JP2024059665A - System and Program - Google Patents

Abstract

[Problem] To provide a system capable of realizing the initialization of a recording medium in an efficient manner. [Solution] A processing device 10 includes a recording unit 150 that detects that a recording medium has been mounted, and a control unit 100 that executes a process of initializing the recording medium based on the recording unit detecting the removal of the recording medium and the recording unit subsequently detecting that a recording medium has been mounted. [Selected Figure] Figure 2

Description

The present invention relates to a system, etc.

Recently, there are many recording devices that record video using publicly available imaging devices such as security cameras and drive recorders installed in public facilities such as trains, taxis, and buses. These recording devices record video data on recording media such as memory cards, but due to privacy and security concerns, it becomes necessary to periodically perform initialization processes to erase the recorded video data.

Here, as a method for easily erasing data recorded on a recording medium, an invention has been disclosed in which, for example, when it detects that a memory card has been inserted into a digital video camera, the memory card is initialized (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 6-14229

However, as mentioned above, the number of installed camera devices has increased in recent years, and the number of recording media on which video data is recorded has also increased significantly. Furthermore, the amount of video data captured for public use will be even greater when the length of time the data was captured and the number of locations where the recording devices are installed are taken into consideration.

As mentioned above, when considering privacy and security issues, it is necessary to erase data recorded on recording media at regular intervals, but there has been no prior idea of efficiently initializing a large number of recording media.

The above-mentioned cited reference 1 is intended simply for initialization at the beginning of use of the device, and does not take into consideration the efficient initialization of a large number of recording media.

In view of the above-mentioned problems, one of the objects of the present invention is to provide a technology for handling recording media, for example, a system that can realize the initialization of recording media in an efficient manner.

The object of the present invention is not limited to this, and the applicant intends to obtain rights to configurations that aim to obtain effects from parts of the configurations disclosed in this specification and drawings, etc., by filing a divisional application, amendment, etc. For example, this specification discloses problems in which the phrases "can" and "is possible" are read as "the problem is". Each problem is described as being independent, and the applicant intends to obtain rights to the configurations for solving each problem separately by filing a divisional application, amendment, etc. Even if the problem is implicitly understood from the description in the specification, the applicant intends to include part of the configurations described in this specification in the scope of the patent claim by amendment or divisional application. The applicant has also disclosed a configuration that solves a problem that combines these independent problems, and the applicant intends to obtain rights to it.

(1) In view of the above-mentioned problems, the system of this embodiment is characterized by including a processing means that detects the removal of a recording medium and, based on the detection that a recording medium has subsequently been installed, executes a process to initialize the recording medium.

In this way, the system can initialize the recording medium based on the detection that a recording medium has been inserted after detecting the removal of the recording medium. Therefore, by repeatedly inserting and removing the recording medium, it is possible to continuously initialize the recording medium. Preferably, the detection means can continuously initialize the memory card by detecting that a memory card has been inserted and removed from the card slot. For example, after the initialization process of the recording medium is completed, the system can perform initialization by simply inserting and removing the recording medium without any other operations.

(2) In addition, the system of this embodiment may be further configured to include a display means for displaying a display screen in response to the state in which the mounting of the recording medium is detected and the processing being executed by the processing means.

In this way, the system can display the current status on the display screen according to the mounting status of the recording medium and the process being executed by the processing means. This allows the user to easily understand the current status and the next operation to be performed.

(3) In addition, in the system of this embodiment, the display means is characterized in that, if the recording medium is not installed, it displays a first display screen indicating that the recording medium should be installed.

In this way, the system can notify the user that a recording medium is to be inserted. This allows the user to know the timing to insert the recording medium to be initialized.

(4) In addition, in the system of this embodiment, when the initialization process is completed, the display means displays a second display screen indicating that the process is completed, and when the processing means detects that a recording medium has been inserted after or during the display of the second display screen, it initializes the recording medium.

In this way, the system can perform initialization of the next recording medium after or while the screen indicating that the initialization process is complete is displayed. By looking at the screen indicating that the initialization process is complete, the user can know when they can perform the process of initializing the next recording medium.

(5) In addition, in the system of this embodiment, the processing means, based on the detection of the mounting of the recording medium, reads recording medium information related to the recording medium from the recording medium and displays a third display screen, and after displaying the third display screen, executes a process to initialize the recording medium.

In this way, when the system initializes the recording medium, it can read out the recording medium information (e.g., memory card information) that is information about the recording medium and display it on the display screen. This allows the user to check the various information recorded on the recording medium to be initialized.

(6) In addition, in the system of this embodiment, the processing means executes a process to initialize the recording medium when a user instructs initialization while the third display screen is being displayed.

In this way, the system will initialize the recording medium based on an initialization instruction from the user while displaying the recording medium information. Therefore, the user can instruct the initialization of the recording medium after checking the recording medium information on the display screen once.

(7) In addition, in the system of this embodiment, the recording medium information includes information about the video data recorded on the recording medium.

In this way, the system can display information about the video data on the display screen. Here, information about the video data includes, for example, the date and time when the video data was recorded, the location, and whether the video data is continuously recorded video.

(8) In addition, in the system of this embodiment, the recording medium information further includes event information associated with the video data.

In this way, the system further includes event information associated with the video data, and can display information on whether or not an event occurred during the period in which the video data was recorded on the display screen, as well as the number of events. An event here may refer to, for example, the detection of a predetermined pattern of acceleration, or the detection of an acceleration greater than or equal to a predetermined level (specifically, the occurrence of sudden braking in the vehicle in which the recording device is installed, or the application of an impact to the vehicle).

(9) In addition, in the system of this embodiment, the recording medium information further includes information about the recording device that recorded the video data on the recording medium.

In this way, the system can also display information about the recording device that recorded the video data on the recording medium. The information about the recording device is, for example, the model name, information about the vehicle in which it is installed, etc. Furthermore, if the location where the recording device is installed is a public transportation vehicle (for example, a train), the information about the recording device may include information indicating the vehicle (for example, the name) and the name of the route on which it is installed, the vehicle number, etc. Furthermore, if the location where the recording device is installed is a car, information about the car number, the model of the car, the name of the bus route, the taxi business number, etc. may be included.

(10) In addition, in the system of this embodiment, the recording medium information is information regarding at least acceleration and speed acquired by the recording device.

In this way, the system can determine whether an event has occurred in the video data (e.g., whether sudden braking occurred during the period in which the video data was recorded).

(11) In addition, in the system of this embodiment, the recording device has a photographing device and is installed in a vehicle, the video data is photographed by the photographing device, and the recording medium information is information about the vehicle in which the recording device is installed.

In this way, the system can use the video data captured by the camera and also display information about the vehicle in which the recording device is installed.

(12) In addition, in the system of this embodiment, the processing means executes a process to initialize the recording medium based on the detection of the mounting of the recording medium after the user performs an execution operation.

In this way, the system detects the recording medium and executes the initialization process after the user has performed an operation once. This allows the system to perform initialization continuously only when the user has clearly performed an operation.

(13) In addition, in the system of this embodiment, the processing means is characterized in that, if it detects that the recording medium has been inserted before the user performs an execution operation, it displays a fourth display screen indicating a warning.

In this way, if the recording medium is inserted before the user performs an operation, the system can display a display screen (warning screen) showing a warning. Therefore, if the recording medium is inserted before the initialization process begins, the system will issue a warning because it is possible that the recording medium has been inserted incorrectly.

(14) In addition, in the system of this embodiment, the processing means further detects the removal of the recording medium, and then executes processing to initialize the recording medium based on further detection of the mounting of the recording medium.

In this way, the system will initialize the recording medium after the user has removed the recording medium after receiving the warning. This makes it possible to provide a safer system.

(15) In addition, in the system of this embodiment, the processing means is characterized in that, when it is determined that the recording medium matches a specific condition, it executes a process to initialize the recording medium.

In this way, the system will not initialize all recording media uniformly, but will execute the process of initializing only when certain conditions are met. This makes it possible to prevent the user from initializing recording media unintentionally.

(16) In addition, in the system of this embodiment, the specific condition is that the format of the mounted recording medium matches the format initialized by the processing means.

In this way, the system will not perform successive initializations if the recording medium is in a different format. This makes it possible to prevent the system from accidentally initializing a recording medium that is not in the specified format.

(17) In addition, in the system of this embodiment, the specific condition is that the format of the mounted recording medium matches the format of a recording medium that has already been formatted.

In this way, the system will not perform successive initializations if the recording medium is formatted differently from the other recording media. This makes it possible to prevent the system from accidentally initializing a recording medium that is not in the specified format.

(18) In addition, in the system of this embodiment, the specific condition is that a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the date on which the video data was recorded on the recording medium.

In this way, the system can determine that there is a high need to record video data if it has been recorded only recently, and prevent accidental initialization.

(19) In addition, in the system of this embodiment, the specific condition is that no event information is recorded that corresponds to the video data recorded on the recording medium.

In this way, the system can prevent initialization so as not to erase video data if event information is recorded on the recording medium.

(20) In addition, in the system of this embodiment, the processing means is characterized in that, when it is determined that the recording medium does not match a specific condition, it outputs an operation screen for confirming whether or not to initialize the recording medium.

In this way, if the recording medium does not meet the specific conditions, the system can ask the user whether it is OK to initialize the recording medium. Therefore, even if the user initializes recording media continuously, the user can check whether it is OK to initialize the recording medium based on the specific conditions.

(21) In addition, in the system of this embodiment, the processing means is characterized in that, when event information associated with the video data recorded on the recording medium is recorded, it outputs an operation screen that allows the user to select whether to initialize the recording medium or to display the recording medium information recorded on the recording medium.

In this way, if event information associated with video data recorded on the recording medium is recorded, the system can confirm with the user whether it is OK to initialize the recording medium. Therefore, even if the user initializes recording media consecutively, it is possible to confirm whether it is OK to initialize the recording medium on which event information is recorded.

(22) In addition, in the system of this embodiment, the processing means is capable of executing a first initialization process that is executed simply and a second initialization process as the initialization process, and is characterized in that the first initialization process is executed on the recording medium based on the detection means detecting the attachment of a recording medium.

In this way, when the system is to initialize recording media successively, it will execute the first initialization process, which is executed in a simplified manner. Therefore, when the user is to initialize recording media successively, it is possible to efficiently initialize the recording media by executing the simplified initialization.

(23) In addition, in the system of this embodiment, the first initialization process can be executed at a higher speed than the second initialization process.

In this way, the system can execute the first initialization process faster than the second initialization process. Therefore, when a user initializes recording media consecutively, the processes can be executed quickly.

(24) In the system of this embodiment, the first initialization process is a logical format, and the second initialization process is a physical format.

