Apparatus and program

Abstract

To utilize functions mounted on separate devices in conjunction.SOLUTION: In a case where measurement information changing with the movement of a mobile body becomes information that satisfies any condition among a plurality of gradually provided conditions (hereinafter, referred to as "an event has occurred"), two pieces of information, information that specifies the place where the event has occurred and information that represents which condition among the plurality of gradually provided conditions are satisfied, are output in association for each event.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an apparatus used in a moving body and a program for operating the apparatus used in the moving body.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, it has become common to use a car navigation device that provides driving guidance to users who use moving bodies such as automobiles.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 describes a car navigation device including a position detection means for detecting the current position of the own vehicle by performing positioning using GPS (Global Positioning System), a storage unit for storing road type information and the like, and a display unit for displaying an image.

[0004] Then, the car navigation device described in Patent Document 1 creates information for driving guidance based on the position of the destination, the current position of the own vehicle, road type information, etc., and overlays the created information for driving guidance on map information and displays it on the display unit. Thereby, the user can arrive at the destination via an appropriate route.

[0005] On the other hand, for the purpose of situation analysis at the time of an accident, etc., it has also come to be done to install a drive recorder in a moving body such as an automobile.

[0006] A drive recorder includes, for example, a camera for imaging the surroundings of a vehicle, an acceleration sensor for detecting abnormalities such as a collision accident, sudden braking, or sudden steering, and a storage medium for storing image data acquired by the camera imaging.

[0007] And, the camera always stores the surrounding images during driving. Also, based on the output from the acceleration sensor, when detecting abnormalities such as a collision accident, sudden braking, or sudden steering, the image data for a predetermined time before and after that point is saved to a storage medium for storage. Thereby, the user can check the state of the surroundings of the vehicle when an abnormality such as a collision accident, sudden braking, or sudden steering occurs. An example of such a drive recorder is described in Patent Document 2, for example.

[0008] Also, the image data stored in the storage medium by such a drive recorder can be reproduced, for example, by inserting the storage medium into a playback device such as a personal computer. Also, it is possible to display on a map the location where the image data was stored by inserting the storage medium into a playback device such as a personal computer.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0009]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0010] As described above, devices such as a car navigation device and a drive recorder are used during driving of an automobile or the like. Also, for example, a playback device such as a personal computer is used to reproduce the image data stored in the storage medium by a drive recorder.

[0011] While some functions overlap in that these devices all have a display function, the car navigation device has functions such as a positioning function and a function for route guidance using map information, etc., the drive recorder has a shooting function and a measurement function using an acceleration sensor, and the external device has a function for playing back image data stored in a storage medium by the drive recorder and a function for displaying on a map the location where the image data was stored. Thus, each had its own unique function.

[0012] However, the car navigation device, the drive recorder, and the playback device are each realized as separate devices, and it was not assumed that these unique functions provided by the devices used in the moving body and the devices used after the moving body were used in cooperation.

[0013] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus and a program that enable the cooperative use of functions implemented in separate devices.

Means for Solving the Problem

[0014] (1-1) When measurement information that changes as the moving body moves becomes information that satisfies any one of a plurality of conditions provided step by step (hereinafter referred to as "an event has occurred"), An apparatus characterized by outputting, for each event, two pieces of information, namely information for specifying the location where the event occurred and information indicating which of the plurality of stepwise provided conditions was satisfied.

[0015] By doing so, not only for the said apparatus, but also at the output destination, it becomes possible to obtain "the fact that it was determined that an event has occurred", "the location where the event occurred", and "which of the plurality of conditions was satisfied to determine that the event has occurred".

[0016] (1-2) When the event occurs, perform control for storing the two pieces of information or control for causing the two pieces of information to be stored. When the predetermined output conditions are satisfied, the two pieces of information that are stored or caused to be stored are output in association with each event.

[0017] By doing so, in either the case of storing or causing to be stored, when it becomes necessary to use these two pieces of information later, it becomes possible to read and use these two pieces of information. Furthermore, in the former case, for example, even when the storage medium inserted into the device is removed, it becomes possible to read and use these two pieces of information. Also, in the latter case, for example, when the writable capacity of the storage medium inserted into the device is full, it becomes possible to replace it with a new storage medium and use it.

[0018] As control for storing the two pieces of information, for example, these two pieces of information may be written to a storage unit provided in the device itself. The control for causing the two pieces of information to be stored means, for example, writing these two pieces of information to a storage medium inserted into the device or a storage device connected to the device.

[0019] (1-3) The predetermined output conditions are either or both of the mobile body approaching the location where the event occurred and outputting information related to the peripheral area of the event occurrence including the location where the event occurred.

[0020] In this way, by setting the predetermined output condition, which is the condition for outputting information, to the mobile body approaching the location where the event occurred, it becomes possible to output information regarding an event that occurred in the past when approaching a location that occurred in the past during mobile body operation. Furthermore, by setting the output destination to, for example, a display unit or a speaker, the user can grasp that they are currently approaching a location where an event occurred in the past.

