System

Abstract

To provide a system of which the convenience is improved by reducing confusion of a user or helping the user to know what kind of information is being stored on a storage medium removed from a medium housing part.SOLUTION: At least two medium housing parts hold removable storage media. Control means has a function to access the storage medium housed in each of the medium housing parts and has a function to store a video image picked up by an imaging apparatus that is mounted on a vehicle, on the storage medium held in at least one medium housing part. Notification means notifies a user of a role of the storage medium that is accessed by the control means.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a system for recording video captured by an imaging device. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses an image recording device that continuously records captured images and has improved stability in the recording operation of the captured images. The image recording device disclosed in Patent Document 1 includes an image capturing camera for acquiring image information, a medium housing section that houses a storage medium in an insertable and removable manner, and a control means capable of executing control for recording the captured images on the storage medium. The control means can execute a control mode in which a series of captured images over a predetermined period of time in the past is recorded using the storage medium by deleting captured images in order from the oldest captured image and storing new captured images in the free space while securing free space in the storage area of ​​the storage medium. This image recording device includes at least two medium housing sections. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2014-220803 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] When at least two media storage units are provided, for example, a user may be confused as to which media storage unit to store a storage medium in. For example, it may be difficult for a user to know what information is stored in a storage medium removed from one media storage unit. The object of the present invention is to provide a system that reduces the user's confusion or improves convenience by helping the user know what information is stored in a storage medium removed from a media storage unit. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] (1) at least two media storage units for holding removable storage media; a control means having a function of accessing the storage media contained in each of the medium containing sections and having a function of storing an image captured by an imaging device mounted on the vehicle in at least one of the storage media held in the medium containing sections; a notification means for notifying a user of a role played by the storage medium accessed by said control means; It is preferable to have a system having the above.

[0006] A user can remove a storage medium storing video captured by an imaging device mounted on a vehicle from the media storage unit and use the storage medium in another device. Furthermore, the user can recognize the role of the storage medium that is or will be held in the media storage unit. A user who recognizes the role of the storage medium can handle the storage medium appropriately according to its role when attaching or detaching the storage medium to or from the media storage unit or after removing the storage medium from the media storage unit. This increases convenience for the user.

[0007] The notification means may, for example, notify the user of the role played by the storage medium to be mounted in the media housing unit before the user mounts the storage medium in the media housing unit. The user can know the role played by the storage medium before mounting the storage medium in the media housing unit. The notification means may, for example, notify the user of the role played by the storage medium mounted in the media housing unit when the user removes the storage medium from the media housing unit. The user can know the role played by the storage medium removed from the media housing unit. It is particularly preferable for the notification means to notify the user of the role played by the storage medium both before the user mounts the storage medium in the media housing unit and when the user removes the storage medium from the media housing unit.

[0008] Removable storage media, such as SD cards, microSD cards, XQD cards, etc. For example, an insertion port such as a slot may be provided in the housing of the system in correspondence with the medium storage unit. For example, a user can insert the storage medium into the medium storage unit through the insertion port and remove the storage medium from the medium storage unit.

[0009] Access to the storage medium accommodated in the medium accommodation unit may include at least one of writing data to the storage medium and reading data from the storage medium.

[0010] Next, the roles of the storage media held in the two media housing sections will be illustrated.

[0011] (1.1) For example, it is preferable to record video captured by an imaging device mounted on a vehicle in both of the two storage media. This video may be, for example, video spanning from when the vehicle is turned on to when it is turned off, video of a predetermined time before and after a predetermined event occurs while the vehicle is turned on, video during the parking period, video of a predetermined time before and after a predetermined event occurs while the vehicle is parked, etc. A user can use a system including this imaging device as a drive recorder.

[0012] For example, the same video may be recorded simultaneously on the storage media held in the two media storage units, with one serving as a backup for the other. For example, one storage medium may be assigned to record video in real time, while the other storage medium may be assigned to copy the recorded video. For example, one storage medium may be assigned to record video at high resolution or high frame rate, while the other storage medium may be assigned to record video at low resolution or low frame rate for long periods of time.

[0013] For example, one video may be recorded alternately on two storage media at regular intervals, and the two storage media may complement each other to form one video. For example, the two storage media may be switched in a short time for each unit of video writing to the storage media, and one video may be recorded alternately on the two storage media, thereby improving the apparent writing speed. For example, when a temporary writing error occurs in one storage medium, the other storage medium may be made to take the place of the storage medium in which the writing error occurred.

[0014] For example, one storage medium may be assigned to constantly record video from when the vehicle is turned on to when it is turned off, and the other storage medium may be assigned to record video before and after a specified event occurs. For example, one storage medium may be assigned to constantly record video while the vehicle is turned on, and the other storage medium may be assigned to record video while the vehicle is parked.

[0015] For example, one storage medium may be formatted in a general-purpose format so that it serves as a storage medium for playing video on other general-purpose playback devices, and the other storage medium may be formatted in a unique format so that it serves as a storage medium for playing video only on this system and on devices with unique playback functions.

[0016] For example, one storage medium may be assigned to record video before and after the occurrence of a specific event (a first type of event), and the other storage medium may be assigned to record video before and after the occurrence of an event (a second type of event) different from the first type of event. Information defining the first type of event and the second type of event may be stored in advance in the control means.

[0017] For example, if two imaging devices (a first imaging device and a second imaging device) are mounted on a vehicle, one storage medium is assigned to record images captured by the first imaging device, and the other storage medium is assigned to record images captured by the first imaging device. It is preferable to assign the role of recording the image captured by the second imaging device.

[0018] (1.2) One storage medium may be assigned to record images captured with the imaging device mounted on a vehicle, and the other storage medium may be assigned to record images captured with the imaging device removed from the vehicle and attached to equipment used for outdoor sports, for example. Examples of outdoor sports include snowboarding, skiing, surfing, windsurfing, cycling, and jogging. A user may use a system including this imaging device as a drive recorder or an action camera.

[0019] (1.3) It is preferable to assign one storage medium to the role of recording the image captured by the imaging device mounted on the vehicle (images of the surroundings of the vehicle, especially the front) as is, and the other storage medium to the role of recording, for example, an image obtained by combining another image with the image captured by the imaging device mounted on the vehicle. The other image may be a warning image or the like that notifies the driver of the approach to a radar device. The image combined with this warning image can be played back in fast forward to easily find the image of the period when the radar device was approached. It is possible to check how the driver drove when a warning or the like was issued by checking the contents of the warning.

[0020] (1.4) One storage medium may be assigned to record images captured by an imaging device mounted on the vehicle, and the other storage medium may be assigned to record log data, for example, that lists vehicle information in chronological order while the vehicle is traveling.

[0021] For example, one storage medium can be assigned to record images of the vehicle's surroundings, particularly the front, while the other storage medium can be assigned to record log data that serves as the basis for checking for dangerous driving, such as sudden starts, sharp turns, sudden braking, or sudden acceleration.

[0022] (1.5) It is preferable that one storage medium is assigned to record images captured by an imaging device mounted on a vehicle, and the other storage medium is assigned to record template images for extracting specific images from images captured by the imaging device. Template images can be, for example, images of various traffic signs, images of specific people, images of specific vehicle numbers, etc. Traffic rules that apply to the current location can be detected by performing image recognition based on images of traffic signs on images acquired in real time. Specific people and specific vehicles can be found by performing image recognition based on images of specific people and images of specific vehicle numbers on images acquired in real time.

[0023] (1.6) It is advisable to assign one storage medium to record images captured by an imaging device mounted on the vehicle, and the other storage medium to store key information (information indicating access authority) that permits various accesses to the system. This makes it possible to prevent a user with lower access authority from performing processing that is permitted only to those with higher access authority. This improves security.

[0024] (1.7) It is preferable that one storage medium has the role of recording video captured by an imaging device mounted on the vehicle, and the other storage medium has the role of storing basic information for specifying conditions for marking the recorded video. The control means may apply a mark indicating the occurrence of an event to the video at the time when the occurrence of an event for which the marking condition is satisfied is detected. After the video is recorded, the mark applied to the video can be used to easily search for the video at the time when a specified event occurred. The storage medium having the role of recording video also has the role of recording a mark indicating the time when a specified event occurred.

[0025] (1.8) One of the storage media is installed in a vehicle that regularly travels a predetermined route. The storage medium may be made to play a role of recording images captured by an imaging device installed in a vehicle that has traveled a predetermined route, and the other storage medium may be made to play images captured by an imaging device installed in a vehicle that has traveled a predetermined route. The control means may play back images captured in the past in the vehicle traveling the predetermined route. The driver can travel the predetermined route without getting lost based on the played back images.

[0026] (1.9) It is preferable to assign one storage medium to record images captured by an imaging device displayed in a dealership instead of the imaging device installed in the vehicle, and assign the other recording medium to record promotional video footage. The dealership can use the system including the imaging device as a demo machine for sales. Also, by playing the promotional video footage, the dealership can inform consumers of the system's functions and performance.

[0027] The notification means may be, for example, a display device that displays an image, an audio output device that outputs audio, a communication device that transmits a command to cause the display device to display an image or the audio output device to output audio, or characters or figures displayed on the surface of the housing in association with the position where the storage medium is stored.Other notification means may be a configuration in which the size of the insertion port is different, the shape of the insertion port is different, the direction in which the storage medium is inserted is different, or the difficulty of accessing the insertion port is different in a configuration in which the storage medium is inserted into the medium storage section through an insertion port in the housing.

[0028] For example, it is preferable that the role of the storage medium is not fixed to one of the examples (role mode) exemplified in (1.1) to (1.9) above, but that the role mode of the storage medium is changeable. For example, it is preferable to provide a function that allows the user to select which role mode the storage medium is to play. When storage media are removed from all media storage units, the role mode of the storage medium is preferably returned to a basic mode that is set in advance. Before the storage medium is loaded into the media storage unit, the role mode is not determined, and the role mode may be determined after the storage medium is loaded into the media storage unit.

[0029] (2) the control means has a function of recording images captured by the same imaging device alternately in a certain time unit onto the storage media respectively held in the medium storage section, The control means may further be a system having a function of informing a user through the notification means that the storage media respectively held in the media storage units serve as a group to compose a single image.

[0030] The user is more likely to realize that the storage media held in each of the multiple media storage units are grouped together to form a single image. By realizing that it is preferable to handle multiple storage media as a group after removing the storage media from the media storage units, the user is less likely to encounter a situation in which the storage media in the group are scattered and are no longer able to form a single image.

[0031] For example, when a storage medium held in one medium storage unit is removed, the control means may prompt the user by voice or image to remove the storage media held in the other medium storage units and carry or store them together. For example, when a storage medium is held in one medium storage unit, the control means may prompt the user by voice or image to hold the other storage medium that forms a pair in the other medium storage unit. For example, the time unit for switching the storage medium for recording video may be several minutes to several tens of minutes.

[0032] (3) It is preferable that the control means has a function of, when it detects that a storage medium held in one of the media storage units has been removed, notifying a user through the notification means that a storage medium held in the other media storage unit is also required for video playback.

[0033] When a user removes a storage medium from a medium housing unit in order to play back video recorded on the storage medium on another device, the user is less likely to forget to remove the other storage medium. This allows the video to be played back on the other device without going back and forth. For example, in the configuration of (2) above, the user can pair two storage media on which video is recorded alternately at certain time units, and play back the video on the other device. For example, video may be recorded on one storage medium, and information (hereinafter referred to as key information) representing the authority to play back the video may be stored on the other storage medium. In this case, the user can pair the storage medium on which the video is recorded and the storage medium on which the key information is stored, and play back the video on the other device.

[0034] (4) Further, the device has a communication means for transmitting video images; The control means may be a system having a function of reading and transmitting images recorded on a storage medium held in one of the media storage units that have not been transmitted via the communication means during a period in which the images are being recorded on a storage medium held in the other media storage unit.

[0035] The control means can transmit the recorded video to an external device after recording the video on the storage medium. The user can play the video on the external device without removing the storage medium from the medium housing. Normally, a removable storage medium shows a tendency for the writing and reading speed to drop significantly when reading is performed while data is being written. While a video is being recorded on a storage medium, the video recorded on that storage medium is not read, and the video that could not be transmitted is read and transmitted during the period when the video is being recorded on another storage medium, so that a decrease in the writing and reading speed can be suppressed. Even if the video cannot be transmitted immediately due to a communication error or the like, the video can be read from the storage medium and transmitted later. The storage medium plays a role of recording the video, and also plays a role of storage means for storing the video to be transmitted via the communication means until the transmission is completed.

[0036] For example, the control means may record the image captured by the imaging device in a storage medium held in the medium storage unit, and transmit the image to an external device immediately (in real time) through the communication means. For example, the communication means may transmit the image by wireless communication. As the wireless communication technology, for example, wireless communication technology conforming to the WiFi standard, Bluetooth (registered trademark) or other short-range wireless communication standard, or 4G or other mobile communication system standard, may be used. For example, as the external device, a server, a personal computer, a smartphone, a tablet terminal, etc. may be used.

[0037] (5) The control means should preferably be a system having a buffer memory for temporarily storing images, a function for transferring images captured by the same imaging device from the buffer memory to a storage medium held in one of the media storage units, and a function for starting transfer from the buffer memory to the storage medium held in the other media storage unit before the transfer is completed.

[0038] The apparent writing speed can be made faster than when recording video on a single storage medium. This makes it possible to record high frame rate, high resolution video that cannot be written in a single storage medium at the writing speed. The two storage media record short images that are divided into small pieces on the time axis from a continuous video, and the two storage media work together to compose a single video that is continuous in time.

[0039] For example, DMA transfer may be used to record video onto a storage medium, and the destination storage medium may be switched for each DMA transfer block.

[0040] It is recommended to prepare a buffer memory for each media storage unit. When the process of transferring the image to the storage medium is completed, the new image can be buffered in the buffer memory to which the image transfer has been completed, without depending on the transfer status of the image in the other buffer memory. The memory space in one buffer memory may be divided into an area for one medium storage unit and an area for the other medium storage unit.

[0041] (6) At least two of the media storage units support interface standards having different maximum writing speeds; The control means should be a system having the function of writing, in real time, images captured by an imaging device to a storage medium held in the media storage unit that supports the interface standard with the faster maximum writing speed, and, upon command from a user, copying the images written in real time to a storage medium held in the other media storage unit.

[0042] Compared to recording video in real time on a storage medium with a slower writing speed, video can be recorded in real time with a higher frame rate and higher resolution. When copying video recorded on a storage medium with a faster writing speed to another storage medium, the destination storage medium does not require a high writing speed. Therefore, a lower-cost storage medium can be used as the storage medium with a slower writing speed. This allows the same video to be copied to multiple lower-cost storage media for distribution. The storage medium held in the media storage unit supporting an interface standard with a faster maximum writing speed plays a role of, for example, recording video in real time, and the storage medium held in the other media storage unit plays a role of, for example, copying video that has already been recorded. In particular, since this system has the configuration of (1) above, the user can distinguish between a storage medium for recording video in real time and a storage medium for copying.

[0043] For example, an XQD card can be used as the storage medium with the faster maximum writing speed, and an SD card can be used as the storage medium with the slower maximum writing speed.

[0044] For example, the notification means may display on a display device information (e.g., location) specifying the media storage unit in which a storage medium for recording video in real time should be loaded, and information (e.g., location) specifying the media storage unit in which a storage medium for copying should be loaded.

[0045] (7) At least one of the medium storage units supports an interface standard for a storage medium having a wireless communication function; The control means may be a system having a function of causing a storage medium having wireless communication capability to transmit images captured by an imaging device, and a function of reading images from a previous storage medium held in the other media storage unit and transmitting the read-out images.

[0046] Video captured by an imaging device can be wirelessly transmitted to an external device via a storage medium having a wireless communication function. This allows a user to play the video on an external device without removing the storage medium from the medium housing. The storage medium held in one medium housing plays a role in wirelessly transmitting the video, and the storage medium held in the other medium housing plays a role in recording the video. Note that the storage medium that plays a role in wirelessly transmitting the video may also play a role in recording the video.

[0047] Examples of storage media with wireless communication capabilities that can be used include an SDIO card with a WiFi standard communication capability, an SDIO card with a mobile communication system standard communication capability, and an SDIO card with a TransferJet standard communication capability.

[0048] It is more preferable that the two media storage units support an interface standard for a storage medium having a wireless communication function. For example, When video is being recorded in the other storage medium, video that has already been recorded in the storage medium held in the other medium housing unit can be transmitted using the communication function of that storage medium.

[0049] (8) When one of the media storage units holds a storage medium on which images captured in the past by an imaging device mounted on the vehicle are recorded together with location information of the images, The control means may be a system having a function of reading out an image corresponding to the corresponding position information from the storage medium stored in the medium storage unit based on the current position of the vehicle, and displaying the image on the display means.

[0050] The driver can drive while referring to the image displayed on the display means. The image captured in the past may be image captured while the vehicle was traveling along the recommended driving route. For a driver who is unfamiliar with the recommended driving route, the image displayed on the display means provides useful information for traveling along the recommended driving route. For example, the storage medium held in one media storage unit has the role of recording images in real time, and the storage medium held in the other media storage unit has the function of providing images from past driving sessions.

[0051] (9) In the system of (8) above, the notification means may be a system having a function of informing a user which of the two media storage units should hold a storage medium on which is recorded an image to be displayed on the display means.

[0052] The driver can easily know which storage unit should hold the storage medium that records the previously captured video. This makes it less likely that the storage medium will be inserted into the wrong storage unit.

[0053] (10) The device further includes an internal power source for supplying power to the control means when the supply of power from an external source is stopped, The control means may be a system having the function of recording video onto a storage medium held in one of the media storage units when there is an external power supply, and receiving power from the internal power source and recording video onto a storage medium held in the other media storage unit when the external power supply is stopped.

[0054] A user can take the system out of the vehicle and capture an image of a desired object. The storage medium on which the image captured while the system is mounted on the vehicle is recorded can be stored separately from the storage medium on which the image captured while the system is taken out of the vehicle is recorded. With the system mounted on the vehicle, the image captured by the imaging device can be recorded in the storage medium held in one of the media storage units, while the image recorded outside the vehicle can be read out from the storage medium held in the other media storage unit.

[0055] For example, a person can drive a vehicle to a sightseeing spot, take the system out of the vehicle at the sightseeing spot, and use it as an action camera. The video captured at the sightseeing spot can be played back in the vehicle on the way back from the sightseeing spot.

[0056] For example, one storage medium has a role of recording images in real time while the vehicle is traveling, and the other storage medium has a role of recording images captured while the vehicle is being used as an action camera, and a role of providing images captured while the vehicle is being used as an action camera in the vehicle. For example, the notification means may display, on the display means, information (e.g., a location) that identifies the media storage unit that holds the storage medium that records images while the vehicle is traveling, and information (e.g., a location) that identifies the media storage unit that holds the storage medium that records images captured while the vehicle is being used as an action camera. This allows the user to easily know which images are recorded in which storage medium held in which media storage unit.

[0057] During the period when power is being supplied to the system from an external source, the system may be operated as a drive recorder, and when the supply of power from the external source is stopped while the system is operating as a drive recorder, the system may be operated as a parking surveillance recorder, and when the main switch of the system is turned on while no power is being supplied to the system from an external source, the system may be operated as an action camera. When operating as a drive recorder or a parking surveillance recorder, video may be recorded on a storage medium held in one of the media storage units, and when operating as an action camera, video may be recorded on a storage medium held in the other media storage unit.

[0058] After operating as an action camera, when the system is mounted in a vehicle and external power supply is started, the video recorded during operation as an action camera can be automatically played back, allowing the user to immediately enjoy viewing the video captured by the action camera in the car.

[0059] After operating as an action camera, the current image captured by the imaging device may be displayed on the display means until a predetermined time has elapsed from the time when the system is mounted on the vehicle and external power supply is started, and after the predetermined time has elapsed, the image recorded during the period when the system operated as an action camera may be automatically played back. During the period in which the current image captured by the imaging device is displayed on the display means, the user can adjust the attitude of the imaging device while watching the image displayed on the display means.

[0060] (11) The control means may be a system having a function of recording an image captured by an imaging device mounted on the vehicle onto a storage medium held in one of the media storage units, and recording a composite image obtained by superimposing another image onto the image captured by the imaging device mounted on the vehicle onto a storage medium held in the other media storage unit.

[0061] When a user checks the video recorded while the vehicle is traveling after the driving, the user can use the composite image for various purposes, and the unprocessed video can be left as it is in the other storage medium. When playing back the video, the composite image can be compared with the unprocessed video. The unprocessed video allows the user to grasp the situation around the vehicle in detail when an alarm is generated. Furthermore, the unprocessed video can be presumed to have not been tampered with, and is therefore considered to have a higher evidentiary value than the composite image. One storage medium is responsible for recording the video in an unprocessed state, and the other storage medium is responsible for recording a composite image in which the captured video is combined with an image of alarm information, etc.

[0062] For example, a computer-generated image may be used as the image to be superimposed on the image captured by the imaging device. For example, alarm information detected by a device such as a radar detector may be used as the computer-generated image. Examples of the alarm information include information indicating the distance to an alarm target such as a radar speed camera, and information issued to the driver to alert the driver to slow down. The person responsible for managing the vehicle can check how the driver was driving when the alarm was issued.

[0063] The warning information may be superimposed on the video and recorded as an image, and a sound may be generated to notify the driver of the warning and record the sound information. For example, the sound picked up by a microphone in the vehicle may be recorded in the storage medium that stores the raw video, and only the sound of the warning may be recorded in the storage medium that records the composite image.

[0064] As a composite image, a semi-transparent image showing the warning information may be superimposed on the image captured by the imaging device. The screen may be divided and a map of the area around the vehicle's position at the time the warning was issued may be displayed on one part of the screen. It would be good to do so.

[0065] (12) The control means has a function of recording images captured by the two imaging devices onto storage media held in different media storage units, and the notification means is a system that informs a user of the correspondence between the two imaging devices and the media storage units.