In this way, the system can use logical formatting, which is one of the high-speed methods, as the first initialization process. This allows the user to perform a simple and high-speed initialization in the first initialization, and a more careful initialization in the second initialization, even if it takes time.

(25) In addition, in the system of this embodiment, the first initialization process is a process of deleting the video data recorded on the recording medium.

In this way, the system can perform the first initialization process by simply deleting the video data, and initialization can be performed quickly. Here, deleting the video data may involve, for example, rewriting data in the FAT (File Allocation Table) area or changing flags in the file management area.

(26) In addition, in the system of this embodiment, the recording medium is initialized in a format accessible by a standard file system of a computer, and the processing means is characterized in that it continuously generates virtual files in an area of the recording medium where video data is previously recorded.

In this way, when the system initializes, it also generates consecutive dummy virtual files. Therefore, files are recorded consecutively in the sectors of the area where the video data is recorded, and the system can replace the virtual files when recording video data. Because the system records video data in consecutive recording areas in the recording area, it is possible to avoid the risk of some video data not being recorded or video data recording failing.

(27) In addition, in the system of this embodiment, the recording medium is initialized in a format that is inaccessible to a standard file system of a computer, the recording medium has management information for managing the video data and the video data recorded thereon, and the processing means executes the initialization process by rewriting the management information.

In this way, the video data is recorded in an area that is inaccessible to the file system. Therefore, when the system performs the initialization process, by rewriting only the management information, the video data becomes inaccessible, achieving the same effect as if the video data had been erased.

(28) In addition, in the system of this embodiment, the recording medium is characterized in that a first partition and a second partition are created, video data is recorded in the second partition, and management information for managing the video data is recorded in the first partition.

In this way, it is possible to separate the area in which video data is recorded from the area in which management data is recorded. Also, when initializing, you can achieve the same effect as if the video data had been erased by simply erasing the data recorded in the first partition.

(29) Also, in the system of this embodiment, the first partition is initialized in a format that is accessible by a file system, and the second partition is initialized in a format that is not accessible by a file system.

In this way, it is possible to separate the area in which video data is recorded from the area in which management data is recorded. Also, when initializing, you can achieve the same effect as if the video data had been erased by simply erasing the data recorded in the first partition.

(30) In addition, in the system of this embodiment, when the recording media detected to be mounted include a first recording medium and a second recording medium, the processing means executes a process of initializing the first recording medium and then initializing the second recording medium based on the detection of the mounting of the first recording medium.

In this way, the system can execute initialization processing on multiple recording media. Therefore, while initializing one recording medium, it is possible to insert and remove a recording medium of another detection means, making it possible for the user to perform initialization more efficiently.

(31) The system of this embodiment is further characterized by including a history management means for managing the history of the processing means executing the initialization process.

In this way, the system can manage the history of initialization processes. This makes it clear when an initialized recording medium was initialized, providing a system with high security.

(32) The system of this embodiment is further characterized by including a report output means for outputting a report based on the history managed by the history management means.

In this way, the system can output a report based on the history. Therefore, it becomes possible to check from the report when an initialized recording medium was initialized, providing a system with high security.

(33) In addition, in the system of this embodiment, the history managed by the history management means includes at least the date and time when the initialization process was performed and identification information that identifies the recording medium.

In this way, the system will include in its history at least the date and time when the initialization process was performed and identification information that identifies the recording medium. This makes it possible to confirm when an initialized recording medium was initialized, providing a system that is highly secure from a security standpoint.

(34) In addition, in the system of this embodiment, the initialization process is characterized by including a process of writing setting information indicating the initial settings of a specified system to the recording medium.

In this way, configuration information indicating the initial settings can be written onto the recording medium so that a specific system can use the recording medium.

(35) In addition, in the system of this embodiment, the specified system is a camera mounted on a vehicle and records video data on the recording medium.

In this way, setting information indicating the initial settings can be written to the recording medium so that the camera mounted on the vehicle can record video data on the recording medium.

(36) The program of this embodiment is a program for causing a computer to function as the processing means of any one of the systems (1) to (35).

The inventions shown in (1) to (35) above can be combined in any way. For example, the invention shown in (1) may be combined with at least a part of the configuration of at least one of the inventions from (2) onwards. In particular, the invention shown in (1) may be combined with at least a part of the configuration of at least one of the inventions from (2) onwards. Any configuration may be extracted from the inventions shown in (1) to (35) and the extracted configurations may be combined. The applicant of this application intends to acquire rights to the inventions including these configurations. Furthermore, even if there is a description such as "in the case of" or "when", this is not intended to describe the configuration as being limited to that case or time. These are examples of better configurations, and the applicant intends to acquire rights to configurations other than these cases or times. Furthermore, the parts described in order are not limited to this order. Configurations in which some parts have been deleted or the order has been changed are also disclosed, and the applicant intends to acquire rights to them.

The system of the present invention provides a technique for handling recording media, for example, enabling the initialization of recording media in an efficient manner.

Note that the effects of the invention of this application are not limited to these, and effects achieved from the configuration parts disclosed in this specification and drawings, etc. are also disclosed, and it is our intention to obtain rights to the configuration that achieves said effects through divisional applications, amendments, etc. For example, in this specification, statements such as "can do" and "is possible" are statements that clearly indicate the effect that is achieved, and there are also parts that show the effect even without statements such as "can do" and "is possible." Also, there are effects that can be understood from the configuration even without such statements.

FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining an overview of a system in a first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining a functional configuration of a processing device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining a first format. FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining a second format. FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining a third format. 4 is an operational flow for explaining a process in the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining an operation example in the first embodiment. FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining a menu transition in the second embodiment. 13 is an operational flow for explaining a process in the second embodiment. FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining an operation example in the second embodiment. FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining an operation example in the second embodiment. 13 is an operational flow for explaining a process in the third embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining an operation example in the third embodiment. 13 is an operational flow for explaining a process in the fourth embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining an example of operation in the fourth embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining an operation example in the fifth embodiment. FIG. 23 is a diagram for explaining an operation example in the sixth embodiment.

Below, a description will be given of a mode for carrying out the present invention with reference to the drawings. Note that the embodiment shown below is one embodiment of the present invention, and the contents of the present invention should not be interpreted as being limited based on the following description.

[0. How the idea for the present invention came about and summary of the present invention]
The present invention was conceived by the inventor of the present application based on the background described below. In cameras (e.g., drive recorders) for public use in public transportation vehicles such as trains, buses, taxis, airplanes, monorails, and linear motor cars, the external leakage of images captured by the cameras is considered a problem. The external leakage occurs, for example, when the data of images recorded on an SD card (an example of a memory card) is copied to another SD card. Therefore, it is conceivable to adopt a method of formatting and initializing a newly purchased SD card using an SD card that has been initialized to write setting information indicating the contents of the camera's operation settings as the copy source.

In this case, however, just for the front monitoring cameras, SD cards are required for the number of cameras installed, and if they are also used for in-car security, the number of cameras will increase, and the number of SD cards required will further increase. For this reason, there is a demand to complete the process as quickly as possible. In addition, when periodically formatting such SD cards, there is a problem in that the images recorded on the SD card can be seen when using the software, due to its specifications for displaying images recorded on the SD card.

Therefore, it is conceivable to adopt a method of introducing an SD duplicator and copying the setting information indicating the contents of the operation settings of the source (master) SD card to the destination (e.g., a newly purchased) SD card. However, this method has the following problems (1) and (2).
(1) When using a duplicator, it is advisable to use SD cards of the same quality and from the same manufacturer at the same time, and it is necessary to have the knowledge to be able to check the condition of the SD card at the cluster level after copying.
(2) If you use a duplicator to copy a master SD card, the information and traces on the destination SD card, such as the number of overwrites, will also be erased, making it impossible to analyze if a problem occurs.

In consideration of the above problems and the fact that publicly used cameras must be handled with care and that it would be problematic if the footage were viewed during formatting, the inventor of the present application came up with the idea of providing "regular format" software for administrators, primarily for corporations. This software is, for example, a formatting tool specialized only for formatting. This tool formats data that you do not want others to see or that should not be seen, using an application program that makes it impossible to check the contents and can erase the footage without viewing it. This tool is a formatting version of the SD card setting tool. The setting tool needs to be updated every time a new model is released, but it is conceivable that such a formatting tool does not need to be updated. The procedure is to incorporate safe removal into the software, and to (1) start the software, (2) insert the SD card, (3) press the software's regular format button, (4) display that formatting is complete in an instant, (5) remove the SD card, (6) insert the next SD card, and then repeat (3) to (6). Based on the idea of allowing administrators to complete their tasks easily and quickly using the above method, the inventor of the present application came up with the idea of the present application.

[1. First embodiment]
1.1 System Overview
The system 1 is a diagram showing an overview of the system in this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1A, the system 1 has a processing device 10 capable of reading and writing data to a memory card 250, which is a recording medium. The processing device 10 has a function of initializing the memory card 250. The processing device 10 is configured so that when video data is recorded in the memory card 250, the video data is not viewed by a person who uses the processing device 10 but is not qualified to view the video. For example, this is from the viewpoint of privacy and security. For this purpose, for example, the video playback function of the processing device 10 may be limited (for example, the playback function does not work), the video data may be configured so that it cannot be played by the playback function (for example, application of data format/encryption technology, etc.), or the processing device 10 may not have a video playback function. In addition, the processing device 10 may be connected to a memory card reader 15 via an interface such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus). In this case, the processing device 10 reads and writes data to the memory card 250 via the memory card reader 15. In this embodiment, the processing device 10 is realized by a personal computer, but it may also be realized by a recording device 30 that records video on a memory card 250, or a dedicated machine manufactured to perform initialization processing of the memory card 250, etc.

The recording medium may be, for example, a USB memory. The USB memory is connected to the processing device 10 or the USB interface. In the following, this embodiment will be described using a memory card 250 as an example of a recording medium.

The system 1 can also be realized as a standalone device, such as the processing device 20 shown in FIG. 1(b). In this case, for example, the processing device 20 is provided with a display unit 22 and multiple memory card readers 24. In other words, the processing device 20 may be a device such as a gang programmer or a gang reader/writer.

The memory card 250, which is a recording medium, is generally known as an SD card (registered trademark) or a microSD card. The memory card 250 is a recording medium that is mainly composed of semiconductors, but may be other recording media (e.g., magnetic media, magneto-optical media, etc.) as long as the recording medium is connectable to other devices.

