can keep the volume close to maximum.
It is desirable to initialize the storage medium periodically. After the previous initialization, when rewriting is performed a predetermined number of times, or when overwrite storage is performed for a predetermined time, or when overwrite recording of a predetermined capacity is performed. Initialization can be performed semi-automatically, such as automatically under a predetermined condition such as time, or by performing a confirmation operation to start initialization by displaying, alarming, or audibly indicating that the time for initialization has come. Good to implement.

(f) having a plurality of medium storage units for mounting storage media for recording recorded data, and in control for automatically initializing other storage media during recording on one storage medium, at least one medium It is preferable to use an image recording apparatus that does not automatically initialize the storage medium attached to the storage unit.
By setting a medium storage unit that is not automatically initialized, data that is desired to be stored for a long period of time can be held with high certainty. For example, a storage medium storing event recordings should not be initialized automatically. Event recording is considered to be less frequently rewritten due to overwriting than constant recording, and event recording is likely to have recordings that you want to keep for a relatively long time, so event recording is stored. It is preferable to set the storage medium so that it is not initialized automatically.

(g) A storage medium for constant recording, provided with two medium storage units for mounting storage media for recording recorded data, and set to perform constant recording on one storage medium and event recording on the other. is initialized, the image recording apparatus may be configured to temporarily store constant recording in a partial capacity of the storage medium for event recording.
In this case, it becomes possible to initialize even a storage medium for constant recording, and it is possible to suppress the occurrence of troubles related to the storage medium. For example, if there are multiple storage media for constant recording, they can be initialized in sequence. If prohibited, at least while the storage medium for constant recording is being initialized, it is preferable to control recording to the one for event recording.

(h) When a plurality of medium storage units are provided for mounting storage media for recording recorded data, event recording is stored in at least one storage medium, and constant recording is stored in another storage medium, It is preferable that the image recording apparatus performs control to store the event recordings in the constant recording storage medium when the remaining capacity of the storage medium for storing the event recordings becomes less than a predetermined amount.
In this case, for example, when event recording is prohibited from being overwritten, it is possible to avoid a situation in which recording becomes impossible when the storage medium becomes full.
It should be noted that the fact that the remaining capacity of the storage medium has fallen below a predetermined level and that event recording is being performed on the storage medium for constant recording may be notified by, for example, an alarm, sound, display, or the like.

(i) having a plurality of medium storage units to which storage media for recording recorded data are mounted, and storing at least both constant recording that is stored by overwriting and event recording that is stored by prohibiting overwriting in one main storage medium, If the storage capacity of the main storage medium is overwritten and the storage capacity exceeds a predetermined amount, or if there is no storage medium in the main medium storage unit, other storage media other than the main storage medium will be used. It is preferable to use an image recording apparatus that controls storage in another storage medium.

When the storage medium is taken out and the recorded data is viewed on an external device such as a PC, it is convenient to be able to view all the stored data, whether regular recording or event recording. In addition, in the event of an accident or the like, there are cases where the storage medium in which the images at the time of the accident are recorded is pulled out and stored. Even in such a case, it is better to store all the data for both constant recording and event recording in one storage medium. However, if it is a single storage medium, it will not function as an image recording device if the capacity is full due to overwrite prohibition, or if the storage medium is not attached. If a plurality of storage media are attached, it will function even in such a case. The main storage medium may have a large capacity, and the others may have a small capacity. When part or all of the data recorded on the main storage medium is erased and there is sufficient capacity, or when a new storage medium is installed, part or all of the data stored on another storage medium It is also possible to transfer all to the main storage medium.

(j) The medium storage unit into which the main storage medium is to be loaded is determined, and a lamp is placed near the medium storage unit so that when the capacity becomes full due to the above overwrite prohibition or when the storage medium is loaded, the lamp is placed near the medium storage unit. It is preferable to use an image recording device that flashes or lights up when the display is not on.
In this case, it is possible to clearly display the medium containing portion that cannot be used for data recording, so that the user can recognize the fact. For example, when the data is stored in a storage medium other than the main storage medium, it is easy to understand by flashing the lamp of the medium accommodating section in which the main storage medium is loaded. In addition, for example, it may be configured to notify by a display on a display device, an alarm, a sound, or the like at the same time when the lamp flashes or lights up.

(k) having a plurality of medium storage units to which storage media for recording recorded data are mounted, and storing at least both constant recording that is stored by overwriting and event recording that is stored by prohibiting overwriting in one main storage medium, When the main storage medium is initialized, at least overwrite-protected data stored in the main storage medium is copied or moved to another storage medium, and then the main storage medium is initialized. It may also be an image recording device.
With this configuration, it is possible to initialize even a storage medium containing, for example, overwrite-prohibited data.

(l) Incorporating a medium containing section for mounting a storage medium for recording recorded data and a non-recurring memory for recording recorded data, so that the recorded data is always stored in the storage medium, and the storage medium is stored in the built-in memory. When the amount of data stored with overwrite protection exceeds a predetermined amount, or when there is no storage medium in the main medium storage unit, or when the storage medium is initialized, it is stored and recorded on the storage medium. When part or all of the data stored in the internal memory is erased and a new storage medium is installed, or when a new storage medium is installed, part or all of the data stored in the built-in memory is transferred to the storage medium. good.
In this case, only one medium container is required, and the product cost can be reduced.

(m) When the above storage medium is initialized, after switching the storage from the storage medium to be initialized to another storage medium, the other storage medium performs storage for a predetermined time period or for a predetermined capacity. It is preferable that the image recording apparatus initializes the storage medium after it is written.
Since it is desirable to prevent new data from being erased as much as possible, it is desirable to initialize data after storage has progressed on a storage medium other than the one to be initialized. It is preferable that the memory be initialized when the memory in the other memory reaches its full capacity and overwriting is started.

(n) It is preferable to provide a plurality of medium storage units, one of which is a dummy image recording device.
By providing a dummy medium storage section, it is possible to obtain an effect that it can be used as a storage place for a spare storage medium. It is preferable to mount a spare storage medium in the dummy medium storage section and replace it with the spare storage medium in the dummy medium storage section when the main storage medium is removed.

(o) A car navigation function may be provided, and a plurality of medium storage units may be provided in the same housing, at least one of which may be dedicated to recorded data and information and data incidental to recorded data.
Car navigation systems, generally called PNDs, are equipped with media storage units such as memory card slots for updating maps and software, providing sources for music and video, recording TV programs, and storing driving routes. often If the car navigation function and the drive recorder function are combined, there is a method of using both functions separately in one medium storage unit, but if the drive recorder function has a function to constantly record images while driving, Image data must always be stored in a storage medium, and if data relating to a car navigation function is also stored in the storage medium, processing may be inconvenient. Therefore, it is better to provide a plurality of medium storage units and to use at least one of them exclusively for the drive recorder function.

(p) A radar detector function is provided, and a plurality of medium storage units are provided in the same housing.
Radar detectors are often used by storing data such as warning locations on memory cards. For the same reason as (o) above, it is better to provide a plurality of medium storage units and to use at least one of them exclusively for the drive recorder function.

(q) Especially in (o) and (p) above, one of the plurality of medium storage units applies the above (c) and (d), and the above (i), (j), and (k) It is preferable to use the medium containing portion as the main one. In particular, the present invention is preferably applied to memory cards dedicated to recorded data and information or data incidental to recorded data.
The configurations described above can be implemented in arbitrary combinations within a range that does not cause contradiction in terms of configuration.

1 is a perspective view of a drive recorder ((a) is the back side, (b) is the front side) in the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a holder equipped with an acceleration sensor in Embodiment 1. FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an image pickup unit housed inside ((a) is the back side, (b) is the front side) in the first embodiment. FIG. FIG. 2 is a block diagram for explaining the electrical configuration of the drive recorder according to the first embodiment; FIG. Graph explaining the correlation between acceleration and time when sudden braking is applied at 100 km/h. Graph for explaining the correlation between acceleration and time when abrupt braking is applied at 80 km/h. A graph explaining an image of a threshold set by the magnitude of acceleration and time. 4A and 4B are explanatory diagrams of sequential recording in the first embodiment; FIG. 4 is a flowchart for explaining an event occurrence determination routine according to the first embodiment; FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram for explaining transfer of an SD card between the drive recorder and the personal computer in the first embodiment; FIG. 2 is a block diagram for explaining the electrical configuration of the personal computer according to the first embodiment; FIG. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram for explaining an example of a viewer screen displayed by a personal computer according to the first embodiment; FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of an event file sequence in Embodiment 1; 4A and 4B are explanatory diagrams of a dialog box displayed on the monitor of the personal computer in the first embodiment; FIG. FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram of another sequential recording in the first embodiment; FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram of dual recording in the second embodiment; FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram of mirror recording in the third embodiment; FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the front side of the drive recorder according to the fifth embodiment; FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the rear side of the drive recorder in the fifth embodiment; FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram of a mounting state of the drive recorder in the fifth embodiment; FIG. 21 is a rear perspective view of another drive recorder according to the fifth embodiment; FIG. 21 is a rear perspective view of another drive recorder according to the fifth embodiment;

Embodiments of the present invention will be specifically described using the following examples.
(Example 1)
A drive recorder 1 as an example of the image recording apparatus shown in FIG. 1 of the present embodiment includes a substantially columnar body case 2 in which an imaging unit and the like are accommodated. The body case 2 can be attached to, for example, a windshield of a vehicle via an attachment bracket 3 .

The bracket 3 includes a retaining ring that is externally inserted into the substantially cylindrical body case 2 and a substantially flat plate-like mounting plate 5 that circumscribes the retaining ring. An end portion of the main body case 2 inserted into the retaining ring of the bracket 3 is configured so that a substantially doughnut-shaped cap 4 can be screwed thereon. The body case 2 can be fixed to the bracket 3 by screwing the cap 4 in a state where the rotation angle of the body case 2 is adjusted. By adjusting the rotation angle of the main body case 2 with respect to the bracket 3, it is possible to change the depression angle of the drive recorder 1 and adjust the imaging range.
The drive recorder 1 can be attached to, for example, a front window or the like via an attachment plate 5 so that the lens 14 of the CCD camera 13 faces a predetermined direction (generally the front direction).