[0066] The two storage media each serve to record images captured by a different imaging device. The notification means may display, for example, the correspondence between the two media storage units and the imaging devices that capture the images to be recorded on the storage media held in the media storage units, as image or text information. Images of a wide area that cannot be covered by a single imaging device can be recorded. The user can easily know which storage medium is held in which media storage unit and which imaging device has recorded the images. The user can remove the storage medium on which the images to be confirmed are recorded from the media storage unit.

[0067] The control means may notify the user through the notification means that the images recorded on the storage media held in the two media storage units are images of different areas captured during the same period. The user who notices the notification through the notification means can associate the images captured during the same period and check them by, for example, displaying the images captured at the same time on the display means at the same time.

[0068] When the user removes only the storage medium held in one of the medium storage units, the control unit may prompt the user through the notification unit to remove the storage medium held in the other medium storage unit, since the storage medium held in the other medium storage unit contains images captured during the same period. This notification makes it less likely that the user will forget to remove the storage medium from the medium storage unit.

[0069] When checking the video images stored in the storage media stored in the two media storage units, the playback device may synchronize the two videos and simultaneously display the videos from the same time on the display means, allowing the user to easily check the situation around the vehicle at the same time.

[0070] For example, the two imaging devices may be devices that image the front and rear of the vehicle, or the front and interior of the vehicle, so that after the vehicle has been driven, the situations of both the front and rear of the vehicle, or the front and interior of the vehicle, can be confirmed through images.

[0071] For example, two imaging devices may be mounted on a work vehicle, one imaging the area in front of the vehicle and the other imaging the work area. For example, the work vehicle equipped with the imaging devices may be a forklift, and the work area imaged by one imaging device may be the range of the fork's lifting and lowering motion. The user can check the driving status and work status of the work vehicle on the video after work.

[0072] For example, two imaging devices can be installed on a vehicle operating within the premises, one capturing an image of the front of the vehicle and the other capturing an image of the driver. By viewing the images captured by the two imaging devices, it is possible to verify whether the driver is following the driving rules within the premises. For example, it is possible to verify whether the driver pointed and cheered when turning right or left. If audio is added to the image, it is possible to verify whether the driver cheered, such as "good right, good left," at a specific location.

[0073] For example, imaging devices of different types may be used as the two imaging devices. For example, an omnidirectional camera may be used as one imaging device, and a normal camera may be used as the other imaging device. Based on the information notified through the notification means, the user can select a storage medium in which the video captured by the omnidirectional camera is stored and a storage medium in which the video captured by the normal camera is stored. It is easy to distinguish between the storage media that

[0074] It is advisable to house one of the two imaging devices within the system housing and use the other as an external camera, which simplifies the connection process since the user only needs to connect one external camera to the housing.

[0075] Both of the two imaging devices may be external cameras. The user can select an external camera with suitable performance depending on the object to be imaged and the purpose of the captured image. In addition, the placement position of the imaging device is not affected by the position of the system housing, increasing the degree of freedom in placement of the imaging device. It is preferable to make the shapes of the connection terminals on the system housing side for connecting the external cameras different from each other. This can prevent mistakes in connecting two different types of external cameras.

[0076] The number of medium storage units may be three or more, and the number of imaging devices may be the same as the number of medium storage units. By providing three or more medium storage units and imaging devices, it is possible to simultaneously capture images of a wider range and record them on the corresponding storage media.

[0077] (13) The control means may have a function of recording images captured by the same imaging device onto storage media held in the two media storage units by varying at least one of the recording conditions, namely, frame rate and resolution, and the notification means may be a system having a function of informing a user of information based on the difference in recording conditions.

[0078] The storage medium on which recording is performed under a low frame rate or resolution recording condition can be used for long-term recording, and the storage medium on which recording is performed under a high frame rate or resolution recording condition can be used for more detailed analysis of the recorded video. Based on the information notified through the notification means, the user can easily determine which storage medium held in which media storage unit the video should be viewed depending on the purpose of using the video.

[0079] The long-term recording storage medium is rewritten less frequently than the detailed analysis storage medium, and therefore has a longer lifespan. For example, even if the detailed analysis storage medium exceeds its lifespan and no video is recorded, the video remains on the long-term recording storage medium. In addition, the probability that the two storage media will reach the end of their lifespan at the same time is low. Therefore, even if one storage medium reaches the end of its lifespan, video will be properly recorded on the other storage medium, and it is unlikely that there will be no video remaining on either storage medium.

[0080] The storage media held in the two media housings are responsible for recording images captured by the same imaging device under different recording conditions. As information based on the difference in recording conditions that the notification means notifies the user of, for example, information indicating the frame rate, information indicating the resolution, etc., may be adopted.

[0081] (14) At least one of a frame rate and a resolution is stored in a storage medium held in at least one of the medium storage units, The control means may be a system having a function of reading out recording conditions stored in a storage medium held in the medium storage section, and recording video based on the read-out recording conditions.

[0082] By storing the recording conditions in advance in the storage medium held in the medium housing unit, the user can record video on the storage medium under the desired recording conditions.

[0083] In addition to the frame rate and resolution, the recording conditions can also include, for example, the images before and after an event. The conditions for determining whether an event has occurred when recording an image, and whether audio is to be recorded, may be included. The conditions for determining whether an event has occurred may use, for example, a detection value of an acceleration sensor mounted on the vehicle as a determination threshold. In addition to the detection value of the acceleration sensor, other types of events may be used as recording conditions.

[0084] The storage medium held in the medium housing section serves to record video, and the storage medium held in at least one of the medium housing sections serves to store the recording conditions. The notification means may notify the user of information (e.g., a location) that identifies the medium housing section that holds the storage medium that stores the recording conditions.

[0085] When the recording conditions are stored in both of the storage media held in the two medium storage units, the control means may validate the recording conditions stored in the storage medium held in one specific medium storage unit, not adopt the recording conditions stored in the storage medium held in the other medium storage unit, and record video on the two storage media based on the valid recording conditions. The user need only have the storage medium storing the recording conditions that he or she actually wants to record stored therein held in one specific medium storage unit, and does not need to know the recording conditions stored in the other storage medium.

[0086] The control means may enable the recording conditions stored in the storage media held in the two medium storage units, and record video for each storage medium based on the recording conditions stored in that storage medium. A user can determine the recording conditions for each storage medium.

[0087] The control means may record the video on the storage medium based on the recording conditions previously set in the control means, without adopting the recording conditions stored in the storage medium. By setting the recording conditions in advance in the control means, the user can record the video based on the desired recording conditions without having to check the recording conditions stored in the storage medium every time the storage medium is held in the medium housing section.

[0088] The control means may allow the user to select one of a mode for validating the recording conditions stored in a storage medium held in one specific medium storage unit, a mode for validating both recording conditions stored in the storage medium, and a mode for validating the recording conditions previously set in the control means. The user can select the most appropriate mode depending on the usage form of the system.

[0089] The control means may display a plurality of modes to be selected by the user on the display means as a menu. The user may select one mode from the menu. When a storage medium in which no recording conditions are stored is held in the medium storage section, a mode that makes effective the recording conditions stored in the storage medium held in the medium storage section may be excluded from the menu. When no recording conditions are set in the control means, a mode that makes effective the recording conditions set in the control means may be excluded from the menu. The user may know a list of selectable modes.

[0090] It is preferable to store a priority for each recording condition in each storage medium, and the control means should enable the recording condition with the higher priority. If the priorities are the same, it is preferable to determine which recording condition to enable based on the time when the priority was set. For example, it is preferable to enable the recording condition that was set more recently. Conversely, it is also possible to enable the recording condition that was set older. It is preferable to set in advance in the control means whether to enable the recording condition that was set more recently or the older recording condition.

[0091] (15) The control means is a system having a function of recording images captured by the same imaging device in both of at least two storage media held in the medium storage section in real time. It is recommended to use this system.

[0092] Even if a writing error occurs in the storage medium held in one of the media storage sections and video cannot be recorded, the video can be recorded normally on the storage medium held in the other media storage section. This makes it possible to avoid a situation where no video is left at all. By removing the storage medium from only one of the media storage sections, the video can be played back on another device such as a computer.

[0093] For example, the storage media held in the two media storage units record the same video and serve as mutual backups. The notification means may, for example, notify the user that the same video is recorded on the storage media held in the two media storage units.

[0094] The control device may store, in each storage medium on which the same video is recorded, information that there is another storage medium on which the same video is recorded, and information linking the two (pairing information).The control device can determine the presence or absence of a paired storage medium on which the same video is recorded, and identify the paired storage medium, by reading the pairing information of the storage medium held in one medium storage unit.

[0095] (16) The control means may have a function of verifying when video is recorded onto the storage media held in the media holding units, and when a verify error occurs when recording onto a storage medium held in one of the media holding units, the system may have a function of recording the video in which the verify error occurred onto the storage medium held in the other media holding unit.

[0096] Video that could not be written due to a verify error occurring when writing to one storage medium can be written to the other storage medium, which reduces the overall frequency of occurrences in which video cannot be recorded.

[0097] The storage media held in the two media housings complement each other to record video even if a verify error occurs in one of the storage media when recording video. For example, the notification means may notify the user that one video is recorded in the storage media held in the two media housings in a complementary manner.

[0098] For example, if an ACK signal is returned when writing video to a storage medium, it may be determined that a verify error did not occur, and if a NAK signal is returned, it may be determined that a verify error occurred. Alternatively, the recorded video may be read and the consistency of the data may be checked to determine whether a verify error occurred.

[0099] If a verify error occurs and the storage medium to which the video is to be recorded is changed, and if a verify error occurs in the changed storage medium, the video may be recorded back to the original storage medium. If the cause of the verify error is temporary, there is a possibility that the video can be normally recorded in the original storage medium.

[0100] (17) Key information indicating an access authority is stored in at least one of the storage media stored in the medium storage unit, The control means may be a system having a function of reading key information stored in a storage medium held in the media storage unit, and restricting or permitting access to the storage medium held in the media storage unit based on the read key information.

[0101] The storage medium held in one of the media storage units is responsible for recording video, and the storage medium held in the other media storage unit is responsible for granting access to the storage medium held in the media storage unit. The control means plays a role of storing key information indicating the type of the storage medium. By restricting access according to the key information, the security of the system can be enhanced. For example, the control means may have a function of operating in either an administrator mode or a user mode. The key information to be stored in the storage medium may be, for example, permission to operate in the administrator mode or permission to operate only in the user mode. For example, when the control means operates in the administrator mode, it may be possible to perform an initialization process of the storage medium held in the media storage unit, but when the control means operates in the user mode, it may be possible to prevent the initialization process of the storage medium held in the media storage unit from being performed. For example, the information stored in the storage medium may be divided into information that can be viewed only by the administrator and information that can be viewed by general users. When the control means operates in the administrator mode, it may be possible to read out information that can be viewed only by the administrator, but when the control means operates in the user mode, it may be possible to prevent the information that can be viewed only by the administrator from being read out.

[0102] It is preferable that information for driver training is stored in the storage medium that stores the key information. It is preferable that the control means reads out the information for driver training and outputs it to the output means. As the output means, for example, a display means for displaying an image or a sound generating means for outputting sound can be used. By noticing the information output to the output means, the driver is motivated to drive safely. It is preferable that the manager stores driver training information for each driver in a storage medium based on the driving habits of the driver and passes it to the driver.

[0103] For example, a driver who has a habit of ignoring stop signs may be given a storage medium that stores information encouraging the driver to stop. When the control means detects a stop sign by performing image analysis on the image captured by the imaging device, the control means may cause the output means to output information encouraging the driver to stop. For example, a voice message such as "Stop at places with stop signs" may be output as information encouraging the driver to stop. For example, a driver who frequently makes sudden steering operations may be given a storage medium that stores information encouraging the driver not to make sudden steering operations.

[0104] The manager can learn the driving habits of each driver by watching the video recorded at all times while the vehicle is running. In addition, the manager can identify the location where dangerous driving was performed in the past by associating the video recorded in the storage medium with the location information. The manager may store the location information together with the information for driver training. When the control means detects that the vehicle is approaching a location where dangerous driving was performed in the past, the control means may output information that warns the driver not to drive dangerously from the output means. When the control means detects the occurrence of dangerous driving of the same type as the dangerous driving stored as the information for driver training, the control means may output information that warns the driver not to drive dangerously from the output means. Furthermore, when an event that predicts the occurrence of dangerous driving occurs, the control means may output information that warns the driver not to drive dangerously from the output means. For example, when a traffic light is detected in the video captured by the imaging device, the control means may output information that warns the driver not to ignore the traffic light from the output means. For example, when a pedestrian is detected in an image captured by the imaging device, information calling attention to the pedestrian may be output from the output means.

[0105] (18) The notification means may be a system having a function of notifying a user which of the at least two medium storage units should hold the storage medium on which the key information is stored.

[0106] This makes it difficult for the storage medium storing the key information to be erroneously inserted into the medium storage unit. For example, as a notification means for notifying the user of the role of the storage medium, a sign indicating the key information may be provided on the surface of the housing near the medium storage unit where the storage medium storing the key information should be inserted. Furthermore, when the control means detects that the storage medium storing the key information has been inserted into the wrong medium storage unit, the control means may cause the notification means to output information urging the user to insert the storage medium into the correct medium storage unit.

[0107] (19) The control means may be a system having a function of recording, on storage media held in different media storage units, the image captured by the imaging device from the time the vehicle power is turned on to the time it is turned off and a portion of the image including the time when a specified event occurs; or a function of recording, on storage media held in different media storage units, the image captured by the imaging device from the time the vehicle power is turned on to the time it is turned off and the image captured by the imaging device during the period when the vehicle power is off.

[0108] Compared with the case where the above-mentioned two videos are recorded on one storage medium, the overall recording capacity is increased. This increases the time during which the video captured by the imaging device can be recorded from the time the vehicle's power is turned on to the time it is turned off (called continuous recording), or the time during which the video captured by the imaging device can be recorded while the vehicle's power is off (called parking surveillance recording). When continuous recording or parking surveillance recording is performed, if the storage medium runs out of free space and a process is performed to overwrite old video with new video, the number of overwrites can be reduced. This increases the life of the storage medium.

[0109] A storage medium with an appropriate recording capacity may be prepared according to the volume of video to be recorded. For example, a storage medium for recording a portion of video including the time point at which an event occurred (called event recording) does not require as much capacity as a storage medium for continuous recording or parking surveillance recording. For this reason, a storage medium with a large capacity may be prepared for continuous recording or parking surveillance recording, and a storage medium for event recording may be prepared with a smaller capacity than the storage medium for continuous recording or parking surveillance recording. This can reduce the cost required for storage media.

[0110] The storage medium held in one of the media housing units serves to record video continuously, and the storage medium held in the other media housing unit serves to record video for parking surveillance or events. For example, the notification means may notify the user of information (e.g., a location) that identifies the media housing unit that holds the storage medium that records video continuously, parking surveillance, or events.

[0111] The user can remove only the storage medium on which the video he or she wants to view is recorded from the media storage unit and play it on an external device. For example, if the user wants to view video of an event, he or she can simply remove only the storage medium for recording the event from the media storage unit.

[0112] "Images captured by an imaging device while the vehicle is powered off" includes, for example, images captured while the vehicle is parked. Images captured over the entire period during which the vehicle is parked may be recorded, and it is particularly preferable to record a portion of the images including the point in time when a specific event occurs while the vehicle is parked. Events may include, for example, the occurrence of movement within the captured images, the occurrence of vibrations of the vehicle, the occurrence of loud noises, the opening of a vehicle window, the opening of a vehicle door, etc. By recording a portion of the images including the point in time when an event occurs in a storage medium for parking surveillance recording, it is possible to reduce the amount of storage medium capacity consumed.

[0113] (20) The control means may be a system having a function of recording images captured by an imaging device mounted on a vehicle onto a storage medium held in one of the media storage units, and recording information related to the vehicle's driving obtained from the vehicle onto a storage medium held in the other media storage unit.

[0114] The administrator shall associate the images stored in the storage media with information about the vehicle's driving at the time of the images. By linking the two, the driving at the time of acquiring the image can be evaluated. The storage medium held in one of the media storage units plays a role of recording the image captured by the imaging device mounted on the vehicle, and the storage medium held in the other media storage unit plays a role of recording the information related to the traveling of the vehicle acquired from the vehicle. The notification means may, for example, notify the user of information (e.g., location) that identifies the media storage unit that holds the storage medium that records the image, and information (e.g., location) that identifies the media storage unit that holds the storage medium that records the information related to the traveling of the vehicle.

[0115] The information related to the running of the vehicle may include, for example, position information, speed information, acceleration information, information indicating the operation status of the vehicle, etc. This information may be acquired, for example, via the OBD connector of the vehicle. The operation status of the vehicle may include, for example, operation status such as whether or not the brake is applied, whether or not the turn signal is turned on, etc.

[0116] (21) An event condition, which is a condition for determining that a predetermined event has occurred, is stored in a storage medium held in at least one of the medium storage units; The control means may read event conditions from a storage medium held in one of the media storage units, record an image captured by an imaging device in a storage medium held in the other media storage unit, and, upon detecting the occurrence of an event that satisfies the read event conditions, record a marker indicating the occurrence of the event in association with the image.

[0117] The user can quickly find the video he or she wants to confirm or verify by referring to the markers recorded on the storage medium in which the video is recorded. This allows useful video to be extracted from a huge amount of video and the video to be used effectively. The user can easily add or delete event conditions because they only need to store the event conditions they want to confirm or verify on the storage medium.

[0118] The storage medium held in one media storage unit serves to store the event conditions, and the storage medium held in the other media storage unit serves to record the video and store the time when an event that satisfies the event conditions occurs. The notification means may notify the user of information (e.g., a location) that identifies the media storage unit that holds the storage medium that stores the event conditions, and information (e.g., a location) that identifies the media storage unit that holds the storage medium on which the video is recorded.

[0119] The event conditions may include conditions for detecting the occurrence of events that may occur due to, for example, driver fatigue or inattention. For example, the event conditions may include deviation from the driving lane, abnormal approach to the vehicle in front, the vehicle remaining stopped for a certain period of time despite the vehicle in front starting, lateral shaking, slipping, etc. The occurrence of these events can be detected by equipping the vehicle with an advanced driver assistance system (ADAS). By showing the driver a video of the event occurrence, the administrator can make the driver aware of the risk and lead to safe driving.

[0120] The event condition may include, for example, a condition that a specific person or specific vehicle is present in the captured image. Images of the specific person or vehicle to be detected may be stored in a storage medium, and the control means may detect the specific person or vehicle using image recognition technology. When the control means detects a specific person or vehicle, it may transmit location information of the detection location, the image at the time of detection, etc. to a data center (for example, a police server, etc.). The information transmitted to the data center may provide useful clues for finding wanted people or vehicles.

[0121] Event conditions may include, for example, detection of a vehicle exhibiting suspicious or dangerous behavior (a dangerous vehicle). Examples of suspicious or dangerous behavior include swerving, ignoring traffic signals, and speeding. It is advisable to include such information. When the control means detects a reckless vehicle, it is advisable to transmit the location information of the detection location, the video at the time of detection, etc. to a data center (e.g., a police server, etc.). By sharing the existence of reckless vehicles among drivers of multiple vehicles, it becomes possible to prevent accidents caused by reckless vehicles from occurring. Drivers of reckless vehicles can be instructed not to drive recklessly.

[0122] The event conditions may include detection of a person in a specific posture, detection of a pedestrian of a specific age, detection of a bicycle, detection of a specific traffic sign, etc. It is possible to easily confirm or verify how the driver drove when these events occurred. For example, a person with a specific posture may include a person with their hand raised, a person with a selfie stick, etc. When a person with their hand raised is detected, it is possible to verify, for example, whether the driver stopped temporarily using the video. When a person with a selfie stick is detected, it is possible to verify whether the driver slowed down. It is possible to include children or elderly people as pedestrians of a specific age. When a child or elderly person is detected as a pedestrian, it is possible to verify, for example, whether the driver slowed down. When various traffic signs are detected, it is possible to verify, for example, whether the driver complies with traffic rules.

[0123] (22) The control means may be a system having a function of recording video in a general-purpose file format on a storage medium held in one of the media storage units, and recording video in a unique format on a storage medium held in the other media storage unit.

[0124] A storage medium on which video is recorded in a general-purpose file format can be removed from the media storage unit and played on a general playback device, such as a general-purpose media player for a personal computer. A storage medium on which video is recorded in a unique format can be removed from the media storage unit and played using dedicated application software.

[0125] The storage medium held in one medium storage unit serves to record video in a general-purpose file format, and the storage medium held in the other medium storage unit serves to record video in a unique file format. The notification means may notify the user of, for example, information (e.g., a location) that identifies the medium storage unit that holds the storage medium that records video in a general-purpose file format, and information (e.g., a location) that identifies the medium storage unit that holds the storage medium that records video in a unique file format.

[0126] As a general-purpose file format, for example, the avi file format may be adopted, and as a video compression technology, MPEG2, Motion JPEG, H.264, H.265, etc. may be applied.

[0127] (23) The control means may have a function of initializing the storage media held in the media holding units, and when a user performs an operation to initialize a storage medium held in one of the media holding units, the control means may notify the user through the notification means of information identifying the media holding unit to be initialized as specified by the user and that the system is waiting for confirmation of the execution of the initialization, and may have a function of executing the initialization process after receiving a confirmed response from the user.

[0128] This makes it possible to prevent an unexpected initialization of a storage medium due to an operational error by a user, and as a result, makes it possible to prevent the erasure of images that are not intended to be erased.

[0129] As information for identifying the medium storage unit to be initialized, which is specified by the user, the control means may cause the display means to display information for identifying the medium storage unit in the form of text or an image.

[0130] (24) The control means may record images that complement each other and identification information that associates the two storage media in the storage media held in the two media storage units, and when a storage medium with the identification information recorded therein is held in only one of the media storage units, the system may have a function of notifying a user through the notification means that there is another storage medium that complements each other.

[0131] When a user loads or removes a storage medium from a medium storage unit, the user is less likely to forget to load or remove one of the two storage media that complement each other. This makes it possible to avoid the occurrence of a situation in which the two storage media that complement each other are scattered and useful images cannot be obtained.