Here, in this embodiment, the memory card 250 is used as a recording device that constantly captures video as content and records it constantly or as needed. For example, as shown in FIG. 1(c), the recording device 30 is installed as a drive recorder in the front part of a vehicle such as an automobile or a train, and captures and records the front of the vehicle. The recording device 30 may record video from another camera acquired via a wired or wireless communication path in addition to the video captured by the recording device itself. For example, the recording device 30 acquires and records video of at least one of the inside of the vehicle, the side of the vehicle (left or right direction with respect to the traveling direction), and the rear of the vehicle from another camera in addition to the front of the vehicle captured by the recording device itself. In this embodiment, the recording device 30 is described as a drive recorder as an example, but it may also be a device that records video that is constantly captured, such as a surveillance camera that monitors a specific area such as a work area in a factory, or a security camera that captures and records the inside of a store, or a device that records the log of a device (for example, the operation log of a machine tool installed in a factory, etc.).

The recording device 30 is equipped with a photographing device 32. The photographing device 32 is, for example, a device with a built-in CCD (Charge Coupled Device) camera. Video is constantly captured by the photographing device 32 and recorded on the memory card 250.

The recording device 30 may record the video that is continuously shot as is on the memory card 250 as video data, or may record only the video before and after the occurrence of an event on the memory card 250. The recording device 30 may also switch the method of recording video data depending on the state of the vehicle. For example, when power is supplied from an external device such as the vehicle (e.g., the engine is running), the recording device 30 records the video that is continuously shot as video data on the memory card 250. When power is not supplied from an external device (e.g., the engine is stopped), the recording device performs interval shooting and records video at predetermined intervals as video data on the memory card 250.

In addition, the recording device 30 does not have to record video data all the time, but may record only video data when an event occurs or for a specified period of time before and after the event occurs. An event is preferably something that triggers the recording device 30 to specifically record video data.

The recording device 30 detects an event, for example, when an impact is applied to the vehicle in which the recording device 30 is installed (specifically, when the acceleration detected by the acceleration sensor of the recording device 30 is an acceleration of a predetermined pattern (for example, when a waveform showing a change in acceleration over time satisfies a predetermined condition) or when it is equal to or greater than a threshold). Specifically, if the threshold for acceleration (gravitational acceleration) is set to 0.3 G, an event may be detected when an acceleration of 0.3 G or greater is detected, or when an acceleration of twice or more the acceleration detected during normal deceleration is detected. Note that the threshold value is an example, and may be set to another value, such as 0.4 G.

This makes it possible to detect events such as the timing of sudden braking (sudden braking, sudden acceleration, sharp turns) and accidents such as collisions and rear-end collisions in a vehicle in which the recording device 30 is installed. In addition to impacts, the recording device 30 may also detect events based on the driver's state (e.g., looking away, falling asleep, etc.), the vehicle's driving conditions (e.g., long periods of driving without breaks, swaying, speeding, wrong-way driving detection, etc.), and the conditions around the vehicle (e.g., pedestrian detection, bicycle detection, traffic light recognition, etc.).

In addition, in the case of a drive recorder installed in a vehicle, the recording device 30 may acquire information about the vehicle and record it on the recording medium. For example, the recording device 30 may record location information, speed information about the vehicle's speed, and acceleration information acquired using a global navigation satellite system (GNSS), such as the Global Positioning System (GPS), Global Navigation Satellite System (GLONASS), Galileo, or Quasi-Zenith Satellite System (QZSS), on the memory card 250. In addition, the recording device 30 may record information about place names (city, ward, town, village, station name, address, etc.) corresponding to the location information on the memory card 250.

The memory card 250 is formatted in a predetermined format by the initialization process, and the recorded video data, etc. are erased (initialized). If the memory card 250 has been initialized, the recording device 30 can record content such as video data.

The initialization process is a process of initializing a recording medium. Initializing a recording medium may be referred to as setting the recording medium for a specific system. In this embodiment, initializing a recording medium may be referred to as writing setting information indicating the contents of the operation settings to the recording medium so that the specific system can use the recording medium (for example, a state in which video data can be read and written). Without being limited to this, initializing a recording medium may be one or more of writing the setting information to the recording medium, formatting the recording medium, and putting the recording medium into a specific file state. In this embodiment, the subject that initializes the recording medium is different from the subject that uses the recording medium, the former being the processing device 10 and the latter being the recording device 30. If the subject that initializes the recording medium cannot operate according to the operation settings by the initial settings, for example, if it does not correspond to the format described later, the subject that initializes the recording medium will initialize the recording medium so that it can be used by the subject that uses the recording medium, although it cannot use it itself. However, the initial settings may be performed to set the operation settings corresponding to both the subject that initializes the recording medium and the subject that uses the recording medium. For example, a case in which both correspond to a format for a general-purpose personal computer is an example of a case that corresponds to this.

The initial setting in this embodiment involves formatting the recording medium. In this embodiment, formatting the recording medium refers to putting the recording medium into a state in which video data can be read and written by the recording device 30. For example, the processing device 10 formats the memory card 250 in a specified format, thereby generating an area on the memory card 250 for recording video data, etc.

In this embodiment, initializing the recording medium may also include making it impossible to recognize that video data is recorded on the recording medium. A state in which the video data cannot be recognized may refer to, for example, a state in which the video data cannot be played back when the user checks the video data on the recording medium with the playback device 40, or a state in which the number of pieces of video data recorded on the recording medium is displayed as zero. In addition, a state in which the video data cannot be played back may refer to a state in which the video data to be played back does not exist, a state in which the video data to be played back is not recognized, a state in which the video data has been concealed, etc.

When the processing device 10 executes the initialization process, the memory card 250, which is a recording medium, is initialized. Here, the initialization includes a first initialization process that is simple and does not take much time, and a second initialization process (full initialization process) that takes a relatively long time. For example, the first initialization process takes time on the order of microseconds, while the second initialization process takes time on the order of milliseconds. On the other hand, the second initialization process is more desirable than the first initialization process in terms of preventing the video recorded on the memory card 250 from being viewed. In this sense, "simple" can also mean, for example, that the algorithm related to the initialization process is simple.

For example, when the processing device 10 executes the first initialization process, it does not perform the above-mentioned formatting, but deletes only the video data, or overwrites the area in which the video data is recorded with new dummy data. In addition, the processing device 10 erases or rewrites the management information indicating that video data has been recorded, thereby making the video data recorded on the recording medium unrecognizable.

In other words, in the processing device 10, the first initialization process refers to making the video data unable to be displayed or read by other devices (e.g., playback device 40) regardless of whether video data is recorded on the recording medium. The initialization process may also include concealing the video data so that it cannot be read by other devices.

When the processing device 10 executes the second initialization process, it also erases the video data from the recording medium. For example, it performs the above-mentioned formatting and then executes the initialization process, or rewrites the sectors of the recording medium, so that no video data remains on the recording medium. However, the time required for the second initialization process is relatively longer than that for the first initialization process.

In the following embodiments, when it is simply stated that it is initialization, it refers to the first initialization, and when it is stated that it is full initialization, it refers to the second initialization. Also, if there is no need to distinguish between the processes in an embodiment, either initialization process may be executed.

The video data recorded on the memory card 250 can be played back on other devices. For example, when the memory card 250 is inserted into the playback device 40 shown in FIG. 1(c), the playback device 40 plays back the video data recorded on the memory card.

The playback device 40 is an information processing device such as a computer or a tablet. The playback device 40 can read and play video data recorded on the memory card 250 by executing a playback application.

The playback device 40 may execute a dedicated playback application, or may utilize a playback function built into the OS (e.g., Windows (registered trademark), Android (registered trademark), Linux (registered trademark), etc.). By using a playback application, the playback device 40 can also access areas that cannot be accessed by a file system that the OS can implement as standard (e.g., FAT32, NTFS (NT File System), HFS (Hierarchical File System), etc.).

[1.2 Functional configuration]
2 is a diagram illustrating the functional configuration of the processing device 10. The functional configuration of the processing device 10 will be described below.

The control unit 100 is a functional unit for controlling the entire processing device 10. The control unit 100 realizes various functions by reading and executing various programs stored in the memory unit 110, and is composed of, for example, one or more arithmetic units (e.g., CPUs (Central Processing Units)).

The control unit 100 also functions as an initialization unit 102 and a full initialization unit 104 by reading and executing a program stored in the memory unit 110. The control unit 100 also functions as a processing means by reading a program and executing processing. Note that the processing means may be a general-purpose arithmetic device such as the control unit 100, or may be another control device (controller) that executes each process.

The initialization unit 102 executes an initialization process (first initialization process) to initialize the memory card 250, which is a recording medium (first initialization). When the initialization unit 102 initializes the memory card 250, other devices (e.g., the playback device 40) will be unable to read or play video data from the memory card 250. After the first initialization process of the memory card 250 is completed, the initialization unit 102 also has a function of performing an initialization process (continuous initialization process described below) by simply inserting and removing the memory card 250 without any other operations.

Here, the first initialization process is, for example, a process of deleting video data or a process of logical formatting. Possible methods for the first initialization process to delete video data include simply deleting information in a file management area such as FAT, rewriting management information that manages the video data, or rewriting a flag that indicates that video data has been recorded. In other words, the first initialization process deletes the video data or conceals the video data, thereby making it impossible for the playback device 40 or the like to read or play the video data recorded on the memory card 250.

The complete initialization unit 104 performs a complete initialization process (second initialization process) to completely initialize (second initialization) the memory card 250, which is a recording medium. For example, in the complete initialization process, the first initialization process is performed after formatting the memory card 250, and an area required after formatting the memory card 250 and data required for the initial state are recorded. The complete initialization unit 104 also erases all data, including video data, stored in the memory card 250 at once by sending a reset command to the memory card 250.

The second initialization process may be performed if the format of the memory card 250 is different before and after initialization, or if it is different, the second initialization process may not be performed. For example, if the first initialization process performs logical formatting, the second initialization process performs physical formatting. For example, if the first initialization process only rewrites the management information and flags of the video data, the second initialization process may perform processing such as recreating the recording area or generating a new partition.

Here, the initialization process (first initialization process) performed by the initialization unit 102 can be executed faster than the initialization process (second initialization process) performed by the full initialization unit 104.

The first initialization process may be performed, for example, by the process described in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2017-135436. In this case, in the first initialization process, a format count master value indicating the number of times the memory card 250 has been initialized is stored in the management area, and the format count master value is transcribed as a format count value (also called a format counter) for each video along with the recording of video to consecutive addresses in the recording area of the memory card 250, and video data in which a format count value different from the current format count master value is recorded may be treated as having been erased. In this way, the time required for formatting can be shortened. In addition, the difference in processing time between the first processing process and the second processing process does not necessarily have to be a difference that the user can clearly feel. Even if the difference in the time required for the initialization process of one memory card 250 cannot be felt, for example, when initializing a large number of memory cards 250, such as 100 or 1000 cards, the user may be able to feel the difference in the time required for the initialization work. In this way, the specific content of the first initialization process is not important as long as it can be executed more simply than the second initialization process.