An access hole 171 to the DC jack 16 and a USB port 172 to which a USB cable extending from a personal computer or the like can be connected are provided on the side end face of the body case 2 which is substantially flush with the end of the screwed cap 4 . perforated. Insertion openings 181 and 182 for inserting an SD card are provided on the side end face on the opposite side of the body case 2 . In particular, the drive recorder 1 of this example has two insertion openings. On both sides of the insertion openings 181 and 182, LEDs (display units) 181A and 182A are arranged. The LED 181</b>A lights up during data access to an SD card, which is a memory card as an example of a storage medium inserted in the insertion slot 181 . The LED 182A lights up during data access to the SD card inserted in the slot 182. FIG.

The body case 2 is a hollow case formed by combining a camera cover 2b and a rear cover 2a, which are parts that are like two vertically divided cylindrical bodies. A holder 7 (FIG. 2) for rotatably holding a holder main body 7a, first and second push buttons 8 and 9 as operation means, and first and second pilot lamps are provided on the surface of the back cover 2a. Illumination blocks 10, 11, etc. are provided. A lens 14 of the CCD camera 13 is exposed on the surface of the camera cover 2b.

An acceleration sensor 15 as data acquisition means is mounted on the holder main body 7a of FIG. In the holder 7, the acceleration sensor 15 can be horizontally arranged as a reference position in accordance with the rotation of the holder body 7a. The acceleration sensor 15 measures acceleration, which is a measured value of a physical quantity that reflects the state of the vehicle.

An imaging unit 21 is housed inside the body case 2 . As shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the imaging unit 21 is a unit having a board structure in which a main board 22 and a sub-board 25 are stacked. The main board 22 is mounted with a CCD camera 13, a GPS receiver 24, a DC jack 16, a power supply circuit (not shown), and the like.

Switches 27 and 28 corresponding to the first and second push buttons 8 and 9 are arranged on the sub board 25, and LEDs 291 and 292 corresponding to the first and second pilot lamp illumination blocks 10 and 11 are arranged. It is Furthermore, the sub-board 25 is provided with a connector (not shown) for connecting a signal line extending from the acceleration sensor 15 . SD card readers 311 and 312 are mounted on the front and back surfaces of the sub-board 25, which are examples of medium storage units for reading and writing data with SD cards. Of the two SD card readers 311 and 312, the SD card reader 311 is the master and the SD card reader 312 is the slave. In the following description, the SD card loaded in the master SD card reader 311 is called the master, and the SD card loaded into the slave SD card reader 312 is called the slave.

As shown in FIG. 4, the drive recorder 1 is electrically configured around a controller 30, which is an example of control means. A CCD camera 13, an acceleration sensor 15, a GPS receiver 24, SD card readers 311 and 312, and a database 32 are connected to the controller 30, respectively.
The controller 30 includes a CPU (not shown), a body memory such as a flash ROM, a ROM, and a RAM, which are examples of storage means, a timer, and the like.

The ROM of the controller 30 contains a GPS information processing program for processing GPS information received by the GPS receiver 24, an image processing program for saving an image captured by the CCD camera 13 in the main memory or an SD card, and a sensor detected by the acceleration sensor 15. an acceleration change calculation program that records the obtained acceleration information over time and calculates an acceleration change pattern; determines the correlation between the calculated acceleration change pattern and the existing acceleration change pattern; Various programs such as an OS (Operation System) and a correlation function program for determining whether or not the calculated acceleration change pattern exceeds a threshold are stored.

The GPS receiver 24 is a receiver that detects position information of the vehicle at the current time according to instructions from the controller 30 . The detection timing by the GPS receiver 24 is set every second in this example. The position information to be detected is the position, speed, latitude, longitude and altitude of the own vehicle. The GPS receiver 24 inputs the detected location information to the control controller 30 .
The CCD camera 13 is imaging means for capturing an image of the scenery in front through the lens 14 and acquiring imaging data. The CCD camera 13 inputs imaging data to the controller 30 via an interface section 33 capable of data compression and digital conversion.
The acceleration sensor 15 is a 3-axis type sensor that detects acceleration and tilt in each of the 3-axis (X, Y, Z) directions, and inputs the detected values to the controller 30 .
The SD card readers 311 and 312 read and write data on SD cards under the control of the controller 30 .

The data recorded in the SD card under the control of the controller 30 includes captured data (captured image) from the CCD camera 13, position data and velocity data from the GPS receiver 24, acceleration data from the acceleration sensor 15, and the like. . Each of these data is recorded by correlating the recorded times. By such mutual association, it is possible to acquire position data, velocity data, and acceleration data from time to time in synchronism with reproduction of imaging data. Recording of imaging data in the following description means synchronously recording imaging data together with velocity data, position data, acceleration data, and the like. Similarly, the recording of event data (specific image) means synchronous recording of imaging data together with velocity data, position data, acceleration data, and the like.

The database 32 is a non-volatile memory, such as an EEPROM, inside the control controller 30 or externally attached to the control controller 30 . A plurality of event occurrence determination function patterns are stored in the database 32 according to speed.
The event occurrence determination pattern is a combination of an event occurrence determination function pattern and an event occurrence determination threshold pattern. The event occurrence judgment function pattern is a multi-dimensional function indicated by the relationship between the magnitude of acceleration and elapsed time when an event (impact, sudden start/sudden braking, sudden steering) occurs, and is graphed (curved) two-dimensionally. It is possible. A plurality of patterns are prepared as the event occurrence determination function pattern corresponding to a specific speed band for each event.

In the drive recorder 1 having the acceleration sensor 15 capable of detecting acceleration in three axial directions, three types of event occurrence determination function patterns are associated and stored as one set. The waveforms shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 are examples of ideal event occurrence determination function patterns. FIG. 5 illustrates an event occurrence determination function pattern in the X-axis direction (vehicle traveling direction) in sudden braking at cruising speed of 100 km/h. FIG. 6 also shows a case where the speed is 80 km/h. From these patterns, it can be seen that the slower the velocity, the faster the acceleration converges.

In the database 32, all event occurrence determination function patterns are stored in association with thresholds as event occurrence determination threshold patterns. The threshold is set according to the tendency of each event occurrence determination function pattern using the magnitude, direction, and time of acceleration as parameters. For example, in the case of the event occurrence determination function pattern in which the sudden braking event is shown in FIG. A large acceleration in the direction is occurring. It is preferable to set a threshold as to whether or not the acceleration and the time tend to deviate. For example, as shown in FIG. 7, a sustained state A1 of positive acceleration of 0.3 G that continues for a period of time L1 and a negative acceleration A2 of 0.15 G within a period of L2 (this does not need to be continued) are set as thresholds. good to be When such a threshold value is set, a continuous positive acceleration greater than 0.3 G continues for the time L1, and a negative acceleration greater than 0.15 G continues for the time L2 thereafter (this is a continuous is not required), it is judged that the threshold for that event at that speed has been exceeded.

Note that the number of thresholds may be the same as the number of event occurrence determination function patterns, and a common threshold may be used when representing approximate event occurrence determination function patterns. For example, in the case of the same event, a common threshold can be associated in a certain range of speed bands because the patterns are not so different.

The controller 30 samples the detected value of the acceleration sensor 15 at a constant timing based on the acceleration change calculation program, calculates the acceleration change pattern function defined by the magnitude of acceleration and time, and calculates the acceleration change pattern function based on the correlation function program. to determine the correlation between the existing acceleration change pattern function and the calculated function. Then, when it is determined that there is correlation similarity, it is determined whether or not the calculated acceleration change pattern exceeds the threshold.

In this example, when the event is "impact", the sensitivity is simply changed according to the level of the magnitude of the threshold acceleration. For example, the magnitude of acceleration at level 3 is 100%, level 4 is 120%, level 5 is 140%, and so on. On the other hand, when the event is "sudden start/sudden braking, abrupt steering", in addition to changing the magnitude ratio of acceleration, the duration of acceleration is also changed.

Next, as operations of the drive recorder 1 configured as described above, (1) operation of recording image data to an SD card, (2) operation of event determination, and (3) operation of recording event data will be described in this order. do.
When the drive recorder 1 is energized in response to switching on of the vehicle ignition, the setting information stored in the SD card is read out and copied to the main body memory (RAM), and the operation according to the setting information is started. If the setting information is not stored in the SD card, the default (initial setting) setting information stored in the main memory (ROM) is stored in the master SD card and then stored in the main memory (RAM). data is copied.

Although the details will be described later, the setting information of the SD card can be generated using the personal computer 35 . In the following description, the operation of the drive recorder 1 according to default setting information will be described. In the default setting, a sequential recording operation mode (control mode) is set in which a series of imaging data is recorded over a long period of time using master and slave SD cards. Operation modes of the drive recorder 1 include sequential recording, dual recording, mirror recording, and the like, which will be described later in a second embodiment.

(1) Imaging data recording operation (sequential recording)
The operation of recording imaged data to an SD card is an operation that is continuously executed in a power-on state in which an event such as an impact has not occurred. Under the control of the controller 30, two SD cards are used to record a series of imaging data as shown in FIG. The image data to be recorded includes velocity data, position data (latitude and longitude), acceleration data, etc., which are recorded in synchronism with each other, as described above. The storage area of each SD card is managed for each block such as sector. The squares of each SD card in the figure schematically represent this block.