[0021] In addition, when outputting information related to the vicinity of the event occurrence including the location where the event occurred by outputting a predetermined output condition that is a condition for outputting such information, it is possible to output information related to past events. Also, outputting information related to the vicinity of the event occurrence including the location where the event occurred may mean outputting a surrounding map including the location where the event occurred. By doing so, for example, when a user using a car navigation function searches for a route, it is possible to output the locations of past event occurrences on the route together with the surrounding map.

[0022] (1-4) When the event occurs, by performing control for storing image data captured at any one or a combination of two or more of the time of the event occurrence, before the event occurrence, and after the occurrence, or control for storing the image data, the image data can be reproduced after the event occurrence.

[0023] By doing so, for example, since image data captured during a certain period before and after the event can be stored, the image data captured during a certain period before and after the event can be reproduced thereafter. Also, since there is a combination of two or more of these, combinations such as a certain period before the event occurrence and at the time of the event occurrence, or a certain period before the event occurrence and after the event occurrence may be used. Also, the image data may be a still image. Also, the image data may be a moving image. Also, the image data may include data other than still images and moving images. For example, the image data may include audio data.

[0024] Also, the image data may be generated by imaging with an imaging means. The imaging means may be connected to the device. Further, a device included in the same housing as the device may be a control target of the device. And the imaging means may be included in such a control target device.

[0025] Also, for the control for memorization or the control for causing memorization, it may be performed in the same manner as the writing of the two pieces of information described above in the item (1-2), for example.

[0026] (1-5) In addition to the two pieces of information, information indicating the existence of the stored image data or the image data to be stored is also output in association therewith.

[0027] At the output destination, it is possible to grasp which event has corresponding image data. Also, for example, by setting the output destination to a display unit or a speaker, the user who refers to the output information can grasp, in addition to where the event has occurred, whether "the image data corresponding to the event is currently in a state where it can be played back".

[0028] (1-6) When the event occurs, control is performed so that a function executed by the device controlled by the device, which is an obstacle to the imaging of the image data, is not executed.

[0029] By doing so, it becomes possible to capture image data in a state without obstacles. For example, if the device controlled by the device is a device capable of playing back TV video, and the function executed by the device controlled by the device, which is an obstacle to the imaging of the image data, is set as the audio output function of the TV. By doing so, at least after it is determined that an event has occurred during the imaging of the image data, the TV audio is stopped, and it is possible to prevent the TV audio from being mixed into the image data. Also, for example, if the device controlled by the device is a windshield wiper of an automobile, and the function executed by the device controlled by the device, which is an obstacle to the imaging of the image data, is set as the operation of the windshield wiper. By doing so, at least after it is determined that an event has occurred during the imaging of the image data, the operation of the windshield wiper is stopped, and it is possible to prevent the operating windshield wiper from being reflected in the image data.

[0030] (1-7) It is provided with a deletion function for deleting the image data that has been memorized or for making it memorize, even when the image data corresponding to a certain event becomes unplayable due to being deleted by the deletion function, it is characterized by outputting two pieces of information, namely information for specifying the location where the certain event occurred and information indicating which of the plurality of conditions provided step by step has been satisfied.

[0031] By doing so, even after deleting the image data, two pieces of information can be output. Also, these two pieces of information can be used at the output destination. Therefore, even in a situation where the image data has been deleted and cannot be played back, the user can confirm the location where the event occurred and the degree of impact at the time of the event occurrence.

[0032] (1-8) When the first condition among the plurality of conditions is satisfied, control for memorizing the image data or control for making it memorize the image data is performed, when the second condition among the plurality of conditions is satisfied, control for memorizing the image data or control for making it memorize the image data is not performed, but it is characterized by outputting two pieces of information, namely information for specifying the location where the certain event occurred and information indicating which of the plurality of conditions provided step by step has been satisfied.

[0033] In this way, for any of the plurality of conditions, even if it is satisfied, the image data may not be stored. As a result, for example, in a case where it is frequently determined that an event has occurred based on a minor impact, even if it is determined that an event has occurred based on a minor impact, the image data is not stored. Therefore, it is possible to prevent a situation where too much image data is generated and the capacity of the storage medium is quickly exhausted. For example, depending on the vehicle type, road conditions, driving habits, etc., in a case where it is frequently determined that an event has occurred at the most sensitive threshold, important recorded data will be overwritten every time recording is performed. Therefore, in such a case, for example, even if it is determined that an event has occurred at the most sensitive threshold, the image data may not be stored. Further, in this case, although the image data is not stored, two pieces of information are output, so that the user can confirm the location where the event occurred and the degree of impact at the time of the event occurrence.

[0034] (1-9) Control is performed to display a symbol for specifying the location where the event occurred, and control is performed to vary the display mode of the symbol according to whether or not the image data is stored.

[0035] By doing so, the information to be output can be visualized, and for example, a user who refers to this can grasp the content of the information. Specifically, a user who refers to the symbol can grasp not only the location where the event occurred but also whether image data is stored for which event. Here, what the symbol specifically is is arbitrary, but for example, it may be an icon displayed on a map. Thereby, since the user can compare and refer to the map and the location where the event occurred, it becomes possible to easily recognize where the event occurred.