The initialization unit 102 and the complete initialization unit 104 can initialize multiple types of memory cards 250. The type refers to, for example, the manufacturing date, manufacturer, and quality of the SD card that is the memory card 250. In this way, the initialization unit 102 and the complete initialization unit 104 have the function of initializing multiple memory cards 250 of different types, even though they are of the same standard.

As described above, when the processing device 10 performs the initialization process of the memory card 250, the video recorded on the memory card 250 is not played back. In this embodiment, the started program does not have a playback function. In this way, the program of this embodiment is a program dedicated to the initialization of the memory card 250 and does not have a playback function. Instead of or in addition to this, if the processing device 10 has a function to play back video, the control unit 100 may further have a means for restricting the playback of the video recorded on the memory card 250 (hereinafter referred to as a "restriction unit"; not shown). For example, the restriction unit may not activate the playback function of the processing device 10, but may control the video recorded on the memory card 250 not to be displayed on the display unit 130. The restriction unit may further have a function of controlling the processing device 10 not to output the data of the video to an external device via the communication unit 140 and other video output units. The restriction unit may be realized by either hardware or software. Also, the playback function (e.g., a playback program) may have the restriction function.

The storage unit 110 is a functional unit that stores various programs and various data necessary for the operation of the processing device 10. The storage unit 110 is configured, for example, by a semiconductor memory such as an SSD (Solid State Drive) or an HDD (Hard Disk Drive).

The storage unit 110 also stores user information 112 and history data 114 as necessary. The user information 112 stores information about the user. For example, authentication information such as a user ID and a password is stored.

The history data 114 stores information related to the history of when the processing device 10 executes a process. For example, it stores the person who executed the process, the date and time, and the details of the process. The history data 114 may also store information related to the memory card 250 (for example, memory card identification information, information such as the date and time of the video data recorded before initialization, etc.).

The input unit 120 accepts input from the user. For example, it may be configured with a hardware switch such as a switch key, or a touch panel that accepts input from a software switch displayed on the display unit 130. The input unit 120 may also be an externally connected input device such as a mouse or keyboard.

The display unit 130 displays various states of the processing device 10 and the state of operation input. For example, it is configured with a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic EL panel, electronic paper using an electrophoretic method, etc. The display unit 130 also displays a display screen. Here, the display screen is what is displayed on the display unit 130, and may be the entirety displayed on the display of the display unit 130, or a partial area may be called the display screen. For example, a window display or a dialog displayed on the display unit 130 may be called the display screen, or the entirety including these may be called the display screen. The display screen may be a screen that is displayed in a certain area.

The communication unit 140 communicates with other devices, and communicates with other devices via a network. For example, it includes interfaces such as a Universal Serial Bus (USB) or a High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI (registered trademark)), a Network Interface Card (NIC) for connecting to a wired/wireless LAN, and a communication module for connecting to a mobile communication network such as Long Term Evolution (LTE)/4G/5G.

The recording unit 150 writes data to a recording medium and reads data from the recording medium. The recording unit 150 is what is called a memory card reader, and is configured to allow a memory card to be attached and detached as one of the recording media. In addition, in the processing device 10, it is configured as a card slot, and may detect the attachment and detachment (mounting and removal) of the memory card 250.

That is, the recording unit 150 also functions as a detection means for the memory card 250. When it detects that the memory card 250 has been inserted into the recording unit 150 (card slot), it transmits a signal indicating the insertion to the control unit 100. Similarly, when it detects that the memory card has been removed from the recording unit 150 (card slot), it transmits a signal indicating the removal to the control unit 100. The control unit 100 detects (determines) that the memory card 250 has been inserted and removed based on the signal from the recording unit 150.

The recording unit 150 may also be connected wirelessly to the memory card. For example, the recording unit 150 may be connected to the memory card via short-range wireless communication such as NFC (Near Field Communication). In this case, attaching the memory card means connecting to the memory card (establishing communication). Also, removing the memory card means disconnecting from the memory card.

For convenience of explanation, the input unit 120, display unit 130, communication unit 140, and recording unit 150 are described as being built into the processing device 10, but external devices may be connected as necessary. For example, by connecting a memory card reader to the communication unit 140 (USB interface), the memory card reader functions as the recording unit 150.

In other words, the input unit 120, display unit 130, communication unit 140, and recording unit 150 only need to be equipped with the necessary control devices, and may function in conjunction with externally connected devices.

The memory card 250 is a portable recording medium, such as an SD card, a microSD card, or a CF card. The memory card 250 only needs to be able to read and write data by connecting to the recording unit 150.

In addition, memory card 250 records memory card information 252, which is recording medium information that is information about the recording medium, and video data 254, which is content data. Memory card information 252 is information about the memory card and device other than content data. For example, it is possible to record information such as the memory card's identification number and capacity, as well as other information (such as the format type and partition information).

In addition, the memory card information 252 can include information regarding the settings of the recording device 30. For example, the image quality and file format when the recording device 30 takes pictures are recorded in the memory card information 252 as setting information. When the memory card 250 is inserted, the recording device 30 can read the setting information recorded in the memory card 250 and set the operation of the recording device 30.

The memory card information 252 can also include various information that the recording device 30 records in association with the video data. For example, the information on the recording device 30 can include the model name of the recording device 30, the type of video data (such as video data recorded continuously or video data when an event is detected), and event information. It can also include information on the vehicle in which the recording device 30 is installed (such as the car license plate number, the train/bus/taxi vehicle number, the route name, and the location), the acquired location information, information related to the impact (such as acceleration), and speed information.

These memory card information may be recorded in correspondence with the video data, or simply in correspondence with the memory card 250. For example, the location information, speed information, impact information, etc. acquired by the recording device 30 are recorded in association with the video data (for example, in association with the recording time of the video data). In contrast, the vehicle license plate number, the vehicle number where the recording device 30 is installed, the route name, etc. are recorded independently of the video data.

In addition, the video data 254 is preferably video captured by the recording device 30 in which the memory card 250 is attached and recorded as video data. In this embodiment, the recording device 30 will be described using video data as an example of content data recorded on the memory card 250, but still image data, audio data, etc. may also be used.

The video data 254 may be any data that can be played back by the playback device 40. For example, the video data 254 may be in a specific video format such as MPEG or AVI. The video data 254 may also be video data in a proprietary format that can be played back by a playback application executed on the playback device 40.

[1.3 Format]
Next, the format type of the memory card 250 will be described. The processing device 10 can format the memory card 250 by the control unit 100 executing the format process. The processing device 10 can generate the memory card 250 in the following format type by executing the format process. Note that, although the format process will be described as being executed by the full initialization unit 104, it may also be executed by the initialization unit 102. Here, the format type of the memory card applicable to this embodiment will be described.

(First format)
In the first format, as shown in Fig. 3, a user area is reserved on the memory card, and a video file to be recorded in this user area is generated in advance as a virtual file (dummy data). The control unit 100 formats the memory card 250 using the FAT file system. As a result, the following areas are generated on the memory card 250:

MBR (Master Boot Record): This is an area reserved in the first sector of a memory card, and stores information about partitions.
BPB (BIOS Parameter Block): This is an area that stores information related to the FAT and RDE, which are secured as later areas.
FAT (File Allocation Table): An area that stores information indicating the location of a file.
RDE (Root Directory Entry): An area that stores information about files and folders that exist in the root directory.

User data area. This is the area where data files created and used by the user are recorded. In the first format, a virtual file with a data name is generated and recorded as dummy data in a contiguous area of the user data area (for example, an area of contiguous sectors). When recording video data, the recording device 30 replaces (rewrites) the dummy data already recorded on the memory card.

As a result, dummy data will be recorded in consecutive sectors at the time of initialization, and video data will also be recorded in consecutive sectors. Generally, since the recording device 30 writes while performing video processing such as continuous shooting, it is preferable to record video data in consecutive areas to prevent dropped frames and recording failures.

In other words, if dummy data has been recorded in advance as a reserved area for recording video data, the recording device 30 can record the video data without any problems by replacing the dummy data. In addition, because a continuous area of dummy data is reserved in advance on the recording medium as a reserved area for video data, the recording device 30 can also prevent fragmentation.

The dummy data can be created by creating multiple files of the same size as the video data. For example, if the data size of each video data file is 100MB, multiple 100MB dummy data files can be created and recorded.

Dummy data may also be generated in large and small sizes. For example, when the recording device 30 records high-resolution and low-resolution video data, or records shooting information (e.g., information related to latitude, longitude, altitude, acceleration, speed, etc.) as captured information, dummy data of a size corresponding to the corresponding data may be generated.

The recording device 30 may also record high-resolution video data and low-resolution video data by distinguishing between them based on image size, compression method, encoding method, etc.

In addition, when generating and recording multiple sizes of dummy data, the control unit 100 may record large and small sizes alternately, or may first record small dummy data in succession and then record large dummy data in succession.

The first format type is characterized by the fact that consecutive dummy data is pre-recorded in the user data area. Therefore, as long as a user area for recording dummy data is secured, formatting in a file system other than FAT may be performed using other file systems such as NTFS, exFAT, HFS, etc.

(Second format)
4, the second formatting method is a formatting method for securing a video data recording area that can be used by another system in the user data area of memory card 250. In this case, the video data recording area in which video data is recorded cannot be accessed in a normal file system (e.g., FAT32).

In addition, in the video data recording area, the video data is recorded sequentially. The video data recorded in the video data recording area is managed based on management information recorded in the data management area. For example, the playback device 40 refers to the management information in the playback application to identify the position of the video data in the video data recording area.

The management information here may be information that correlates and records the date and time when the video data was recorded, a management flag, and the address where the video data is recorded. Based on the management information, the playback device 40 can identify the position where the video data is recorded within the video data recording area and read out the video data.

At this time, the playback device 40 may switch the output of the video data depending on the management flag. For example, if the management flag is "1", the playback device 40 recognizes that the video data has been recorded validly, and reads and plays the video data. On the other hand, if the management flag is "0", the playback device 40 recognizes that the video data has not been recorded validly, and cannot play the video data. The management flag may be recorded for each piece of video data generated for each predetermined size. Note that the management flag may be added before and/or after the video data.

Therefore, in the case of the second format, when the initialization unit 102 performs initialization (first initialization), it may simply rewrite all management flags to "0".

The video data recording area may be an area that cannot be accessed by a normal file system, but can be accessed by a normal file system. In this case, one large area capable of recording data sequentially is secured in the area. The processing device 10, recording device 30, and playback device 40 can read and play back the video data in the area capable of recording data sequentially. In this case, the configuration may be such that it appears as a single file from a terminal device that has only a normal file system that cannot perform playback.

(Third format method)
The third formatting method, as shown in Fig. 5, is a formatting method when multiple partitions are used in memory card 250. Specifically, control unit 100 secures multiple partition areas in memory card 250. Then, control unit 100 secures a video data recording area in the user data area of each partition area. Control unit 100 also writes information indicating the partitions to the MBR of memory card 250.