[0132] The storage media held in the two media housing sections serve to record images that are complementary to each other. For example, the storage media held in the two media housing sections may serve to store identification information that identifies the complementary storage medium.

[0133] As an example of a mutually complementary relationship, a video of a certain time period may be recorded on one storage medium, and a video of the remaining time period may be recorded on the other storage medium, and the two may complement each other to form a video spanning the entire period. It is particularly preferable to divide the video into small pieces on the time axis and record the small pieces alternately on two storage media.

[0134] An example of a mutually complementary relationship is when one storage medium is initialized in a general-purpose format and the other is initialized in a proprietary format, and the images recorded on both are the same. Images can be played back by inserting a storage medium in a format supported by a device to be played back. For example, the FAT format can be used as the general-purpose format. For example, a format called the YP format can be used as the proprietary format.

[0135] (25) The control means may have a function of copying video recorded on a storage medium held in one of the media storage units to a storage medium held in the other unit, and may further have a function of scheduling the start of the copy process by user operation.

[0136] It takes a long time to copy video that has been recorded over a long period of time to another storage medium. By reserving the start of the copy process, the copy process can be performed during the user's free time when the system is not in use.

[0137] The storage medium held in one media storage unit serves to record the source video, and the storage medium held in the other media storage unit serves as a destination to which the video will be copied. The notification means may, for example, notify the user of information (e.g., location) that identifies the media storage unit that holds the source storage medium, and information (e.g., location) that identifies the media storage unit that holds the destination storage medium.

[0138] It is preferable that the user be able to specify the video to be copied. It is preferable that event-recorded video can be selected as the video to be copied, and continuous-recorded video cannot be selected. In general, continuous-recorded video has a significantly larger capacity than event-recorded video, and therefore requires a long time to copy. By making it impossible to select continuous-recorded video as the video to be copied, it is possible to avoid the occurrence of a situation in which copying takes an unexpectedly long time.

[0139] (26) The recording medium storing device further includes a housing that stores the medium storage unit and the control means, and an insertion port through which a storage medium passes when the storage medium is held in the medium storage unit is provided in the housing for each of the medium storage units, The two medium storage units are configured to hold storage media of different sizes, and the sizes of the insertion openings are different from each other in accordance with the difference in the sizes of the storage media to be held; The notification means may be a system that notifies a user of the role of the storage medium held in the medium housing section by using a configuration in which the insertion slot has a different size.

[0140] By looking at the size of the insertion slot, the user can become aware of the role of the storage medium to be inserted into the media housing through that insertion slot. For example, the user may realize that the storage medium inserted through the larger insertion slot is less likely to be lost when carried around, and as a result realize that the storage medium inserted through that insertion slot is for carrying around. Conversely, the user may realize that the storage medium inserted through the smaller insertion slot is, in principle, intended to be used while always inserted into the media housing.

[0141] (27) The recording medium storing device further includes a housing that stores the medium storage unit and the control means, and an insertion port through which a storage medium passes when the storage medium is held in the medium storage unit is provided in the housing for each of the medium storage units, one of the insertion openings has a configuration that makes it more difficult for a storage medium to pass through than the other of the insertion openings; The notification means may be a system that notifies a user of the role of the storage medium held in the medium housing section based on differences in the configuration of the insertion slot.

[0142] By sensing that it is difficult to pass the insertion slot when a storage medium is to be inserted, the user can become aware of the role of the storage medium held in the media storage unit. For example, when it is difficult to pass the insertion slot, the user realizes that the storage medium inserted into the media storage unit through the insertion slot is not intended to be carried around, but is intended to be used in principle while inserted. Conversely, when it is easy to pass the insertion slot, the user realizes that the storage medium inserted into the media storage unit through the insertion slot is intended to be carried around.

[0143] For example, an insertion port through which it is difficult to pass a storage medium may be provided with an openable / closable cover, while an insertion port through which it is easy to pass a storage medium may be provided so as to be always open.

[0144] (28) The recording medium storing device further includes a housing for storing the medium storage unit and the control means, one of the medium storage units is disposed at a position where it is more difficult to load a storage medium therein than the other of the medium storage units when the housing is mounted on a vehicle; The notification means may be a system that notifies a user of the role of the storage medium held in the medium container based on differences in the position of the medium container.

[0145] When a storage medium is inserted, the user can sense whether it is difficult or easy to insert the storage medium due to the difference in the position of the media storage section, and thereby become aware of the role of the storage medium inserted in that media storage section. For example, when it is difficult to insert a storage medium, the user realizes that the storage medium inserted in that media storage section is not intended to be carried around, but is in principle intended to be used while inserted. Conversely, when it is easy to insert a storage medium, the user realizes that the storage medium inserted in that media storage section is intended to be carried around.

[0146] An example of a position where it is easy to attach a storage medium is an area on the surface of the housing where, when the housing is mounted in a vehicle, there is an open space adjacent to the surface that is equivalent in size to the wrist of an average adult male. The size equivalent to the wrist of an average adult male may be, for example, a sphere with a diameter of 10 cm. An example of a position where it is difficult to attach a storage medium is, for example, For example, there are areas where such free space is not secured.

[0147] For example, the position where it is difficult to attach the storage medium may be a surface of the housing facing the front, the top, or a direction between the front and the top of the vehicle. The position where it is easy to attach the storage medium may be a surface of the housing facing the left / right direction or the direction toward the interior of the vehicle. The surface facing the bracket for mounting the housing to the vehicle may be a position where it is difficult to attach the storage medium.

[0148] The control means may record the video captured by the imaging device while the vehicle is parked in a storage medium held in a storage medium storage unit located in a position where it is difficult to attach the storage medium, which makes it difficult for the driver to accidentally remove the storage medium from the storage medium storage unit while parking the vehicle, making it impossible to record the video during the parking period.

[0149] (29) The control means should have a function of detecting that an error has occurred in each of the storage media held in the two media storage units, and when it detects that an error has occurred in a storage medium held in one of the media storage units and detects that the storage medium in which the error occurred has been removed from the media storage unit, it should cause the output means to output a message urging the user to remove the other storage medium and submit it to a maintenance technician.

[0150] By inspecting not only storage media where an error has occurred but also storage media where no error has occurred, it becomes easier to isolate the cause of the error. Errors include, for example, storage media failure, writing failure, and exceeding a preset number of overwrites.

[0151] (30) The storage medium held in the medium container has a mechanical write-protect switch that prohibits writing operations, the medium storage unit has a function of operating a write-protect switch of the storage medium held therein to set the storage medium in a write-protected state; The control means may be a system having a function of controlling the medium container to set a write-protect switch of the storage medium to a write-protect state when the control means detects the occurrence of a predetermined event.

[0152] By setting the storage medium to a write-protected state, it is possible to prevent the video image at the time of the event from being overwritten. It is preferable to use a mechanical switch as the write-protect switch, and the medium container unit to have a function for driving the mechanical switch. The function for driving the mechanical switch can be realized by, for example, a solenoid actuator.

[0153] (31) When a promotional video is recorded on the storage medium held in one of the media storage units, The control means may be a system having a function of recording images captured by an imaging device displayed at a dealership, instead of the imaging device mounted on the vehicle, onto a storage medium held in the other media storage unit, stopping the recording after a predetermined time has elapsed, and displaying the recorded images on the display means.

[0154] By displaying promotional images on the display means, retailers can increase consumers' willingness to purchase. Furthermore, the functions of the system can be easily communicated to consumers. Consumers can check the images captured at the retailer through the display means. This allows consumers to experience the functions and performance of the system.

[0155] The storage medium held in one of the media storage units serves to record promotional videos, and the storage medium held in the other media storage unit serves to record videos captured by an imaging device displayed in a retail store. It is advisable to inform the user of information (e.g., location) identifying the media storage unit that holds the media, and information (e.g., location) identifying the media storage unit that holds the storage medium that records images captured by the imaging device displayed at the store.

[0156] It is advisable to add a video to the end of the promotional video to inform the consumer that filming is about to begin. The consumer can see this video, know that filming is about to begin, and begin to point the imaging device at the object he or she wishes to film. The control means can end filming after a certain period of time and automatically play back the video to display it on the display means. When the playback of the filmed video ends, playback of the promotional video can be resumed.

[0157] (32) The notification means may be a system having a function of informing a user of the relationship between information stored in the storage media held in the two medium storage units.

[0158] The user can know the relationship between the information stored in the storage media held in the two medium housing units, which increases convenience for the user.

[0159] Next, the mutual relationship between the information stored in the two storage media will be illustrated. First, the case where the information stored in the two storage media is both video will be illustrated.

[0160] The relationship between the images should be such that the two images make sense as a pair, and one image alone is meaningless or cannot achieve the intended purpose of use. When the information stored in the two storage media has this relationship, the notification means should inform the user that the information cannot be used with only one storage medium. The user is encouraged to carry the two storage media as a set, which makes it less likely that the user will forget to carry one storage medium and be unable to use the images.

[0161] The relationship between the images may be such that the object and time of imaging are the same, and that either image is useful on its own. Examples of such relationships include a relationship in which the recording formats of the two storage media are completely the same, a relationship in which the format formats of the two storage media are different, a relationship in which the frame rate, resolution, and other setting conditions of the images recorded on the two storage media are different, a relationship in which one records all images acquired during an imaging period, and the other records only images before and after a specific event occurs, and a relationship in which both records images before and after an event occurs but the types of events are different. When the information stored in the two storage media has this relationship, the notification means may inform the user that the images can be used on their own and of the differences between the two images. The user can determine which storage medium's image is preferable to watch depending on the purpose of use.

[0162] The relationship between the images may be such that the imaged object is the same but the imaged time is different, and therefore the purpose of use of the images is different. For example, an example of such a relationship is an image captured by an imaging device mounted on a vehicle traveling along a specified route, but the image capture date and time are different. When the information stored in the two storage media has this relationship, the notification means may notify the driver of the vehicle of the time when the image was captured. The driver of the vehicle is able to check images recorded in the past when traveling along a specified route, and is therefore less likely to make mistakes in the route.

[0163] The relationship between the images may be such that the images are images of different objects captured at the same time by different image capture devices. Examples of such relationships include the relationship between an image of the front of a vehicle and an image of the interior of the vehicle, the relationship between an image of the front of a vehicle and an image of the rear of the vehicle, and the relationship between an image of the front of a work vehicle and an image of a work target location. Information stored in two storage media When the relationship is satisfied, the notification means may inform the user that the two videos were shot at the same time. The user can recognize that it is meaningful to play the two videos with their time synchronized.

[0164] The mutual relationship between the images may be a relationship in which the images are captured in different environments using the same imaging device. Examples of such a relationship include an image captured by mounting an imaging device on a vehicle and an image captured by taking the imaging device out of the vehicle and attaching it to outdoor sports equipment. When the information stored in the two storage media has this relationship, the notification means may inform the user that the two images were captured in different environments. The user can know that the two storage media contain different images captured in different environments. Furthermore, it is particularly preferable for the notification means to inform the user of which storage medium the images captured in which environment are recorded. The user can know which storage medium the images captured in which environment are recorded.

[0165] The relationship between the images may be such that the images are captured using the same imaging device, but the image recorded in one storage medium is a composite image in which an additional image is superimposed on the captured image. The additional image may be, for example, a warning image issued when a vehicle approaches a radar device. When the images recorded in the two storage media have this relationship, the notification means may inform the user that the image recorded in one storage medium is a composite image in which an additional image is superimposed.

[0166] The relationship between the images may be such that, although the two images are used together to achieve a common purpose, one is a pre-prepared image and the other is an image recorded on the spot. For example, one of the images may be a promotional image explaining the functions and performance of the system, and the other is an image captured on the spot. When the information stored in the two storage media has this relationship, the notification means may inform the user that one storage medium is an image prepared in advance and the other storage medium is to be recorded. When the image in one storage medium is prepared in advance, the user can know that the other storage medium should be used for recording. By watching the promotional image, the consumer can learn about the outline and performance of the system, and by watching the image recorded on the spot, the consumer can experience the operation and performance of the system.

[0167] The relationship between the images may be such that one image is captured by an imaging device, and the other image is a template image for extracting a specific image from the image captured by the imaging device. The notification means may inform the user that the image recorded in one storage medium is a template image for image recognition, and the other is a storage medium for image recording. The user can extract various images by adding or modifying the template image.

[0168] Next, a case will be illustrated in which the information stored in one of the two storage media is video and the information stored in the other is data other than video.

[0169] The relationship between the information may be such that one piece of information is an image captured by an imaging device, and the other piece of information is information (key information) indicating authority to access the storage medium. The notification means may inform the user that the information stored in one of the storage media is information indicating the access authority. The user can know that a storage medium that is a key for granting a predetermined access authority is required to access the image.

[0170] The relationship between the information may be such that one piece of information is an image captured by an imaging device mounted on a vehicle, and the other piece of information is log data that records vehicle information in chronological order. The notification means may inform the user that one of the images is an image captured by an imaging device mounted on the vehicle, and the other is log data. The user can know that useful information regarding the running of the vehicle can be obtained by combining the images and log data recorded in the two storage media. Effect of the Invention

[0171] A user can remove the storage medium storing the video captured by the imaging device mounted on the vehicle from the media storage unit and use it in another device. Furthermore, the user can recognize the role of the storage medium that is or will be held in the media storage unit by receiving a notification from the notification means. A user who recognizes the role of the storage medium can handle the storage medium appropriately according to its role when attaching or detaching the storage medium to or from the media storage unit or after removing the storage medium from the media storage unit. This increases convenience for the user. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0172] [Figure 1] FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a system according to a first embodiment, seen obliquely from the rear, and FIG. 1B is a diagram showing the system, a windshield, a dashboard, etc., in a state in which the system is mounted on a vehicle. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a system according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 3] 3A and 3B are timing charts showing the timing at which images captured by the camera are recorded onto the SD cards held in the SD card readers, and the timing at which the images are transmitted to an external device via the communication circuit. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of an image displayed on the display of the system according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 5]FIG. 5A is a block diagram of a portion of the controller of the system according to the second embodiment, and FIG. 5B is a timing chart showing the timing of transferring video to the SD card. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a flowchart of a process executed by the controller of the system according to the third embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7A is a diagram showing an example of an image displayed on a display of the system according to the third embodiment, and FIG. 7B is a diagram showing an example of a video recorded on one of the SD cards. [Figure 8] 8A and 8B are conceptual diagrams of video frames recorded on two SD cards by a system according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of an image displayed on a display of the system according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a flowchart of the process executed by the controller of the system according to the fifth embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a flowchart of the process executed by the controller of the system according to the sixth embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 12A is a diagram showing an example of an image displayed by the controller on the display when an SD card inserted in one SD card reader is in an operating state, and FIG. 12B is a diagram showing an example of an image displayed by the controller on the display 11 when an SD card inserted in the other SD card reader is in an operating state. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an image displayed on the display 11 by the controller of the system according to the seventh embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of an image displayed on the display 11 by the controller of the system according to the eighth embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of an image that the system according to the modification of the eighth embodiment displays on the display when the system prompts the user to select a video source to be copied. [Figure 16]FIG. 16A is a functional block diagram of a portion of a system according to a ninth embodiment, and FIG. 16B is a diagram showing an example of an image that the controller displays on a display when an SDIO card having a wireless communication function is attached to one of the SD card readers. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of an image displayed on a display by a controller of the system according to the tenth embodiment to inform a user of a recording destination. [Figure 18] FIG. 18A shows an image on a display in a system according to the 11th embodiment, showing the correspondence between events and the SD card on which they are recorded, and FIG. 18B shows an example of an image displayed on a display by a controller of a system according to a modified example of the 11th embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 19A is a diagram showing an example of an image displayed on a display of a system according to the twelfth embodiment, and FIG. 19B is a diagram showing a sequence of frames of a video recorded on one of the SD cards. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a diagram showing an example of an image displayed on a display of a system according to the thirteenth embodiment. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a diagram showing an example of a setting window when setting recording conditions on an SD card using a personal computer in the thirteenth embodiment. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 is a diagram showing an example of a menu screen displayed on a display of a system according to a modified example of the thirteenth embodiment. [Figure 23] FIG. 23A is a block diagram showing some functions of a system according to a fourteenth embodiment, and FIG. 23B is a diagram showing an image on a display showing the correspondence between two cameras and two SD card readers. [Figure 24] 24A and 24b are schematic diagrams of a system according to a modification of the fourteenth embodiment. [Diagram 25] FIG. 25 is a diagram showing an example of an image displayed on a display of a system according to the fifteenth embodiment. [Figure 26]FIG. 26 is a flowchart of the operation of the system according to the sixteenth embodiment. [Figure 27] FIG. 27 is a diagram showing an example of an image displayed on a display of a system according to the sixteenth embodiment. [Figure 28] FIG. 28 is a mode transition diagram between operation modes of the system according to the seventeenth embodiment. [Figure 29] FIG. 29 is a diagram showing an example of an image displayed on a display of the system according to the seventeenth embodiment. [Diagram 30] FIG. 30 is a diagram showing an example of an image displayed on a display of a system according to the eighteenth embodiment. [Diagram 31] FIG. 31 is a diagram showing an example of an image displayed on a display of a system according to the nineteenth embodiment. [Diagram 32] FIG. 32 is a diagram showing an example of an image displayed on a display of a system according to the twentieth embodiment. [Diagram 33] FIG. 33 is a perspective view of a system according to the twenty-first embodiment and a plan view of an SD card inserted in the system. [Diagram 34] FIG. 34A is a perspective view of a system according to the twenty-second embodiment, and FIG. 34B is a perspective view of a system according to a modification of the twenty-second embodiment. [Diagram 35] FIG. 35 is a perspective view of a system according to the twenty-third embodiment. [Diagram 36] FIG. 36 is a diagram showing an example of an image displayed on a display of a system according to the twenty-fourth embodiment. [Figure 37] FIG. 37 is a block diagram showing a partial function of a system according to the twenty-fifth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0173] The embodiment of the present invention will be specifically described with reference to the following examples.

[0174] [First Example] A drive recorder will be described as a first embodiment of a system for recording video with reference to FIGS. 1A to 4. FIG.

[0175] Fig. 1A is a perspective view of a system 1 according to a first embodiment, seen from diagonally behind. An SD card insertion slot 10a and an SD card insertion slot 10b are provided on one side of the housing of the system 1. A display 11 and a number of operation buttons 12 are provided on the rear of the housing. A joint rail 13 is provided on the top surface of the housing. Although not shown in Fig. 1A, a camera lens is provided on the front of the housing. A DC jack is provided on the side not shown in Fig. 1A, and a speaker and an HD output terminal are provided on the bottom surface.

[0176] The camera including a lens captures, for example, an image in front of the vehicle. The DC jack is a jack for connecting to a DC power source via a power cable. The SD card insertion slots 10a and 10b are insertion slots for inserting an SD card. The speaker outputs sound and audio. The HD output terminal is a terminal for connecting to other information devices via a cable. The joint rail 13 is for attaching a joint for mounting the system 1 on the vehicle. The display 11 displays various images. The operation button 12 is for inputting various commands to the system 1 by the user operating it.

[0177] FIG. 1B is a diagram showing the system 1, windshield 3, dashboard, etc., when the system 1 is installed in a vehicle. The system 1 is disposed on the upper part of the windshield 3 of the vehicle, in a position on the passenger side adjacent to the rearview mirror 4 near the center in the left-right direction. The system 1 is attached and fixed to the windshield 3 with a mounting member such as double-sided tape. The DC jack of the system 1 is connected to a cigarette lighter socket 5 via a power cable 6. When the accessory power of the vehicle is turned on, power is supplied to the system 1 from the cigarette lighter socket 5.

[0178] 2 is a block diagram of the system 1 according to the first embodiment. The system 1 includes a controller 20, a camera 17, a database 21, a GPS receiver 16, SD card readers 14a and 14b, an acceleration sensor 18, a speaker 15, a display 11, an operation button 12, and a communication circuit 19. Strictly speaking, the SD card readers 14a and 14b should be called "SD card reader / writers", but in this specification they are simply called "SD card readers".

[0179] The speaker 15 and the display 11 function as notification means for informing the user of various information. The speaker 15 issues warnings and various information by sound or voice under the control of the controller 20. The display 11 displays various information as images under the control of the controller 20. The operation button 12 functions as input means for the user to give various commands to the system 1.

[0180] Camera 17 functions as an imaging device that captures video within the angle of view (within the field of view). Camera 17 captures the video as video data and inputs it to controller 20. Based on the video data input from camera 17, controller 20 records the video on an SD card held in at least one of SD card readers 14a and 14b.

[0181] The database 21 is stored, for example, in a non-volatile memory (for example, an EEPROM) externally attached to the controller 20. The database 21 includes, for example, map data.

[0182] The GPS receiver 16 detects the position information of the vehicle at the current time based on an instruction from the controller 20. The position information includes the time, the speed, longitude, latitude, and altitude of the vehicle, etc., which are obtained based on signals from GPS satellites. The controller 20 records the history of this position information. The process is performed.

[0183] The SD card readers 14a and 14b function as medium storage units that hold the SD cards 22a and 22b, respectively. The SD cards 22a and 22b function as removable storage media. A user can insert the SD cards 22a and 22b into the SD card readers 14a and 14b, respectively, through the SD card insertion slots 10a and 10b (FIG. 1A). The SD card readers 14a and 14b read data from the SD cards 22a and 22b held in the SD card readers 14a and 14b, respectively, based on the control of the controller 20, or store data in the SD cards 22a and 22b.

[0184] A three-axis type sensor that detects acceleration and tilt in each of three axes (x-axis, y-axis, z-axis) is used as the acceleration sensor 18. Measurement values ​​by the acceleration sensor 18 are constantly input to the controller 20. The controller 20 acquires three-axis acceleration information, for example, every 10 ms.

[0185] The controller 20 has a known CPU 20a, memories such as a ROM 20b and a RAM 20c, a timer 20d, other peripheral circuits, etc. Various programs are stored in the ROM 20b of the controller 20. The controller 20 realizes various functions by executing these programs. The various programs include an operating system (OS), a GPS information processing program, an image processing program, a communication processing program, etc.