[0036] Also, although it is arbitrary how to make the display mode of the symbol different, for example, an icon in a round shape may be used as a symbol for specifying the location where an event in which image data is stored has occurred, and an icon in a rectangular shape may be used as a symbol for specifying the location where an event in which image data is not stored has occurred. Also, the color of the symbol for specifying the location where an event has occurred and the symbol for specifying the location where an event in which image data is not stored may be made different. Also, both the shape and color of the icon may be made different between the symbol for specifying the location where an event has occurred and the symbol for specifying the location where an event in which image data is not stored.

[0037] (1-9-1) Control is performed to cause display such that the size of the symbol for specifying the location where an event in which the image data is stored has occurred is larger than the size of the symbol for specifying the location where an event in which the image data is not stored has occurred.

[0038] By doing so, the information to be output can be visualized, and for example, a user who refers to this can grasp the content of the information. Here, the symbol is the same as in the above (1-9), and for example, the symbol may be an icon displayed on a map.

[0039] Also, although it is arbitrary how to make the shape of the symbol different, for example, an icon in a round shape of a certain size may be used as a symbol for specifying the location where an event in which image data is stored has occurred, and an icon in a round shape smaller than this certain size may be used as a symbol for specifying the location where an event in which image data is not stored has occurred.

[0040] Also, by combining with the above (1-9), it is also possible to make both the size and the shape of the icon different.

[0041] In any case, the user who refers to this can grasp not only the location where the event occurred but also which event the image data is stored for.

[0042] (1-10) Control is performed to stop imaging of the image data during playback of the image data, and control to resume imaging of the image data after the playback of the image data ends is performed without requiring reception of an operation.

[0043] By doing so, it becomes possible to prevent a situation where the image data being played back is overwritten when it is determined that a new event has occurred during the playback of the image data.

[0044] Also, for example, in a case where numbers are assigned to each of the image data and they are managed in a list, and when it is determined that a new event has occurred during the playback of the image data, it becomes possible to prevent a situation where the number assigned to the new image data overlaps with the number assigned to the image data being played back. For example, when managing the currently playing recorded data as the latest image data, if new image data occurs, it becomes possible to prevent a situation where it becomes impossible to manage which data is the latest data after the playback ends.

[0045] Furthermore, after preventing such a situation, by resuming imaging of the image data without requiring reception of an operation, it becomes possible to resume recording even when the user forgets to perform an operation for starting recording. Also, it becomes possible to save the trouble of the user performing an operation.

[0046] (1-11) The device to be controlled by the device includes imaging means for imaging the image data. After installing the device to be controlled on the moving body, the incident part for making light enter the imaging means can be moved so that at least one of the incident position and the direction of the incident part can be adjusted.

[0047] By doing so, it becomes possible to adjust the incident position even after installing the device to be controlled on the moving body. As a result, the range to be imaged can be adjusted so as to correspond to the shape and installation position of the moving body, and it becomes possible to image image data within a desired range. It is also possible to use a device included in the same housing as the said device as the device to be controlled. And, the device to be controlled may include imaging means. The imaging means may be, for example, a camera, and the incident part may be, for example, a camera lens.

[0048] (1-12) Control is performed to display a symbol for specifying the location where the event occurred, and control is performed to vary the display mode of the symbol according to which of the plurality of conditions provided step by step is satisfied.

[0049] By doing so, the information to be output can be visualized, and for example, a user referring to this can grasp which event was determined to have occurred by satisfying which condition. Here, the symbol is the same as in the above (1-9) and (1-9-1), and for example, the symbol may be an icon displayed on a map.

[0050] Also, although it is arbitrary what color to use to vary the color of the symbol, for example, when it is determined that an event has occurred due to a minute impact, the event may be colored green. Also, for example, when it is determined that an event has occurred due to a large impact, the event may be colored red. Also, for example, when it is determined that an event has occurred due to an impact intermediate between these minute impacts and large impacts, the event may be colored yellow. Also, the size and shape of the icon may be varied according to the magnitude of the impact.

[0051] In addition, by combining this with the above (1-9) or (1-9-1), it is also possible to vary both the size and shape of the icon depending on whether image data is present or not.

[0052] In addition, when associating with the above-mentioned configurations (1-9) and (1-9-1), it is advisable to vary the way of making the icons different depending on the content. For example, it is advisable to vary the "shape" of the icon depending on whether image data exists or not, and the "color" of the icon depending on the magnitude of the impact. It is also advisable to vary the "color" of the icon depending on whether image data exists or not, and the "shape" of the icon depending on the magnitude of the impact.

[0053] (1-13) When a predetermined operation is received, control is performed to store information specifying a location where the predetermined operation is received separately from information specifying a location where the event occurs, or control is performed to store information specifying the location where the predetermined operation is received separately from information specifying a location where the event occurs, The present invention is characterized in that control is performed so that the symbol specifying the location where the operation was accepted is displayed in a different display mode from the symbol specifying the location where the event occurred.

[0054] This makes it possible to store (have stored) location information even when it is not determined that an event has occurred. In this way, the output information can be visualized, and therefore a user who refers to this can distinguish and understand the location where it is determined that an event has occurred and the location where an operation has been performed.

[0055] Here, the symbols are the same as those in (1-9), (1-9-1) and (12) described above, and the symbols may be icons displayed on a map, for example.