The size of the video data recording area secured in each partition may be changed according to the size of the video data to be recorded. For example, the control unit 100 secures a first recording area that is smaller than the second recording area. In this case, the recording device 30 records low-resolution video data in the video data recording area of the first recording area. The recording device 30 also records high-resolution video data in the video data recording area of the second recording area. The difference in size between the areas of the multiple partitions and/or the video data recording areas secured thereto may be, for example, a difference of two or three times, or a difference of one or two orders of magnitude. The size of the areas of the multiple partitions or the video data recording areas secured thereto may not be the same size for each format, and the control unit 100 may change it regularly or in response to a user's instruction, for example.

In addition, the video data recording area secured in the third formatting method may utilize either the first formatting method or the second formatting method, or a combination of the two.

You can also set whether each partition can be accessed from the OS file system. For example, everything other than video data, such as memory card information and management information, is recorded in the first partition as usual. However, video data is recorded in the second partition.

The method by which the playback device 40 or the like can access each partition may differ. For example, the first partition, which has a small capacity, may be accessible using the file system that is a standard function of the OS, but the second partition may not be accessible using the file system that is a standard function of the OS.

1.4 Processing Description
The process in this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 6. In this embodiment, when the attachment (connection) of the memory card 250, which is a recording medium, is detected, an initialization process is executed immediately after the detection.

First, the control unit 100 runs a program for executing the initialization process. In this embodiment, the control unit 100 runs the program in response to an operation of selecting an icon corresponding to the program displayed on the display unit 130 (e.g., double-clicking). When the program is run, the control unit 100 displays an insertion screen on the display unit 130 (step S102). The insertion screen is a UI (user interface) that prompts the user to insert a memory card. The control unit 100 uses the insertion screen as a method of prompting the user to insert the memory card, but may also provide an alert by voice or a lamp other than the insertion screen.

Next, when the control unit 100 detects that the memory card 250, which is a recording medium, has been inserted by the recording unit 150 (step S104; Yes), it executes an initialization process (step S106).

The control unit 100 waits until a memory card is inserted (step S104; No), but may also stop this process if the user performs a cancel operation.

The initialization process in step S106 is a process executed by the initialization unit 102 (control unit 100). From the viewpoint of successively initializing multiple memory cards, it is preferable to execute the first initialization process, which takes less time, but it is also possible to execute the second initialization process.

When the initialization of the memory card 250 is completed (i.e., when the initialization process is completed), the control unit 100 displays a completion screen on the display unit 130 indicating that the initialization is complete (step S108; Yes → step S110).

The completion screen is one method of notifying the user that initialization has finished. It is preferable that the completion screen be made a little more flashy and of a different size than the insertion screen, so that it has a clearly different screen format. This is because it is more likely to attract the user's attention. Instead of displaying the completion screen, the control unit 100 may also use a method such as an audio notification or sending a notification to another device.

When the control unit 100 detects the removal of the memory card 250 (step S112), it displays the insertion screen again (step S112; Yes -> step S102). Note that the control unit 100 may not display the insertion screen from the second time onwards. In this case, the control unit 100 transitions the process to step S104 instead of step S102. Therefore, the user can continuously initialize the memory card 250 by simply inserting and removing the card.

In this embodiment, the control unit 100 may detect the attachment/removal of the memory card 250 by, for example, detecting the attachment/removal of the memory card 250 in a card slot of the recording unit 150, or receiving a signal indicating the attachment/removal from a memory card reader. In addition, if the memory card 250 is connected by NFC or the like, the control unit 100 may detect the attachment when communication with the memory card 250 is established, and may detect the removal when communication is disconnected.

In addition, in steps S104 to S106, the control unit 100 detects the insertion of the memory card 250 and executes the initialization process, but the initialization process may be executed only for memory cards that can be initialized (initialized by the first initialization).

Here, it is advisable to determine whether a memory card that can be initialized is one whose format can be recognized, or one on which video data in a specific data format is recorded.

For example, if the control unit 100 detects that a memory card formatted using the third formatting method has been inserted after a memory card formatted using the first formatting method described above, the control unit 100 will not initialize the memory card 250.

In this way, according to the processing of this embodiment, when the control unit 100 detects the insertion of the memory card 250, it executes the initialization processing. Furthermore, when the control unit 100 detects the removal of the memory card 250 and the memory card 250 is inserted again, it executes the initialization processing. Therefore, the user can insert and remove multiple memory cards 250 in sequence to continuously initialize the inserted memory cards 250.

These processes may be provided as a program or as hardware. They may also be provided as a formatting tool APP (application program) for formatting recording media such as memory cards.

[1.5 Operation example]
An example of the operation of the control unit 100 when the control unit 100 is executing the process of Fig. 6 will be described with reference to Fig. 7. Fig. 7 is a diagram for explaining an example of a display screen displayed on the display unit 130. In the display screen described below, the words "Format" or "FORMAT" are used in some places for ease of understanding by the user, but instead, the words "initialization" or "initialization process" may be used.

Figure 7 (a) is an example of a display screen W100 displayed on the display unit 130 in this embodiment. The display screen W100 may be displayed superimposed on another screen, or may be displayed as a single screen. As shown in the display screen W100, the control unit 100 displays the message "Please insert a memory card." In other words, the display screen W100 is an insertion screen (SD insertion screen) that prompts the user to insert a recording medium (e.g., an SD card).

In addition, a button R100 is displayed on the display screen W100. When the user performs a selection operation (e.g., a touch operation or a click operation) on the button R100, the processing is stopped. Note that a button for executing a process other than the button R100 may be displayed on the display screen W100, or the button R100 may not be displayed.

When the control unit 100 detects that the memory card 250 has been inserted, it executes an initialization process. Then, when the initialization of the memory card 250 is completed, the display screen transitions to the display screen W110 in FIG. 7(b).

Display screen W110 is a termination screen for informing the user that the initialization process of the memory card has been completed. For example, as shown in display screen W110 in FIG. 7(b), control unit 100 displays a message saying "Format completed" indicating that the initialization process has been completed. Control unit 100 also displays a message saying "Please remove the memory card" as a message prompting the user to take the next action.

If the user then removes the memory card, the display screen W110 in FIG. 7(b) transitions back to the display screen W100 in FIG. 7(a). In other words, the end screen transitions to display the insertion screen again. In this way, the user can continuously initialize the memory card by simply inserting and removing the memory card. Note that the memory card may be inserted and removed while the end screen is being displayed, without the insertion screen being displayed.

Instead of a display method in which display screen W110 is displayed and then transitions back to display screen W100, a method in which a single screen including display screen W110 and the information contained in display screen W100 is displayed may be adopted. In this case, control unit 100 causes, for example, the single screen to display a message indicating that the initialization process is complete, such as "Format completed," and a message prompting the next action, such as "Remove memory card and insert another memory card." When memory card 250 is removed and a new memory card 250 is inserted while the single screen is being displayed, control unit 100 causes the initialization process to begin.

The control unit 100 may use different display formats or methods when informing the user that the initialization process has ended. For example, the font size of the message has changed on the display screen W120 in FIG. 7(c). As shown on the display screen W120, the control unit 100 displays "FORMAT ENDED!" in a larger font size compared to the display screen W110.

In addition to the above, for example, the control unit 100 may change the display mode, such as changing the color of the message, changing the background color, or flashing the display. In addition, an alarm sound may be output, a separate icon may be displayed, or the window display may be displayed with a thick line surrounding it. The display mode used by the control unit 100 may be any method that easily notifies the user that the initialization process has ended.

In addition, if the memory card 250 cannot be initialized (is not initialized), the control unit 100 may display that fact on the display screen. For example, if the format of the memory card 250 is different from the previous one or the one that has been set, or if the type of video data recorded is different, a message to that effect may be displayed.

Specifically, the control unit 100 displays a message such as "The format is different!" as shown on the display screen W130 in FIG. 7(d). The control unit 100 may display a message on the display screen indicating that the format is different or that the format of the recorded video data is different.

Furthermore, the control unit 100 may display a button R130 for forcibly performing initialization, as shown in FIG. 7(d). For example, when the user selects button R130, the control unit 100 continues the initialization process even if the format type or the video data format is different. In this case, since the user has already confirmed it once, it is possible to prevent the memory card 250 from being erroneously initialized.

In this case, the control unit 100 may switch the initialization process from the first initialization process to the second initialization process (full initialization process), or may execute initialization process according to the format. For example, if the format of the video data currently recorded on the memory card is different from that of other memory cards, the control unit 100 may record dummy data corresponding to the format of the video data recorded on the other memory cards. Also, dummy data may be generated and recorded in a video data format predetermined in the initialization process or in the format of the video data recorded on the memory card that was initialized immediately before.

The trigger for the program to be activated is not limited to the receipt of an operation to select an icon, as described above. For example, the control unit 100 may activate the program when it detects that the first memory card 250 has been inserted into the card slot of the recording unit 150. In addition, the control unit 100 does not play the video recorded on the memory card 250 during the period in which the process of FIG. 6 is executed. For example, the program for executing the process described in FIG. 6 does not include a function for playing video. Even if the processing device 10 has a function for playing video due to another program (for example, an OS, a viewer, or other program for playing video) or other functions, the processing device 10 does not play the video. For example, the control unit 100 of the processing device 10 may restrict the playback of the video recorded on the memory card 250 due to the function of the program for executing the process described in FIG. 6. The control unit 100, for example, controls the processing device 10 not to activate the playback function of the processing device 10, but not to display the video recorded on the memory card 250 on the display unit 130. The control unit 100 may further perform control so as not to output the video data from the processing device 10 to an external device via the communication unit 140 and other video output units.

According to the embodiment described above, when the processing device 10 performs initialization processing of the memory card 250, it does not play back the video recorded on the memory card 250 during the period from when the attachment of the memory card 250 is detected to when the removal is detected. Furthermore, the initialization of the memory card 250 involves operation settings for making the recording device 30 ready for use. This prevents the data of the video recorded on the memory card 250 from leaking to the outside, and also prevents the data from being viewed by administrators, etc. Therefore, even if the memory card 250 is used to record video on a recording device 30 set up in a public place such as a train, privacy and security issues caused by the video being leaked can be avoided.

In addition, even if there are many memory cards 250 that need to be initialized, the continuous initialization process described above makes it easier and shorter for the administrator to perform initialization tasks than if this process were not performed.