If the two SD cards are in the initialized state, the controller 30 starts recording (recording of imaging data) from the master SD card as shown in FIG. When the storage area of the master SD card becomes full, recording to the slave SD card is started as shown in FIG. After that, when the storage area of the slave SD card is also full, the storage area of the master SD card is erased to generate a free area as shown in the upper part of C in FIG. The order of erasing at this time is from the oldest recorded image data (oldest image capturing timing) in the memory area of the SD card. Erase the image data. The controller 30 records new imaging data as shown in the lower part of FIG. 1C while erasing old imaging data. After that, when all the image data of the master SD card is rewritten, the image data recorded on the slave SD card is erased as shown in FIG. while recording new imaging data.

For example, when the vehicle ignition is switched off and the power supply is interrupted in a state in which the imaging data is recorded up to the 40th block in the slave SD card as shown in FIG. After that, when the vehicle ignition is switched on, it continues recording the imaging data from the 41st block of the slave SD card.

(2) Event Judging Operation, (3) Event Data Recording Operation The event judging operation is realized by the controller 30 executing a predetermined event judging routine. The event data recording operation is executed in the event determination routine when it is determined that an event such as impact, sudden start/sudden braking, or sudden steering has occurred.

An example of the event occurrence determination routine will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. In the drive recorder 1 of this example, this routine is executed at intervals of about 10 milliseconds.
The controller 30 samples the acceleration each time step S1 is executed, thereby acquiring the acceleration pattern for the most recent second (past one second based on the current time), and at the same time, the vehicle at that time (current time). Correction of the event occurrence determination function pattern is executed according to the speed of . For example, if the vehicle speed is 75 km/h, it is necessary to compare the event occurrence determination function pattern with the pattern of 75 km/h. The controller 30 weights a plurality of patterns close to the speed of the vehicle, for example, event occurrence determination function patterns of 80 km/h and 60 km/h among the event occurrence determination function patterns prepared in advance. Calculate the event occurrence determination function pattern.

In step S2, the controller 30 determines whether the acceleration pattern and the corrected event occurrence determination function pattern match, that is, the similarity between the patterns. Both the acceleration pattern and the event occurrence determination function pattern are functions in the same dimension, so the similarity between the two functions can be determined by the correlation function.

If it is determined that the pattern is not similar to any of the event occurrence determination function patterns (S2: NO), it is assumed that the pattern is not an acceleration pattern that should be saved, and the process moves to step S1. On the other hand, if it is determined to be similar to the event occurrence determination function pattern (S2: YES), in step S3, it is determined whether or not the event occurrence determination threshold pattern exceeds the specific threshold at the speed. As the threshold here, the threshold already corrected based on the threshold correction data is used.

When the threshold value is exceeded in step S3 (S3: YES), the controller 30 determines that the event should be saved. The controller 30 designates a specific time interval from 10 seconds before to 5 seconds after the event occurs, and selects the imaging data of that time interval from the series of imaging data recorded on the SD card. (Specific image) is copied to the main memory (flash ROM). The imaging data copied to the main memory (flash ROM) is event data (information on the occurrence of an event) for 15 seconds including the point of time when the event occurred. ) is treated as When an event occurs, the acceleration pattern acquisition operation is canceled for 5 seconds, and the routine ends (S4). This cancellation of the acquisition operation is a process for preventing duplicate event data from being captured. On the other hand, if the threshold is not exceeded and it is determined that no event has occurred (S3: NO), the threshold to be saved is not exceeded, and the process proceeds to step S1.

Next, the personal computer 35, which is a terminal device in which an application program compatible with the drive recorder 1 is installed, (1) browses imaged data, (2) browses event data, (3) sets a threshold value for event determination, and (4) ) operation mode setting will be described in this order.
(1) Browsing of imaging data The imaging data recorded on the SD card can be loaded into the personal computer 35 and viewed as shown in FIG. FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating a general electrical configuration of the personal computer 35. As shown in FIG. The personal computer 35 has an MPU (Micro Processing Unit) 37 as a control device. The personal computer 35 includes user interfaces such as data input means such as a keyboard 42 and mouse 43 and data output means (or display means) such as a printer 44 and monitor 45 .

The MPU 37 is connected to a ROM 38 and a RAM 39, as well as SD card reader/writers 361 and 362 as data interface means, a hard disk drive 40, and the like. The hard disk accommodated in the hard disk drive 40 stores general programs and data for the personal computer 35 as well as a viewer program for displaying an image of an acceleration pattern on the monitor 45 . This personal computer 35 constitutes a drive recorder system (image recording system) in combination with the drive recorder 1 .

When a predetermined operation is performed by the data input means such as the keyboard 42 , the personal computer 35 starts up the viewer program, prompts the user to insert the SD card, and displays the viewer screen on the monitor 45 . FIG. 12 shows an example of the viewer screen 51 displayed on the monitor 45. As shown in FIG. A menu bar 52 for executing various operations is arranged at the top of the viewer screen 51 . The lower area of the menu bar 52 is divided into left and right areas by vertical lines arranged on the right side. In the area on the left, which occupies about 2/3 of the width of the screen, an image display area 53 for displaying imaging data, a display switching button 54, a running speed display area 55, an acceleration display area 56, and a latitude/longitude display area are arranged in order from the top. 57, an image drive/stop button 58, and an acceleration history display area 59 are arranged. A playlist 60 and a map area 61 are arranged in this order from the top in the right area of about 1/3 of the screen width.

When two SD cards recording a series of image data are inserted, the play list 60 is displayed with the file number of the series of image data being focused. The file number is a sequence of numbers of the shooting date, start time, and end time.

The personal computer 35 displays an image based on the imaging data in accordance with the operation of the image drive/stop button 58 on the viewer screen 51 . While the image is being displayed, each display of the running speed display area 55, the acceleration display area 56, the latitude/longitude display area 57, the acceleration history display area 59, and the map area 61 changes according to the displayed image. Images can be subjected to various operations such as reverse playback to return to the reverse direction, pause, and the like. Further, by operating the display switching button 54, it is possible to select one of a pattern in which one screen is displayed on the entire image display area 53 and a pattern in which continuous frame images (for example, 16 screens) are displayed.

(2) Browsing of event data The event data recorded in the main memory (flash ROM) of the drive recorder 1 can be communicated via the USB cable by performing a predetermined writing operation using the operation buttons of the drive recorder 1. It is possible to write to the connected personal computer 35 . The main body case 2 may be removed from the bracket 3 and connected to the personal computer 35 or the like, or a portable notebook personal computer or the like may be brought into the vehicle and connected to the drive recorder 1 . When connected to the personal computer 35, even if the ignition of the vehicle is turned off, the drive recorder 1 can operate with power supplied through the USB cable.

It is also possible to write the event data to an SD card, USB memory, or the like. In this case, the data recorded on the SD card is overwritten according to the writing of the event data. When using an SD card to write event data, it is preferable to perform a predetermined write operation after removing the SD card on which a series of image data is recorded and inserting another SD card. Note that when a predetermined writing operation is performed, a warning to the effect that the data on the SD card will be overwritten is output by voice before the event data is actually written.

The personal computer 35, which has read the event data via the USB cable or SD card, displays the file number of each event data in the play list 60 in the viewer screen 51 (FIG. 12). listed). A playlist 60 is a list read from the event file column 63 in FIG. In the playlist 60, each event data is listed in chronological order. For each event data, the file name, the event name indicating the type of event that triggered it, and the sensitivity level of the event are displayed. For example, L3 means that the file data threshold value is level 3 (that is, the default state).

When any file number is specified by operating the menu bar 52 , the personal computer 35 displays the imaged data of the corresponding event data in the image display area 53 . Note that the image displayed at this time is a still image at the time when it is determined that the event has occurred. Along with the display of this image, data corresponding to the image are displayed in the running speed display area 55, the acceleration display area 56, and the latitude/longitude display area 57, respectively, and the point where the image was taken is displayed in the map area 61. A map of the surrounding area is displayed. The acceleration history display area 59 displays the acceleration history over the time (total 15 seconds) when the image data of the event data was saved, and the acceleration position for the time displayed in the image display area 53 is plotted. Note that the image operation by operating the image drive/stop button 58 or the like is the same as when viewing a series of imaging data.

(3) Threshold Setting for Event Judgment A method for setting the sensitivity level of the threshold correction data constituting the setting information in the personal computer 35 having a function as setting change means will be described. This operation is executed while the application program is activated and the viewer screen 51 is displayed in the same manner as described above. The personal computer 35 displays a dialog box 65 shown in FIG.

In an impact sensitivity setting area 66 of the dialog box 65, sliders 67a to 67c for each event of impact, sudden start/sudden braking, and sudden steering are displayed. The user can set a desired sensitivity level for each item by appropriately operating these sliders 67a to 67c using the data input means. By default, all the sliders 67a to 67c and 68 are set to level 3, and this state is set to the threshold value stored in the database 32 (that is, the coefficient is "1"). . When the OK button icon 69 is operated, threshold correction data (sensitivity level) representing the thresholds set by the respective sliders 67a to 67c are written to the SD card as setting information. On the side of the drive recorder 1, when an SD card storing setting information is set, each event (impact, sudden start/sudden braking, sudden steering) is detected based on the threshold correction data (sensitivity level) included in the setting information. change the threshold of

(4) Operation Mode Setting A method of setting an operation mode constituting setting information in the personal computer 35 having a function as setting change means will be described. This operation is executed on a mode selection screen (not shown) that is switched to the viewer screen. This mode selection screen constitutes a change operation means for changing the operation mode, and on the screen, each operation mode of sequential recording, dual recording (described later in Embodiment 2), and mirror recording (same as above) is displayed. In addition to the select button, a confirmation button is also arranged. A desired operation mode can be selectively set by operating the confirmation button after selecting any of the selection buttons. When the confirmation button is operated, the personal computer 35 displays that the imaging data recorded in the SD card may be erased by changing the operation mode (function by warning means), and rewrites the setting information. switch to display a confirmation screen that asks the user whether it is okay to When an operation is performed to allow the confirmation screen to be changed, new setting information is stored in the SD card.