[0056] In addition, the colors used to differentiate the symbols are arbitrary, but for example, the symbols identifying the location where the operation was accepted may be in blue.

[0057] Also, by combining with the above-mentioned (1-9) or (1-9-1), it is also possible to further make both the size of the icon and the icon shape different according to the presence or absence of image data. Further, by combining with the above-mentioned (1-12), it is also possible to further make the color of the icon different according to which condition each event was determined to have occurred under.

[0058] Also, for the control for storage or the control for making it store, it may be performed in the same manner as the writing of the two pieces of information described above in the item (2), for example.

[0059] (1-14) The information to be output is further characterized in that it includes information for representing the order in which the event was determined to have occurred.

[0060] By doing so, at the output destination, it becomes possible to grasp which event is determined to be the most recently occurred event and which event is determined to be the event that occurred in the past.

[0061] For example, it may be overwritten and deleted from the image data of old events. In this case, by making the output destination of the information the display unit, the user can know which event data will soon disappear. Therefore, it becomes possible to preferentially reproduce from the data that is likely to disappear.

[0062] Also, it may be combined with the above-mentioned (1-9), (1-9-1), (1-12), or (1-13).

[0063] For example, in combination with the above-mentioned (1-9-1), it may be a circled number that displays numbers in time series for the icon.

[0064] (1-15) The measurement information that changes as the mobile body moves includes the measurement value by the acceleration sensor, and it is determined which condition among the plurality of conditions is satisfied based on whether the measurement value by the acceleration sensor exceeds any of the thresholds provided stepwise.

[0065] By doing so, not only can the user determine that the mobile body has simply collided with another mobile body or a fixed object, but also the degree of impact at the time of the collision.

[0066] (1-16) Even if the measurement information that changes as the mobile body moves becomes information that satisfies any one of the plurality of conditions provided stepwise, if it becomes information that satisfies the condition during a predetermined period including when the operation is received, it is not considered that the event has occurred or although it is determined that the event has occurred, control for outputting a warning indicating that the event has occurred is not performed.

[0067] The operation is an operation by the user, and there is a risk of erroneously determining that an event has occurred based on the impact when receiving this operation. However, by doing so, it is possible to prevent erroneously determining that an event has occurred when the event has not occurred.

[0068] Depending on the usage situation of the device, there may be a case where the measurement value by the acceleration sensor increases regardless of the occurrence of an event in a predetermined direction. For example, when the front surface of the device is a touch panel, when the user presses the touch panel, the measurement value by the acceleration sensor increases on the measurement axis corresponding to the direction from the front surface to the back surface of the device. Since this has nothing to do with the occurrence of an event, in such a case, it is advisable not to determine that an event has occurred.

[0069] Therefore, if it is within a predetermined period including when the operation is received, it is not considered that the event has occurred. This can prevent an incorrect determination that the event has occurred based on the impact associated with the operation even when the acceleration sensor measures the impact.

[0070] However, it is also conceivable that an event actually occurs before and after the operation. Therefore, instead of not determining that the event has occurred, it is better to determine that the event has occurred but not output a warning. This enables the processing performed in association with the occurrence of the event to be surely carried out. The processing performed in association with the occurrence of the event may be, for example, storage processing of image data. On the other hand, it is possible to prevent a situation where a warning is output even though an incorrect determination is made that the event has occurred because the acceleration sensor measures the impact associated with the operation.

[0071] (1-17) The device to be controlled by the device is provided with a first storage medium using unit and a second storage medium using unit, and controls the storage medium used by one of the storage medium using units to be usable by the other storage medium using unit.

[0072] By doing so, it becomes possible to effectively use the two storage medium using units.

[0073] For example, the device to be controlled has substrates that realize two functions, and each of these substrates may be able to use a storage medium conforming to the same standard. Thereby, it becomes possible to use the same storage medium in the mutual substrates.

[0074] For example, it is preferable to use a substrate that realizes the functions of a car navigation system and a substrate that realizes the functions of a drive recorder. For example, image data captured by the substrate that realizes the functions of the drive recorder can be played back by the capabilities of the substrate that realizes the functions of the car navigation system, or when the capacity of the storage medium used by one substrate is full, it becomes possible to use the other storage medium.

[0075] (1-18) When the event occurs, measurement information measured either at the time before the event occurs, after the event occurs, or in any combination of two or more of these is also output.

[0076] By doing so, the measurement information measured during a certain period before and after the event can be grasped at the output destination. Also, since there are combinations of two or more of these, it is preferable to use combinations such as a certain period between the time when the event occurs and a certain period before the event occurs, or a certain period between the time when the event occurs and a certain period after the event occurs.

[0077] For example, it is preferable that the measurement information is the moving speed of the moving body and the output destination is the display unit. By doing so, the user can prove that, for example, the speed was below the legal speed or that the vehicle was decelerating properly at the time when the event occurred. The moving speed of the moving body can be calculated, for example, by using the position information of GPS. Also, for example, it is also possible to obtain the moving speed of the moving body by using OBD (On-board diagnostics).

[0078] (1-19) A program causes a computer to function as the device described in (1) to (1-18) above.