Furthermore, unlike the method of copying the operation setting information of the source (master) memory card to the destination (e.g., a newly purchased) memory card, the requirement that memory cards of the same quality and of the same manufacturer at the same time are desirably used is relaxed. Therefore, there may be variations in the manufacturing time, manufacturer, quality, etc. of the memory cards initialized by the processing device 10. In this way, the processing device 10 can perform initialization processing on multiple memory cards of different types. In addition, the administrator does not need to have advanced specialized knowledge regarding the state of the memory cards. Furthermore, unlike the case where a master memory card is copied using a duplicator, the processing device 10 can leave information and traces in the destination memory card, such as the number of overwrites, and can be analyzed if any problem occurs.

[2. Second embodiment]
A second embodiment will be described. In the second embodiment, multiple initialization methods can be selected from, for example, a menu display. The configuration in the second embodiment is essentially the same as the configuration in the first embodiment. Below, differences between the first and second embodiments will be mainly described. Therefore, the same configurations and processes are denoted by the same reference numerals, and descriptions thereof will be omitted.

2.1 Overview
8 is a diagram for explaining the overall flow of this embodiment. The control unit 100 of this embodiment displays a top screen for allowing the user to select a process. Here, the control unit 100 of this embodiment first displays the top screen on the display unit 130. Then, the user can select "continuous initialization process", "full initialization process", or "confirmation initialization process" from the top screen, and the control unit 100 executes the selected process.

The continuous initialization process executes the first initialization process in the first embodiment. The full initialization process executes the second initialization process (full initialization process) in the first embodiment. The confirmation initialization process adds a confirmation process to the first initialization process.

The process flow of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 8. The control unit 100 displays a top screen (F10) from which the user can select each process. When each process is selected, the control unit 100 executes the selected process.

For example, when the user selects the continuous confirmation process from the top screen, the control unit 100 executes the continuous initialization process (F12). The continuous initialization process is executed repeatedly until the user instructs to stop the process or performs an operation to return to the top screen. The continuous initialization process is the process shown in FIG. 6.

Furthermore, when the user selects the confirmation initialization process, the control unit 100 executes the confirmation initialization process (F14). The confirmation initialization process includes an operation to confirm with the user when executing the initialization process. The confirmation initialization process is executed repeatedly until the user instructs to stop the process or performs an operation to return to the top screen. The confirmation initialization process is the process shown in FIG. 9.

Furthermore, when the user selects the complete initialization process, the control unit 100 executes the complete initialization process (F16). The complete initialization process executes the second initialization process described above. In the complete initialization process, the control unit 100 transitions the process to the top screen when the user instructs the control unit 100 to stop the process or to return to the top screen. In the complete initialization process, the control unit 100 transitions the process to the top screen once after the complete initialization is completed. Note that the complete initialization process may also be repeatedly executed until the user instructs the control unit 100 to return.

2.2 Processing flow
Fig. 9 is a diagram for explaining the operation of the confirmation initialization process in the second embodiment. The confirmation initialization process is substantially the same as the process flow explained in Fig. 6, and the same processes are assigned the same reference numerals, and the explanation will focus on the different parts.

When the control unit 100 detects the insertion of the memory card 250, it causes the display unit to display a display based on information related to the memory card 250 (step S202). The information related to the memory card 250 may be information included in the memory card information 252, or may be information extracted from the video data 234.

Here, various types of information can be considered to be displayable as memory card information 252. For example, the information about the recording device 30 may include the recording date and time of the video data, the model and manufacturer of the recording device 30, and the number of times an event has occurred. In addition, information such as information about the automobile in which the recording device 30 is installed, icons, railway information, and icons indicating vehicles can also be recorded. Additionally, the control unit 100 can select and display necessary information from the information recorded in memory card information 252.

Then, the control unit 100 asks the user if it is OK to initialize the memory card 250 (step S204). If the user gives an instruction to initialize, the control unit 100 initializes the memory card 250.

This allows the user to determine what type of memory card is being initialized when initializing memory cards successively. The system described in this embodiment can prevent the user from accidentally deleting data on the memory card when necessary.

[2.3 Operation example]
Here, this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 10. In Fig. 10(a), the control unit 100 displays a display screen W200 as a top screen. Here, the display screen W200 displays a button R202 for executing a continuous initialization process when selected by the user, a button R204 for executing a confirmation format, and a button R206 for executing a complete format (complete initialization process).

Here, as an example, when button R204 is selected, the control unit 100 executes a confirmation initialization process. When the control unit 100 selects the confirmation initialization process button R204, the display screen transitions to the display screen W210 in FIG. 10(b).

When the user inserts a memory card, the control unit 100 reads information from the memory card and displays it on the display unit 130. Figure 10(c) shows a display screen W220, which is an example of the control unit 100 displaying information on the memory card.

In area R224 of display screen W220, information about the memory card is displayed, such as the type of memory card, the model name of the recording device 30 that recorded the video data, the date and time the video data was recorded, and the number of events recorded as event information. Display screen W220 is also called the model confirmation screen.

Here, the event information is the number of times that the recording device 30 detects an event when a specified condition is met. For example, the recording device 30 records the detection of a specified pattern of acceleration or an acceleration equal to or greater than a threshold as an event, and the number of times that event occurred is displayed as the event information. Additionally, the control unit 100 can display the number of items included in the event information. The control unit 100 can also display the number of times each type of event occurred.

Display screen W220 also displays a button R220 for issuing an instruction to execute initialization, and a button R222 for issuing an instruction to cancel the process (to return to the top screen). When the user selects button R220, control unit 100 executes the initialization process. Then, when memory card 250 has been initialized, control unit 100 displays on display screen W230 that initialization has been completed (ended).

In addition, if no event information has been recorded or there is no memory card information to display, a message may be displayed indicating that there is no event information, or FIG. 10(c) may simply be hidden. In other words, if there is event information, the control unit 100 displays a confirmation display screen to allow the user to confirm, but if there is no event information, initialization may be performed as is.

The control unit 100 may display not only the information recorded on the memory card but also the corresponding information as the memory card information. For example, FIG. 10(e) is an example of a display screen W240 displaying the information of the memory card 250. Here, the memory card 250 records the location where the recording device 30 is installed (e.g., No. 001 on line A) as one piece of card information.

Therefore, the control unit 100 obtains a railway icon corresponding to the card information from the memory unit 110 or an external server, and displays it in area R240. In this way, the control unit 100 can provide a display screen that is easier to understand by visualizing information based on the card information.

FIG. 11 is an example of a display screen that appears when the control unit 100 executes a complete initialization process as a result of the user selecting button R206 in FIG. 10(a).

Figure 11 (a) is an example of a display screen W250 that is displayed when a full initialization process is being executed. The control unit 100 displays an alert on the display screen W250 to inform the user that a full initialization will take time. The control unit 100 may also display the estimated processing time for a full initialization.

When the user selects the "OK" button on the display screen W250 in FIG. 11(a), the display screen transitions to the display screen W260 in FIG. 11(b). The display screen W260 in FIG. 11(b) is the same as the display screen W100 in FIG. 7(a).

Next, when the control unit 100 detects the insertion of the memory card 250, it executes a complete initialization. While the control unit 100 is executing the complete initialization of the memory card 250, the control unit 100 may display the display screen W270 as shown in FIG. 11(c).

Display screen W270 includes the message "Complete FORMAT in progress" as the current processing content. The control unit 100 does not display the message during continuous initialization processing or confirmation initialization processing, because these processing times are short. However, the control unit 100 displays the message during full initialization processing, because these processing times are long.

In addition, the control unit 100 may display a progress bar on the display screen W270 to indicate the progress of the process, or may display a progress indicator such as "XX% complete."

When the complete initialization process is completed, the control unit 100 displays the display screen W280 in FIG. 11(d) and ends this process. Note that in this embodiment, when the complete initialization process is completed, the display returns to the top screen once, but it may be executed continuously.

In this way, according to this embodiment, the user can select and execute the initialization process according to the desired method. Furthermore, the control unit 100 can output an alert in the case of a memory card in which an event has been recorded. This allows the user to initialize the memory card in a more convenient and secure manner.

[3. Third embodiment]
A third embodiment will be described. In the third embodiment, when the top screen is displayed and a memory card is already inserted, a warning screen is displayed in consideration of the case where the memory card is forgotten to be removed. Note that the configuration of the third embodiment is essentially the same as that of the second embodiment. Below, the differences between the second and third embodiments will be mainly described. Therefore, the same configurations and processes are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted.

3.1 Processing flow
Fig. 12 is a diagram showing the flow of processing executed by the control unit 100 in this embodiment. The control unit 100 executes the processing of Fig. 12 before displaying the top screen. The trigger for operating the program for executing the processing of Fig. 12 may be the same as that of the first embodiment described above. The control unit 100 does not play back the video recorded on the memory card 250 during the period in which the processing of Fig. 12 is executed.

First, the control unit 100 detects whether or not a memory card is already inserted (S302). If the memory card 250 is already inserted at the stage of activating the top screen, the control unit 100 displays a warning screen on the display unit 130 (step S302; Yes -> step S304). Note that the control unit 100 may notify the user by sound or an alert other than the warning screen.

When the control unit 100 detects the removal of the memory card 250 (step S306; Yes), it displays the top screen (step S308). The control unit 100 also displays the top screen if the attachment of a memory card is not detected initially (step S302; No → step S308).

Then, the control unit 100 executes the selected initialization process (step S310). That is, it executes either the continuous initialization process, the confirmation initialization process, or the complete initialization process. In addition, the user can repeatedly execute the initialization process until this process is terminated (step S312; No → step S310).

Also, if the user instructs the process to end (step S312; Yes), the control unit 100 ends this process.

[3.2 Operation example]
13A and 13B are examples of display screens displayed on the display unit 130 to explain an example of the operation of this embodiment. Fig. 13A shows an example of a display screen W300 displayed on the display unit 130 when the control unit 100 executes a process and the memory card 250 is already inserted.

The display screen W300 displays the message "Please remove the memory card at once!". Therefore, the user cannot proceed with the process unless he or she removes the memory card 250 from the card reader.

The control unit 100 may also display a screen that allows the user to select whether or not to continue processing, such as display screen W310 in FIG. 13(b). In this case, if the user selects to continue processing, the control unit 100 displays the top screen as is. If the user selects to cancel, the control unit 100 may display display screen W300, or may perform processing that does not display the top screen unless the memory card 250 is removed.

In FIG. 12, the control unit 100 is described as displaying the warning screen and then displaying the top screen, but the top screen may be displayed first. For example, in FIG. 13(b), the top screen is displayed as display screen W315. In this case, for example, the warning screen, display screen W300, may be superimposed on the top screen, display screen W315, or may be switched and displayed.

Note that display screen W310 is displayed superimposed on display screen W315, which is the top screen, but it may be displayed integrally with display screen W315, which is the top screen. For example, control unit 100 may use a portion of the top screen to display the message "Memory card has already been inserted."