The drive recorder 1 of this embodiment configured as described above can record a series of imaging data over a long period of time using two SD cards, for example, in the sequential recording operation mode. After the storage capacities of the two SD cards are full, the imaging data recorded on one of the SD cards are deleted in order from the oldest at the time of recording. Record the imaging data. By recording new image data while erasing old image data in this manner, it is possible to record image data over a long period of time by effectively utilizing the storage capacities of the two SD cards. Also, when recording a series of imaging data on two SD cards, the frequency of erasing and rewriting data can be reduced compared to recording on one SD card, and the load on the SD card can be reduced. If the load on the SD card can be reduced, the probability of occurrence of troubles such as writing errors and erasing errors when recording image data can be reduced, and operational reliability can be improved.

Furthermore, in the drive recorder 1, when an event such as an impact exceeding a threshold occurs, the imaging data (specified as event data) of a specific time interval (15 seconds in this example) extending before and after the moment when the event occurs image) is copied from the SD card to the main memory (flash ROM) and recorded. When an event occurs, information specifying the occurrence timing is temporarily stored, and after that, when there is a margin in the calculation load of the CPU, etc., the imaging data of the specified time interval is copied to the main body memory (flash ROM). It's also good. In this case, the load concentration can be suppressed by temporally distributing the processing load of the CPU.

The drive recorder 1, which continuously records image data, uses a storage area of a memory card such as an SD card, which is greatly different from that of a camera, a video camera, and the like. That is, an image recording device such as the drive recorder 1 endlessly repeats erasing old image data and recording new image data as long as it is in an energized state. In the case of a camera or video camera, overwriting of new image data does not cause old image data to be arbitrarily erased.

In an image recording apparatus such as the drive recorder 1, which endlessly repeats erasing and writing in order to continuously record imaging data, a data write error, an erasing error, or the like occurs while imaging data is repeatedly recorded and erased. There is a possibility that the recorded data in the storage area will be defective. On the other hand, since the drive recorder 1 of this embodiment has two medium storage units, it is possible to mount a plurality of memory cards. By using a plurality of memory cards, it is possible to reduce the number of executions such as rewriting and erasing data in each memory card, thereby reducing the load compared to when only one memory card is installed. As a result, it is possible to reduce the probability of occurrence of troubles such as writing errors and erasing errors when imaging data is recorded, and to improve operational reliability. The drive recorder 1 is a device with excellent characteristics in which the stability of recording operation of imaging data is improved.

Note that the imaging data recording operation of this example described with reference to FIG. 8 may be changed as shown in FIG. The operation when recording to the master SD card in FIG. 15A is started is the same as in FIG. 8A. The difference lies in the control after the storage area of the master SD card is full. As shown in FIG. 15B, the imaging data recorded on the master SD card is erased in conjunction with the recording of the imaging data on the slave SD card. Here, interlocking means that the amount of image data recorded in the slave SD card and the amount of image data erased from the master SD card approximately match or maintain a certain difference. In this state, recording and erasing of imaging data are progressed in parallel while being synchronized.

After that, when the storage area of the SD card of the slave becomes full, all the imaging data recorded on the SD card of the master are erased as shown in the upper part of FIG. 15C. Note that it is preferable that the file management information that manages the data addresses (recording positions) of the data files stored in the storage area of the SD card is left valid until all the imaging data is erased. By performing such control, it becomes possible to read out image data remaining without being erased until the SD card is initialized. It is preferable to erase the file management information by executing initialization formatting of the storage area after erasing all the imaging data. After that, as shown in the lower part of FIG. 4C, the image data recorded in the slave SD card is erased in synchronization with the operation of recording the image data in the master SD card. In addition, when initializing the SD card that stores the setting information, after initializing, first copy the setting information stored in the main memory (RAM) to return to the state of storing the setting information. good.

When the storage area of the master SD card becomes full again, as shown in FIG. 15D, the slave SD card is in an initialized state with all image data erased, and starts recording image data. can.
Also, for example, when the vehicle ignition is switched off with image data recorded up to the 40th block of the slave SD card as shown in FIG. Recording is resumed using the SD card of the recorded slave.

In addition, it is also good to provide three or more SD card readers. For example, three or more SD cards that are set may be divided into two groups, and the same recording operation as for the two SD cards in this example may be applied to each group of SD cards. In this case, by recording the same imaging data on two or more SD cards belonging to the same group, the imaging data can be read even if some kind of recording error occurs in one of the SD cards.

In this example, it is possible to record a series of imaging data over a long period of time using two SD cards. Instead of this configuration, a series of imaging data may be recorded using a combination of either one of the SD cards and the main body memory (flash ROM). In this configuration, the event data may be recorded on one of the SD cards, the event data may be recorded on the remaining SD card, or the main memory (flash ROM) may be recorded. .

In this example, in order to determine the occurrence of an event, acceleration or the like is used as a physical quantity that reflects the state of the vehicle. In addition to acceleration and the like, the physical quantity includes, for example, information flowing on an in-vehicle network that transmits vehicle control information, and information obtained based thereon. For example, speed, average speed, maximum speed, 5 seconds speed, average 5 seconds speed, maximum 5 seconds speed, rpm, average rpm, maximum rpm, engine load, average load, maximum load, throttle opening, average throttle Opening, maximum throttle opening, ignition timing, fuel level, intake manifold pressure, maximum intake manifold pressure, MAF, INJ, cooling water temperature, maximum cooling water temperature, intake air temperature, maximum intake air temperature, outside temperature, maximum outside temperature, remaining fuel , Fuel flow rate, Maximum fuel flow rate, Fuel consumption, Lifetime fuel consumption, Instantaneous fuel consumption, Current fuel consumption, Maximum current fuel consumption, Lifetime fuel consumption, Average fuel consumption, General road average fuel consumption, Highway average fuel consumption, Moving average fuel consumption, Maximum moving average fuel consumption, Driving time, driving time, idle time, idle ratio, mileage, lifetime mileage, 0-20km/h acceleration time, 0-20km/h average acceleration, 0-20km/h shortest acceleration, 0-40km/h acceleration time , 0-40km/h average acceleration, 0-40km/h shortest acceleration, 0-60km/h acceleration time, 0-60km/h average acceleration, 0-60km/h shortest acceleration, 0-80km/h acceleration time, 0 -80km/h average acceleration, 0-80km/h shortest acceleration, 0-20km/h running time, 20-40km/h running time, 40-60km/h running time, 60-80km/h running time, 80km/h It is also possible to adopt any of the vehicle data such as the running time, the lifetime engine running distance, the lifetime engine running ratio, and the like. These vehicle data are provided on the vehicle side in accordance with OBD (On-board Diagnostics)-II (II is a Roman numeral "2", hereinafter referred to as "OBD"), which is a vehicle inspection standard. can be obtained via an OBD connector (failure diagnosis connector). In this case, the configuration for acquiring the vehicle data from the OBD connector becomes the data acquiring means.

For example, it is also possible to provide a recording button (storage operation means) for recording imaging data in a specific time period by manual operation by the user. In this case, the operation of the record button is the event. By operating the record button, the captured image data before and after that can be recorded in the main body memory (flash ROM) or SD card. For example, when the user passes a point of interest or encounters a traffic situation that he/she wants to record, by operating the record button afterwards, the captured data including the point or traffic situation can be recorded as event data. It is convenient to be able to record. As for the event of the user's operation, there is a high possibility that a time lag will occur between the appearance of the object to be recorded and the actual occurrence of the event. Therefore, when recording event data according to an event such as a user operation, it is preferable to set a long time interval corresponding to the event data. In particular, if the time interval on the past side is set long, even if the operation of the record button is slightly delayed, the desired scenery can be recorded as event data with high certainty.
For example, it may be a drive recorder equipped with a liquid crystal display capable of reproducing and displaying imaging data recorded on an SD card. In this case, the event data can be recorded by operating the record button while the drive recorder is reproducing the imaging data.

In this example, an insertion slot 181 for an SD card reader 311 corresponding to a master SD card and an insertion slot 182 for an SD card reader 312 corresponding to a slave SD card are opened side by side on the main body side of the drive recorder 1. are doing. For example, the insertion slot 181 corresponding to the master SD card may be provided with a cover, while the insertion slot 182 corresponding to the slave SD card may be left without a cover. In this case, the operation procedure for removing the master SD card is more complicated than the operation procedure for removing the slave SD card, so that the slave SD card is preferentially removed. can be directed to It is possible to suppress the possibility that the master SD card in which important data such as setting information is recorded is removed, and to avoid troubles caused by unexpected removal of the master SD card.

It is also possible to provide the drive recorder 1 with operation buttons serving as change operation means for changing setting information (operation mode, threshold value correction data, etc.). In this case, the setting information can be changed by the drive recorder 1 alone. A function for displaying the set operation mode, the operation mode to be changed, etc. may be provided, or a reading function may be provided. Furthermore, if the drive recorder 1 is configured to be able to change the setting information, it is preferable to add warning means for warning that the data recorded on the SD card may be erased by changing the setting information. A text-to-speech function or the like may be adopted as the warning means. In this case, there is no need to add a display screen such as a liquid crystal display, and the increase in cost due to the setting of the warning means can be suppressed.

(Example 2)
This example is an operation example of the drive recorder 1 in an operation mode other than the sequential recording described in the first embodiment. This content will be described with reference to FIG. As described in the first embodiment, the operation modes of the drive recorder 1 include (1) sequential recording of the first embodiment, (2) dual recording, and (3) mirror recording. This example is an operation example under the operation mode of (2) dual recording.