[0079] All or at least part of the functions of the device described in (1-1) to (1-18) above can be realized by a computer.

[0080] When it is determined that the event has occurred when a predetermined number of the image data is stored or when a predetermined number of the image data has been stored, a part or all of the stored image data or the stored image data is deleted.

[0081] For example, the maximum number of image data that can be stored is determined based on the capacity of the storage medium, and a state in which the image data is stored (or has been stored) by a number close to this maximum number of image data that can be stored may be defined as a state in which a predetermined number of the image data is stored (or has been stored).

[0082] By doing so, the image data is deleted as it approaches the maximum number of image data that can be stored. Therefore, it is possible to prevent a situation where the maximum number of image data that can be stored is reached and the image data cannot be stored when the next event occurs.

[0083] (1-b) The threshold value can be set to different values for each measurement axis, and the threshold value of the measurement axis corresponding to the traveling direction of the moving body is higher than the threshold values of the other measurement axes.

[0084] By doing so, it is possible to use a threshold value according to the usage status of the device and prevent an event from being erroneously determined to have occurred when no event has occurred.

[0085] In this regard, depending on the usage situation of the device, there may be cases where the measured value by the acceleration sensor increases regardless of the occurrence of an event with respect to a predetermined direction. For example, when the front surface of the device is a touch panel, when the user presses the touch panel, the measured value by the acceleration sensor increases on the measurement axis corresponding to the direction from the front surface to the back surface of the device. Since this has nothing to do with the occurrence of an event, it is preferable not to determine that an event has occurred in such cases. Therefore, for example, the threshold value may be increased on the measurement axis corresponding to the direction from the front surface to the back surface of the device. As a result, it becomes possible not to determine that an event has occurred even if a certain amount of impact is detected.

[0086] Also, for example, when installing the device in an automobile, the front surface of the device provided with the touch panel faces the front of the user, and the back surface of the device faces the traveling direction of the automobile. Therefore, for example, when the traveling direction of the moving body is regarded as the front, the measurement axis corresponding to the traveling direction of the moving body is set as the X direction (front and back), the measurement axis corresponding to the left and right of the moving body when the traveling direction of the moving body is regarded as the front is set as the Y direction (left and right), the measurement axis corresponding to the up and down of the moving body when the traveling direction of the moving body is regarded as the front is set as the Z direction (left and right), and it is preferable to increase the threshold value for the measurement axis in the X direction (front and back).

[0087] (1-c) When it is determined that the event has occurred, control is performed for the notification unit to light up, and the notification unit is installed at a location where the lighting by the notification unit is reflected on the windshield of the moving body.

[0088] By doing so, it is possible to see the lighting or blinking reflected on the windshield, and the user can easily recognize that an event has occurred. For example, when driving a moving body at night, it is preferable to make the notification unit light up.

[0089] (1-d) When the moving body is located near the place where the event has occurred, at least a part of the functions executed by the device to be controlled by the device is restricted.

[0090] By doing so, at the location where the previous event occurred, the user can concentrate on driving the moving body.

[0091] In many cases, it is desirable to drive with concentration at the location where an event occurred in the past. For example, assume that there is a location where it is determined that an event occurred because the vehicle braked suddenly last time. In this case, near this location, a part of the function of the device to be controlled is restricted. For example, as described in (6) above, the device to be controlled is a device capable of playing back TV images, and a function that is a function executed by the device to be controlled and that obstructs the imaging of the image data may be set as the audio output function of the TV. By doing so, near the location where the vehicle braked suddenly before, the output of the TV audio that interferes with driving can be stopped, and the user can concentrate on driving the moving body.

[0092] (2-1) A first power consumption unit that performs control for outputting information to the user and / or control for receiving an operation from the user, and a second power consumption unit that performs control different from that of the first power consumption unit. When a voltage is applied to the first power consumption unit and the second power consumption unit simultaneously, if the rated current of the external power supply is exceeded, when power supply from the external power supply is started, a first application for applying a voltage to the first power consumption unit is performed, and after the first application, a second application for applying a voltage to the second power consumption unit is performed.

[0093] In this way, by applying voltages in sequence to flow currents step by step, the maximum value of the total value of the required currents can be reduced. As a result, it becomes possible to start the device even with a low-current power supply. Also, since the first power consumption unit that performs control for outputting information to the user and / or control for receiving an operation from the user is the first to be the object of application, the user can quickly start referring to information and performing operations.

[0094] Also, for example, it is advisable to supply power from the outside using a charger for a mobile body. By doing so, a low-current charger can be used, and costs can be reduced. In addition, since the cable of the low-current charger is thin, it becomes easier for the user to handle.

[0095] (2-2) The second power consumption unit includes a part that needs to receive power supply from a capacitor and perform a predetermined operation end process when the power supply is cut off. Before performing the second application, a first-2 application for applying a voltage to the capacitor is performed.

[0096] By doing so, power supply to the capacitor is performed before starting the second power consumption unit, and it is possible to store in the capacitor the charges required for the second power consumption unit to perform a predetermined operation end process. Therefore, the necessary predetermined operation end process can be surely executed.

[0097] The operation end process may be, for example, a process of storing data processed by the second power consumption unit in a storage medium. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the files being processed from being damaged.