The control unit 100 may also display information about the memory card 250, as in the display screen W320 of FIG. 13(c). After checking the displayed information about the memory card 250, the user can select whether to continue the process or to remove the memory card 250.

According to this embodiment, if the memory card is still inserted when the process is started, the control unit 100 will display an error and stop the process. Note that, although the above embodiment has been described as being for the initial start-up, if the memory card is still inserted after a predetermined time has passed (e.g., 30 minutes, 1 hour), a warning display may also be applied.

[4. Fourth embodiment]
A fourth embodiment will be described. In the fourth embodiment, when the inserted memory card matches a specific condition in the initialization process, a process is performed to confirm with the user whether or not to initialize the memory card. Note that the configuration of the fourth embodiment is essentially the same as that of the first embodiment. The following description will focus on the differences between the fourth embodiment and the first embodiment. Therefore, the same configurations and processes are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted.

The process in FIG. 14 replaces the process in FIG. 6 in the first embodiment. Hereinafter, processes common to FIG. 14 and FIG. 6 are denoted by common reference numerals, and detailed descriptions will be omitted.

When the insertion of a memory card is detected (step S102 → step S104; Yes), the control unit 100 determines whether the memory card 250 matches a specific condition (step S402). If the memory card matches the specific condition, the control unit 100 checks whether the user wants to initialize the memory card (step S402; Yes → step S404).

Then, only when the user performs an operation to perform initialization (operation to continue the initialization process), i.e., only when it is determined that it is OK to execute the initialization process, does the process proceed to step S106 (step S404; Yes -> step S106). As a result, when a specific condition is met, the control unit 100 does not automatically perform an operation to initialize the memory card, but instead asks the user for confirmation. Then, if the user performs an operation that allows initialization, the memory card is initialized (step S404; Yes -> steps S106 to S112).

Here, the specific conditions may be predetermined conditions or conditions selected or set by the user. For example, the following selection conditions may be considered:

(1) Whether the format method of the memory card 250 is a specific format method or other The specific condition is whether the format method of the memory card 250 is a specific format method or other. Here, the specific format method may refer to a format method supported by the recording device 30 (processing device 10) or a format method desired by the user among the supported format methods. Then, when the specific condition is that the format method of the memory card 250 is other than the specific format, the control unit 100 confirms with the user whether to proceed with the initialization process as is. For example, the control unit 100 displays to the user that the format method is not the specific format method (for example, the display screen W400 in FIG. 15(a)).

In addition, when the specific format method is, for example, the first format method described above, the initialization unit 102 and the full initialization unit 104 store the first format method as the specific format method. Then, the initialization unit 102 and the full initialization unit 104 select the first format as the default format method.

It may also be possible to make a judgment based on the characteristics of the subsequent memory cards. For example, it may be possible to judge whether the formatting method is the same as that of the memory card formatted immediately before. In this case, as long as the first person does not make a mistake, the same formatting method can be used continuously.

Also, when the user selects the initialization button on the display screen W400 in FIG. 15, the control unit 100 continues processing. Note that in this case, the control unit 100 may execute a full initialization process.

(2) The specific condition is the amount of time that has elapsed since the last initialization The specific condition is the amount of time that has elapsed since the last initialization of memory card 250 to the current time. For example, for security reasons, it is assumed that video data recorded in the memory card needs to be stored for a certain period of time. If this certain period is set to, for example, one week, control unit 100 will display a message if one week has not elapsed since memory card 250 was last initialized (for example, display screen W410 in FIG. 15(b)).

(3) Depending on Recorded Contents: The specific conditions are whether or not an event is recorded in memory card 250 and the number of recorded events. For example, if an event is recorded in memory card 250, control unit 100 may display that fact and allow the user to select the initialization method.

The control unit 100 also displays a message indicating that an event has been recorded on the memory card 250 (for example, display screen W420 in FIG. 15(c)).

Here, on the display screen of FIG. 15(c), the control unit 100 displays, as initialization methods, a button for performing normal initialization (R420) and a button for displaying information on the memory card 250 and then performing initialization (R422). The control unit 100 executes the process corresponding to the button selected by the user, thereby enabling the appropriate initialization process to be executed.

(4) When selecting complete initialization The specific condition is the amount of time that has elapsed since the last complete initialization of memory card 250 to the current time. For example, on display screen W430 of FIG. 15(d), control unit 100 displays that three months have passed since memory card 250 was completely initialized. In this case, on display screen W430, control unit 100 displays a button (R430) for performing normal initialization and a button (R432) for performing complete initialization. Control unit 100 executes processing according to the button selected by the user. Thus, the user can select and execute two initialization methods.

In this embodiment, when the inserted memory card 250 matches the specific conditions, a process is performed to confirm with the user whether or not it is OK to initialize the memory card. However, other processes may be performed. For example, when the inserted memory card matches the specific conditions, it may be rejected as an error. In other words, when the specific conditions are met, the memory card 250 will not be initialized, and a more secure system can be provided.

[5. Fifth embodiment]
A fifth embodiment will be described. The fifth embodiment is an embodiment in which a plurality of memory card readers (recording units) are provided, for example, as in the processing device 20 shown in FIG. 1B. The configuration in the fifth embodiment is essentially the same as that in the first embodiment. The processing device 20 will also be described as having the same configuration, except that it has a plurality of card slots into which memory cards can be inserted.

The processing device 20 stores the management table 116 shown in FIG. 16 in the memory unit 110. The management table stores the number of the slot into which the memory card can be inserted (slot number), the detection status, and the initialization status.

The detection status indicates whether or not the memory card 250 is inserted in the slot. A slot with a detection status of "○" has a memory card 250 inserted. The initialization status stores whether or not the memory card 250 has been initialized. That is, when the memory card 250 is inserted in the recording unit 150 (card slot), the control unit 100 changes the detection status from "-" to "○". The initialization status is also set to "uninitialized".

When the control unit 100 initializes the memory card 250, the initialization state transitions from "uninitialized" to "initialized."

This allows the processing device 20 to know which of the multiple slots the memory card 250 is inserted in. It can also manage whether the inserted slot card is "initialized" or "unprocessed."

The control unit 100 also initializes memory cards 250 that are inserted in slots whose detection status is "○" and whose initial or uninitialized status is "uninitialized." This allows memory cards to be initialized efficiently in succession.

In this case, the embodiment may be combined with the above-described embodiment to a reasonable extent. For example, if a memory card on which event information is recorded is found while the control unit 100 is continuously initializing memory cards, the control unit 100 displays a warning screen. At this time, the control unit 100 may display the corresponding slot number on the warning screen along with memory card information 252 and information based on the event information. The control unit 100 may also provide an LED next to the slot in which a problem is occurring and turn on/blink the LED to prompt the user to check.

[6. Sixth embodiment]
A sixth embodiment will be described. The sixth embodiment is an embodiment in which a report is output by referring to history information stored in the history data 114. Note that the configuration and processing of the sixth embodiment are essentially the same as those of the first embodiment. Furthermore, the content of the sixth embodiment can be implemented in combination with the above-mentioned embodiments.

Figure 17 (a) is a diagram showing an example of the data configuration of history data 114. History data 114 stores the date and time when initialization was performed on memory card 250 (e.g., "2019/12/15 11:45:16"), identification information for identifying the memory card (e.g., "125F5485"), and the process content executed as the initialization (e.g., "Initialization") in association with each other.

Although not shown, other data may be stored in the history data 114. For example, information on the executor when the initialization process is executed may be identified from the user information 112 and further stored. By storing the executor information together, the administrator can know who executed the initialization and when.

The control unit 100 may also be able to identify, from the identification information, information about the event recorded in the memory card 250, the recording date and time of the video data, etc. The information about the event, the recording date and time of the video data, etc. may be stored together with the history data 114, or may be stored as a separate table.

Figure 17 (b) is an example of a security report that the control unit 100 actually outputs based on the history data 114. The control unit 100 may send the security report by email, or may output it on a screen. It may also be printed on paper using a printing device.

The security report in FIG. 17(b) outputs, as an example, the date and time when the memory card 250 was initialized and the identification information. The date and time (period) when the video data was recorded on the memory card 250 is also output. Furthermore, memory cards that have been fully initialized, which differs from normal initialization, are identified as "fully initialized."

[7. Other]
The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible. In other words, the technical scope of the present invention also includes embodiments obtained by combining technical means that are appropriately modified within the scope of the gist of the present invention.

Although the above-mentioned embodiments are described separately for convenience of explanation, they can be combined and executed to the extent possible. For example, when the initialization process executed in each embodiment is described in a single manner, any initialization process (first initialization process, second initialization process) may be executed.

The programs that run on each device in each embodiment are programs that control the CPU and the like (programs that make the computer function) so as to realize the functions of the above-mentioned embodiments. Information handled by these devices is temporarily stored in a temporary storage device (e.g., RAM) during processing, and is then stored in various ROMs or HDD storage devices, from which it is read, modified, and written by the CPU as necessary.

The recording medium for storing the program may be any of the following: semiconductor media (e.g., ROM, non-volatile memory card, etc.), optical recording media/magneto-optical recording media (e.g., DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), CD (Compact Disc), BD, etc.), magnetic recording media (e.g., magnetic tape, flexible disk, etc.), etc.

When distributing the program on the market, the program can be stored on a portable recording medium and distributed, or transferred to a server computer connected via a network such as the Internet. In this case, the storage device of the server device is of course included in the present invention.

The above-mentioned data may not be stored within the device, but may be stored in an external device and called up as needed. For example, the data may be stored in a NAS (Network Attached Storage) or on the cloud.

In the above embodiment, as an example of a case where the recording device 30 is a camera for public use, a case where it is a camera mounted on a vehicle of a public common facility has been described, but the recording device 30 may be installed in other locations, such as vehicles such as elevators and gondolas, on the street, in parks, and in commercial facilities such as stores and shopping malls. A recording device 30 installed in such locations may record an unspecified number of people. The recording device 30 may be a camera other than a public camera, as long as it records data on the memory card 250, or it may be a device that records data other than video.

The invention described in the specification also provides a means for solving the problems of the past. For example, one of the objectives is to provide a system that can realize the initialization of a recording medium in an efficient manner, for example, in relation to the technology for handling the recording medium.

Another objective is to generate a recording medium that is formatted in a format that can be properly handled in each device or system by performing appropriate initialization on the recording medium.

In addition, the following technologies are provided for handling recording media:

The processing device 10 may perform the initialization process to generate a memory card 250 having the following file structure.
(In the case of the first format)
Folders are created, and dummy files such as *.DMY and *.TMP and system files are generated, so even when no recording is being performed, there is only a small amount of remaining capacity.
(In the case of a variant of the first format)
Only folders are created and some system files are present. There are almost no files visible in the non-recorded state, but there is only a small amount of remaining capacity.
(In the case of the second format)
Only folders are created and some system files are present. The remaining capacity is displayed correctly.
(For models using standard format (FAT))
Only folders are created and some system files are present. The remaining capacity is displayed correctly.