(2) Dual Recording As shown in FIG. 16, dual recording is an operation mode in which event data is recorded on the master SD card and a series of imaging data is recorded on the slave SD card. A series of temporally continuous image data is recorded in the SD card of the slave, and when the storage area becomes full, the image data with the oldest image timing is rewritten with new image data in order. On the other hand, in the master SD card, when an event such as an impact occurs, image data for a specific time period (10 seconds before the event, 5 seconds after the event) including the moment of occurrence is transferred from the slave SD card. It is duplicated (data copied) and recorded. As in the first embodiment, the recorded imaging data includes velocity data, position data, acceleration data, etc., which are recorded synchronously, in addition to the imaging data.

In the case of FIG. 16, after the record data (event data) of the master SD card becomes full, the old record data is erased to create a free area for recording new event data. I have secured. Alternatively, the event data may be recorded with overwrite prohibited. When the storage area of the master SD card becomes full due to the event data, it is also possible to notify the user to load an SD card with a free storage area. Note that, for example, a permission mode in which overwriting is permitted may be set for an overwrite-prohibited SD card. In this case, after the storage area of the overwrite-prohibited SD card is full, when an important scene requiring recording appears, the permission mode can be set to record the image data of the important scene. .
In normal times, the image data is recorded on the slave SD card, and when passing a point you want to save, the image data is recorded on the master SD card, which is overwrite-protected. may be configured. This switch operation may be an operation of a changeover switch, or may be an operation of a switch that maintains the switching state for a predetermined period of time after the operation and returns to the original state after the predetermined period of time has elapsed.

When operating in the dual recording mode, event data may also be recorded in the main body memory (flash ROM) as in the first embodiment. In this case, it is possible to back up the data by recording the event data in both the SD card and the main memory (flash ROM). can.

This example is an example of performing dual recording using two SD cards. Alternatively, dual recording may be performed using either one of the SD cards and the main body memory (flash ROM). Furthermore, dual recording can be performed using two or more SD cards and the main body memory (flash ROM).
Other configurations and effects are the same as those of the first embodiment.

By recording a series of imaging data on the secondary slave memory card and recording imaging data of a specific time interval according to the occurrence of an event on the main master memory card, the series of imaging data and the imaging of the specific time interval can be obtained. Data can be efficiently recorded. As the specific time interval, for example, it is also possible to set a time interval in which it is necessary to save. It is not appropriate to prohibit overwriting because the series of imaging data recorded in the memory card of the slave needs to be updated as needed. On the other hand, as for the master memory card, it is also possible to record the imaging data in the overwrite prohibition mode.

In general, when recording to a memory card, a series of captured image data is managed, for example, in units of files. In the case of such a configuration, it may be difficult to create a file of only imaging data in a specific time period. In this case, it is preferable to copy or move data in units of files containing imaged data in a specific time period.

In the dual recording operation mode, the controller of the drive recorder 1 controls the secondary slave memory card as the first storage medium to which overwriting is permitted, while the primary master memory card is prohibited from being overwritten. 2 storage media. Here, the first and second numbers of the storage medium do not represent the order of priority or master-slave, and are completely irrelevant, and the numbers may be interchanged. If the secondary slave memory card is used as a storage medium for overwriting recording, and overwriting is prohibited for the main master memory card, the imaged data is continuously recorded on the slave memory card in the same manner as above. On the other hand, the master memory card can be used for recording imaging data that you particularly want to save.

In the dual recording operation mode, the controller of the drive recorder 1 successively overwrites the old image data at the time of image capturing among the image data recorded in the memory card of the secondary slave with new image data. Execute continuous recording. This enables constant recording by continuous recording of captured data, and records captured images in a predetermined temporal range in the past with the current time as a reference. For example, it becomes possible to record a photographed image at the moment when an accident or the like occurs, and secure evidence useful for investigating the cause of the accident.

It should be noted that overwriting is prohibited on the main master memory card, for example, imaged data by event recording when some event occurs, imaged data by manual operation recording according to manual operation, still recording, etc. Other than constant recording It is better to record the captured image of If there are not enough memory cards installed in the drive recorder 1 and it is not possible to sort them into master/slave, the installed memory card can be treated as a secondary slave memory card and continuous recording of image data can be performed. good.

In the dual recording operation mode, when a specific recording condition is satisfied, such as when the acceleration detected by the G sensor exceeds a predetermined threshold value, imaged data is recorded in the master memory card with overwrite prohibited. As a result, it is possible to reliably store the imaged data in the overwrite-prohibited state when a specific recording condition is satisfied. In particular, in the drive recorder 1, imaged data is recorded in an independent master memory card different from a slave memory card for constant recording, in accordance with the establishment of a specific recording condition. Therefore, even if some kind of trouble occurs during the process of continuously recording imaged data on the slave memory card, there is little possibility that problems such as unreadable data will affect the master memory card.

It should be noted that the specific recording condition for recording the imaged data on the master memory card with overwriting prohibited may be, for example, some event, manual operation by the driver, or the like. The event may be, for example, the occurrence of an accident such as the deployment of an airbag, the occurrence of sudden braking or sudden steering, or the occurrence of large acceleration.

When the amount of data recorded in the overwrite-prohibited storage medium exceeds a predetermined amount, or when the storage medium needs to be initialized, it is also possible to record captured images and the like in the internal memory of the drive recorder. . After that, when the data capacity of the storage medium becomes free due to data deletion, or when a new storage medium is loaded, part or all of the data stored in the main body memory may be moved to the storage medium. In this case, there is a possibility that only one medium storage section can be configured, and a low-priced drive recorder can be realized.
Other configurations and effects are the same as those of the first embodiment.

(Example 3)
This example is an operation example of the drive recorder 1 in an operation mode other than the sequential recording described in the first embodiment. This content will be described with reference to FIG. As described in the first embodiment, the operation modes of the drive recorder 1 include (1) sequential recording of the first embodiment, (2) dual recording, and (3) mirror recording. This example is an operation example under the operation mode of (3) mirror recording.

(3) Mirror Recording Mirror recording, as shown in FIG. 17, is an operation mode in which the same imaging data is recorded on the master and slave SD cards. Event data is recorded in the main body memory (flash ROM) in the same manner as in the sequential recording operation mode of the first embodiment. If the same data is recorded on both the master SD card and the slave SD card, even if a recording error occurs in one of the SD cards, the series of image data can be read out from the other SD card. high reliability can be ensured.

This example is an example of performing mirror recording using two SD cards. Instead of this, mirror recording may be performed using one of the SD cards and the main body memory (flash ROM). Furthermore, mirror recording can be performed using two or more SD cards and the main body memory (flash ROM).
Other configurations and effects are the same as those of the first embodiment.

The drive recorder 1 of Examples 1 to 3 includes a plurality of medium accommodating units that detachably hold memory cards such as SD cards. The control controller 30 of the drive recorder 1 controls the memory loaded in the other medium storage unit during recording of imaging data on the memory card loaded in at least one medium storage unit out of the plurality of medium storage units. Various types of processing such as write processing and initialization processing for the card can be executed in parallel.

For example, if another write process is to be executed for a memory card different from the memory card that records the captured image data, even if the other write process is executed while the captured image data is being recorded, It is possible to suppress the possibility that the frequency of data access such as data writing and reading becomes excessively high for a memory card for recording image data and a memory card for executing other writing processing. Therefore, even if another writing process is executed in parallel with the recording of the imaging data, there is less possibility that the recording of the imaging data will cause a problem in recording the image.

The drive recorder 1 can execute other processes with a relatively high frequency of data access to the memory card within a range in which the influence on the recording operation of the imaging data is suppressed. If various writing processes can be executed while imaging data is being recorded, the drive recorder 1 can be used not only for recording imaging data, but also for recording various data, thereby improving convenience.

The controller 30 of the drive recorder 1 has a function of individually executing data writing, reading, erasing, and initialization controls for each memory card mounted in each of the plurality of medium storage units. . If the control of writing, reading, erasing, and initialization of data can be individually executed for each memory card, there is an advantage that the types of recording operations that can be executed in parallel in the drive recorder 1 increase. As a result, the functions of the drive recorder 1 are diversified and convenience is improved. For example, it is possible to record vehicle data such as the number of revolutions of the engine and the vehicle speed in another memory card while recording image data in a specific memory card. Also, for example, when recording imaging data using two or more memory cards, while recording the latest imaging data, the storage area of the other memory card with the older imaging time point of the recorded imaging data can be used. Initialize it. In this case, when the memory card in which the latest imaging data is being recorded becomes full, another memory card in the initialized state can be used to continue recording of subsequent imaging data. By using the initialized memory card, the imaging data can be recorded with high certainty with little possibility of writing errors.

(Example 4)
This example is based on the dual recording of the second embodiment, and is an example of a drive recorder that performs more sophisticated dual recording.

(1) A configuration example in which data that is not overwritten is recorded in a master memory card.
For example, if the G-sensor detects a predetermined impact in one of the event recordings and records before and after that, it is better to prohibit overwriting if the impact detection is the detection of an accident, but in reality the road surface conditions such as bumps on the road, etc. The driver's driving operation may also be detected as an impact, and if overwrite is prohibited, unnecessary overwrite-prohibited data will be accumulated more and more. In order to prevent unnecessary overwrite-prohibited data from overflowing, it is preferable to set a predetermined capacity and provide a function of overwriting within that range.

It is also possible to perform control to prohibit overwriting of a part of the storage area of the master memory card, and to allow overwriting of the remaining part or all of the storage area. For example, if the G-sensor detects a predetermined impact in one of the event recordings and records before and after that, it is better to prohibit overwriting if the impact detection is the detection of an accident, but in reality the road surface conditions such as bumps on the road, etc. The driver's driving operation may also be detected as an impact, and if overwrite is prohibited, unnecessary overwrite-prohibited data will be accumulated more and more. In order to prevent unnecessary overwrite-protected data from overflowing, once overwrite-protected data is generated, it is recorded in an area where overwriting is permitted. It is also possible to perform control such that data is moved to an overwrite prohibited area when this occurs.