[0098] (2-3) The device includes a secondary battery for continuing driving when removed from the external power supply, and a third application for applying a voltage to the secondary battery is performed after the second application.

[0099] At the beginning of the application to the second power consumption unit, a large amount of current is still being consumed. Therefore, if current is passed through the secondary battery at this stage, the rated current of the external power supply will be exceeded.

[0100] Therefore, by not performing the third application immediately in this way, it is possible to prevent exceeding the rated current of the external power supply.

[0101] For example, when applying the voltage after waiting for the voltage of the capacitor to rise, it becomes possible to start the application at an appropriate timing when the voltage of the capacitor has risen. The capacitor may be a supercapacitor.

[0102] (2-4) The time required for the device to exhibit a predetermined function by the first power consumption unit to which the voltage is applied is longer than the time required for the device to exhibit a predetermined function by the second power consumption unit to which the voltage is applied.

[0103] When providing various functions to the user, for the power consumption unit that takes time to exhibit the function, the voltage should be applied earlier than the power consumption unit that does not take relatively long time to exhibit the function. Therefore, in this way, the voltage is applied to the first power consumption unit, which takes a relatively long time to exhibit a predetermined function, earlier than the second power consumption unit. As a result, the user can use the function exhibited by the first power consumption unit earlier. As described in the above (2-1) column, since the control for outputting information to the user and / or the control for receiving operations from the user is performed by the first power consumption unit, by making the first power consumption unit the target of the application first, the user can quickly start referring to information and performing operations.

[0104] (2-5) The device exhibits a map display function by the first power consumption unit, and the device exhibits a drive recorder function by the second power consumption unit, and the information output in relation to the drive recorder function is displayed on the map.

[0105] Also, since the application is performed earlier on the first power consumption unit, it becomes possible to quickly activate the map display function. It is considered that the user of the moving body often starts driving after checking the map. Also, if the driving has not started yet, the necessity of operating the drive recorder is lower than during driving. Therefore, for example, instead of activating the drive recorder function earlier, it is preferable to activate the drive recorder function after the map display function is activated. By doing so, it becomes possible to set the activation order suitable for the usage situation of the user.

[0106] (2-6) Control is performed to provide route guidance to a location specified by the position information acquired in relation to the drive recorder function.

[0107] By doing so, the user receives route guidance to a location related to the drive recorder function. For example, it becomes possible to easily revisit a location where an accident occurred in the past, a location where events frequently occur, or a location where the user manually recorded.

[0108] (2-7) Control is performed to continue the route guidance even when the map is not being displayed.

[0109] For example, even when the map is not being displayed, that is, when the real-time video or TV video captured by the camera is being displayed, it is preferable to continue the route guidance by voice output.

[0110] (2-8) Control is performed such that the second application is started if the voltage of the capacitor exceeds a first predetermined voltage, and control is performed such that the second power consumption unit can exhibit a predetermined function if the voltage of the capacitor exceeds a second predetermined voltage.

[0111] Even if the start-up process of the second power consumption unit is completed, if the second power consumption unit immediately executes a predetermined function, it is possible that the charge stored in the capacitor is insufficient. Therefore, by doing this, the start-up process is started when the voltage required for start-up is reached, and the execution of the predetermined function is started only after the voltage at which the predetermined function can be executed is reached. This makes it possible to prevent the predetermined function from being executed even though the charge stored in the capacitor is insufficient. The predetermined function may be, for example, a drive recorder function.

[0112] (2-9) The method is characterized in that the second power consumption unit controls the third application when the second power consumption unit becomes capable of executing the predetermined function.

[0113] Immediately after the application of power to the second power consumption unit begins, the charge stored in the capacitor is still insufficient and a large amount of current is consumed. Therefore, if current is passed to another device, the secondary battery, at this stage, the maximum total current value will exceed expectations.

[0114] This allows current to flow to the secondary battery, which is another device, only after the specified function can be executed, i.e., when the capacitor has enough charge stored in it, and therefore makes it possible to prevent the maximum total current value from exceeding the rated current of the power supply source.

[0115] (2-10) The first power consumption unit performs control to output a signal indicating that the second power consumption unit is not in a state capable of performing the specified function during any or all of the period from when power supply from the external power source starts to when the third application starts.

[0116] As described in the column of (2-1) above, it is preferable to first activate the first power consumption unit for outputting information to the user. Therefore, first, a current is passed through the first power consumption unit. By doing so, the first power consumption unit can output that a predetermined function by the second power consumption unit cannot be used yet. For example, it is advisable to output a display such as "The function of the current drive recorder cannot be used" on the display unit. As a result, the user can recognize that the power supply has started properly and that the predetermined function by the second power consumption unit is in the process of being activated.

[0117] (2-11) When the supply of power from the external source is interrupted, it is characterized in that control is performed to stop a predetermined function operating on the second control unit.

[0118] Thereby, when the supply of power from the external source is interrupted, the power consumption can be reduced. For example, when removed from the charger of a mobile body, the function as a drive recorder becomes unnecessary. Therefore, by doing so, unnecessary functions can be stopped and the consumption of the secondary battery can be reduced.

