JP2006174416A - Compact recorder - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a compact recorder with which a camera or a microphone, a micro-computer and a memory are integrally unified to be small-sized and lightweight, and mounted on a hat, a helmet or clothing to make consecutive recording of images or sounds, and which a user conveniently uses without feeling any sense of discomfort in mounting and also without disturbing ordinary jobs. <P>SOLUTION: A micro-computer 1 is formed in the approximately same size as or smaller than a card-type data storage memory 2, the memory 2 is disposed while being laminated in the micro-computer 1, and an imaging means and (or) sound recording means for storing images or (sounds) is disposed while being connected to the memory via the micro-computer. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

The present invention relates to a small image and sound recording device that can easily record a scene where video and audio are to be recorded when necessary, such as for surgery, production site verification, accident site search / verification, sports / exploration recording, etc. .

For example, surgery is frequently performed in hospitals, and what records the whole is installed as equipment in the operating room, but there is nothing that can be captured by the individual eyes of the surgeon or the staff who assists it. In addition, a large-scale video device is used for recording sports and events, and the only thing that can be handled individually is to capture sound with a hand-free microphone. Or, in some shooting scenes such as F1 races, there is a camera that sends images with the camera fixed to F1, but this is fixed in a field of view that is completely different from the driver ’s intention, that is, the line of sight they want to see. It is far from what was reflected.

Or, shooting with a small personal video camera is also active in every scene, but as you know, when you shoot through a finder or LCD screen, you can see only within a narrow field of view from the finder. However, there is a drawback that it is difficult to make an overall judgment as compared with observation by human eyes unless it is an expert who has been trained specially. That is, there are many scenes where it is desirable to record what is visible or audible to the ear, but in reality there is nothing that can accurately record the human gaze as it is.

In addition, if you are a surgeon in a surgical operation, the line of sight stares at the details during the operation, and the verifier at the accident site stares at the main part of the trouble. Or rescuers are looking at victims. However, there is nothing that can accurately track the line of sight, and its appearance is desired.

In addition, the conventional recording device is large as a whole, the smallest one is slightly larger than the business card, but the smallest size is difficult to wear and can be worn. The recording means such as a camera and a microphone are separated from the power source, and the disadvantage of low usability is inevitable.
Patent Publication 2000-341566 JP-A-11-110071

Therefore, as a result of various studies, the present inventors have made it easy for the wearer to be aware of images close to human eyes, and there is almost no physical burden, which may hinder the performance of normal work. Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a small-sized recording apparatus that can easily perform recording.

The main feature of the present invention is that the micro computer 1 is formed to be approximately the same size or small size as the card-type memory 2 for storing data, and the memory 2 is stacked on the micro computer 1 and the micro computer is interposed therebetween. In other words, an image pickup means or (and) recording means for storing images or (and) sound in the memory is connected and arranged.

In the present invention, as described above, the micro computer 1 is formed to be approximately the same size or a small size as the card-type memory 2 for storing data, and the memory 2 is stacked on the micro computer 1. Since the image pickup means and / or recording means for storing images or (and) sound is stored in a memory via a small computer, the overall size is very small so that the memory is slightly larger than the memory. In addition, it is light and lightweight, and can be easily attached to a hat, a helmet, a breast pocket of clothes, and the like.

In addition, because it is small and lightweight, the size and weight burden on the wearer is extremely low, and it is possible to record images and sounds without wearing it with little consciousness and obstructing normal operations. is there.

In addition, when the elements necessary for recording images and sounds from the power source to the memory are packed in a single housing (so-called all-in-one), compared to the conventional type in which the main unit and power source or operation unit are separated. In addition, there is no inconvenience of mounting members at a plurality of locations, only one mounting location is required, wiring and the like are unnecessary, and operability is simplified.

In addition, if you want to keep a record, such as a medical site or system check, you can save the contents of the memory in another computer after recording. If the storage time is for daily security, use a 2 or 4 hour capacity depending on the size of the memory, take a panning shot and check the memory. You can also check.

Since a general-purpose card type can be used as the memory, it is cheap and easy to obtain, is easy to use, and can be used for image and audio recording devices that have been used only in special places so far in terms of cost. It is less constrained by cost and can be expanded to a wide range of applications.