(2) Configuration example that enables mutual backup of master/slave memory cards.
In the drive recorder, a plurality of memory cards can be loaded, and control is performed such that one of them is used as the main master and the others are used as secondary slaves. If either the master or slave memory card is removed or some problem or malfunction occurs, it is also possible to employ a configuration that has a function to compensate for the function of that memory card on the other memory card side. With this configuration, even if the memory card of either the master or the slave is removed or some problem or malfunction occurs, it is possible to maintain the same function as before the malfunction occurred. .

In particular, the memory card of the main master should be configured such that the images that should be saved, such as records of accidents or places with good scenery, are recorded with a low probability of being overwritten or erased. In addition, the secondary slave memory card should be used to constantly record images while driving. It is preferable to have a function of at least one of moving or copying to a storage medium that stores data. In general, constant recording has a higher probability of causing damage or failure of a storage medium such as a memory card. In the above dual recording mode, the images you want to save are recorded on the master memory card, so even if the slave memory card is damaged or malfunctions, the damage will be small.

When the master and slave memory cards are installed and the slave memory card that permits overwriting is removed and only the master memory card that prohibits overwriting is installed, the controller of the drive recorder 1 It is also possible to set an overwritable storage area in part of the empty area of the storage area of the master memory card. With this configuration, even after the slave memory card is removed and only the master memory card remains, continuous recording of imaged data is possible, and convenience is reduced due to deterioration of the function of the drive recorder 1. can be suppressed.

In the configuration provided with the function of controlling a second storage medium having an area in which recorded captured images are not erased due to the overwrite prohibition, the control means controls the When the first storage medium is removed and only the second storage medium is attached, the first storage medium is stored in a part of the free area of the storage area of the second storage medium. It is preferable that the image recording apparatus has a function of setting an overwritable storage area for storing the data corresponding to the storage of the image.

If only one memory card is mounted, the controller of the drive recorder 1 treats the memory card as a third storage medium, and the overwritable storage area and the overwrite-prohibited storage area. It is also good to perform control to provide and. In this case, even if only one memory card is loaded, data such as overwrite-prohibited image data can be recorded, for example, separately from image data for constant recording. The overwrite-prohibited imaging data may be an image captured by event recording, an image captured by manual operation recording, an image captured by still recording, or the like. After that, for example, when a memory card that can be used as a master or slave is newly loaded, it may be handled as a master or slave memory card. If it is treated as an overwritable slave memory card, all or a part of, for example, always-recorded imaging data recorded so as to be overwritable on the original memory card controlled as the third storage medium is transferred to a new memory card. It is also good to transfer and record to the memory card of the slave. If it is handled as a master memory card that is overwrite-prohibited, all or part of the image data, etc. recorded in overwrite-prohibition on the original memory card controlled as the third storage medium can be transferred to the new master memory. It is also good to transfer to a card and record.

A mode is provided to control all storage media as the first storage medium even when a plurality of storage media are mounted and the first storage medium and the second storage medium can be sorted. It's also good. In this case, since the storage area of the first storage medium is increased, it is possible to lengthen the recording time when continuously recording captured images. In this way, when there are a plurality of first storage media, when the amount of data recorded in one of the storage media becomes full, the other first storage medium is selected as the target storage medium for continuous recording of captured images. It is better to switch to In this case, it is possible to alternately use one of the plurality of first storage media to efficiently and continuously record captured images. The storage medium should be configured so that recorded data can be erased and initialized individually.

In a configuration provided with a function of controlling as a second storage medium having an area in which recorded captured images are not erased due to overwrite prohibition, the control means controls whether or not a new storage medium is installed in a state where only one storage medium is installed. It is also possible to control the storage medium as the second storage medium and record the data recorded in the overwrite-protected storage area of the third storage medium to the newly installed storage medium. .

(3) A configuration example in which master/slave memory cards can be interchanged.
A plurality of storage media, including the main body memory of the drive recorder 1, are used in order as the main and secondary storage media without fixing the memory card as the primary master, and while recording is being made to the primary storage medium, the secondary storage media are used. This is an example of a configuration having a function of initializing a storage medium to be used. By adopting such a configuration, the load on each storage medium can be nearly uniform, and the probability of occurrence of damage or malfunction can be reduced.
In this case, it is preferable to provide a function for recording both overwrite continuous recording and overwrite inhibit event recording in the same main storage medium.

In particular, recording data (imaging data), which is the basis of the drive recorder, is recorded on the main storage medium, and data that is not the basis of the drive recorder is recorded on the secondary storage medium. storage area) may be separated. By doing so, it is possible to prevent the processing speed from slowing down and the occurrence of unprocessable portions, especially in multifunctional drive recorders. In addition, by separating as described above, the frequency of use of one storage medium can be reduced, and the probability of damage or failure of the storage medium can be further reduced.

The drive recorder preferably performs control to initialize other storage media while recording on one storage medium automatically or semi-automatically under predetermined conditions. If the initialization is performed automatically or semi-automatically, it is possible to avoid problems such as the inability to read data recorded in the storage medium, and to maintain high data recording efficiency in the storage medium and record data. You can keep the volume close to maximum. In addition, it is desirable to initialize the storage medium periodically. After the previous initialization, when rewriting is performed a predetermined number of times, when overwrite storage is performed for a predetermined time, or when a predetermined capacity of overwrite recording is performed. semi-automatically, such as automatically under a predetermined condition, such as when the It is better to implement

Do not automatically initialize storage media that do not allow overwriting. By setting a medium storage unit that is not automatically initialized, data that is desired to be stored for a long period of time can be held with high certainty. For example, a storage medium storing event recordings should not be initialized automatically. Event recording is considered to be less frequently rewritten due to overwriting than constant recording, and event recording is likely to have recordings that you want to keep for a relatively long time, so event recording is stored. It is preferable to set the storage medium so that it is not initialized automatically.

It is preferable that the image recording apparatus performs control to temporarily store constant recording in a partial capacity of the event recording storage medium while the overwriteable constant recording storage medium is being initialized.
In this case, it becomes possible to initialize even a storage medium for constant recording, and it is possible to suppress the occurrence of troubles related to the storage medium. For example, if there are multiple storage media for constant recording, they can be initialized in sequence. At least while the storage medium for constant recording is being initialized, it is preferable to control recording to the one for event recording.

When the remaining capacity of the overwrite-prohibited storage medium for storing event recordings becomes less than a predetermined amount, it is preferable to perform control to store event recordings in an overwritable storage medium for constant recording. In this case, for example, it is possible to avoid the possibility that the overwrite-prohibited storage medium for event recording becomes full and the captured image at the time of event occurrence cannot be recorded. In addition, when the remaining capacity of the storage medium becomes less than a predetermined amount, or when event recording is being performed on the storage medium for constant recording, for example, an alarm, sound, display, etc. is used, and an external device such as a PC is notified. Data copying, exchange of storage media, etc. can be prompted.
Other configurations and effects are the same as those of the second embodiment.

(Example 5)
This example is an example of a drive recorder 5 provided with a saving operation means for recording part of the imaged data with overwriting prohibited based on another example. This content will be described with reference to FIGS. 18 to 20. FIG.

The drive recorder 5 of FIGS. 18 and 19 is an electronic device that accommodates an electronic board (not shown) inside a housing 50 having a substantially rectangular front shape. A lens 611 of the camera unit 61 is arranged on the front of the housing 50, and a liquid crystal screen 630 of a liquid crystal display, which is an example of display means, and various operation buttons 505 are arranged on the back. On the upper surface of the housing 50, a recording button 521 and a power button 523, which are examples of storage operation means for starting and stopping the recording operation, and a screw for attaching the bracket 7 (see FIG. 20) are arranged. A hole 501 is drilled. On the side of the housing 50, there are two power supply terminals 57 for power supply and two card slots 55, which are an example of a medium accommodating section for inserting a microSD card (an example of a memory card, which is an example of a storage medium). arranged in parallel.

The drive recorder 5 can be attached to a vehicle windshield 80 or the like as shown in FIG. 20, for example, via an attachment bracket 7 . The bracket 7 has a sticking stay 73 stuck to the windshield 80 via a double-sided tape 700 or the like, a pedestal 71 including screws 711 corresponding to the screw holes 501 of the drive record 5, and the like.

As shown in FIG. 20, the sticking stay 73 has a spherical sliding ball 435 provided at the tip of a curved arm 433 extending from the rear surface of a circular sticking plate 730 stuck to the glass surface of the windshield 80 . It is a member that has been The pedestal 41 is a member provided with an inner peripheral spherical concave portion 417 on the opposite side of a pedestal surface 410 on which a screw 411 is provided. A peripheral screw 415 into which the peripheral nut 45 is screwed is provided on the outer peripheral side of the recess 417 . By tightening the outer peripheral nut 45 with the sliding ball 435 accommodated in the recess 417 , the sliding ball 435 can be tightened and fixed, thereby fixing the angle of the sticking stay 43 with respect to the base 41 .

In installing the drive recorder 5, for example, first, as shown in FIG. Stick it on the windshield 80 . Next, the drive recorder 5 is held so that the screw 711 of the bracket 7 can be inserted into the screw hole 501, and the screw 711 is screwed in by rotating the drive recorder 5 itself. The drive recorder 5 is fixed to the base 71 of the bracket 7 by screwing the screw 711 until the housing 50 presses against the base surface 710 . After adjusting the imaging range of the drive recorder 5 to a desired range, the sliding ball 435 of the sticking stay 73 can be fixed by tightening the outer peripheral nut 75 . As a result, the installation attitude of the drive recorder 2 can be fixed and the imaging range can be set to a predetermined range, and the installation of the drive recorder 2 can be completed.