The processing device 10 may read out the health status of the recording medium (e.g., the memory card described above) and display it on the screen before the initialization process of step S106. The processing device 10 may perform this process when (e.g., immediately after) determining step S104: Yes. An "End" button may be provided on this screen, and when the End button is pressed, the processing device 10 may end the entire process of FIG. 6, etc., or may jump to step S112. In this way, if a recording medium in a bad condition is mixed in when processing a large number of recording media in sequence, it is possible to know which recording medium is in a bad condition, and to continuously perform processes such as initialization of other recording media without interruption.

The health status of the recording medium may be status information related to the self-diagnosis of the card, such as program/erase cycles, spare block information, power cycles, the number of unexpected power interruptions (e.g., the number of power interruptions during writing), and the estimated remaining life. The health status may be obtained, for example, by using the S.M.A.R.T. (Self-Monitoring Analysis and Reporting Technology) function of the recording medium. The processing device 10 may, for example, be capable of mounting both a recording medium capable of reading the health status and a recording medium not capable of reading the health status, and when it is determined that a recording medium capable of reading the health status is mounted, it may read the health status of the recording medium and display it on the screen, whereas when it is determined that a recording medium not capable of reading the health status is mounted, it may proceed to the next process without displaying the screen that reads and displays the health status of the recording medium. When the processing device 10 determines that the health state of the recording medium is in a predetermined first deteriorated state, it may display "It is time to replace this card.", and when the health state is in a second deteriorated state that is worse than the predetermined first deteriorated state, it may display a different message such as "This card has reached the end of its life. Please replace it." The processing device 10 may determine whether the health state is in a predetermined deteriorated state using one of the obtainable self-diagnosis statuses, but it is preferable to use at least two types of statuses to make the determination.

The processing device 10 may record in a table or the like a first threshold value for a deterioration state and a second threshold value for each of the status information related to the card's self-diagnosis, such as program/erase cycles, spare block information, power cycles, number of unexpected power outages, estimated remaining life, etc., and display a warning message if either threshold is exceeded. Alternatively, the processing device 10 may not issue a warning if either threshold is exceeded, but may display a warning message if both of the two thresholds are exceeded. Other predetermined rules may also be used.

In the above embodiment, an example was described in which the processing device 10 executes the processes shown in Figures 6 to 15 on a recording medium recorded by the recording device 30, but this processing may also be performed by the recording device 30. In this case, the recording device 30 normally performs the recording processing in the recording device 30, and when a specified button on the recording device 30 is pressed, the processing from Figure 6 onwards may be started. The recording device 30 may end the recording processing when starting the processing from Figure 6 onwards. The recording device 30 may resume the recording processing when the processing from Figure 6 onwards has ended.

The recording device 30 may have a function for reading the health status of the recording medium and issuing a warning when the health status deteriorates to a specified level. In this case, the recording device 30 may have a function for not issuing or withholding an alarm when the health status deteriorates to a specified level while the recording device 30 is recording to the recording medium. The recording device 30 may issue an alarm when not recording to the recording medium. In this way, it is possible to eliminate the risk that a warning of deterioration is issued during recording, the user may perceive this, and remove the recording medium from the recording device while recording.

The recording medium may be, for example, an SD card or a micro SD card. The recording medium may have a function of outputting a busy state to the recording device 30 in order to perform a predetermined process, such as wear leveling or other internal memory state change process, on the internal flash memory when power is supplied. The recording medium may have a function of canceling a predetermined internal process or changing it to a process with a lighter load in response to a request from the recording device 30, enabling writing to the recording device 30, or shortening the busy time. The recording medium may have a function of responding to the busy state with different levels of busy states to the recording device. The recording medium may have a function of notifying the recording device of a first busy state, which indicates that writing is not accepted at all, and a second busy state, which indicates that writing is possible but may be destroyed by a power outage.

The scope of the present invention is not limited to the configurations explicitly described in the specification, but includes combinations of various aspects of the present invention disclosed herein. The configurations of the present invention that are sought to be patented are specified in the attached claims, but it is our intention to include configurations disclosed in this specification in the claims in the future, even if they are not currently specified in the claims.

The present invention is not limited to the configurations described in the above-mentioned embodiments. The components of each of the above-mentioned embodiments and variations may be arbitrarily selected and combined. Any components of each of the embodiments and variations may be arbitrarily combined with any components described in the means for solving the invention or any components that embody any components described in the means for solving the invention. We intend to acquire rights to these as well through amendments to this application or divisional applications, etc. Even if there is a description such as "in the case of" or "when", this is not intended to describe a configuration that is limited to that case or time. We also disclose configurations that are not in these cases or times, and we intend to acquire rights to them. Furthermore, the parts that are described in order are not limited to this order. We also disclose configurations in which some parts are deleted or the order is changed, and we intend to acquire rights to them.

In addition, by converting to a design registration application, we intend to obtain rights to the overall design or partial design. The drawings show the entire device in solid lines, but they include not only the overall design but also partial designs claimed for a portion of the device. For example, some components of the device can be included as partial designs, and the drawings include some parts of the device as partial designs regardless of the components. A portion of the device can be a part of the device, or a part of that part. We intend to obtain rights to not only the overall design, but also partial designs in which any part of the solid line part of the drawing is shown as a broken line part. In addition, all of the modules, components, parts, etc. inside the device's casing shown in the drawings are subject to trade independently, and we intend to obtain rights to them by converting to a design registration application in the same way.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1 System 10 Processing device 100 Control unit 102 Initialization unit 104 Full initialization unit 110 Storage unit 112 User information 114 History data 120 Input unit 130 Display unit 140 Communication unit 150 Recording unit 250 Memory card 252 Memory card information 254 Video data 15 Memory card reader 20 Processing device 30 Recording device 32 Shooting device 40 Playback device

Claims (36)

a processing means for detecting the removal of a recording medium and, based on the detection of the subsequent mounting of a recording medium, executing a process for initializing the recording medium;
A system comprising: The system according to claim 1, further comprising a display means for displaying a display screen according to the state in which the mounting of the recording medium is detected and the process being executed by the processing means. The system according to claim 2, characterized in that the display means displays a first display screen indicating that the recording medium should be inserted if the recording medium is not inserted. The system according to claim 3, characterized in that, when the initialization process is completed, the display means displays a second display screen indicating that the process is completed, and when the processing means detects that a recording medium has been inserted after or during the display of the second display screen, it initializes the recording medium. The processing means includes:
based on the detection of the mounting of the recording medium, reading recording medium information related to the recording medium from the recording medium and displaying a third display screen;
executing a process of initializing the recording medium after displaying the third display screen;
5. A system according to any one of claims 1 to 4. The processing means includes:
and executing a process of initializing the recording medium when an instruction to initialize the recording medium is received from a user while the third display screen is being displayed.
6. The system of claim 5. The system according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that the recording medium information includes information about the video data recorded on the recording medium. The system according to claim 7, characterized in that the recording medium information further includes event information associated with the video data. The system according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that the recording medium information further includes information about the recording device that recorded the video data on the recording medium. The system according to claim 9, characterized in that the recording medium information is information regarding at least acceleration and speed acquired by the recording device. The recording device has an image capturing device and is installed in a vehicle,
The video data is captured by the imaging device,
The recording medium information is information about a vehicle in which the recording device is installed.
10. The system of claim 9. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the processing means executes a process to initialize the recording medium based on the detection of the mounting of the recording medium after a user operation is performed. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the processing means displays a fourth display screen indicating a warning if it detects that the recording medium has been inserted before the user performs an execution operation. The system according to claim 13, characterized in that the processing means executes a process of initializing the recording medium based on further detection of the mounting of the recording medium after further detection of the removal of the recording medium. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that the processing means executes a process to initialize the recording medium when it is determined that the recording medium matches a specific condition. The system according to claim 15, wherein the specific condition is that the format of the mounted recording medium matches the format initialized by the processing means. The system of claim 15, wherein the specific condition is that the format of the mounted recording medium matches the format of a recording medium that has already been formatted. The system according to claim 15, wherein the specific condition is that a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the date on which the video data recorded on the recording medium was recorded. The system according to claim 15, wherein the specific condition is that no event information is recorded that corresponds to the video data recorded on the recording medium. The system according to any one of claims 15 to 19, characterized in that the processing means outputs an operation screen for confirming whether or not to initialize the recording medium when it is determined that the recording medium does not match a specific condition. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that, when event information associated with the video data recorded on the recording medium is recorded, the processing means outputs an operation screen that allows the user to select whether to initialize the recording medium or to display the recording medium information recorded on the recording medium. The processing means includes:
As the initialization process, a first initialization process that is simply executed and a second initialization process can be executed,
22. The system according to claim 1, further comprising: a first initialization process for the recording medium, the first initialization process being executed on the recording medium when the recording medium is detected to be mounted. The system according to claim 22, characterized in that the first initialization process can be executed at a higher speed than the second initialization process. The system of claim 22, wherein the first initialization process is a logical format and the second initialization process is a physical format. The system according to claim 22, wherein the first initialization process is a process for deleting video data recorded on the recording medium. the recording medium is initialized in a format accessible by a standard file system of a computer;
22. The system according to claim 1, wherein the processing means continuously generates virtual files in an area of the recording medium where video data is previously recorded. the recording medium is initialized in a format that is inaccessible to a standard file system of a computer;
the recording medium records management information for managing the video data and the video data;
22. The system according to claim 1, wherein the processing means executes the initialization process by rewriting the management information. the recording medium has a first partition and a second partition created thereon;
video data is recorded in the second partition;
22. The system according to claim 1, wherein management information for managing video data is recorded in the first partition. the first partition is initialized in a format accessible by a file system;
The second partition is initialized in a format that is inaccessible to a file system.
30. The system of claim 28. When the recording medium detected to be mounted includes a first recording medium and a second recording medium,
The system according to any one of claims 1 to 29, characterized in that the processing means, upon detecting the installation of the first recording medium, executes a process of initializing the first recording medium and then initializing the second recording medium. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 30, further comprising a history management means for managing a history of the processing means executing the initialization processing. The system according to claim 31, further comprising a report output means for outputting a report based on the history managed by the history management means. The system according to claim 31 or 32, characterized in that the history managed by the history management means includes at least the date and time when the initialization process was performed and identification information for identifying the recording medium. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 33, characterized in that the initialization process includes a process of writing setting information indicating an initial setting of a specified system to the recording medium. The system described in claim 34, characterized in that the specified system is a camera mounted on a vehicle and records video data on the recording medium. A program for causing a computer to which the recording medium can be connected to function as the processing means of the system according to any one of claims 1 to 35.