[0119] (2-12) It is characterized in that when the device is receiving power supply from the predetermined external power source, both the function operating on the first power consumption unit and the function operating on the second power consumption unit are stopped.

[0120] By doing so, the power consumption can be reduced and it becomes possible to efficiently charge the secondary battery.

[0121] For example, when receiving power supply from a device other than the mobile body, it is considered to be in a connected state to a terminal compliant with the USB (Universal Serial Bus) standard of a personal computer or a power outlet, which is not being used in the mobile body. In this case, in addition to the function as a drive recorder, a map display function becomes unnecessary. Therefore, by doing so, unnecessary functions can be stopped, and it becomes possible to reduce the consumption of the secondary battery.

[0122] (2-13) A program causes a computer to function as the device described in (2-1) to (2-13) above.

[0123] All or at least part of the functions of the device described in (2-1) to (2-13) above can be realized by a computer.

[0124] (2-a) A device characterized in that when power supply from the external power source is interrupted, the secondary battery is controlled to apply a voltage to the first power consumption unit. When interrupted, for example, when removed from the mobile body charger, the function as a drive recorder becomes unnecessary. Therefore, instead of the second power consumption unit that realizes the function of the drive recorder, a voltage is applied from the secondary battery to the first power consumption unit that realizes the map display function. By doing so, it becomes possible to use the map display function immediately even when the supply of external power is interrupted. Also, the device may be made portable so that the user can carry it around and use it.

Advantages of the Invention

[0125] According to the present invention, it becomes possible to use functions implemented in separate devices in cooperation.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0126]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

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Figure 10

Figure 11

Figure 12

Figure 13

Figure 14

Figure 15

Figure 16

Figure 17

Figure 18

Figure 19

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0127] Next, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0128] <Function block> First, with reference to FIG. 1, the configuration of the integrated device 1000 according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the function blocks included in the integrated device 1000.

[0129] Referring to FIG. 1, the integrated device 1000 includes a first control unit 100, a touch panel 110, a speaker 120, a notification LED 130, a button 140, a TV tuner 150, a GPS sensor 160, an acceleration sensor 170, a first storage unit 180, a main storage unit 190, a second control unit 200, a camera 210, a microphone 220, a second storage unit 230, a power supply unit 310, and a USB terminal 320.

[0130] Here, the first control unit 100 is a control unit that exclusively realizes the function as a car navigation device. On the other hand, the second control unit 200 is a control unit that exclusively realizes the function as a drive recorder. And the first control unit 100 and the second control unit 200 cooperate to realize the control of the integrated device 1000. That is, the integrated device 1000 is a device having both the function as a car navigation device and the function as a drive recorder. In the following description, it is assumed that the integrated device 1000 is installed and used on the dashboard of an automobile.

[0131] Note that an automobile corresponds to the "mobile body" of the present invention. Also, the integrated device 1000 corresponds to part or all of the "device" of the present invention and also corresponds to part or all of the "device to be controlled by the device" of the present invention. Further, the camera 210 corresponds to the "imaging means" of the present invention. Furthermore, the first storage unit 180 corresponds to the "first storage medium usage unit" of the present invention. Still further, the second storage unit 230 corresponds to the "second storage medium usage unit" of the present invention.

[0132] Next, the functions of these respective parts will be described in more detail.

[0133] The first control unit 100 controls, among other things, the touch panel 110, the speaker 120, the notification LED 130, the button 140, the TV tuner 150, the GPS sensor 160, the acceleration sensor 170, the first storage unit 180, and the main storage unit 190.

[0134] Specifically, the first control unit 100 inputs the content of the operation received by the touch panel 110. Also, the first control unit 100 outputs the image data to be displayed to the touch panel 110. Further, the first control unit 100 outputs sounds such as music and voices to be output to the speaker 120. Still further, the first control unit 100 notifies the user by lighting or blinking the notification LED 130 (Light Emitting Diode).

[0135] Furthermore, the first control unit 100 controls the TV tuner 150 according to the operation received by the touch panel 110.

[0136] Furthermore, the first control unit 100 inputs the position information measured by the GPS sensor 160. Still further, the first control unit 100 inputs the acceleration measured by the acceleration sensor 170.

[0137] Furthermore, the first control unit 100 writes information to the first storage unit 180. Still further, the first control unit 100 reads information from the first storage unit 180.

[0138] Furthermore, the first control unit 100 writes information to the main memory unit 190. Furthermore, the first control unit 100 reads information from the main memory unit 190.

[0139] Furthermore, the first control unit 100 communicates with the second control unit 200 via a communication line or the like mounted on the substrate.

[0140] Furthermore, the first control unit 100 communicates with an external device connected via the USB terminal 320.

[0141] The touch panel 110 receives an operation when the screen is pressed by the user, and outputs the content of the received operation to the first control unit 100. Here, the content of the operation is information specifying at which position on the screen of the touch panel 110 the press was received. Further, the touch panel 110 displays the image data input from the first control unit 100 on the screen. Furthermore, the touch panel 110 displays the image data input from the television tuner 150 on the screen.

[0142] The speaker 120 outputs sounds such as music and voice input from the first control unit 100.

[0143] The notification LED 130 lights up or blinks based on the control of the first control unit 100.