In this way, the present invention is small and lightweight and can be easily attached to clothes, etc., so it is suitable for daily and simple sink recording except for special recording with precise and high image quality (sound quality). In particular, it is easy to use and record on sites where the work space is small, where you want to reduce carrying parts, or where the hands are blocked by other work and are difficult to use. By expanding the possible range dramatically, detailed records can be made, and up to now, the situation of troubles, etc. based on the hearing of the person in charge who looked at the site, etc. is stored as an objective and accurate record It has the advantage that it can contribute to the investigation and prevention of the cause of trouble, and the range in which images and sounds can be recorded extends from the cost, human resources, equipment size, operability, etc. It is.

(Basic imaging example)
The present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. FIG. 1 shows an outline of the most basic embodiment of the present invention. In order to record digital data on a micro computer (board) computer 1 in which a CPU, RAM, ROM, M-PRG 4 and the like are mounted on a printed wiring board. The memory 2 can be detachably attached. 3 is a slot for the connection, and 30 is a frame for inserting the memory 2. The memory 2 is a card type, and a wireless LAN card can be used if necessary. Here, the ultra-compact computer 1 has the same maximum projection area as the memory 2 but may be smaller than the memory 2 if possible. The micro computer 1 is housed in a housing 4 whose maximum projected area is substantially the same as or slightly larger than the memory 2.

An imaging means 5 such as a micro camera is arranged on the surface opposite to the memory 2 mounting surface of the micro computer 1 and is externally provided as necessary via a terminal 19 such as a USB connector as an input / output unit. Data can be output to an output device such as a computer. Reference numeral 12 denotes an opening provided in the housing 4, which is a transmission window of the imaging means 5 such as a micro camera module. Reference numeral 14 denotes a door, which is locked when the memory 2 is connected to the slot 3. Reference numeral 31 denotes a memory 2 take-out button.

The surface of the housing 4 where the opening 12 is not provided is provided with a mounting means 15 such as a planar fastener, so that the entire apparatus can be mounted and used on a pocket portion of a garment, a hat, a helmet or the like. In the case of illustration, the mounting means 15 is a planar fastener constituted by male and female surfaces 15 a and b. The attachment means to clothes etc. is arbitrary with a gem pin, a hook, a magnet, etc. besides a planar fastener. In addition, the power source 17 used for this is supplied to the micro computer 1 through the power terminal 18. The power source 17 uses a battery having a maximum projected area substantially equal to or smaller than that of the memory 2 and is stacked in the thickness direction of the memory 2.

(Recording basic example)
For recording purposes, the recording means 6 such as a microphone is provided on the surface opposite to the memory 2 mounting surface of the micro computer 1 and, if necessary, the speaker 7 is an input / output unit. The connection is arranged through. The housing 4 is provided with a sound collection window 13 for the recording means 6.

(Application example of imaging + recording)
FIGS. 2 to 5 show an embodiment in which an image pickup means 5 and a sound recording means 6 are provided. An image pickup means 5, a sound recording means 6 and a speaker 7 are input / output on the surface opposite to the memory 2 mounting surface of the micro computer 1. It is connected and arranged via each terminal 9, 10, 11 which is a part. The housing 4 is provided with a transmission window 12 of the imaging means 5 and a sound collection window 13 of the recording means 6. The power source 17 uses a battery having a maximum projection area substantially equal to or smaller than that of the memory 2 and is stacked in the thickness direction of the memory 2 as shown in FIG.

Here, a switch 32 can be provided at an appropriate position of the housing 4 as needed for the operation of the imaging means 5, the recording means 6, and the computer 1. In addition, in the case of being used for connection as an intelligent eye of an external computer, robot, or other equipment / device, the USB connector 19 and the expansion connector 20 are appropriately arranged for expansion in order to connect to them.

(Bone conduction switch usage example)
For example, when the device A of the present invention is mounted on a helmet as shown in FIG. 7A, or when the device A of the present invention is mounted on sunglasses or goggles, a switch having a bone conduction receiving function at a site where the movement of the facial skeleton is felt. By wearing 32, or through a sensor that senses the vibration, it is possible to use tooth meshing vibration as a switch on / off signal. Thus, when the bone conduction type switch 32 is used as the switch 32, even if the limb is closed, the teeth can be engaged so that on / off, temporary stop, re-drive, etc. can be performed accordingly. Thus, the device of the present invention can be operated using the movement of the mouth without impairing other workability.