Of the two card slots 55, the card slot located on the front side of the housing 50 serves as a medium accommodating portion for accommodating an overwritable microSD card, and the card slot on the back side accommodates an overwrite-protected microSD card. It is a medium containing portion for containing. By fixing the positions of the memory card for constant video recording and the memory card for which overwrite is prohibited, it is possible to prevent the user from taking the wrong memory card. For example, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of troubles such as overwriting and erasing of data that should have been saved by inserting a memory card that has already been recorded with overwriting prohibited into a card slot for continuous recording.

By appropriately operating the operation button 505 , the drive recorder 5 reproduces and displays on the liquid crystal screen 630 the picked-up image recorded in the overwritable microSD card. When the record button 521 is operated while the reproduced image is being displayed on the liquid crystal screen 630, the drive recorder 5 transfers and records the picked-up image including a predetermined before and after including the time of the operation to the overwrite-prohibited microSD card. In order to suppress the concentration of the processing load, it is also possible to mark the point of operation and execute the transfer recording later.

In the drive recorder 5, after confirming the reproduced image and determining whether or not it should be saved, the captured image that is the original of the reproduced image determined to be saved can be recorded while prohibiting overwriting. If it can be confirmed by the reproduced image, it is possible to record the captured image to be saved with high certainty in a state in which overwriting is prohibited. While playing back a captured image recorded in an overwriteable microSD card by constant recording, part of the captured image can be transferred to an overwrite prohibited microSD card and recorded. By operating the record button 521 while displaying a reproduced image, there is little possibility that a captured image different from the captured image to be saved is mistakenly recorded. The time interval of the captured image recorded in the overwrite-prohibited state is a time interval that goes back a predetermined time from the point of time when the operation was performed, a time interval from the time of the operation until a predetermined time passes, or It is preferable to set it as an interval that spans before and after the point in time when the operation is performed.

It should be noted that the drive recorder 5 may be provided with a sensor such as a G sensor for detecting impact and an external input function. When controlling one of a plurality of installed storage media as an overwritable storage medium and one of them as a storage medium for constant recording that is overwrite-prohibited, a sensor or an externally input signal is used as a trigger. A captured image in a time interval up to a predetermined time before the time when a signal was input as a reference, a captured image in a time interval up to a predetermined time based on that point in time, and both of these captured images may be recorded on a storage medium that prohibits overwriting.

In recording a part of a captured image with overwrite prohibited, data is generally moved or copied in file units in many cases. Therefore, it is also possible to transfer or copy not only the portion corresponding to the time interval based on the point at which the recording button 521 is operated, but also the file including that portion. In this case, portions other than the portion corresponding to the temporal section are included in the transferred data. At this time, when reproducing a part of the captured image recorded with overwriting prohibited, it is also possible to omit the reproduction of the part other than the part corresponding to the temporal section.

In the drive recorder 5, the recording method and the type of recording data are distinguished for each card slot 55, which is an example of the medium containing section, and the functions are different. When a memory card, which is an example of a storage medium, is loaded, the card slot 55 can be selected according to the data to be recorded, etc., which makes it easier to use. For example, it becomes easier for the user to grasp different recording methods and recording timings for each card slot 55, and mistakes such as removing the memory card during writing can be prevented. It is preferable to use different recording methods such that overwriting is permitted in one card slot 55 and overwriting is prohibited in the other card slot 55 as in this example. Alternatively, one card slot 55 may be used for constant recording, and the other card slot 55 may be used for event recording.

It should be noted that it is also possible to control each card slot 55 of the drive recorder 5 so that the probability of recorded data being erased is different. For example, one card slot 55 has a high probability of erasing recorded data by overwriting, and the other card slot 55 has a sufficient storage capacity for the amount of recorded data so that the probability of erasing by overwriting is low. It is better to keep Also, even if both are overwritten, one of them records a large amount of data, such as constant recording data, and the other stores a small amount of data, such as event recording, so that the recorded data is erased at different probabilities. can also be

In the drive recorder 5, two card slots 55 are arranged side by side. Alternatively, one of the medium storage units is arranged on the side that can be seen from the driver, and the other is arranged on the side that cannot be seen from the driver. , or it is also good to make it so that the ranking can be known. In this case, the ease of access from the user side can be differentiated for each medium container. For example, a storage medium/medium container that is frequently attached/detached should be placed in an easy-to-understand location, and a storage medium/medium storage unit that is not frequently attached/detached should be placed in a location that is relatively difficult to find. For the storage medium/medium container that is frequently attached and detached, it is preferable to enclose the edge of the medium container with a line, color the edge, or provide internal lighting so that it is easy to understand. For example, in the case where the card slots 55 are arranged side by side as in the drive recorder 5, it is possible to cover the card slots 55 with an opening/closing cover 558, which is an example of a lid, so that the card slots 55 that are not frequently attached and detached as shown in FIG. . Alternatively, print or engrave near the medium storage unit so that the order can be seen such as 1, 2, etc., or A, B, etc., and take out the storage medium/medium storage unit that is frequently attached and detached as 1 or A. It is also preferable to make the storage medium less likely to be mistaken.

At least one of the plurality of storage media may be of a different shape or size than the others. If the sizes of the storage media are made different, it is possible to obtain the effect that it is possible to suppress the mixing up of a plurality of storage media. For example, as shown in FIG. 22, the medium accommodating portion 55, which is frequently attached and detached, is a standard type storage medium such as an SD card 555, and the lower medium accommodating portion 55A is a storage medium such as a micro SD card 555A. By using different types of SD cards, it is better to make it difficult to take out the wrong storage medium.

It may be a drive recorder with a car navigation function. At least one of the plurality of medium storage units provided in the drive recorder may be dedicated to recorded data and information and data incidental to recorded data. Car navigation systems, generally called PNDs, are equipped with media storage units such as memory card slots for updating maps and software, providing sources for music and video, recording TV programs, and storing driving routes. often If the car navigation function and the drive recorder function are combined, there is a method of using both functions separately in one medium storage unit, but if the drive recorder function has a function to constantly record images while driving, Image data must always be stored in a storage medium, and if data relating to a car navigation function is also stored in the storage medium, processing may be inconvenient. Therefore, it is better to provide a plurality of medium storage units and to use at least one of them exclusively for the drive recorder function.

It may be a drive recorder with a radar detector function. At least one of the plurality of medium storage units provided in the drive recorder may be dedicated to recorded data and information and data incidental to recorded data. Radar detectors are often used by storing data such as warning locations on memory cards. For the same reason as in the case of the drive recorder having the car navigation function, it is preferable to provide a plurality of medium storage units and to use at least one of them exclusively for the drive recorder function.
Other configurations and effects are the same as those of other embodiments.

(Example 6)
This example is an example of setting a main storage medium based on another example. This content will be explained.
The drive recorder of this example, like the other examples, has a plurality of medium housing units for loading storage media for recording recorded data based on captured images. The drive recorder controls, as a main storage medium, a storage medium mounted in a main medium storage section, which is one of the plurality of medium storage sections.

On the main storage medium, at least both overwriteable constant recording and overwrite-prohibited event recording are recorded. The drive recorder performs control to record the captured image in another storage medium when the capacity of the main storage medium, which is overwrite-protected, exceeds a predetermined amount, or when there is no storage medium in the main storage medium. Execute.

When the main storage medium is taken out and the recorded data is viewed on an external device such as a PC, for example, it is very convenient to view all the recorded data, whether it is regular recording or event recording. In addition, in the event of an accident or the like, there are cases where the storage medium in which the images at the time of the accident are recorded is pulled out and stored. Even in such a case, it is better to store all the data for both constant recording and event recording in one storage medium.

For example, if only one storage medium can be installed, if the capacity is full due to overwrite prohibition, or if no storage medium is installed, the function as a drive recorder will not be sufficient. If another storage medium is installed in addition to the main storage medium like the drive recorder in this example, the function as a drive recorder is realized even if the capacity of the main storage medium is full or is not installed. can. Note that the main storage medium may have a large capacity and the others may have a small capacity. When part or all of the data recorded on the main storage medium is erased and there is sufficient capacity, or when a new storage medium is installed, part or all of the data stored on another storage medium It is also possible to transfer all to the main storage medium.

Determine the medium storage section where the main storage medium is installed, and place a lamp near that medium storage section to blink when the capacity is full due to overwrite prohibition or when the storage medium is not installed. Or you can turn it on. In this case, it is possible to clearly display the medium containing portion that cannot be used for data recording, so that the user can recognize the fact. For example, when data is stored in a storage medium other than the main storage medium, it is easy to understand if the lamp of the main storage medium is flashed. In addition, for example, it may be configured to notify by a display on a display device, an alarm, a sound, or the like at the same time when the lamp flashes or lights up.

When initializing the main storage medium, the drive recorder copies or moves at least overwrite-protected data stored in the main storage medium to another storage medium, and then executes the initialization. By executing such initialization control, for example, even a storage medium containing overwrite-protected data can be safely initialized without damaging the data.

If there is no storage medium in the main storage medium, or if the main storage medium is to be initialized, captured images and the like may be recorded in the internal memory of the drive recorder. After that, when the data in the main storage medium is erased and there is enough data capacity, or when a new storage medium is installed, part or all of the data stored in the main memory can be transferred to the main storage medium. It is also good to move to another storage medium. In this case, only one medium container is required, and the product cost can be reduced.

In addition, when the storage medium is initialized, after switching the storage from the storage medium to be initialized to another storage medium such as another storage medium, storage for a predetermined time or storage for a predetermined capacity is performed in the other storage medium. It is preferable to use an image recording apparatus in which the storage medium is initialized later.
Since it is desirable to prevent new data from being erased as much as possible, it is desirable to initialize data after storage has progressed on a storage medium other than the one to be initialized. It is preferable that the memory be initialized when the memory in the other memory reaches its full capacity and overwriting is started.