[0186] The controller 20 executes a GPS information processing program to store GPS information received by the GPS receiver 16 in the SD cards 22a and 22b held in the SD card readers 14a and 14b, respectively. The controller 20 executes an image processing program to record images captured by the camera 17 in a predetermined recording area of ​​the SD card in association with a time. The controller 20 functions as a control means having a function of accessing the SD cards 22a and 22b held in the SD card readers 14a and 14b, respectively, and having a function of recording images captured by the camera 17 in the SD card held in at least one of the SD card readers 14a and 14b.

[0187] The display 11 functions as a notification means for informing the user of the roles played by the SD cards 22a and 22b accessed by the controller 20.

[0188] The communication circuit 19 functions as a communication means for wirelessly communicating with an external device, such as a server, a personal computer, a smartphone, or a tablet terminal. The controller 20 has a function of transmitting data such as video to an external device via the communication circuit 19 by executing a communication processing program. As the communication circuit 19, a communication circuit conforming to a short-range wireless communication standard such as the WiFi standard or Bluetooth (registered trademark), or a mobile communication system standard such as LTE or 4G, may be used. The short-range wireless communication standard can be applied to communication between a work vehicle (such as a forklift) operating within a premises and an external device, for example. The mobile communication system standard can be applied to communication between a vehicle moving within a wider area and an external device, for example.

[0189] 3A and 3B are timing charts showing the timing of recording the images captured by the camera 17 onto the SD cards 22a and 22b held in the SD card readers 14a and 14b, respectively, and the timing of transmitting the images to an external device via the communication circuit 19.

[0190] 3A shows a timing chart of a period when the communication line is in a communication enabled state. The controller 20 stores the image captured by one camera 17 in the SD card 22a and 3A, the controller 20 records the images captured during periods T1, T3, T5, T7, etc. on one SD card 22a, and records the images captured during periods T2, T4, T6, T8, etc. on the other SD card 22b. Furthermore, the controller 20 transmits the images to an external device in real time via the communication circuit 19.

[0191] Fig. 3B shows a timing chart when the communication line via the communication circuit 19 is temporarily interrupted. Fig. 3B shows an example in which the communication line becomes unavailable at time t1 at the start of period T4, the communication line is restored at time t2 in the middle of period T5, the communication line becomes unavailable at time t3 in the middle of period T6, and the communication line is restored at time t4 in the middle of period T7.

[0192] Even during a period when the communication line is interrupted, the controller 20 alternately records the images on the SD cards 22a and 22b. During a period when the communication line is interrupted, the controller 20 does not transmit the images via the communication circuit 19. For example, the controller 20 records images A and B captured during a period from t1 to t2 on the SD card 22b and records image C on the SD card 22a, but does not transmit them to an external device. During a period from t3 to t4, the controller 20 records image D on the SD card 22b and records image E on the SD card 22a, but does not transmit them to an external device.

[0193] The controller 20 reads out the video A recorded on the SD card 22b, which has not been transmitted in real time via the communication circuit 19, during the period T5 during which the video is recorded on the other SD card 22a, and transmits it to an external device via the communication circuit 19. The controller 20 reads out the video B that could not be read and transmitted during the period T5, and the video D recorded during the period T6, from the SD card 22b during the period T7 and transmits it to an external device via the communication circuit 19. The controller 20 reads out the video C that could not be transmitted during the period T5 from the SD card 22a during the next period T6 and transmits it to an external device via the communication circuit 19. Similarly, the controller 20 reads out the video E that could not be transmitted during the period T7 from the SD card 22a during the next period T8 and transmits it to an external device via the communication circuit 19. During the periods T5 to T8, the controller 20 simultaneously transmits the real time video and reads and transmits the video recorded on the SD card 22a or 22b.

[0194] In this way, the controller 20 alternates between a state in which it writes video to one SD card 22a and reads video from the other SD card 22b (periods T1, T3, T5, T7, etc.) and a state in which it reads video from one SD card 22a and writes video to the other SD card 22b (periods T2, T4, T6, T8, etc.).

[0195] The controller 20 displays on the display 11 an image informing the user of the roles of the two SD cards 22a and 22b described above.

[0196] 4 shows an example of an image displayed on the display 11. The screen of the display 11 is divided into a mode display area 31 located at the top, a time display area 32 located at the bottom, and an image display area 30 sandwiched between them. The controller 20 displays images captured by the camera 17 in the image display area 30 in real time. The mode display area 31 displays icons indicating various modes. The time display area 32 displays the current time in numbers.

[0197] An icon 55 is displayed in the mode display area 31, which indicates that the video captured by the camera 17 will be recorded on one of the SD cards 22a and 22b. The switch shown in the icon 55 is switched to the icon representing the SD card that is currently recording the video. When the SD card to record the video is switched, the switch in the icon 55 is also switched.

[0198] [Effects of the first embodiment] Next, the excellent effects of the first embodiment will be described. The user can remove the SD cards 22a and 22b, in which the images captured by the camera 17 mounted on the vehicle are stored, from the SD card readers 14a and 14b and use them in another device. Furthermore, the user can recognize the roles of the SD cards 22a and 22b that are held or will be held in the SD card readers 14a and 14b by looking at the icon 55. The user who recognizes the roles of the SD cards 22a and 22b can handle the SD cards 22a and 22b appropriately according to their roles when inserting and removing the SD cards 22a and 22b into and from the SD card readers 14a and 14b, or after removing the SD cards 22a and 22b from the SD card readers 14a and 14b. This increases the convenience for the user.

[0199] In the first embodiment, the video recorded on the SD cards 22a and 22b can be transmitted to an external device by wireless communication. Therefore, the video can be played on the external device without removing the SD cards 22a and 22b from the system 1. In this specification, video data may be simply referred to as video.

[0200] Generally, when data is written to an SD card and data is read out at the same time, the data transfer speed slows down. For example, if an attempt is made to read and transmit the unsent video C recorded on the SD card 22a shown in FIG. 3B during the period T5 during which the video is recorded on the SD card 22a, the data transfer speed to the SD card 22a slows down. If the writing speed is slower than the speed required for recording the video, the video cannot be properly recorded. In the first embodiment, while the video is being recorded on the SD card 22a (period T5), the video C recorded on the SD card 22a is not read out, and during the period T6 during which the video is being recorded on another SD card 22b, the video C that could not be transmitted is read out and transmitted, so that the decrease in the writing and reading speeds can be suppressed.

[0201] Note that the writing of video to one SD card 22a and the reading of video from the other SD card 22b can be performed in parallel by a DMA controller.

[0202] Even if the video cannot be transmitted in real time due to a communication error or the like, the video can be read out from the SD cards 22a and 22b and transmitted later. The SD cards 22a and 22b not only serve to record the video, but also serve as storage means for storing the video to be transmitted via the communication circuit 19 until the transmission is completed.

[0203] In the case where the images recorded on the SD cards 22a and 22b are left in the buffer memory in the controller 20 until the transmission via the communication circuit 19 is completed, the images can be read from the buffer memory and transmitted without reading the images from the SD cards 22a and 22b. However, when this method is adopted, it is necessary to leave all images captured during the period when the communication line is unavailable in the buffer memory, so a large-capacity buffer memory must be secured. In the first embodiment, the images can be deleted from the buffer memory at the time when the images are recorded on the SD cards 22a and 22b, so that the increase in the capacity of the buffer memory can be suppressed. Furthermore, since the buffer memory is volatile, the images in the buffer memory are erased when the power supply is stopped. In the first embodiment, since the images are recorded on the non-volatile SD cards 22a and 22b, the images that have not been transmitted are not erased even when the power supply is stopped.

[0204] The capacity of the video recorded in one time unit is sufficiently larger than the capacity of the DMA transfer block. The time unit for switching between the SD cards 22a and 22b for recording the video may be, for example, in the range of several minutes to several tens of minutes.

[0205] [Modification of the first embodiment] Next, a modified example of the first embodiment will be described. In the first embodiment, the image captured by the camera 17 is a moving image. When recording the moving image on the SD cards 22a and 22b, it is advisable to use an image compression technique. For example, the moving image may be composed of an I frame (key frame) and a P frame. When transmitting via the communication circuit 19, an I frame and a number of subsequent P frames may be regarded as an indivisible minimum unit, and each minimum unit or a number of minimum units may be transmitted together as one transfer unit.

[0206] For example, during the period T5 shown in Fig. 3B, the CPU 20a performs both processes of writing video to the SD card 22a and reading video from the SD card 22b. This increases the burden on the CPU 20a. If the processing capacity of the CPU 20a is insufficient, the video may be read from the SD cards 22a and 22b and transmitted after the real-time transmission is completed.

[0207] 3B, since it is necessary to transmit both the video to be transmitted in real time and the video A read from the SD card 22b, a high data transfer rate is required for the communication line. If the data transfer rate of the communication line is not sufficient, it is advisable to increase the compression rate of the video to be transmitted to reduce the amount of data transfer.

[0208] [Second Example] Next, a system according to a second embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 5A and 5B. Below, a description of the configuration common to the first embodiment will be omitted.

[0209] 5A is a block diagram of a portion of the controller 20 of the system 1 according to the second embodiment. The controller 20 includes a DMA controller 20e and a buffer memory 20g corresponding to one SD card reader 14a, and a DMA controller 20f and a buffer memory 20h corresponding to the other SD card reader 14b. The buffer memories 20g and 20h temporarily store the video to be recorded on the SD cards 22a and 22b, respectively.

[0210] The CPU 20a has a function of writing video to be recorded on the SD card 22a to the buffer memory 20g, and then giving a command to the DMA controller 20e to transfer the video in the buffer memory 20g to the SD card 22a. Similarly, the CPU 20a has a function of writing video to be recorded on the other SD card 22b to the buffer memory 20h, and then giving a command to the DMA controller 20f to transfer the video in the buffer memory 20h to the SD card 22b.

[0211] 5B is a timing chart showing the timing of transferring images to the SD cards 22a and 22b. The controller 20 acquires images A to E in chronological order from the camera 17. Each of the images A to E is a unit of data transfer by DMA.

[0212] After writing video A to buffer memory 20g, CPU 20a issues a command to DMA controller 20e (time t1) to start transferring video A to SD card 22a. In parallel, CPU 20a writes video B to buffer memory 20h. Before the transfer of video A is completed (time t3), CPU 20a issues a command to DMA controller 20f (time t2) to start transferring video B to SD card 22b. Thereafter, before the transfer of video B is completed, transfer of video C is started.

[0213] In the second embodiment, the two SD cards 22a and 22b record short images that are obtained by dividing a continuous image into small pieces on the time axis, and the two SD cards 22a and 22b work together to form a single continuous image.

[0214] [Effects of the second embodiment] Next, the excellent effect of the second embodiment will be described. For example, when the process of transferring the video in one buffer memory 20g to the SD card 22a is completed (t3 in FIG. 5B), even if there is still untransferred video in the other buffer memory 20h, a new video can be buffered in the buffer memory 20g to which the video transfer has been completed. In this way, by distributing and writing one video to two SD cards 22a and 22b, the apparent transfer speed can be increased. This makes it possible to record high frame rate and high resolution video that cannot be written in time at the writing speed of one SD card. For example, ultra-high quality 8K video cannot be recorded in real time on a normal SD card because the writing speed of the SD card becomes a bottleneck. In the system according to the second embodiment, the bottleneck of the writing speed of the SD card can be eliminated.

[0215] [Modification of the second embodiment] Even when recording video in a distributed manner across two SD cards 22a and 22b, if the bottleneck in the writing speed cannot be eliminated, it is advisable to use three or more SD cards.

[0216] In the second embodiment, buffer memories 20g and 20h are prepared for each SD card reader 14a and 14b, but the memory space within one buffer memory may be divided into an area for one SD card reader 14a and an area for the other SD card reader 14b.

[0217] [Third Example] Next, a system according to a third embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 6. Below, a description of configurations common to the configurations of the above-mentioned embodiments will be omitted.

[0218] 6 is a flowchart of a process executed by the controller 20 of the system 1 according to the third embodiment. When the vehicle power is turned on to start up the system, the controller 20 (FIG. 2) records an image captured by the camera 17 (FIG. 2) in the SD card 22a held in one of the SD card readers 14a (step SA1).

[0219] Next, the controller 20 judges whether the current vehicle position satisfies the warning issuance condition (step SA2). For example, the controller 20 judges that the warning issuance condition is satisfied when the distance from the current vehicle position to the radar speed camera is equal to or less than a judgment threshold. For example, 500 m, 1 km, etc. may be adopted as the judgment threshold.

[0220] When the controller 20 determines that the warning issuance conditions are met, it generates a composite image by combining an image representing warning information with the video captured by the camera 17 (step SA3). Examples of warning information include information indicating the distance to a radar speed camera, and information issued to the driver to encourage the driver to slow down, to alert the driver. The image representing the warning information is generated by the controller 20. The controller 20 displays this composite image on the display 11 (step SA4). Thereafter, the composite image is recorded on the SD card 22b held in the SD card reader 14b (step SA5).

[0221] Fig. 7A shows an example of an image displayed on the display 11. The controller 20 displays a composite image in the image display area 30. An image 34 indicating warning information is composited with an image 33 captured by the camera 17. In the example shown in Fig. 7A, the image indicating the warning information includes text information indicating that the distance from the vehicle to the radar speed camera has become 500 m.

[0222] If it is determined in step SA2 that the alarm issuing conditions are not met, the image 33 captured by the camera 17 is displayed on the display 11 (step SA6). The image captured in step 7 is recorded on the SD card 22b held in the SD card reader 14b (step SA7).

[0223] 7B shows an example of video 33 recorded on SD card 22b. This video 33 is not subjected to any image synthesis processing on the video captured by camera 17. Although no image synthesis processing has been performed on video 33 recorded on SD card 22b, it is preferable to perform a video compression processing.

[0224] After step SA5 or SA7, the controller 20 judges whether or not to end the process (step SA8). For example, if the power supply of the vehicle is turned off, it is judged that the process is to be ended. If the process is not to be ended, the process from step SA1 to step SA8 is repeated.

[0225] [Effects of the third embodiment] Next, the excellent effects of the third embodiment will be described. When a user checks the video recorded during the driving of a vehicle after the driving, the user can use the composite image for various purposes, and the unprocessed video can be left as it is in the other storage medium. When playing back the video, the composite image can be compared with the unprocessed video. The person in charge of the vehicle can check how the driver drove when the alarm was issued. The unprocessed video allows the user to grasp the situation around the vehicle in detail when the alarm was issued. Furthermore, the unprocessed video can be presumed to have not been tampered with, and is therefore considered to have a higher evidentiary value than the composite image.

[0226] [Modification of the third embodiment] The image to be superimposed on the image captured by camera 17 may be an image showing warning information or another computer-generated image. The computer-generated image may be an image displayed by a car navigation system, for example a map of the surroundings of the vehicle's current position when the warning is issued. The computer-generated image may be made semi-transparent and superimposed on the image captured by camera 17. By making the computer-generated image semi-transparent, the image captured by camera 17 can be confirmed even in the overlapping portion without playing the raw image.

[0227] It is preferable to superimpose the warning information on the video and record it as an image, and to generate a sound notifying the driver of the warning and record the sound information. For example, it is preferable to output a sound saying, "500 m to H system. Please keep your speed at 60 km or less," and record this sound information on the SD card 22b. For example, the SD card 22a that stores the raw video may record the sound picked up by a microphone inside the vehicle, and the SD card 22b that records the composite image may record only the sound of the warning.

[0228] [Fourth Example] Next, a system 1 according to a fourth embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 8A, 8B, and 9. Below, a description of the configuration common to the configurations of the above-mentioned embodiments will be omitted.

[0229] 8A and 8B are conceptual diagrams of video frames recorded on SD cards 22a and 22b, respectively. Controller 20 (FIG. 2) has a function of recording video captured by camera 17 (FIG. 2) on SD cards 22a and 22b at different frame rates (number of frames per unit time). For example, video is recorded on one SD card 22a at a frame rate of 30 fps, and video is recorded on the other SD card 22b at a frame rate of 5 fps.

[0230] FIG. 9 shows an example of an image displayed on the display 11. The controller 20 (FIG. 2) displays, in the mode display area 31 of the display 11, an icon 37 indicating the frame rate, along with indicating that the video captured by the camera 17 is recorded on the SD cards 22a and 22b. The icon 37 displays the frame rates in two rows, one above the other, as numerical values. The numerical value of the frame rate displayed in the upper row indicates the frame rate of the video recorded on the SD card 22b inserted and removed through the upper SD card insertion slot 10b (FIG. 1A), and the numerical value of the frame rate displayed in the lower row indicates the frame rate of the video recorded on the SD card 22a inserted and removed through the lower SD card insertion slot 10a (FIG. 1A). The display 11 functions as a notification means for informing the user that the SD cards 22a and 22b are responsible for recording video at frame rates of 30 fps and 5 fps, respectively.

[0231] [Effects of the fourth embodiment] Next, the advantageous effects of the fourth embodiment will be described. The SD card 22b, which is recorded under a recording condition with a low frame rate, can be used for long-term recording, and the SD card 22a, which is recorded under a recording condition with a high frame rate, can be used for more detailed analysis of the recorded video. By looking at the icon 37 displayed on the display 11, the user can easily determine which of the SD card readers 14a and 14b the video should be viewed on depending on the purpose of using the video.

[0232] The SD card 22b for long-time recording is rewritten less frequently than the SD card 22a for detailed analysis, and therefore has a longer lifespan. For example, even if the SD card 22a for detailed analysis exceeds its lifespan and no video is recorded, the SD card 22b for long-time recording still has video. In addition, the probability that the two SD cards 22a and 22b will reach the end of their lifespan at the same time is low. Therefore, even if one of the SD cards 22a and 22b reaches the end of its lifespan, video will be normally recorded on the other, and it is unlikely that a situation will occur in which no video remains on either of the SD cards 22a and 22b.

[0233] [Modification of the fourth embodiment] In the fourth embodiment, the frame rates of the images recorded on the SD cards 22a and 22b are made different, but recording conditions other than the frame rates, for example the resolution, may also be made different. Furthermore, both the frame rate and the resolution may be made different. It is advisable to make the resolution of the images recorded on the SD card 22b for long-term recording lower than the resolution of the images recorded on the SD card 22a for detailed analysis. By setting the resolution in this way, the recordable time on the SD card 22b can be made longer. When the resolutions of the images recorded on the SD cards 22a and 22b are made different, the controller 20 is advised to display text information indicating the resolution on the display 11.

[0234] [Fifth Example] Next, a system according to a fifth embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 10. Below, a description of configurations common to the above-mentioned embodiments will be omitted.

[0235] The controller 20 (FIG. 2) of the system 1 according to the fifth embodiment has a function of recording images captured by the camera 17 in both SD cards 22a and 22b held in the SD card readers 14a and 14b, respectively, in real time under the same recording conditions. When the controller 20 records the same images in both SD cards 22a and 22b, it writes identification information (pairing information) that links the two SD cards 22a and 22b to each other. The two SD cards 22a and 22b record the same images and serve to back up each other's data.

[0236] The controller 20 informs the user that the two SD cards 22a and 22b have the same video recorded thereon and serve to back up the video from one another. For example, the controller 20 displays on the display 11, in the form of an image or text, information indicating that the two SD cards 22a and 22b have the same video recorded thereon and serve to back up the video from one another.

[0237] 10 is a flowchart of the process executed by the controller 20. When the vehicle power supply is turned on to start up the system 1, the controller 20 determines whether or not the SD cards 22a and 22b are attached to both the SD card readers 14a and 14b (step SB01).

[0238] When an SD card is attached to only one of the SD card readers 14a and 14b, the controller 20 prompts the user to select whether to record video on only one SD card or to record video on two SD cards (step SB02). For example, the controller 20 displays a message on the display 11 prompting the user to select whether to record video on only one SD card or to record video on two SD cards. The user can select whether to record video on only one SD card or to record video on two SD cards by operating the operation buttons 12 (FIGS. 1A and 2) or the like. Note that after removing the SD card that was attached to one of the SD card readers 14a and 14b, the SD card may be attached to the other of the SD card readers 14a and 14b.

[0239] If the user selects to record video onto two SD cards, the controller 20 displays a message on the display 11 prompting the user to insert the other SD card into an empty SD card reader, and waits until the SD card is inserted (step SB03).

[0240] When the controller 20 detects that an SD card has been attached to an empty SD card reader, it judges whether there is a mismatch between the SD cards 22a and 22b attached to the two SD card readers 14a and 14b (step SB04). For example, the controller 20 reads the identification information written in the two SD cards 22a and 22b and judges whether they are in a paired relationship. If they are in a paired relationship, it judges whether the videos recorded on the two SD cards 22a and 22b are the same. For example, it is possible to judge whether the videos are the same by comparing the capacity and recording date and time of the videos recorded on the two SD cards 22a and 22b.

[0241] If the two SD cards 22a and 22b have a paired relationship and the images on both cards are the same, the controller 20 determines that there is no inconsistency between the two SD cards 22a and 22b. In other cases, it determines that there is an inconsistency.

[0242] If it is determined that there is a mismatch between the two SD cards 22a and 22b, the controller 20 prompts the user to select which of the SD cards 22a and 22b the video is to be saved from (step SB05). For example, the controller 20 displays on the display 11 a message prompting the user to select which of the SD card readers 14a and 14b the video is to be saved from. The user can operate the operation button 12 or the like to select which of the SD card readers 14a and 14b the SD card in which the video is to be saved is inserted.

[0243] If the user selects the SD card reader 14a, the controller 20 erases the video on the SD card 22b attached to the unselected SD card reader 14b, and copies the video on the SD card 22a to the SD card 22b (step SB06). If the identification information of the SD card 22a and the identification information of the SD card 22b are different, the identification information of the SD card 22b is made to match the identification information of the SD card 22a.

[0244] If the user selects the SD card reader 14b, the controller 20 erases the video on the SD card 22a attached to the unselected SD card reader 14a, and copies the video on the SD card 22b to the SD card 22a (step SB07). If the identification information of the SD card 22a and the SD card 22b differ, the identification information of the SD card 22a is made to match the identification information of the SD card 22b.