(Example of Display) A display 16 can be provided on the surface of the housing 4 where the image pickup means 5 is not provided as shown in FIG. When the display 16 is disposed, the attachment means 15 such as a surface fastener is not provided on the entire surface. Therefore, the belt-like attachment means 15 is provided on the entire periphery or a part of the periphery of the display 16 or a clip is provided on the upper periphery. A separate attachment means can be applied. Of course, with or without the display 16, the video signal can be taken out by connecting to an external display or a computer.

(Example with transmission function)
A memory 2 having a function of transmitting data to a remote place such as a CF wireless LAN card can be used, or a separate transmission function can be added. In this way, the wearer of the device of the present invention can be a source of images and sounds and can confirm information from a remote location. In addition to remote monitoring, a doctor or headquarters from an ambulance crew or rescue crew You can take emergency and emergency measures in time by sending images and sounds to the real time. If it is installed at a fixed point or mounted on a robot, it can be used for crime prevention, disaster information acquisition, and status confirmation.

(Example of incorporation into other equipment and components)
Although the above example shows an example of a product stored in the housing 4, it can be incorporated in another device or tool. For example, the housing 4 may be omitted when it is incorporated into a robot, a helmet or goggles, or an ATM or highway gate.

(Example of installing the power supply outside)
In any of the above-described embodiments, a battery or a battery is stacked on the micro computer 1 as a power source 17, but a place where a commercial power source can be used, a car, a train, an airplane, a ship, etc. where a stable power source can be secured. In the case of a mobile body, an external power source 27 can be used instead of the power source 17 with built-in layers. In that case, a connection terminal for the external power supply 27 may be provided, and the adapter may be attached so that the power supply 17 can be switched to the external power supply 27, or the specification of the external power supply 27 may be dedicated.

FIGS. 7 and 8 show examples of in-vehicle monitoring and recording devices. Power is supplied to the power supply terminal 18 from an external power supply 27 such as an automobile battery via a cigarette lighter connector 21. 22 is a DC jack, 23 is an AC / DC converter, 24 is a cigarette lighter outlet, and 25 is a trigger adjustment / switching switch. Further, when the commercial power source is the external power source 27, it may be connected to an outlet with a plug. When the power source 17 such as a battery is used, the power source 17 can be reconnected to the DC jack 22. Either can be used properly.

The device of the present invention is mounted on the helmet or hat 40, goggles or sunglasses as shown in FIG. 7 (a) by the mounting means 15, or on the chest pocket 41 of the jacket as shown in (b), or as shown in (c). It can be used by hanging from the neck. In this case (c), the hanging strap becomes the mounting means 15. In the figure, A is the small recording apparatus of the present invention. Depending on the recording capacity of the memory 2, 2 hours or 4 hours can be taken, and the image can be shot and the sound can be recorded.

As an example, when the memory is a CF card, the size of the device of the present invention is about 42 × 36 × 5 mm and the weight is about 8 g. Therefore, the size of the entire device is about half of a conventional business card (eg, about 55 × 50 × 15 mm). ) The weight is about 40-60g. If a more stable external power supply 27 can be secured, the power supply 17 that is built in a stack such as a battery can be moved to the outside to make it thinner, and can be installed in a narrow place or more. It can be incorporated into a small robot or device, and a continuous recording function can be added.

In addition, as the memory 2, CF card, compact mini drive of the same size as the CF card, USB flash memory, SD card, mini SD card, smart media, xD card (Olympus trademark), etc. A suitable digital memory recording type can be selected mainly from a card type, but an analog recording type may also be used. Further, if it is set in a state in which it can be output to the outside by a USB connector or the like, it can be used as the memory 2 even if it cannot be taken out to the outside like a RAM. Further, the power source 17 can be selected from a chargeable card type battery to a button battery according to the application and size.