Instead of this example, one of the plurality of medium storage units may be used as a dummy medium storage unit. By providing a dummy medium storage section, it is possible to obtain an effect that it can be used as a storage place for a spare storage medium. A spare storage medium is installed in the dummy medium storage section, and when the main storage medium is removed, it can be conveniently used by replacing it with the spare storage medium in the dummy medium storage section. It is possible to suppress the risk of losing the card during storage.
Other configurations and effects are the same as those of other embodiments.

(Example 7)
This example is an example in which a storage medium has a communication function based on another example.
A memory card controlled by overwrite protection has a function of storing data and a communication function of transmitting data to the outside. The drive recorder is capable of executing control to transmit captured images recorded with overwrite prohibited to an external device.

The drive recorder can externally transmit captured images recorded in the memory card in a state in which overwriting is prohibited, and the captured images can be browsed at the destination. Adopting such a configuration is particularly effective in the event of an accident or the like. For example, when a driving situation such as drowsy driving occurs in a taxi or the like, if the captured image at that time is immediately sent to the taxi company, it will be possible for the administrator to grasp the dangerous situation before an accident occurs. . Further, for example, when an accident occurs later, if the captured image at that time is immediately transmitted, the administrator can immediately grasp the situation and quickly take measures after the accident.

When a memory card with communication function and a memory card without communication function are installed in the drive recorder, the storage medium with communication function is controlled as an overwrite-protected memory card, and the storage medium without communication function can be overwritten. It is better to control it as a simple memory card. Then, all or part of the data recorded in the overwrite-prohibited memory card should be preferentially transmitted. Here, it is preferable that the priority transmission is automatic transmission.

For example, when the G-sensor detects a predetermined impact, it is preferable to record captured images before and after the time in an overwrite-prohibited memory card. Although it is possible to immediately transmit this captured image to the outside, in reality, there are cases where the impact is detected depending on the road surface conditions such as bumps on the road and the driving operation of the driver. In order not to transmit images within the normal range to the outside unnecessarily, for example, after recording the captured images in response to the detection of an impact to a memory card that prohibits overwriting, the vehicle stops and the stopped state continues for a predetermined period of time. It is also possible to perform control so that the captured image recorded with overwrite prohibited is externally transmitted when the vehicle is stopped and the hazard lamps are turned on.

It is also possible to perform control to prohibit overwriting of a part of the storage area of the memory card provided with the communication function while permitting overwriting of the remaining part or all of the storage area. For example, if the G-sensor detects a predetermined impact in one of the event recordings and records before and after that, it is better to prohibit overwriting if the impact detection is the detection of an accident, but in reality the road surface conditions such as bumps on the road, etc. The driver's driving operation may also be detected as an impact, and if overwrite is prohibited, unnecessary overwrite-prohibited data will be accumulated more and more. In order to prevent overflow of unnecessary overwrite-protected data, when overwrite-protected data is generated, it is temporarily recorded in an area where overwriting is permitted. It is also possible to move data to an area where overwriting is prohibited when the situation shifts to a situation where it can be estimated that the possibility of an accident is high due to an operation or the like.
Other configurations and effects are the same as those of other embodiments.

The drive recorder of each embodiment has a plurality of medium storage units, and can be loaded with a plurality of memory cards. This drive recorder has the following advantages over drive recorders having only one medium container.
(a) For example, if the memory card is damaged or defective, recording will not be possible. In particular, when continuous recording is being performed, the probability of damage increases because the recording is constantly overwritten (repeatedly deleted and stored) while the vehicle is running. Also, if the memory card is removed during operation, there is a high possibility of damage. Most drive recorders turn the power on and off in conjunction with the engine key, but depending on the vehicle, voltage fluctuations, interruptions, and surges may occur, especially when the engine is started. These adversely affect memory card control. In some cases, an abnormality may occur in the memory card, resulting in damage or malfunction of the memory card. On the other hand, in the drive recorder of each embodiment, since a plurality of memory cards can be loaded, it is possible to perform backup control using another memory card even if one of the memory cards is damaged. Therefore, the drive recorders of each ten years are less likely to fall into a situation in which recording cannot be performed at all.

(b) The main purpose of the drive recorder is to record the accident, and it is necessary to preserve the record of the accident so that it cannot be erased. Accidents are generally detected when a G-sensor or the like detects an impact greater than a predetermined amount, and images before and after the incident are often stored with overwriting prohibited. However, it is difficult to reliably detect only accidents, and impacts are also detected depending on the bumps and unevenness of the road surface, the way the driver drives, etc. There are many recordings that do not need to be saved. If the sensitivity of the sensor is lowered, it will not be possible to detect an accident. Also, witnessing dangerous or reckless driving, a dangerous experience that could lead to an accident, recording in a scenic place, etc., is a manual operation, and in many cases, the images before and after are not overwritten and saved, and depending on the user, Record more with no overwrite. If the memory card becomes full with such overwrite-protected recordings, no more recording is possible. It is necessary to replace the memory card, take out/delete images, initialize, etc., but there may be cases where it is not possible to do so immediately, such as while driving or traveling. It will not function as a recorder. On the other hand, the drive recorder of each embodiment can be loaded with a plurality of memory cards. For example, when an overwrite-prohibited memory card becomes full, you can set an overwrite-prohibited area in the storage area of the memory card for constant continuous recording (constant recording), which allows overwriting, and capture images, etc. that you want to save. can be temporarily placed. By executing such control, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of a situation in which the overwrite-prohibited storage area becomes full and a captured image that is desired to be saved cannot be recorded. As for storage media such as memory cards, the smaller the capacity, the lower the price, and the larger the capacity, the higher the price. There is a technical limit to the capacity, and among commercially available memory cards, those with a large capacity close to this limit tend to be very expensive. For example, the price of this high-capacity memory card is not just twice the price of a half-capacity memory card, but may be three, four, or even five times the price. If a plurality of memory cards can be installed as in each embodiment, for example, by installing two memory cards with reasonable capacity, the same state as installing memory cards with twice the capacity is achieved. can be realized. Compared to drive recorders in which only one memory card can be inserted, the purchase price of a memory card to secure the same storage capacity is remarkably reduced.

(c) In the case of a drive recorder that can only be loaded with one memory card, it is common to store continuous recording and overwrite-prohibited event recordings on the same memory card. It will increase if you don't take care of it. It would be nice to perform maintenance/treatment on a daily basis, but it is difficult to do. There are cases where the continuous continuous recording area and the overwrite prohibited recording area are separated in the memory card, but in many cases, the overwrite prohibited recording is prioritized without dividing the area, and the more overwritten recording, the more the continuous recording area. In many cases, it is designed to reduce In this case, before the capacity of the memory card becomes full due to overwrite-protected recording, the constant recording area is reduced, the constant recording time is shortened, and the time in which images can be checked retroactively is shortened. At the same time, the time required for one cycle of overwriting is shortened, and the frequency of repetition of erasing and recording increases, increasing the probability of memory card damage and failure. On the other hand, if you separate the continuous recording area and the overwrite-protected recording area, of course, when the overwrite-protected recording area becomes full, you cannot record any more. The timing at which recording to the recording area becomes impossible becomes earlier. On the other hand, in the drive recorder of each embodiment, since a plurality of memory cards can be loaded, it is possible to separate, for example, a memory card for which overwriting is prohibited and a memory card for constant continuous recording. Even if you do not have to prepare an expensive large-capacity memory card, you can secure the capacity of the overwrite-protected recording area by installing multiple inexpensive memory cards. Since it is possible to reliably record captured images and the like to be saved without purchasing an expensive large-capacity memory card, the running cost is suppressed and economical.

(d) In order to confirm or retrieve recorded images using a PC viewer or the like, the memory card may be removed from the drive recorder and forgotten. Or the memory card may be removed for some reason. In such a case, if the drive recorder allows only one memory card to be installed, it must run without a memory card installed, and recording and storage will not be possible, and the drive recorder will not function. On the other hand, since the drive recorder of each embodiment can be loaded with a plurality of memory cards, even if one of the memory cards is removed, it is possible to perform backup control using another memory card. For example, if an overwrite-prohibited memory card is removed, backup control can be considered, such as providing an overwrite-prohibited area in a part of the overwritable memory card storage area. By executing this kind of backup control, even when the vehicle is running with a specific memory card removed, it will not be possible to realize a specific function, and the extent to which the function of the drive recorder is impaired can be suppressed. can.

Although the specific examples of the present invention have been described in detail above as examples, these specific examples merely disclose an example of the technology encompassed by the claims. Needless to say, the scope of claims should not be construed to be limited by the configurations and numerical values of specific examples. The scope of claims encompasses techniques in which the above-described specific examples are variously modified, changed, or appropriately combined using known techniques and knowledge of those skilled in the art.

1 drive recorder 2 body case 8, 9 push button 13 CCD camera 15 acceleration sensor 181, 182 insertion opening 181A, 182A LED
24 GPS receiver 30 Control controller 311, 312 SD card reader 32 Database 35 Personal computer 361, 362 SD card reader/writer 45 Monitor

Claims (6)

A drive recorder comprising change operation means for changing setting information of the drive recorder,
A warning means is provided to warn that data recorded in a storage medium attached to the drive recorder may be erased by changing the setting information.
A drive recorder characterized by An operation button as the change operation means is provided,
The warning means warns that data recorded in a storage medium may be erased by changing the setting information by operating the operation button.
The drive recorder according to claim 1, characterized by: As a warning means, provide a warning function with a text-to-speech function
3. The drive recorder according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by: Terminal-side setting change means for changing setting information recorded on a storage medium attached to the drive recorder according to any one of claims 1 to 3, and setting information recorded on the storage medium attached to the drive recorder A terminal device comprising terminal-side change operation means for accepting an operation for changing the
and terminal-side warning means for warning that data recorded in the storage medium may be erased when an operation to change the setting information is accepted via the terminal-side change operation means.
A terminal device characterized by: A program for causing a computer to implement the functions of the drive recorder according to any one of claims 1 to 3. A program for causing a computer to implement the functions of the terminal device according to claim 4 .

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