[0245] When the process of step SB06 or step SB07 ends, the process of recording the video captured by the camera 17 onto the two SD cards 22a and 22b starts (step SB08).

[0246] If it is determined in step SB04 that there is no inconsistency between the two SD cards 22a and 22b, the controller 20 starts a process of recording to the two SD cards 22a and 22b (step SB08).

[0247] If it is determined in step SB01 that two SD cards are inserted, the controller 20 executes the process of step SB04 without executing the processes of steps SB02 and SB03.

[0248] If the user selects in step SB02 to record video onto only one SD card, the controller 20 prompts the user to select whether or not to erase the video recorded onto the SD card inserted into one of the SD card readers 14a and 14b (step SB10). For example, the controller 20 displays a message on the display 11 inquiring whether or not to erase the video. The user can select whether or not to erase the video by operating the operation button 12 or the like.

[0249] If the user selects to erase the video, the controller 20 erases the video from the attached SD card (step SB11). After erasing the video, the controller 20 starts a process of recording the video captured by the camera 17 onto one SD card (step SB12). If the user selects not to erase the video, the controller 20 starts a process of recording the video captured by the camera 17 onto one SD card without erasing the video (step SB12).

[0250] [Effects of the Fifth Example] Next, the excellent effects of the fifth embodiment will be described. When video is recorded in real time on two SD cards 22a and 22b in step SB08, even if a write error occurs on one of the SD cards 22a and 22b, the video can be recorded normally on the other SD card. This makes it possible to avoid a situation in which no video is left at all. By removing only one of the SD cards from the SD card readers 14a and 14b, the video can be played back on another device such as a personal computer.

[0251] Furthermore, even if an image in a certain sector of one of the SD cards 22a and 22b cannot be read, that image can be reproduced by reading the contents of a sector in which the same image is recorded on the other card.

[0252] The user can see that the two SD cards 22a and 22b are a pair by looking at the display 11 on which information indicating the roles of the SD cards is displayed.

[0253] Furthermore, the user can see the information displayed on the display 11 in step SB02 and realize that there is another SD card that is paired with the one SD card currently inserted. This makes it possible to prevent the user from forgetting to insert the SD card. If the user cannot find the other SD card that is paired with the other SD card, the user can select to record to only one SD card in step SB02, thereby allowing the system 1 to record video.

[0254] Since the controller 20 has determined the consistency of the two SD cards 22a and 22b in step SB04, the consistency of the pair of the two SD cards 22a and 22b can be maintained.

[0255] [Sixth Example] Next, a system 1 according to a sixth embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 11, 12A, and 12B. Below, a description of configurations common to the configurations of the above-mentioned embodiments will be omitted. The system 1 according to the sixth embodiment has a function of recording video on one of two SD cards 22a and 22b, and if a verify error occurs when recording video on one of the SD cards, switching the SD card to which the video is to be recorded and recording the video on the other SD card.

[0256] FIG. 11 is a flowchart of the process executed by the controller 20 (FIG. 2) of the system 1 according to the sixth embodiment. When the vehicle power supply is turned on and the system 1 is started, the controller 20 activates one of the SD cards 22a and 22b attached to the SD card readers 14a and 14b (FIG. 2) and activates the other (step SC1). The controller 20 displays an image on the display 11 informing the user of the SD card reader in which the active SD card is attached (step SC2). After that, the controller 20 writes the video captured by the camera 17 (FIG. 2) to the active SD card (step SC3).

[0257] After writing the video, the controller 20 judges whether the operation of the system has ended (step SC4). For example, if the power supply of the vehicle is turned off, it is judged that the operation of the system 1 has ended. If the operation of the system 1 has not ended, the controller 20 judges whether a verify error has occurred when writing to the SD card (step SC5). For example, if an acknowledgment (ACK) signal is returned when writing video to the SD card, it may be judged that a verify error has not occurred, and if a negative acknowledgment (NAK) signal is returned, it may be judged that a verify error has occurred. The judgment of whether a verify error has occurred may be performed, for example, for each DMA transfer. If a verify error has not occurred, a new video is written to the SC card in the operating state (step SC3).

[0258] If a verify error occurs, the controller 20 puts the active SD card into a standby state, and puts the standby SD card into an active state (step SC6). After switching the states of the SD cards, the controller 20 displays on the display 11 an image informing the user of the SD card reader in which the active SD card is inserted (step SC7), and writes the video that could not be written normally due to the verify error to the newly active SD card (step SC8). After that, the new video is written to the active SD card (step SC3).

[0259] 12A shows an example of an image displayed on the display 11 by the controller 20 when the SD card 22a attached to one SD card reader 14a is in an active state. FIG. 12B shows an example of an image displayed on the display 11 by the controller 20 when the SD card 22b attached to the other SD card reader 14b is in an active state. 12A. The controller 20 (FIG. 2) displays an icon 38 in the mode display area 31, which indicates the SD card reader in which the SD card set to the active state is inserted. The icon 38 indicates the SD card set to the active state, and is a figure that can inform the user that two SD cards are paired to record one video. In FIG. 12A, the figure indicating the active SD card 22a is shown in white with a thick outline, and the figure indicating the standby SD card 22b is shown in gray. Furthermore, the two figures indicating the SD cards 22a and 22b are surrounded by a broken line. By surrounding the two figures indicating the SD cards 22a and 22b with a broken line, the user can recognize that the two SD cards 22a and 22b are paired.

[0260] [Effects of the sixth embodiment] Next, the excellent effect of the sixth embodiment will be described. When a verify error occurs during writing to one SD card, video that could not be written can be written to the other SD card. In this way, the SD cards 22a and 22b held in the two SD card readers 14a and 14b, respectively, complement each other and play a role in recording video, even if a verify error occurs in one SD card when recording video.

[0261] If the cause of the verify error is temporary, there is a possibility that the SD card on which the verify error occurred can be used to record video normally. Therefore, if a verify error occurs on the newly activated SD card after changing the active SD card, the original SD card is put back into the active state. This reduces the overall frequency of occurrences in which video cannot be recorded.

[0262] [Modification of the sixth embodiment] For example, the controller 20 may inform the user that one video is recorded on the SD cards 22a and 22b held in the two SD card readers 14a and 14b, respectively, in a mutually complementary manner, by displaying this on the display 11. The user will realize that the two SD cards 22a and 22b are necessary to play back videos that are continuous in time. When playing back videos on an external device, the user will be able to recognize that the two SD cards 22a and 22b need to be removed from the SD card readers 14a and 14b and attached to the external device.

[0263] When determining whether or not a verify error has occurred (step SC5), the video recorded on the SD card may be read to check the consistency of the data. Also, the written video may be read and a CRC check may be performed.

[0264] [Seventh Example] Next, a system 1 according to a seventh embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 13. Below, a description of the configuration common to the configurations of the above-mentioned embodiments will be omitted.

[0265] The controller 20 has a function of recording video in a general-purpose file format on an SD card held in one SD card reader, and recording video in a unique format on an SD card held in the other SD card reader. For example, the avi file format can be used as the general-purpose file format. As a video compression technology, MPEG2, Motion JPEG, H.264, H.265, etc. can be used. As a unique file format, for example, a format called YP format can be used.

[0266] The SD card held in one SD card reader is in a general-purpose file format. The SD card held in the SD card reader is responsible for recording video in a proprietary file format.

[0267] The controller 20 displays on the display 11 an image informing the user of an SD card reader that holds an SD card that records video in, for example, a general-purpose file format, and an SD card reader that holds an SD card that records video in a proprietary file format.

[0268] FIG. 13 shows an example of an image displayed by the controller 20 on the display 11. The controller 20 displays icons 39 in the mode display area 31 of the display 11, each of which indicates the format of the SD cards 22a and 22b held in the SD card readers 14a and 14b. For example, the word "avi" is displayed to the right of the icon indicating the SD card 22a, and the word "YP" is displayed to the right of the icon indicating the SD card 22b. Furthermore, the icon 39 is shaped to inform the user that the images recorded on the two SD cards 22a and 22b are the same. For example, one straight line extending from the icon indicating the camera 17 branches into two straight lines, and the branched straight lines each extend toward the two icons indicating the two SD cards 22a and 22b, with an arrow at the tip of each line.

[0269] [Effects of the Seventh Embodiment] Next, the advantageous effects of the seventh embodiment will be described. The SD card 22a on which video is recorded in a general-purpose file format can be removed from the SD card reader 14a and played on a general playback device, such as a general-purpose media player for a personal computer. The SD card 22b on which video is recorded in a unique format can be removed from the SD card reader 14b and played using dedicated application software.

[0270] The user can see the two arrows pointing to the two icons 39 representing the SD cards 22a and 22b and recognize that the video captured by the camera 17 will be recorded on both the SD cards 22a and 22b. Furthermore, the user can see the text displayed to the right of the icons 39 representing the SD cards 22a and 22b and recognize the format types of the two SD cards 22a and 22b.

[0271] The contents of the SD card 22b on which video is recorded in a unique format cannot be reproduced or rewritten on a general computer or the like, thereby improving the confidentiality and safety of the video.

[0272] [Eighth embodiment] Next, a system according to an eighth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 14. Hereinafter, a description of the configuration common to the above-mentioned embodiments will be omitted. In the above-mentioned embodiments, an SD card is used as a removable storage medium, but in the eighth embodiment, two types of storage media with different maximum write speed specifications are used. For example, an XQD card can be used as the storage medium with the faster maximum write speed, and an SD card can be used as the storage medium with the slower maximum write speed.

[0273] A medium housing section is provided for each of the two types of storage media. For example, one of the two medium housing sections can be an XQD card reader and the other an SD card reader. The maximum write speed of the interface standard supported by the XQD card reader is faster than the maximum write speed of the interface standard supported by the SD card reader.

[0274] The controller 20 writes the image captured by the camera 17 to the imager 100 having the fastest maximum writing speed. The video captured by the camera 17 is written in real time to an XQD card held in an XQD card reader that supports the SD card reader interface standard. The controller 20 has a function of copying the video written in real time to the XQD card to an SD card held in an SD card reader in response to a command from a user.

[0275] Furthermore, the controller 20 displays on the display 11 an image indicating that one medium housing unit is an XQD card reader and the other medium housing unit is an SD card reader.

[0276] 14 shows an example of an image displayed by the controller 20 on the display 11. The controller 20 displays an icon 40 indicating the interface standard of the medium storage unit in the mode display area 31. This icon 40 also has the function of informing the user of the roles played by the XQD card and the SD card held in the XQD card reader and the SD card reader. For example, the icon 40 indicates that video captured by the camera 17 is recorded in real time on the XQD card, and the video recorded on the XQD card is copied to the SD card.

[0277] [Effects of the eighth embodiment] Next, the excellent effects of the eighth embodiment will be described. Compared to recording video in real time to an SD card with a slow maximum write speed, it is possible to record video at a high frame rate and high resolution in real time to an XQD card. When copying video recorded on an XQD card to another SD card, the destination SD card does not require a high write speed. Generally, SD cards with slower write speeds are less expensive than XQD cards. This allows the same video to be copied to multiple low-priced SD cards for distribution.

[0278] [Modification of the eighth embodiment] The storage medium with the faster maximum writing speed may be a removable medium other than an XQD card, and the storage medium with the slower maximum writing speed may be a removable medium other than an SD card.

[0279] The controller 20 may have a function for specifying a start time for copying video recorded on an XQD card and reserving the time for copying. The user may specify a time period during which the vehicle is not in use to copy the video.

[0280] It is preferable to record on the XQD card the images captured by the camera 17 during the period from when the vehicle power is turned on to when it is turned off (hereinafter referred to as continuous recording). It is also possible to record images before and after the point in time when it is detected that a specific event has occurred (hereinafter referred to as event recording). It is particularly preferable to perform both continuous recording and event recording.

[0281] The controller 20 may have a function of allowing the user to select the video to be copied from the video recorded as an event on the XQD card.

[0282] 15 shows an example of an image displayed on the display 11 when the user is prompted to select the video to be copied. The controller 20 displays the date and time of the event occurrence of the video recorded on the XQD card and a thumbnail image of the video at the time the event occurred in the video display area 30, and also displays a message prompting the user to select the video to be copied. The user can select the video to be copied by operating the operation button 12. The controller 20 copies the selected video from the XQD card to the SD card.

[0283] Copying all the images recorded continuously would require a lot of time. By allowing users to select and copy only the images they want, unnecessary copying time can be reduced. can be done.

[0284] [Ninth Example] Next, a system 1 according to a ninth embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 16A and 16B. Below, a description of the configuration common to the configurations of the above-mentioned embodiments will be omitted.

[0285] 16A is a functional block diagram of a part of the system 1 according to the ninth embodiment. At least one of the SD card readers 14a and 14b of the system 1 according to the ninth embodiment, for example, the SD card reader 14b, supports an interface standard with an SDIO card 22c having a wireless communication function. As the SDIO card 22c, for example, a card having a communication function of the WiFi standard, a card having a communication function of the mobile communication system standard, a card having a communication function of the TransferJet standard, etc. can be used.

[0286] The controller 20 has a function of causing the SDIO card 22c to transmit video captured by the camera 17 (FIG. 2) to an external device, and a function of reading video from the SD card 22a and transmitting the read video.

[0287] 16B shows an example of an image that the controller 20 displays on the display 11 when an SDIO card 22c having a wireless communication function is attached to the SD card reader 14b. The controller 20 displays icons 41a and 41b representing the SD cards 22a and SDIO cards 22c attached to the SD card readers 14a and 14b in the mode display area 31. The icon representing the SDIO card 22c having a wireless communication function includes an antenna figure to inform the user that the card has a wireless communication function.

[0288] [Effects of the ninth embodiment] Next, the excellent effects of the ninth embodiment will be described. The system 1 according to the ninth embodiment can wirelessly transmit the video captured by the camera 17 to an external device via the SDIO card 22c having a wireless communication function. This allows the user to play the video recorded on the SD card 22a on the external device without removing the SD card 22a from the SD card reader 14a.

[0289] By looking at the image displayed on the display 11, the user can know that the SDIO card 22c attached to one SD card reader 14b has a wireless communication function and serves to transmit video wirelessly, and that the SD card 22a attached to the other SD card reader 14a serves to record video.

[0290] [Modification of the ninth embodiment] The SDIO card 22c may have a function of recording video in addition to the wireless communication function. The video recorded in the SDIO card 22c can be transmitted to an external device by using the wireless communication function of the SDIO card 22c in response to a command from the controller 20. For example, the controller 20 may read the video from the SDIO card 22c and transmit the read video from the SDIO card 22c. It is particularly preferable that the controller 20 gives a transmission command to the SDIO card 22c, causing the SDIO card 22c to transmit the video autonomously.

[0291] It is more preferable that both of the two SD card readers 14a and 14b support an interface standard with an SDIO card having a wireless communication function. For example, while recording video on an SDIO card held in one SDIO card reader, video already recorded on an SDIO card held in the other SD card reader may be recorded on the SDIO card. This can be transmitted using the communication function of the SDIO card.

[0292] The SDIO card may be one that is compatible with the proximity wireless transfer technology standard, such as Transfer Jet. When an SDIO card compatible with the proximity wireless transfer technology standard is held in the SD card reader, the user can transfer the video to the parent unit by removing the system 1 (FIGS. 1A and 1B) from the vehicle and bringing it closer to the parent unit. The SD card reader that supports the interface standard with the SDIO card that is compatible with the proximity wireless transfer technology standard is preferably placed closer to the wall of the housing than the other SD card reader so as not to interfere with the proximity wireless transfer.

[0293] [Tenth Example] Next, a system 1 according to a tenth embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 17. Below, a description of the configuration common to the configurations of the above-mentioned embodiments will be omitted.

[0294] The controller 20 has the functions of recording video captured by the camera 17 from the time the vehicle power is turned on to the time it is turned off (hereinafter referred to as continuous recording), recording video of a specified period including the time when a specified event occurs from the continuously recorded video (hereinafter referred to as event recording), recording video captured by the camera 17 while the vehicle power is turned off (hereinafter referred to as parking surveillance recording), and recording log data in which information regarding the vehicle's driving is arranged in chronological order (hereinafter referred to as log data recording).

[0295] An example of the predetermined event is the detection of an impact of a magnitude equal to or greater than a threshold value by the acceleration sensor 18. The log data may include, for example, GPS information (vehicle position information), speed information, acceleration information, information indicating the vehicle operation status, the trajectory of the vehicle's movement, and the like. The vehicle operation status may include, for example, operation status such as whether or not the brake has been applied, whether or not a turn signal has been activated, and the like. This information may be acquired from various sensors, an OBD connector, and the like mounted on the vehicle.

[0296] The recording destination for continuous recording, event recording, parking monitoring recording, and log data recording is set to either the SD card 22a held in the SD card reader 14a or the SD card 22b held in the SD card reader 14b. The controller 20 has a function to inform the user of which SD card reader the recording destination is the SD card held in.

[0297] 17 shows an example of an image displayed on the display 11 by the controller 20 to inform the user of the recording destination. The user can cause the image shown in FIG.

[0298] The controller 20 graphically displays the outline of the system 1 and the SD card slots 10a and 10b in the video display area 30, and also displays a diagram showing the correspondence between the positions of the SD card slots 10a and 10b and the contents recorded on the SD cards 22a and 22b inserted in the SD card slots 10a and 10b. From the image shown in Fig. 17, the user can recognize that continuous recording is performed on the SD card 22a inserted in the lower SD card slot 10a, and that event recording, parking surveillance recording, and log data recording are performed on the SD card 22b inserted in the upper SD card slot 10b.

[0299] [Effects of the 10th embodiment] Next, the excellent effect of the tenth embodiment will be described. In the tenth embodiment, the overall recording capacity is increased compared to when all of the continuous recording, event recording, parking monitoring recording, and log data recording are recorded on one SD card. This allows continuous recording. The time that can be recorded or the time that can be recorded for parking surveillance is extended, the number of events that can be recorded increases, and the amount of log data that can be recorded increases. In the case of continuous recording or parking surveillance recording, if the process of overwriting old footage with new footage occurs when the free space on the SD card runs out, the number of overwrites can be reduced. This extends the life of the SD card.

[0300] Users simply need to prepare an SD card with an appropriate recording capacity depending on the amount of video to be recorded.

[0301] The user can remove only the SD card on which the video he or she wants to view is recorded from the SD card reader and play it on an external device. For example, if the user wants to view video of an event, he or she can remove only the SD card 22b for recording the event from the SD card reader 14b. By looking at the image displayed on the display 11 (FIG. 17), the user can easily know which SD card to remove.

[0302] When the system 1 is used for business purposes, for example, the operation manager may have the driver submit only the SD card 22b on which events are recorded. This has the effect of reducing the amount of video that the operation manager must check, compared to checking all of the video that is constantly recorded. Also, by having only the information necessary for the operation manager recorded on one SD card and less necessary information recorded on the other SD card, the number of SD cards to be submitted to the operation manager can be reduced. This makes operation management easier.

[0303] [Modification of the 10th embodiment] In the tenth embodiment, the controller 20 has the functions of continuous recording, event recording, parking monitoring recording, and log data recording, but it may have two functions, continuous recording and event recording, or two functions, parking monitoring recording and event recording. In this case, it is preferable to use different SD cards for continuous recording or parking monitoring recording and event recording. It is preferable to overwrite the SD card for continuous recording or parking monitoring recording and not overwrite the SD card for event recording.

[0304] For example, an SD card for event recording does not need to have as much capacity as an SD card for continuous recording or parking surveillance recording. Therefore, it is sufficient to prepare an SD card with a relatively large capacity for continuous recording or parking surveillance recording, and an SD card for event recording that has a smaller capacity than the SD card for continuous recording or parking surveillance recording. This can reduce the cost required for SD cards.

[0305] For parking surveillance recording, it is preferable to record the images captured over the entire period when the vehicle is parked with the power turned off, and it is particularly preferable to record a portion of the images including the time when a specific event occurs while the vehicle is parked. The events may include, for example, detection of the occurrence of movement in the captured images (motion detection), detection of the occurrence of vibration of the vehicle, detection of the occurrence of a loud sound, detection of the opening of a vehicle window, detection of the opening of a vehicle door, etc. By recording a portion of the images including the time when an event occurs in the storage medium for parking surveillance recording, it is possible to reduce the amount of capacity consumed on the SD card for parking surveillance recording.

[0306] One SD card may be used for continuous recording, while the other SD card may be used for log data recording. The operation manager can correlate the video stored in one SD card with the log data and evaluate the driving at the time the video was captured. By looking at the image (FIG. 17) displayed on the display 11, the driver can know, for example, the location of the SD card slot into which the SD card for recording video is inserted and the location of the SD card slot into which the SD card for recording log data is inserted.

[0307] In the tenth embodiment, the correspondence between the SD card and the continuous recording, event recording, parking monitoring recording, and log data recording is fixed, but it is preferable that the user can change this correspondence. For example, the user can change the correspondence by operating the operation button 12 while watching the image on the display 11 shown in FIG.

[0308] The system 1 may have three SD card readers for mounting an SD card for continuous recording, an SD card for event recording, and an SD card for parking surveillance recording. By separating the SD cards according to their uses, multiple SD cards can be submitted to the respective administrators who require them.

[0309] [Eleventh Example] Next, a system 1 according to an eleventh embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 18A. Below, a description of the configuration common to the configurations of the above-mentioned embodiments will be omitted.

[0310] The controller 20 of the system according to the eleventh embodiment has a function of recording images before and after the occurrence of a specific event (called a first type event) on one SD card, and recording images before and after the occurrence of a specific event different from the first type event (called a second type event) on the other SD card. Information defining the first type event and the second type event may be stored in advance in the controller 20, for example.

[0311] The controller 20 displays on the display 11 the correspondence between a specific event and an SD card that records the video when the event occurs.

[0312] Fig. 18A shows an image on the display 11 that displays the correspondence between events and SD cards on which they are to be recorded. The user can operate the operation button 12 to display the image shown in Fig. 18A.