In the present invention, when the power source 17 is built-in, the apparatus A of the present invention is attached to a hat or a helmet 40 or a chest pocket 41 of clothes as shown in FIGS. 7 (a) to (C). All you have to do is take a picture of the operation process, plant / system inspection, police car site / patient record, guardman's patrol record / customer record, rescue team field record, exchange of instructions by sending images from ambulance to doctor (transmission function) In addition to this, it is possible to record video and audio in a wide range of places for safety and care, such as daily watching, behavior recording of children and the elderly, etc. .

When there is an accident or trouble and it is desired to check or to check the recording, the memory 2 can be removed from the apparatus of the present invention and separately inserted into a personal computer or the like to check images and sounds. Alternatively, when the USB connector 19 is used for data output of the memory 2, the USB connector 19 can be connected to an external device such as a computer, a display, a speaker 8, etc., and the contents of the data can be removed without removing the memory 2. Can be confirmed. In such a case, the memory 2 can be a removable memory or a fixed memory such as a RAM.

When a memory with a transmission function (wireless LAN card) is used, it can be used as a functional member for the eyes and ears of the robot in addition to the above-mentioned case of the emergency team. It is also possible to give guidance from the command section instead of the bad person's eyes. In addition, even when it is used by being fixedly placed at a fixed point, such as for monitoring, it is inconspicuous, so it can be arranged for monitoring without causing the subject (recorder) to feel uncomfortable.

As described above, in the present invention, in particular, when the power supply 17 is stacked and built-in, the all-in-one state including the camera, the memory, the main body, and the power supply can be accommodated in a substantially memory size. There is almost no wearer, not only the wearer, but also the surroundings, and it is possible to perform a panning shot of an image or sound without any burden naturally. In addition, since it is ultra-lightweight and ultra-compact and can be used in a wearable manner, the wearer can perform normal duties normally without being clogged up like conventional hand-held devices. It is easy to keep a record in the range close to the operator's line of sight, and also does not secure staff separately from the original work staff for imaging and recording, It can be applied to relief activities, monitoring records, records of various operations at medical sites and manufacturing sites, sports records, daily records, and the like.

The exploded perspective view of one example of the present invention. The disassembled perspective view of the other Example same as the above. The disassembled perspective view which changed the viewing angle same as the above. The block diagram of one Example same as the above. The schematic sectional drawing same as the above. The perspective view which shows the principal part of the other Example same as the above. (A), (b), (c) is a use state explanatory drawing same as the above. The disassembled perspective view of further another Example same as the above. The block diagram same as the above.

Explanation of symbols

1 is a micro computer.
2 is memory.
3 is a memory slot.
4 is a housing.
Reference numeral 5 denotes imaging means.
6 is a recording means.
15 is a mounting means.
16 is a display.
17 is a power supply.
27 is an external power supply.
32 is a switch.

Claims (7)

The micro computer 1 is formed to be approximately the same size or small size as the card-type memory 2 for storing data, and the memory 2 is stacked on the micro computer 1 and an image is transferred to the memory 2 through the micro computer 1. A compact recording apparatus comprising an image pickup means 5 for storage. The micro computer 1 is formed to be approximately the same size or small size as the card-type memory 2 for storing data, and the memory 2 is stacked on the micro computer 1 and audio is sent to the memory 2 through the micro computer 1. A small recording apparatus comprising a recording means 6 for storage. The micro computer 1 and the power source 17 are formed to be approximately the same size or small size as the card-type memory 2 for storing data, and the memory 2 and the power source 17 are stacked on the micro computer 1 and the micro computer 1 is interposed therebetween. A small recording apparatus comprising an image pickup means 5 for storing an image in the memory 2. The micro computer 1 and the power source 17 are formed to be approximately the same size or small size as the card-type memory 2 for storing data, and the memory 2 and the power source 17 are stacked on the micro computer 1 and the micro computer 1 is interposed therebetween. And a recording device 6 for storing the sound in the memory 2. 5. The small-sized recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein data is transmitted to a remote place. The small size according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the wearable material is a material that can contact the head, such as a helmet, a hat, and glasses, and the switch 32 is operated by bone conduction. Recording device. The small recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a display is disposed on the other surface of the housing.