[0313] The controller 20 graphically displays the outline of the system 1 and the SD card slots 10a and 10b in the video display area 30, and also displays a diagram showing the correspondence between the positions of the SD card slots 10a and 10b and events that trigger recording to the SD cards 22a and 22b inserted into the SD card slots 10a and 10b.

[0314] Sudden steering, sudden braking, sudden acceleration, etc. are mainly based on the driving ability and driving attitude of the driver himself. The occurrence of a collision may be caused by the driving of another vehicle, regardless of the driving ability and driving attitude of the driver. In this way, as in the example shown in FIG. 18A, it is preferable to use different SD cards 22a for recording video when an event occurs that is thought to be caused by something other than the driver, and SD cards 22b for recording video when an event occurs that is thought to be mainly caused by the driver.

[0315] [Effects of the 11th embodiment] Next, the excellent effect of the eleventh embodiment will be described. From the image shown in Fig. 18A, the user can know that the video of the collision is recorded in the SD card 22a inserted in the lower SD card insertion slot 10a, and the video of the sudden steering, sudden braking, and sudden acceleration is recorded in the SD card 22b inserted in the upper SD card insertion slot 10b.

[0316] The video of the event (e.g., sudden steering, sudden braking, sudden acceleration, etc.) that is considered to be caused by the driver's driving technique or driving attitude can be used for driver education. When the operation manager requests the driver to remove the SD card 22b on which the video of the sudden steering, sudden braking, and sudden acceleration occurred from the system 1 and submit it, the driver From the image displayed on the display 11, the user can easily determine from which SD card slot the SD card should be removed.

[0317] [Modification of the 11th embodiment] FIG. 18B shows an example of an image displayed on the display 11 by the controller 20 of the system according to a modification of the eleventh embodiment. In this modification, if an event occurs while the vehicle is following the legal speed limit, the controller 20 records the images before and after the event on one SD card 22a, and if an event occurs while the vehicle is exceeding the legal speed limit, the controller 20 records the images before and after the event on the other SD card 22b. The controller 20 displays on the display 11 the correspondence between the event that has occurred and the SD card on which the images should be recorded. The legal speed limit for the currently traveled route can be obtained from road signs, map data, etc.

[0318] The user can easily compare the video of when the vehicle is exceeding the legal speed limit with the video of when the vehicle is within the legal speed limit.

[0319] [Twelfth Example] Next, a system 1 according to a twelfth embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 19A and 19B. Below, a description of the configuration common to the configurations of the above-mentioned embodiments will be omitted.

[0320] In the twelfth embodiment, an event condition, which is a condition for determining that a specific event has occurred, is stored in an SD card held in one of the SD card readers. The controller 20 has a function of reading the event condition from the SD card, recording the video captured by the camera 17 in the SD card held in the other SD card reader, and, upon detecting the occurrence of an event that satisfies the read event condition, recording a marker indicating the occurrence of the event in association with the video.

[0321] The controller 20 displays on the display 11 an image for informing the user of the SD card reader into which the SD card storing the event conditions is to be inserted and the SD card reader into which the SD card for recording the video is to be inserted.

[0322] 19A shows an example of an image displayed on the display 11. An icon 42a indicating the SD card 22a in which the image captured by the camera 17 is recorded, and an icon 42b indicating the SD card 22b in which the event conditions are stored are displayed in the mode display area 31. For example, an arrow is displayed from the icon indicating the camera 17 to the icon indicating the SD card 22a, and an exclamation mark in a circle is superimposed on the middle of the arrow, and the icon 42b indicating the SD card 22b is displayed near the exclamation mark. The arrow from the icon indicating the camera 17 to the icon indicating the SD card 22a indicates that the image captured by the camera 17 is recorded on the SD card 22a. The exclamation mark shown on the arrow and the icon 42b indicating the SD card 22b indicate that the event conditions are stored in the SD card 22b.

[0323] 19B shows a sequence of video frames recorded on the SD card 22a. Among the multiple frames, a mark 43 indicating that an event has occurred is recorded corresponding to the frame captured when the event occurred. The mark 43 includes information identifying which event has occurred.

[0324] [Effects of the twelfth embodiment] Next, the excellent effect of the twelfth embodiment will be described. The user can find the image he / she wants to confirm or verify in a short time by referring to the mark 43 recorded on the SD card 22a in which the image is recorded. This makes it possible to extract useful images from a huge amount of images and to display the images. The user can easily add or delete event conditions because all that is required is for the user to store the event conditions that he or she wishes to check or verify in the SD card 22b.

[0325] The user can infer from the image displayed on the display 11 that the video captured by the camera 17 is recorded on the SD card 22a and the event conditions are stored on the SD card 22b. This allows the user to know the SD card reader 14b into which the SD card 22b storing the event conditions should be inserted, and the SD card reader 14a into which the SD card 22a for recording the video should be inserted.

[0326] The event conditions may include conditions for detecting the occurrence of events that may occur due to, for example, driver fatigue or inattention. For example, the event conditions may include deviation from the driving lane, abnormal approach to the vehicle in front, the vehicle remaining stopped for a certain period of time despite the vehicle in front starting, lateral shaking, slipping, etc. The occurrence of these events can be detected by equipping the vehicle with an advanced driver assistance system (ADAS). By showing the driver a video of the event occurrence, the operation manager can make the driver aware of the risk and lead to safe driving.

[0327] The event condition may include, for example, a condition that a specific person or a specific vehicle is present in the captured image. An image of a specific person or a specific vehicle number to be detected may be stored as a template image in the SD card 22b, and the controller 20 may detect the specific person or vehicle using image recognition technology. When the controller 20 detects a specific person or vehicle, it may transmit location information of the detection location, the image at the time of detection, etc. to a data center (for example, a police server, etc.). The information transmitted to the data center may provide a useful clue for finding a wanted person or vehicle.

[0328] The event condition may include, for example, the detection of a vehicle (a dangerous vehicle) behaving suspiciously or dangerously. The suspicious or dangerous behavior may include, for example, swerving, ignoring traffic signals, speeding, and the like. When the controller 20 detects a dangerous vehicle, it may transmit location information of the detection location, video at the time of detection, and the like to a data center (for example, a police server, etc.). By sharing the presence of a dangerous vehicle among drivers of multiple vehicles, it becomes possible to prevent accidents caused by dangerous vehicles. Drivers of dangerous vehicles can be instructed not to drive dangerously.

[0329] The event conditions may include detection of a person in a specific posture, detection of a pedestrian of a specific age, detection of a bicycle, detection of a specific traffic sign, etc. It is possible to easily confirm or verify how the driver drove when these events occurred. For example, a person in a specific posture may include a person with his / her hand raised, a person with a selfie stick, etc. When a person with his / her hand raised is detected, it is possible to verify, for example, whether the driver stopped temporarily using the video. When a person with a selfie stick is detected, it is possible to verify whether the driver slowed down. It is possible to include a child or an elderly person as a pedestrian of a specific age. When a child or an elderly person is detected as a pedestrian, it is possible to verify, for example, whether the driver slowed down. When various traffic signs are detected, it is possible to verify, for example, whether the driver complies with traffic rules.

[0330] [Thirteenth Example] Next, a system according to a thirteenth embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 20 to 22. Below, a description of configurations common to the configurations of the above-mentioned embodiments will be omitted.

[0331] In the thirteenth embodiment, the SD card 22a held in the SD card reader 14a is At least one of the recording conditions, frame rate and resolution, is stored in the SD card 22a. The controller 20 has a function of reading out the recording conditions stored in the SD card 22a and recording video based on the read-out recording conditions.

[0332] The controller 20 displays the recording conditions stored in the SD card 22a on the display 11, thereby informing the user of the recording conditions under which the video was recorded.

[0333] 20 shows an example of an image displayed on the display 11. An icon 53a representing the SD card 22a and an icon 53b representing the SD card 22b are displayed in the mode display area 31. For example, the text displayed to the right of the icon 53a indicates that a recording condition of "frame rate 30 fps" is stored in the SD card 22a. A downward triangle symbol displayed to the right of the icon 53b indicates that video will be recorded in the SD card 22b at the same frame rate as that of the SD card 22a.

[0334] The recording conditions stored in the SD card 22a can be set by an external device such as a personal computer.

[0335] Fig. 21 shows an example of a setting window when setting recording conditions on an SD card using a PC. Using a recording method selection box, the user can select one of three modes: a mode in which only continuous recording is performed, a mode in which both continuous recording and event recording are performed, or a mode in which only event recording is performed.

[0336] The image shown in FIG. 21 shows an example in which a sub-camera can be connected in addition to the camera (main camera) 17 built into the system 1, but in the 13th embodiment, an example in which a sub-camera is not connected will be described. The user can select the resolution of the main camera, the number of recorded frames (frame rate), and the number of event recording frames from the pull-down menu. Furthermore, the user can select the event recording time, whether or not to record audio, the history recording time, and the number of history recording frames from the pull-down menu. Furthermore, the user can select whether or not to overwrite when there is no free space in the recording areas for continuous recording, event recording, and history recording.

[0337] Furthermore, the user can select whether to perform event recording based on the measurement value of the acceleration sensor (G sensor) 18, or whether to perform event recording based on the measurement value of the gyro sensor. Furthermore, the user can set the magnitude of the measurement value that determines whether to perform event recording.

[0338] The settings window displayed on the computer screen shows a "Save to SD card" button. When the user selects (e.g. clicks or taps) the "Save to SD card" button with a pointing device, the recording conditions set in the settings window are stored on the SD card.

[0339] [Effects of the 13th embodiment] Next, the excellent effects of the thirteenth embodiment will be described. By storing the recording conditions in advance in the SD card 22a to be inserted into the SD card reader 14a, the user can record video on the SD cards 22a and 22b under the desired recording conditions. By looking at the icons 53a and 53b displayed on the display 11, the user can confirm the SD card reader 14a into which the SD card 22a storing the recording conditions should be inserted, and the current recording conditions.

[0340] [Modification of the 13th embodiment] In addition to the frame rate and resolution, the recording conditions may include, for example, a condition for determining whether an event has occurred when recording video before and after the event, a condition for whether audio is to be recorded, and the like, as shown in Fig. 21. The condition for determining whether an event has occurred may use, for example, a detection value of an acceleration sensor 18 mounted on the vehicle as a determination threshold. In addition to the detection value of the acceleration sensor 18, other types of events may be adopted as recording conditions.

[0341] In the thirteenth embodiment, the recording conditions are stored in the SD card 22a inserted into the SD card reader 14a, but the recording conditions may also be stored in the SD card 22b inserted into the other SD card reader 14b.

[0342] When recording conditions are stored in both SD cards 22a and 22b held in two SD card readers 14a and 14b, the controller 20 validates the recording conditions stored in the SD card held in one specific SD card reader, does not adopt the recording conditions stored in the SD card held in the other SD card reader, and records video on the two SD cards based on the valid recording conditions. A user need only insert an SD card that stores the recording conditions that the user actually wants to record into one specific SD card reader, and does not need to know the recording conditions stored in the other SD card.

[0343] The controller 20 may enable the recording conditions stored in the SD cards 22a and 22b held in the two SD card readers 14a and 14b, respectively, and record video for each SD card based on the recording conditions stored in that SD card. The user can determine the recording conditions for each SD card.

[0344] The controller 20 may not adopt the recording conditions stored in the SD card, but may record video on the SD card based on recording conditions that are set in advance in the controller 20. By setting recording conditions in advance in the controller 20, the user can record video based on the desired recording conditions without having to check the recording conditions stored in the SD card every time the SD card is inserted into the SD card reader.

[0345] The controller 20 may have a function to allow the user to select one of a mode for validating the recording conditions stored in an SD card held in one specific SD card reader, a mode for validating both recording conditions stored in the SD cards, and a mode for validating recording conditions that are preset in the controller 20. The user can select the most appropriate mode depending on the manner in which the system is used.

[0346] The controller 20 may cause the display 11 to display a plurality of modes for the user to select as a menu.

[0347] 22 shows an example of a menu screen displayed on the display 11. There are displayed a button 44a for designating a mode for validating the recording conditions stored in the SD card 22a held in the SD card reader 14a, a button 44b for designating a mode for validating the recording conditions stored in the SD card 22b held in the SD card reader 14b, a button 44c for designating a mode for validating the recording conditions stored in both SD cards, and a button 44d for designating a mode for validating the default recording conditions set in the controller 20.

[0348] The user only needs to select one mode from the menu. When an SD card with no recording conditions stored is held in the SD card reader, the mode that enables the recording conditions stored in the SD card held in the SD card reader is excluded from the menu. When no recording conditions are set in the controller 20, it is advisable to exclude from the menu a mode that enables the default recording conditions set in the controller 20. The user can see a list of selectable modes by looking at the menu screen displayed on the display 11.

[0349] Priority may be stored in each SD card along with the recording conditions, and the controller 20 may enable the recording condition with the higher priority. If the priorities are the same, it is preferable to determine which recording condition to enable based on the time when the priority was set. For example, it is preferable to enable the recording condition that was set more recently. Conversely, it is also possible to enable the recording condition that was set older. It is preferable to set in advance in the controller 20 whether to enable the recording condition that was set more recently or the older recording condition.

[0350] The SD card reader and the SD card slot into which the SD card storing the recording conditions to be enabled is inserted may be fixed. For example, the user may insert the SD card storing the recording conditions to be enabled into the SD card slot at a predetermined position.

[0351] Although an example in which the recording conditions are set by a personal computer has been described with reference to FIG. 21, the controller 20 of the system 1 may have a function for storing the recording conditions in an SD card.

[0352] [14th Example] Next, a system 1 according to a fourteenth embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 23A, 23B, 24A, and 24B. Below, a description of the configuration common to the configurations of the above-mentioned embodiments will be omitted.

[0353] 23A is a block diagram showing a part of the functions of the system 1 according to the 14th embodiment. In the 14th embodiment, images are transferred from two cameras 17a and 17b to the controller 20. For example, the two cameras 17a and 17b may be installed so as to capture images of the front and rear of the vehicle, or the front and interior of the vehicle, respectively.

[0354] The controller 20 has a function of recording the images captured by the two cameras 17a and 17b in the SD cards 22a and 22b held in the different SD card readers 14a and 14b, respectively. The controller 20 displays on the display 11 the correspondence between the two cameras 17a and 17b and the two SD card readers 14a and 14b as image or text information.

[0355] 23B shows an image on the display 11 showing the correspondence between the two cameras 17a and 17b and the two SD card readers 14a and 14b. In the mode display area 31, an icon 45a indicating that the camera 17a corresponds to the SD card reader 14a, and an icon 45b indicating that the camera 17b corresponds to the SD card reader 14b are displayed.

[0356] [Effects of the 14th embodiment] Next, the excellent effects of the fourteenth embodiment will be described. The system 1 according to the fourteenth embodiment can record images of a wide area that cannot be covered by one camera. For example, images of the front and rear of the vehicle, or images of the front and inside the vehicle, can be recorded. The user can easily see the image (FIG. 23B) displayed on the display 11 and know which camera has recorded the image on the SD card held in which SD card reader. The user can remove the SD card on which the image to be played back on an external device is recorded from the SD card reader and play the image.

[0357] [Modification of the 14th embodiment] The controller 20 may inform the user through the display 11 that the images recorded on the SD cards 22a and 22b held in the two SD card readers 14a and 14b, respectively, are images captured of different areas during the same period. The user notices through the display 11 that the two images captured during the same period are recorded on the two SD cards 22a and 22b, respectively. When checking the images on the two SD cards 22a and 22b, the playback device may synchronize the two images and simultaneously display the images of the same time on the display screen. The user can easily check the situation around the vehicle at the same time.

[0358] When the user removes only the SD card held in one SD card reader, the controller 20 may display a message on the display 11 urging the user to also remove the SD card held in the other SD card reader, since video captured during the same period is recorded in that SD card. This notification makes it less likely that the user will forget to remove the SD cards 22a and 22b from the SD card readers 14a and 14b.

[0359] For example, two cameras 17a and 17b may be mounted on a work vehicle, one of which captures the area in front of the vehicle and the other of which captures the work location. For example, the work vehicle equipped with cameras 17a and 17b may be a forklift, and the work location captured by one camera 17a may be the range of the fork's lifting and lowering motion. The user can check the driving status and work status of the work vehicle from the video after work.

[0360] For example, two cameras 17a and 17b may be mounted on a vehicle operating within the premises, one of which captures the view ahead of the vehicle, and the other of the driver. By viewing the images captured by the two cameras 17a and 17b, it is possible to verify whether the driver is following the driving rules within the premises. For example, it is possible to verify whether the driver pointed and cheered when turning right or left. If audio is added to the image, it is possible to verify whether the driver cheered, such as "good right, good left," at a specific location.

[0361] For example, different types of cameras may be used as the two cameras 17a and 17b. For example, a spherical camera may be used as one camera 17a, and a normal camera may be used as the other camera 17b. Based on the information notified through the display 11, the user can easily distinguish between an SD card on which an image captured by the spherical camera is stored and an SD card on which an image captured by a normal camera is stored.

[0362] As shown in Fig. 24A, it is preferable to house one camera 17a inside the housing of the system 1 and use the other camera 17b as an external camera. Since the user only needs to connect the single external camera 17b to the housing, the connection work can be simplified.

[0363] As shown in FIG. 24B, both cameras 17a and 17b may be external cameras. The user can select an external camera with suitable performance depending on the object to be captured and the purpose of the captured image. In addition, the placement positions of the cameras 17a and 17b are not affected by the position of the system housing, so the degree of freedom in placement of the cameras 17a and 17b is increased. It is preferable to make the shapes of the connection terminals 46a and 46b on the housing side of the system 1 for connecting the external cameras 17a and 17b different. This can prevent incorrect connection of the two different types of external cameras 17a and 17b.

[0364] You may prepare three or more SD card readers and the same number of cameras as the number of SD card readers. By preparing three or more SD card readers and cameras, you can simultaneously capture a wider range of images. It can capture images and record them on a compatible SD card.

[0365] [Fifteenth Example] Next, a system according to a fifteenth embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 25. Below, a description of the configuration common to the above-mentioned embodiments will be omitted.

[0366] The controller 20 records the current image captured by the camera 17 in the SD card 22a held in one SD card reader 14a. In the fifteenth embodiment, the other SD card reader 14b holds an SD card 22b in which images captured in the past by the camera 17 mounted on the vehicle are recorded together with the location information of the image. The controller 20 has a function of reading out an image corresponding to the current location information from the SD card 22b and displaying it on the display 11 while checking against the current vehicle location information based on the current location of the vehicle.

[0367] In this way, for example, the SD card 22a held in one SD card reader 14a has the role of recording images in real time, while the SD card 22b held in the other SD card reader 14b has the function of providing images of past runs. The controller 20 informs the user of the roles of the two SD cards 22a and 22b through the display 11.

[0368] 25 shows an example of an image displayed on the display 11. In the mode display area 31, an icon 47a indicating that the image captured by the camera 17 is to be recorded in the SD card 22a in real time, and an icon 47b indicating that the image recorded in the SD card 22b is to be displayed on the display 11 are displayed. Furthermore, in the image display area 30, a current image 48 captured by the camera 17 and an image 49 read from the SD card 22b are displayed. The displayed past image 49 is associated with position information corresponding to the current vehicle position.

[0369] [Effects of the 15th embodiment] Next, the excellent effect of the fifteenth embodiment will be described. The driver can drive while referring to the past image 49 displayed on the display 11. It is preferable that the image captured in the past is one captured while the vehicle is traveling along the recommended driving route. For a driver who is unfamiliar with the recommended driving route, the image 49 displayed on the display 11 provides useful information for traveling along the recommended driving route.

[0370] The driver can easily know in which SD card reader to insert the SD card 22b that records past images taken when the vehicle traveled the recommended driving route by looking at the icons 47a and 47b displayed in the mode display area 31. This makes it less likely that the SD card will be inserted into the wrong SD card reader.

[0371] [16th Example] Next, a system 1 according to a sixteenth embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 26 and Fig. 27. Below, a description of the configuration common to the configurations of the above-mentioned embodiments will be omitted.

[0372] In the sixteenth embodiment, the SD card 22b on which a storefront demo video for sales promotion is recorded is inserted into one SD card reader 14b, and the device is put on display at a retail store.

[0373] 26 is a flowchart of the operation of the system 1. When a user, for example, a sales clerk at a store, performs an operation to start the demonstration mode, the controller 20 A promotional demo video recorded on the D card 22b is displayed on the display 11 (step SD1). At the end of the promotional demo video, a video is added to inform the consumer that filming is about to begin. For example, it is good to play a video including a voice saying, "We are about to begin filming, so please point the camera in the direction you want to film."

[0374] When the playback of the promotional demo video is completed, the controller 20 records the video captured by the camera 17 on the other SD card 22a for a predetermined time that is preset in the controller 20 (step SD2). This predetermined time may be, for example, about 30 seconds. When the predetermined time has elapsed, the controller 20 stops recording the video and plays back the video recorded on the SD card 22a (step SD3). The played back video is shown on the display 11.

[0375] Thereafter, the controller 20 judges whether or not to end the sales promotion operation. For example, the controller 20 ends the operation when the supply of power to the system 1 is stopped. If the controller 20 does not end the operation, it repeats the operation from playing the sales promotion demo video (step SD1) again. In this way, the controller 20 switches between playing the demo video, recording the video of the in-store, and playing the video of the in-store in that order.

[0376] The controller 20 displays on the display 11, for example, information identifying the SD card reader 14b that holds the SD card 22b that records promotional footage, and information identifying the SD card reader 14a that holds the SD card 22a that records footage captured by a camera 17 displayed at the store.

[0377] 27 shows an example of an image displayed on the display 11. Icons 50 are displayed in the mode display area 31 to inform the user of the roles played by the SD cards 22a and 22b. The icons 50 indicate that video captured by the camera 17 is recorded on the SD card 22a and that the video recorded on the SD card 22a is displayed on the display 11, that demo video is recorded on the SD card 22b, and that the demo video is displayed on the display 11.

[0378] [Effects of the 16th embodiment] Next, the excellent effects of the sixteenth embodiment will be described. The dealer can increase the consumer's willingness to purchase by displaying a demo video for sales promotion on the display 11. Furthermore, the functions of the system can be easily conveyed to the consumer. The consumer can check the video captured at the dealer through the display 11. This allows the consumer to deeply understand the functions of the system and experience its performance.

[0379] The consumer knows that image capture will start by watching the demo video, and can start to aim the camera at the object he or she wants to capture. The controller 20 may end image capture after a certain period of time and automatically play back the video to display on the display 11. When playback of the captured video ends, playback of the promotional video may be resumed.

[0380] [17th Example] Next, a system 1 according to a seventeenth embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 28. Below, a description of the configuration common to the configurations of the above-mentioned embodiments will be omitted.

[0381] The system 1 according to the seventeenth embodiment has an internal power supply (battery) that supplies power to various components in the system 1 when the supply of power from an external source, for example, a vehicle, stops. The internal power supply is charged during the period when power is being supplied to the system 1 from the vehicle.

[0382] System 1 has the ability to operate in one of three operating modes: a mode in which it operates as a drive recorder when power is being supplied from the vehicle (drive recorder mode), a mode in which it operates as a parking monitoring recording device when the power supply from the vehicle is stopped while mounted in the vehicle (parking monitoring mode), and a mode in which it operates as an action camera when taken outside the vehicle (action camera mode).

[0383] Fig. 28 shows a mode transition diagram between operation modes. The system 1 has five operation modes: drive recorder mode, parking monitoring mode, action camera mode, stop A mode, and stop B mode. In the drive recorder mode, there is power supply from an external source (e.g., a vehicle) and the main switch is turned on. In the drive recorder mode, the controller 20 performs, for example, continuous recording, event recording, etc.

[0384] When the external power supply is stopped while the operation mode is the drive recorder mode, the controller 20 transitions the operation mode to the parking monitoring mode. In the parking monitoring mode, the controller 20 performs parking monitoring recording. When the main switch is turned off while the operation mode is the drive recorder mode, the controller 20 transitions the operation mode to the stop A mode. In the stop A mode, the controller 20 does not record video.

[0385] When the external power supply is resumed while the operation mode is the parking monitoring mode, the controller 20 transitions the operation mode to the drive recorder mode. When the main switch is turned off while the operation mode is the parking monitoring mode, the controller 20 transitions the operation mode to the stop B mode. In the stop B mode, the controller 20 does not record video.

[0386] When the main switch is turned on while the operation mode is the stop A mode, the controller 20 transitions the operation mode to the drive recorder mode. When the external power supply is stopped while the operation mode is the stop A mode, the controller 20 transitions the operation mode to the stop B mode.

[0387] When the external power supply is resumed while the operation mode is in the stop B mode, the controller 20 transitions the operation mode to the stop A mode. When the main switch is turned on while the operation mode is in the stop B mode, the controller 20 transitions the operation mode to the action camera mode. The operation when the operation mode is the action camera mode will be described later.

[0388] When the main switch is turned off while the operation mode is the action camera mode, the controller 20 transitions the operation mode to stop mode B. When the external power supply is resumed while the operation mode is the action camera mode, the controller 20 transitions the operation mode to the drive recorder mode.

[0389] The controller 20 has a function of recording video onto the SD card 22a held in one SD card reader 14a in the drive recorder mode, and a function of recording video onto the SD card 22b held in the other SD card reader 14b in the action camera mode. The controller 20 also has a function of recording video onto the SD card 22a held in one SD card reader 14a in the parking monitoring mode. The controller 20 displays on the display 11 the roles played by the SD cards 22a and 22b held in the SD card readers 14a and 14b.

[0390] Fig. 29 shows an example of an image displayed on the display 11. In the mode display area 31, a video captured when the system 1 is installed in a vehicle is stored in one SD card 22a. An icon 51a indicating that the image captured when the system 1 is taken out of the vehicle will be recorded in the other SD card 22b, and an icon 51b indicating that the image captured when the system 1 is taken out of the vehicle will be recorded in the other SD card 22b are displayed. In Fig. 29, the fact that the system 1 is taken out of the vehicle is represented by a graphic of skis as an example.

[0391] [Effects of the 17th embodiment] A user can take the system 1 out of the vehicle and capture an image of a desired object. The SD card 22a on which the image captured while the system 1 is mounted on the vehicle is recorded can be stored separately from the SD card 22b on which the image captured while the system 1 is taken out of the vehicle is recorded. With the system 1 mounted on the vehicle, the image captured by the camera 17 can be recorded on one SD card 22a while the image recorded outside the vehicle can be read from the other SD card 22b.

[0392] For example, a user can drive a vehicle to go on a sightseeing trip, take the system 1 out of the vehicle at the sightseeing spot, and use it as an action camera. Images captured at the sightseeing spot can be played back in the vehicle on the way back from the trip.

[0393] By looking at the icons 51a and 51b displayed on the display 11, the user can easily know which video is recorded on which SD card held in which SD card reader.

[0394] When the system 1 is used as a drive recorder, the internal power supply of the system 1 is automatically charged while the vehicle is turned on. This makes it less likely that you will forget to charge the internal power supply when using the system 1 as an action camera.

[0395] [Modification of the 17th embodiment] After the system 1 operates as an action camera, when the system 1 is mounted in a vehicle and external power supply is started, the controller 20 may have a function to automatically play back the video recorded on the SD card 22b during the period when the system 1 operates as an action camera. The user can immediately enjoy viewing the video captured by the action camera in the car.

[0396] It is particularly advantageous to provide the system 1 with a video data output terminal such as an HDMI (registered trademark) terminal and a function for connecting to a large screen monitor. Video captured by the action camera can be viewed on a large screen. In this way, the SD card reader 14b plays a role of holding an SD card for playback. When an SD card on which video such as a movie is recorded is inserted into the SD card reader 14b for playback, the movie can be viewed on the large screen inside the car.

[0397] After the system 1 operates as an action camera, the controller 20 may have a function of displaying the current image captured by the camera 17 on the display 11 until a predetermined time has elapsed from the time when the system 1 is mounted on the vehicle and external power supply is started, and automatically playing back the images recorded during the period when the system 1 operated as an action camera after the predetermined time has elapsed. During the period in which the current image captured by the camera 17 is displayed on the display 11, the user can adjust the attitude of the camera 17 while watching the image displayed on the display 11.

[0398] The cameras installed in drive recorders generally have the characteristics of being ultra-wide-angle and fixed-focus. These characteristics are common to the characteristics required for action cameras. To use System 1 as an action camera, it is recommended to give System 1 a waterproof function.

[0399] In addition to the joint rail 13 used when mounting the system 1 on a vehicle, when using the system 1 as an action camera, it is preferable to provide a joint portion for mounting the system 1 on a mount for mounting the system 1 on various equipment used in outdoor sports. The joint rail 13 for mounting on a vehicle may be attached to various mounts for action cameras via an adapter. When mounting the system 1 on a vehicle, the system 1 is generally hung from above as shown in FIG. 1B, but when using the system 1 as an action camera, the system 1 is often supported from below. If the system 1 is supported from below using the joint rail 13, the system 1 is upside down when capturing an image. The system 1 may determine the top and bottom using an acceleration sensor 18 (FIG. 2), and may determine and record the top and bottom of the captured image depending on the result of the top and bottom determination.

[0400] When the system 1 operates in each of the drive recorder mode, parking monitoring mode, and action camera mode, the controller 20 may have a function of recording only a predetermined time of video before and after the occurrence of a predetermined event on a predetermined SD card. The time from the detection of the event occurrence to the start of the video recording is called the "preceding time," and the time elapsed from the detection of the event occurrence to the end of the video recording is called the "delay time." The conditions (event conditions) for determining that an event for recording a video has occurred may be different for each operation mode. The event conditions are conditions that act as a trigger for recording a video.

[0401] [Event conditions applied in the seventeenth embodiment] Next, the event conditions applicable to each operation mode will be described.

[0402] When the operation mode is the drive recorder mode, the event conditions may be detection of an impact equal to or greater than a certain threshold, detection of abrupt steering, detection of abrupt braking, detection of abrupt acceleration, etc. When the operation mode is the parking monitoring mode, the event conditions may be detection of movement of an object within the field of view of the camera 17, detection of opening of a window glass, detection of opening of a door, detection of shaking of the vehicle body, detection of a loud sound equal to or greater than a threshold, etc. When the operation mode is the action camera mode, the event conditions may be changed depending on the type of outdoor sports the user of the system 1 is engaged in.

[0403] The event conditions when surfing are described below. For example, the event condition may be detection of take-off. Here, take-off refers to the moment when a surfboard accelerates while paddling in a lying down position and stands up riding on the momentum of the wave. Since the surfboard starts moving at the time of take-off, take-off may be detected based on the acceleration, motion, etc. at that time. To detect take-off, a motion sensor capable of measuring acceleration, angular velocity, attitude angle, direction, speed, position, etc. may be used.

[0404] In order to record footage of the moment the surfer catches the wave, the advance time from the time of take-off detection should be, for example, between 30 seconds and 2 minutes, with about 1 minute being particularly good. In order to record footage from take-off to the final ride, the delay time should be determined taking into account the expected time from take-off to the final ride. For example, the delay time should be between 1 minute and 3 minutes, with about 2 minutes being particularly good. If another take-off is detected within the delay time, the footage should be recorded from that point until the specified delay time has elapsed.

[0405] Advanced surfers sometimes accelerate by performing a lip action, hitting the bottom at the lip of the wave. At this time, the motion becomes larger and the speed also increases. If this lip action is detected while recording video, it is a good idea to re-measure a specified delay time from the point of detection. For example, it is a good idea to initially set the elapsed time from the occurrence of the event at the point of detection of the lip action. If the elapsed time is initially set, video will be recorded from the point of detection of the lip action until the specified delay time has elapsed.

[0406] Next, an event condition when skiing or snowboarding is described. For example, the event condition may be detection of the start of sliding. A motion sensor capable of measuring acceleration, angular velocity, attitude angle, direction, speed, position, etc. may be used to detect the start of sliding. The advance time may be, for example, from 30 seconds to 2 minutes, and about 1 minute is particularly preferable. The delay time may be, for example, from 1 minute to 3 minutes, and about 2 minutes is particularly preferable.

[0407] The event condition may be detection of a fall. The detection of a fall may be performed using the results of measurements of acceleration, angular velocity, attitude angle, orientation, etc., by a motion sensor. The event condition may be detection of a speed reaching a predetermined threshold value.

[0408] The controller 20 may extend the delay time when it detects a predetermined trigger while recording the video. Since some movement is also involved while skiing, it may be desirable to detect acceleration or motion as a trigger. When skiing straight downhill, it may be desirable to detect speed as a trigger. If the predetermined trigger is not detected within a predetermined delay time from the time of event detection, it may be desirable to end video recording when the predetermined delay time has elapsed from the time of event detection.

[0409] Next, the event conditions when playing golf will be described. For example, detection of address completion may be set as the event condition (trigger), and recording may be stopped when a predetermined delay time has elapsed since impact detection. In order to leave an image of the follow-through period, the predetermined delay time may be, for example, 2 to 5 seconds, and is particularly preferably about 3 seconds. Detection of address completion and impact can be detected by a slim watch type sensor (for example, a golf navi YBW-Putt sold by Yupiteru Corporation) that is attached to the wrist of a golfer. By transmitting the detection results to the system 1 using a short-range wireless communication function (for example, Bluetooth (registered trademark)) from the slim watch type sensor, the system 1 can identify the time of address completion and the time of impact.

[0410] By linking a swing trainer having a function for estimating head speed, ball speed, contact rate, flight distance, etc. (for example, the swing trainer GST series sold by Yupiteru Corporation) with the system 1 of this embodiment, it is possible to add a function for embedding estimated values ​​of head speed, ball speed, contact rate, flight distance, etc. in the video. The user can verify the quality of his or her own swing by correlating the video of the actual swing with the head speed, ball speed, contact rate, flight distance, etc.

[0411] It may be embarrassing to set up the system 1 of this embodiment with a recording function at a golf driving range. For example, if the system is set on a chair behind the hitting box, the presence of the system 1 is less likely to be noticed by others. It is even better to attach a fixing device to the system 1 that has a function of placing the system 1 on a chair and maintaining its position. Furthermore, if a chair or the like is provided with a can holder, a fixing device that has a function of placing the system 1 in the can holder and maintaining its position may be attached to the system 1. It is better to provide a mounting portion for mounting such a fixing device to the system 1.

[0412] When going to a golf driving range, it is common to hit about 100 to 300 balls per session. For example, under the condition that about 10 seconds of video is recorded per shot, about 3000 seconds of video will be recorded per practice session. As an example, it is desirable to prepare an SD card with a capacity capable of recording 3000 seconds of video at a resolution of 1080p and a frame rate of 30 fps. Also, golfers tend to prefer to increase the frame rate rather than the resolution of the video in order to verify their swing. The system 1 should have a function to change the frame rate according to the user's operation. It is also desirable to have a function to automatically adjust the resolution according to the capacity of the SD card that records the video and the set frame rate. By adjusting the resolution, it becomes possible for the user to record video for a desired period of time even if the user sets a high frame rate.

[0413] It is advisable to set the frame rate of the image after the detection of the completion of the address higher (more frames) than the frame rate of the image before the detection of the completion of the address. By setting the frame rate of the image before the detection of the completion of the address lower, the total data volume of the image can be reduced.

[0414] Instead of recording all swings, only images of swings that meet certain conditions may be recorded. For example, only images of swings that are determined to be mis-shots and swings that are determined to be nice shots may be recorded. The system 1 may have a function of distinguishing between nice shots and mis-shots. Whether or not a shot is a mis-shot and whether or not it is a nice shot may be determined based on estimated values ​​of the meet rate, head speed, flight distance, etc. For example, a swing that is estimated to have a meet rate of 1.4 or more, a head speed of 50 m / s or more, and a flight distance of 260 yards or more may be determined to be a nice shot. Also, a swing that is estimated to have a meet rate of 1.2 or more and 1.3 or less may be determined to be a mis-shot.

[0415] By recording only the video of a specific shot, the capacity of the SD card can be saved. Also, when the capacity of the SD card is constant, the frame rate and resolution can be increased. The user can play back the video of the good shot and the video of the bad shot and compare them. It is particularly useful if the system 1 has a function to display the video of the good shot and the video of the bad shot side by side on one screen when playing back the video.

[0416] As another example, a video of every swing may be recorded, and markers for identifying good shots and miss shots may be recorded together with the video. By using the markers for identifying good shots and miss shots, the video of good shots and the video of miss shots can be easily extracted from a long video.

[0417] When practicing at a golf driving range, it is a good idea to record the number of balls hit with each type of club along with date and time information. Based on this record, users can know the history of the number of balls hit with each type of club. The number of balls hit can also be thought of as the amount of practice. For example, it is possible to know a trend that a year ago, the amount of practice with drivers was high, but recently, the amount of practice with irons has increased.

[0418] It is advisable to record information indicating the time interval between hitting one ball and the next at the golf driving range together with the video. For example, if the same club is used for a period of time, the time interval will be relatively short, whereas if a club is changed, the time interval will be relatively long. The time interval recorded together with the video can be used as a clue to find the time when the club was changed.

[0419] For example, beginners who have not yet solidified their basic form go to a golf driving range in order to master the basic form. For example, there are various measures for users who want to keep their left shoulder open to prevent slicing the driver. When a user tries various measures and finds one that seems to be effective, the user continues to hit the ball using the same measure to check reproducibility. The user checks the video of the form at this time during a break, and if it is different from the image, continues hitting the ball again. For example, by comparing the model video posted on a video sharing site with his or her own form, it is possible to verify whether the swing is as imagined. By repeatedly recording the practice shot and its video, and checking the video, the user can improve. Information indicating the time interval between hitting one ball and the next shot is a clue to find the point in time when the video was checked during this repeated practice.

[0420] The above-mentioned event conditions are applicable not only to the system 1 according to the seventeenth embodiment having the functions of a drive recorder and an action camera, but also to a dedicated action camera.

[0421] [Eighteenth Example] Next, a system according to an eighteenth embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 30. Below, a description of configurations common to the configurations of the above-mentioned embodiments will be omitted.

[0422] In the eighteenth embodiment, key information indicating access authority is stored in an SD card held in at least one of the SD card readers 14a and 14b. The controller 20 has a function of reading out the key information stored in the SD card held in the SD card reader, and restricting or permitting access to the SD card held in the SD card readers 14a and 14b based on the read out key information.

[0423] The controller 20 has the function of informing the user by an image displayed on the display 11 which SD card reader holds the SD card responsible for recording the image captured by the camera 17 and which SD card reader holds the SD card in which key information is stored.

[0424] 30 shows an example of an image displayed on the display 11. In the mode display area 31, an icon 52a indicating that video is being recorded on the SD card 22a held in the SD card reader 14a, and an icon 52b indicating that key information is being stored on the SD card 22b held in the SD card reader 14b are displayed.

[0425] [Effects of the 18th embodiment] Next, a description will be given of the excellent effects of the eighteenth embodiment. Access to the SD cards 22a and 22b is restricted or permitted depending on the key information of the SD card 22b held in one SD card reader 14b, thereby improving the security of the system.

[0426] The user can easily know which SD card reader to insert the SD card 22b storing the key information into by looking at the image displayed on the display 11. This can reduce the occurrence of incorrect insertion of the SD card.

[0427] [Modification of the 18th embodiment] For example, the controller 20 may have a function of operating in either an administrator mode or a user mode. The key information to be stored in the SD card 22b may be set to permit operation in the administrator mode, or permit operation only in the user mode. For example, when the controller 20 operates in the administrator mode, it may be possible to perform initialization processing of the SD card 22a held in the SD card reader 14a, but when the controller 20 operates in the user mode, it may be possible to prevent initialization processing of the SD card 22a held in the SD card reader 14a. For example, the information stored in the SD card 22a may be divided into information that can be viewed only by the administrator and information that can be viewed by general users. When the controller 20 operates in the administrator mode, it may be possible to read out information that can be viewed only by the administrator, but when the controller 20 operates in the user mode, it may be possible to prevent information that can be viewed only by the administrator from being read. The controller 20 may have a function of operating in the user mode when the SD card in which the key information is stored is not held in any SD card reader.

[0428] It is preferable that driver training information (for example, video images) be stored in the SD card 22b that stores the key information. The controller 20 may read out the driver training information and display it on the display 11 or output it as sound from the speaker 15. When an SD card storing instructional video footage is inserted, the controller 20 may automatically play the instructional video footage. The driver is motivated to drive safely by noticing the information displayed on the display 11 and the information output from the speaker 15. The manager may store driver instruction information for each driver in the SD card 22b based on the driving habits of the driver and hand it over to the driver.

[0429] For example, a driver who has a habit of ignoring stop signs may be given an SD card 22b storing information encouraging the driver to stop. When the controller 20 detects a stop sign by performing image analysis on the image captured by the camera 17, the controller 20 may output information encouraging the driver to stop from the display 11 or the speaker 15. As information encouraging the driver to stop, for example, a voice message such as "Stop at places with stop signs" may be output. For example, a driver who frequently makes sudden steering operations may be given an SD card 22b storing information encouraging the driver not to make sudden steering operations.

[0430] The manager can learn the driving habits of each driver by watching the video recorded at all times while the vehicle is running. In addition, the manager can identify the places where dangerous driving was performed in the past by associating the video recorded in the SD card with the location information. The manager may add this location information to the information for driver training and store it. When the controller 20 detects that the driver is approaching a place where dangerous driving was performed in the past, the controller 20 may output information from the display 11 and the speaker 15 to warn the driver not to perform dangerous driving. In addition, when the controller 20 detects the occurrence of dangerous driving of the same kind as the dangerous driving stored as the information for driver training, the controller 20 may output information from the display 11 and the speaker 15 to warn the driver not to perform the dangerous driving. Furthermore, the controller 20 may output information from the display 11 and the speaker 15 to warn the driver not to perform the dangerous driving at the time when an event that predicts the occurrence of dangerous driving occurs. For example, when a traffic light is detected in the image captured by the camera 17, information calling attention not to ignore the traffic light may be output from the display 11 and the speaker 15. For example, when a pedestrian is detected in the image captured by the camera 17, information calling attention to watch out for the pedestrian may be output from the display 11 and the speaker 15.

[0431] As a means for notifying the user of the SD card 22b in which the key information is stored, a sign indicating the key information may be provided on the surface of the housing near the SD card reader 14b in which the SD card 22b in which the key information is stored should be inserted. Furthermore, when the controller 20 detects that the SD card 22b in which the key information is stored has been inserted in the wrong SD card reader, it may output information from the display 11 or the speaker 15 to prompt the user to insert the SD card 22b in the correct SD card reader.

[0432] [19th Example] Next, a system 1 according to a nineteenth embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 31. Below, a description of the configuration common to the configurations of the above-mentioned embodiments will be omitted.

[0433] In the nineteenth embodiment, the controller 20 records images that are mutually complementary and identification information that associates the two SD cards 22a and 22b in the SD cards 22a and 22b held in the two SD card readers 14a and 14b. Furthermore, when the SD card on which the identification information is recorded is held only in one of the SD card readers, the controller 20 has a function of notifying the user through the display 11 and the speaker 15 that there is another SD card that is mutually complementary.

[0434] 31 shows an example of an image displayed on the display 11. As an example, an icon 55 is displayed in the mode display area 31, which indicates that the video captured by the camera 17 is alternately recorded on one SD card 22a and the other SD card 22b. Identification information indicating that the SD cards 22a and 22b are paired and that the recorded images complement each other to form a single image is stored in the SD cards 22a and 22b.

[0435] When only one of the SD cards is inserted into the SD card reader, the controller 20 displays a message on the display 11 stating "One of the two SD cards that make up a pair has been inserted. Please insert the other SD card that will form the pair. Do you want to continue processing?" The user can select "Yes" or "No" by operating the operation button 12.

[0436] If the user selects "Yes", the controller 20 continues the process. For example, the video is recorded only on the SD card that is inserted. If the user selects "No", the controller 20 waits for another SD card to be inserted into the SD card reader.

[0437] Furthermore, when only one of the two SD cards in a pair is removed from the SD card reader, the controller 20 may inform the user that the paired SD card remains in the SD card reader.

[0438] [Effects of the 19th embodiment] Next, the effects of the 19th embodiment will be described. When a user inserts an SD card into an SD card reader or removes it from an SD card reader, it is difficult for the user to forget to insert or remove one of the two SD cards that complement each other. It is possible to prevent the two SD cards that complement each other from being scattered and useful images from being lost.

[0439] [Modification of the 19th embodiment] An example of a mutually complementary relationship would be one where one SD card is initialized in a generic format and the other is initialized in a proprietary format, with the same video recorded on both. Video can be played back by inserting an SD card in a format supported by the device being played back. For example, the FAT format could be used as the generic format. For example, a format called the YP format could be used as the proprietary format.

[0440] When the FAT formatted SD card is removed from the SD card reader and a YP formatted SD card is inserted, the controller 20 may display a message on the display 11 prompting the user to insert a FAT formatted SD card.

[0441] The controller 20 may record video in the YP format on both SD cards attached to the two SD card readers. In this case, when one SD card is removed and a FAT formatted SD card is attached, the controller 20 may display a message on the display 11 prompting the user to attach a YP formatted SD card. Alternatively, a message may be displayed on the display 11 to confirm with the user whether the newly attached FAT formatted SD card should be initialized in the YP format.

[0442] When an SD card that does not store key information is inserted into an SD card reader that should receive an SD card that stores key information, the controller 20 may display a message on the display 11 prompting the user to insert an SD card that stores key information.

[0443] [20th Example] Next, a system 1 according to a twentieth embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 32. Below, a description of the configuration common to the configurations of the above-mentioned embodiments will be omitted.

[0444] In the twentieth embodiment, the controller 20 has a function of initializing the SD cards 22a and 22b held in the SD card readers 14a and 14b. When a user performs an operation to initialize an SD card held in one SD card reader, the controller 20 has a function of displaying, on the display 11, information identifying the SD card to be initialized specified by the user and a status of waiting for confirmation of the execution of the initialization. The controller 20 has a function of executing the initialization process after receiving a response of confirmation from the user.

[0445] FIG. 32 shows an example of an image displayed on the display 11. A figure showing the outline of the system 1 is displayed in the video display area 30 so that the positions of the SD card insertion slots 10a and 10b can be seen. Furthermore, the SD card insertion slot into which the SD card to be initialized specified by the user is inserted is displayed to be distinguished from other SD card insertion slots, and a message is displayed to ask whether to initialize or not. For example, a message saying "Do you want to initialize?" is displayed. The user can select "Yes" or "No."

[0446] If the user selects "Yes", the controller 20 executes the initialization of the SD card specified by the user. If the user selects "No", the controller 20 stops the initialization process.

[0447] [Effects of the 20th embodiment] Next, the effects of the twentieth embodiment will be described. Since the controller 20 waits for a confirmation response from the user during the initialization process before executing the initialization, it is possible to prevent an unexpected storage medium from being initialized due to an operational error by the user. As a result, it is possible to prevent the erasure of images that are not intended to be erased.

[0448] The position of the SD card slot into which the specified SD card to be initialized is inserted is displayed graphically, so that the user can easily notice any mistake in the instruction for the SD card to be initialized.

[0449] [21st Example] Next, a system 1 according to a 21st embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 33. Below, a description of the configuration common to the configurations of the above-mentioned embodiments will be omitted.

[0450] Fig. 33 is a perspective view of the system 1 according to the 21st embodiment, and a plan view of the SD cards 22a and 22b to be inserted in the system 1. In the 21st embodiment, an identification mark is displayed in each of the SD card insertion slots 10a and 10b of the system 1. An identification mark 60a displayed near one SD card insertion slot 10a and an identification mark 60b displayed near the other SD card insertion slot 10b are different in at least one of their shapes and colors. In the example shown in Fig. 33, one identification mark 60a has a star shape, and the other identification mark 60b has a triangular shape.

[0451] Stickers 61a and 61b to be affixed to the SD card are attached to the system 1. The stickers 61a and 61b have identification marks of the same shape and color as the identification marks attached to the SD card insertion slots 10a and 10b, respectively. For example, one sticker 61a has a star-shaped identification mark printed on it, and the other sticker 61b has a triangular identification mark printed on it.

[0452] [Effects of the 21st embodiment] Next, the excellent effects of the 21st embodiment will be described. By attaching the stickers 61a and 61b to the SD cards 22a and 22b, the user can associate the SD cards with the SD card insertion slots. When the user inserts the SD card into the SD card reader, the user can easily know which SD card insertion slot to insert the card into by looking at the identification mark. This has the effect of reducing the number of times the SD card is inserted incorrectly.

[0453] [Modification of the 21st embodiment] The controller 20 may store information for identifying an identification mark associated with the SD card reader in the SD card attached to the SD card reader. For example, if an SD card 22a in which information for identifying a star-shaped identification mark is stored is mistakenly inserted into an SD card insertion slot 10b associated with a triangular identification mark, the controller 20 may read the information for identifying the identification mark from the SD card 22a and detect the incorrect insertion. When the controller 20 detects the incorrect insertion, it may display a message on the display 11 informing the user of the incorrect insertion. For example, it may display a message encouraging the user to insert an SD card with a triangular sticker attached thereto. The user may notice the incorrect insertion by looking at the message displayed on the display 11.

[0454] [Twenty-second Example] Next, a system 1 according to a 22nd embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 34A and 34B. Below, a description of the configuration common to the configurations of the above-mentioned embodiments will be omitted.

[0455] FIG. 34A is a perspective view of a system 1 according to a 22nd embodiment. One SD card insertion slot 10b is provided on the top surface of the housing of the system 1, and the other SD card insertion slot 10a is provided on the side surface of the system 1. The top surface of the housing faces the windshield or ceiling of the vehicle, and the space between them is narrow. For this reason, it is difficult for a user to insert or remove an SD card through the SD card insertion slot 10b provided on the top surface. In contrast, it is relatively easy to insert or remove an SD card through the SD card insertion slot 10a provided on the side surface.

[0456] The SD card 22a inserted into the SD card reader 14a corresponding to one SD card insertion port 10a is used for applications that require frequent insertion and removal, and the SD card 22b inserted into the SD card reader 14b corresponding to the other SD card insertion port 10b is used for applications that do not require frequent insertion and removal.

[0457] The system 1 informs the user of the role that the SD card plays by the difference in ease of insertion and removal of the SD card into the two SD card readers 14a and 14b.

[0458] [Effects of the 22nd embodiment] When a user senses that an SD card is difficult to insert or remove through the SD card slot when the SD card is inserted, the user can become aware of the role of the SD card inserted through the SD card slot. For example, when the SD card is difficult to insert or remove through the SD card slot, the user realizes that the SD card inserted into the SD card reader through the SD card slot is not intended to be carried around, but is in principle intended to be used while inserted. Conversely, when the SD card is easy to insert or remove through the SD card slot, the user realizes that the SD card inserted into the SD card reader through the SD card slot is intended to be carried around.

[0459] [Modification of the 22nd embodiment] When the system 1 is installed in a vehicle, it is preferable to place one of the SD card readers in a position where it is more difficult to insert an SD card than the other SD card reader. The system 1 informs the user of the role of the SD card held in the SD card reader by the difference in the position of the SD card reader. It would be good to do so.

[0460] An example of a position where it is easy to insert an SD card is an area on the surface of the case where, when the case is mounted in a vehicle, there is free space adjacent to the surface of the case that is equivalent to the wrist of an average adult male. The size equivalent to the wrist of an average adult male may be, for example, a sphere with a diameter of 10 cm. An example of a position where it is difficult to insert an SD card is an area where such free space is not provided.

[0461] For example, the position where it is difficult to insert an SD card may be a surface of the housing facing the front, the top, or somewhere in between of the vehicle. The position where it is easy to insert an SD card may be a surface of the housing facing the left / right direction or toward the interior of the vehicle. The surface facing the bracket for mounting the housing to the vehicle may also be a position where it is difficult to insert an SD card.

[0462] For example, the controller 20 may record the video captured by the camera 17 during the parking period on an SD card held in an SD card reader that is placed in a position where it is difficult to insert an SD card. This makes it less likely that the driver will accidentally remove the SD card from the SD card reader when parking the vehicle, making it impossible to record the video during the parking period.

[0463] As shown in Figure 34B, an openable cover 62 can be attached to the SD card insertion slot 10b to make it difficult for the SD card to pass through. The SD card insertion slot 10a, which allows the SD card to pass through easily, is preferably left open at all times.

[0464] [Twenty-third embodiment] Next, a system 1 according to a 23rd embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 35. Below, a description of the configuration common to the configurations of the above-mentioned embodiments will be omitted.

[0465] Fig. 35 is a perspective view of a system 1 according to a 23rd embodiment. SD card slots 10a and 10b are provided in the housing of the system 1. SD card readers 14a and 14b are arranged in the housing corresponding to the SD card slots 10a and 10b. The SD card readers 14a and 14b are configured to hold SD cards of different sizes. For example, one SD card reader 14a holds a relatively small micro SD card, and the other SD card reader 14b holds a normal size SD card.

[0466] The sizes of the SD card slots 10a and 10b are different from each other to accommodate the different sizes of SD cards that can be held in them. For example, the SD card slot 10a for inserting a micro SD card is smaller than the SD card slot 10b for inserting a normal size SD card.

[0467] The system 1 informs the user of the role of the SD cards held in the SD card readers 14a and 14b by configuring the two SD card slots 10a and 10b to be different in size.

[0468] [Effects of the 23rd embodiment] Next, the excellent effect of the 23rd embodiment will be described. The user can see the size of the SD card insertion slots 10a and 10b and realize the role of the SD card inserted into the SD card reader through the SD card insertion slot. For example, the user realizes that a normal-sized SD card inserted through the larger SD card insertion slot 10b is unlikely to be lost when carried around, and as a result, realizes that the SD card inserted through the SD card insertion slot 10b is for carrying around. Conversely, the user realizes that the micro SD card inserted through the smaller SD card insertion slot 10a is, in principle, intended to be used while always inserted in the SD card reader 14a.

[0469] For example, if there is a rule that an SD card with constant video recording must be submitted to an administrator each time the vehicle is driven, and an SD card with event recording must be submitted to the administrator only when a specific event occurs, it is recommended that constant recording be performed on a normal-sized SD card and event recording be performed on a micro SD card.

[0470] [24th Example] Next, a system 1 according to a 24th embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 36. Below, a description of the configuration common to the configurations of the above-mentioned embodiments will be omitted.

[0471] The controller 20 has a function to detect that an error has occurred in each of the SD cards 22a and 22b held in the two SD card readers 14a and 14b. When the controller 20 detects that an error has occurred in an SD card held in one of the SD card readers and that the SD card in which the error occurred has been removed from the SD card reader, the controller 20 has a function to display a message on the display 11 urging the user to also remove the other SD card and submit it to a maintenance person (administrator).

[0472] 36 shows an example of an image displayed on the display 11. In the video display area 30, a message is displayed saying "The SD card on which an error occurred has been removed. Please remove the other SD card and submit it to the administrator."

[0473] [Effects of the 24th embodiment] Next, the excellent effects of the 24th embodiment will be described. By inspecting not only the SD card in which an error has occurred but also the SD card in which no error has occurred, it becomes easier to isolate the cause of the error. Errors include, for example, SD card failure, writing failure, and exceeding a specified number of overwrites. By looking at the message displayed on the display 11, the driver is prevented from forgetting to remove the SD card and to submit it to the maintenance staff.

[0474] [25th Example] Next, a system 1 according to a 25th embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 37. Below, a description of the configuration common to the configurations of the above-mentioned embodiments will be omitted.

[0475] FIG. 37 is a block diagram showing partial functions of the system 1 according to the 25th embodiment. The SD cards 22a and 22b are provided with mechanical write protection switches 62a and 62b that can be turned on and off by a user's external operation. When the write protection switches 62a and 62b are turned on, writing to the SD cards 22a and 22b is prohibited. One SD card reader 14b includes an actuator 63 that turns on the write protection switch 62b of the attached SD card 22b. The actuator 63 turns on the write protection switch 62b of the SD card 22b attached to the SD card reader 14b based on a command from the controller 20. The actuator 63 that turns on the write protection switch 62b can be realized by, for example, a solenoid actuator.

[0476] The controller 20 has a function of controlling the actuator 63 to set the write protection switch 62b of the SD card 22b to ON when it detects the occurrence of a predetermined event. In particular, the controller 20 may have a function of turning on the write protection switch 62b after a predetermined time has elapsed since the occurrence of the event was detected.

[0477] [Effects of the 25th embodiment] Next, an excellent effect of the twenty-fifth embodiment will be described. By the controller 20 putting the SD card 22b into a write-protected state, it is possible to prevent the video recorded when an event occurs from being overwritten.

[0478] [26th Example] Next, a system 1 according to a 26th embodiment will be described. Below, a description of the configuration common to the above-mentioned embodiments will be omitted.

[0479] The controller 20 of the system 1 according to the 26th embodiment can select and execute one of the functions of the first embodiment to the 20th embodiment and the 25th embodiment described above. For example, the role that the SD card is to play, as explained in the above embodiments, can be changed by a user's operation. For example, the user can select which role the SD card is to play. When the SD card is removed from all SD card readers, the role of the SD card may be returned to a basic role that is set in advance. Before the SD card is inserted into the SD card reader, the role of the SD card is not determined, and the role may be determined after the SD card is inserted into the SD card reader.

[0480] [27th Example] Next, a 27th embodiment will be described. Below, a description of the configuration common to the above-mentioned embodiments will be omitted.

[0481] In the above-described embodiments, the controller 20 informs the user of the role of the SD card through images or the like displayed on the display 11. In the 27th embodiment, however, the controller 20 has the function of informing the user of the relationship between the information stored on the SD cards held in the two SD card readers.

[0482] The user can know the relationship between the information stored on the SD cards held in the two SD card readers, which increases convenience for the user.

[0483] Next, the relationship between the information stored in the two SD cards will be illustrated. First, the case where the information stored in the two storage media is both video will be illustrated.

[0484] The relationship between the images should be such that the two images make sense as a pair, and one image alone is meaningless or cannot achieve the intended purpose. When the information stored in the two SD cards has this relationship, the controller 20 should inform the user via the display 11 that one SD card alone cannot be used. The user is encouraged to carry two SD cards as a set, which makes it less likely that the user will forget to carry one SD card and be unable to use the images.

[0485] The relationship between the images may be such that the object and time of imaging are the same, and that either image is useful on its own. Examples of such a relationship include a relationship in which the recording format of the two SD cards is exactly the same, a relationship in which the format of the two SD cards is different, a relationship in which the recording conditions (setting conditions) such as the frame rate and resolution of the images recorded on the two SD cards are different, a relationship in which one records all images acquired during an imaging period and the other records only images before and after a specific event occurs, and a relationship in which both records images before and after an event occurs but the types of events are different. When the information stored in the two storage media has this relationship, the controller 20 may inform the user via the display 11 that the images can be used on their own and the differences between the two images. The user can determine which SD card's image is preferable to watch depending on the purpose of use.

[0486] The relationship between the images may be such that the imaged object is the same but the imaged time is different, and therefore the purpose of use of the images is different. For example, an example of such a relationship is images captured by a camera 17 mounted on a vehicle traveling along a specified route, but the imaged time and date are different. When the information stored in the two SD cards has this relationship, the controller 20 may inform the driver of the vehicle of the time when the images were captured via the display 11. The driver of the vehicle is less likely to make a mistake in the route because he or she can check images recorded in the past when traveling along a specified route.

[0487] The interrelationship between the images may be such that the images are images of different objects captured by different cameras at the same time. Examples of such relationships include a relationship between an image of the front of a vehicle and an image of the interior of the vehicle, a relationship between an image of the front of a vehicle and an image of the rear of the vehicle, and a relationship between an image of the front of a work vehicle and an image of a work target location. When the information stored in the two SD cards has such a relationship, the controller 20 may inform the user via the display 11 that the two images were captured at the same time. The user can recognize that there is a point in playing back the two images with the time synchronized.

[0488] The relationship between the images may be such that the images are taken in different environments using the same camera. For example, such a relationship may be a relationship between an image taken with a camera mounted on a vehicle and an image taken with a camera taken out of the vehicle and attached to an outdoor sports equipment. When the information stored in the two SD cards has this relationship, the controller 20 may inform the user through the display 11 that the two images were taken in different environments. The user can know that the two SD cards have different images recorded thereon that were taken in different environments. Furthermore, it is particularly preferable for the controller 20 to inform the user through the display 11 of which storage medium the images taken in which environment are recorded. The user can know which SD card the images taken in which environment are recorded thereon.

[0489] The relationship between the images may be such that the images are captured using the same camera, but the image recorded on one of the SD cards is a composite image in which an additional image is superimposed on the captured image. The additional image may be, for example, a warning image that is issued when a vehicle approaches a radar device. When the images recorded on the two SD cards have this relationship, the controller 20 may inform the user via the display 11 that the image recorded on one of the SD cards is a composite image in which an additional image is superimposed.

[0490] The relationship between the images may be such that, although the two images are used together to achieve a common purpose, one is a pre-prepared image and the other is an image recorded on the spot. For example, one of the images may be a promotional image explaining the functions and performance of the system, and the other is an image captured on the spot. When the information stored in the two SD cards has this relationship, the controller 20 may inform the user via the display 11 that one SD card has a pre-prepared image recorded, and the other SD card is to be recorded. The user can know that when the image on one SD card is prepared in advance, the other SD card should be used for recording. The consumer can learn the outline and performance of the system by watching the promotional image, and can experience the operation and performance of the system by watching the image recorded on the spot.

[0491] The relationship between the images may be such that one image is captured by a camera, and the other image is a template image for extracting a specific image from the image captured by the camera. The controller 20 transmits the image recorded on one SD card via the display 11. It is advisable to inform the user that the image recorded is a template image for image recognition, and the other is a SD card for image recording. The user can extract various images by adding or modifying the template image.

[0492] Next, a case will be illustrated in which the information stored in one of the two storage media is video and the information stored in the other is data other than video.

[0493] The relationship between the information may be such that one piece of information is a video captured by a camera, and the other piece of information is information (key information) indicating authority to access the SD card. The controller 20 may inform the user via the display 11 that the information stored in one of the SD cards is information indicating the access authority. The user can know that an SD card that is a key that grants a certain access authority is required to access the video.

[0494] The relationship between the information may be such that one piece of information is an image captured by a camera mounted on the vehicle, and the other piece of information is log data that records vehicle information in chronological order. The controller 20 may inform the user via the display 11 that one piece of information is an image captured by a camera mounted on the vehicle, and the other piece of information is log data. The user may know that useful information regarding the running of the vehicle can be obtained by combining the images and log data recorded on the two SD cards, respectively. @ In the above-mentioned embodiments, the system is mainly equipped with two SD card readers, but it is obvious that three or more SD card readers may be installed.

[0495] The above-mentioned embodiments are merely examples, and it goes without saying that partial replacement or combination of the configurations shown in different embodiments is possible. The components described in each embodiment may be combined in any way. In addition, the invention and each component described in the Means for Solving the Problems may be further applied to a combination of the components of each embodiment. Similar effects due to similar configurations of multiple embodiments are not mentioned in each embodiment. Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiments. For example, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that various modifications, improvements, combinations, etc. are possible. [Explanation of symbols]

[0496] 1. Drive recorder 3. Windshield 4. Rearview mirror 5 Cigarette lighter socket 6 Power cable 10a, 10b SD card slot 11 Display 12 Operation buttons 13 Joint Rail 14a, 14b SD card reader 15 Speaker 16 GPS receiver 17, 17a, 17b Camera 18 Acceleration Sensor 19 Communication Circuits 20 Controller 20a CPU 20b ROM 20c RAM 20d Timer 20e, 20f DMA controller 20g, 20h buffer memory 21 Database 22a, 22b SD card 22c SDIO card 30 Image display area 31 Mode display area 32 Time display area 33 Images captured by the camera 34 Images showing warning information 37 Frame rate icon 38 SD card activity icon 39 SD card format icon 40 Icon showing the interface standard of the media storage unit 41a Icon showing the SD card for recording video 41b Icon showing an SDIO card with wireless communication function 42a Icon showing the SD card that will record the video 42b Icon showing the SD card that stores the event conditions 43 An indicator that an event has occurred 44a~44d Mode selection buttons 45a, 45b Icons showing the correspondence between cameras and SD card readers 46a, 46b Connection terminals 47a Icon indicating that video is being recorded to an SD card 47b Icon indicating that the image recorded on the SD card is displayed on the display 48 Current footage 49 Past footage 50 Icons 51a Icon indicating that the video captured while the camera is installed in the vehicle will be recorded on one of the SD cards 51b Icon indicating that the video captured when taken outside the vehicle will be recorded on the other SD card 52a Icon indicating that the video will be recorded to one of the SD cards 52b Icon indicating that key information is stored 53a, 53b SD card icon 55 Icon indicating alternate recording of video 60a, 60b Identification mark showing the correspondence with SD card 61a, 61b Seal 62a, 62b Write protection switch 63 Actuator

Claims

1. The function to play promotional videos, a function of starting, after the promotional video is played back, image capture using an image capture device and playback of the video captured by the image capture device; A system having

2. 2. The system according to claim 1, wherein a video is added to the end of the promotional video to inform consumers that filming is about to begin.

3. 3. The system according to claim 1, wherein when playback of the video captured by the imaging device is completed, playback of the sales promotion video is resumed.

4. The device has at least two media storage units for holding removable storage media, A system as described in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the promotional video is stored in a storage medium held in one of the media storage units, and the video captured by the imaging device is stored in a storage medium held in the other media storage unit.

5. a function of informing a user of the mutual relationship between information stored in the storage media held in the two media storage units; The system described in claim 4, wherein the function of informing the user is a function of informing the user that the promotional video is stored in a storage medium held in one of the media storage units, and that video captured by the imaging device is stored in a storage medium held in the other media storage unit.

6. A program for causing a computer to realize the functions of the system according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

Images