[0144] The button 140 is a physical button 140 provided on the housing of the integrated device 1000, and receives the user's operation.

[0145] Here, when the integrated device 1000 is installed and used in an automobile as described above, each of the touch panel 110, the speaker 120, and the notification LED 130 is arranged at a position where the user can detect the outputs of the touch panel 110, the speaker 120, and the notification LED 130. Further, the touch panel 110 and the button 140 are arranged at positions where the user can operate them.

[0146] The TV tuner 150 receives a TV signal, converts the received TV signal into image data in a predetermined format, and outputs it to the touch panel 110. In the following description, the image data converted by this TV tuner 150 is referred to as "TV video".

[0147] The GPS sensor 160 uses GPS to measure the current position of the integrated device 1000 and outputs the measured position information to the first control unit 100. Here, the position information is realized, for example, by coordinate information conforming to the GPS standard.

[0148] The acceleration sensor 170 measures acceleration and inputs the measured acceleration to the first control unit 100. Note that the acceleration sensor 170 may also be called a "G sensor".

[0149] The first storage unit 180 is a part where a removable storage medium is inserted by the user. In the first storage unit 180, for example, a storage medium storing a music file in the MP3 (MPEG-1 Audio Layer-3) format or TV video written by the first control unit 100 is inserted. Then, under the control of the first control unit 100, these music files and TV videos are read from the storage medium and output from the speaker 120 and the touch panel 110.

[0150] Information for performing car navigation is stored in the main storage unit 190. Specifically, map information, information about certain targets, information for identifying the type of road, facility information, address information, etc. are stored. Also, software for realizing the control by the first control unit 100 is stored in the main storage unit 190.

[0151] After the integrated device 1000 is shipped, the software in the main memory unit 190 can also be updated using the latest data of the updated software and the latest data about the target object, etc. For example, a storage medium storing the latest data is inserted into the first storage unit 180, and the first storage unit 180 reads additional data from this storage medium to update the software in the main memory unit 190. Here, the main memory unit 190 is realized by, for example, a flash memory.

[0152] Also, when the integrated device 1000 is installed and used in an automobile as described above, the current position measured by the GPS sensor 160 represents the current position of the automobile, and the acceleration measured by the acceleration sensor 170 represents the acceleration of the automobile. Then, the first control unit 100 creates a navigation map including the current position of the automobile by comparing the current position measured by the GPS sensor 160 with the map information and the like stored in the storage unit, and displays this navigation map on the touch panel 110. Also, the touch panel 110, the speaker 120, and the notification LED 130 are used to output predetermined information, warnings, and messages. By the first control unit 100 performing these processes, a car navigation function is realized.

[0153] On the other hand, the second control unit 200 controls, among other things described above, the camera 210, the microphone 220, and the second storage unit 230.

[0154] Then, the second control unit 200 inputs the video signal captured by the camera 210 and the acoustic signal collected by the microphone 220, converts the input video signal and acoustic signal into image data in a predetermined format, and stores it in the storage unit. In the following description, the image data converted by this second control unit 200 is referred to as "real-time video".

[0155] Also, the second control unit 200 outputs the real-time video to the first control unit 100. The output real-time video is displayed on the touch panel 110.

[0156] The camera 210 includes an incident part 211.

[0157] The light incident portion 211 is the portion where light is incident. The light incident on the light incident portion 211 is converted into a video signal and output to the second control unit 200.

[0158] Furthermore, the microphone 220 performs sound collection. The sound collected by the microphone 220 is converted into an acoustic signal and output to the second control unit 200.

[0159] Here, when the integrated device 1000 is installed in an automobile and used, the light incident on the light incident portion 211 and the sound collected by the microphone 220 are objects to be imaged as a drive recorder. Here, the objects to be imaged as a drive recorder are, for example, the scenery in the traveling direction imaged from inside the automobile through the windshield and the surrounding sounds. Then, the second control unit 200 realizes the function as a drive recorder by storing the objects to be imaged as such a drive recorder in the second storage unit 230 in a predetermined video format.

[0160] The power supply unit 310 supplies power to each functional block included in the integrated device 1000. The supply of power to the power supply unit 310 is performed from an external device via the USB terminal 320. In FIG. 1, the wiring for the power supply unit 310 to supply power to each functional block is omitted from the illustration.

[0161] The USB terminal 320 is a terminal compliant with the USB standard. The USB terminal 320 is connected to an external device via a cable compliant with the USB standard. And power is supplied from the external device via the cable. Also, it is possible for the first control unit 100 and the external device to communicate with each other via the cable.

[0162] Here, when the integrated device 1000 is installed in an automobile and used, a cable connected to the car charger of the automobile is connected to the USB terminal 320. And the integrated device 1000 is supplied with power from the car charger of the automobile.

[0163] The functional blocks of the present embodiment have been described above.

[0164] Note that the first control unit 100 and the second control unit 200 described above are each realized by an arithmetic device such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a RAM (Random Access Memory), a ROM (read only memory), or the like. Then, the CPU reads the software stored in the ROM and the main storage unit 190 and expands it in the RAM, and performs arithmetic processing to realize the control by the first control unit 100 and the second control unit 200. <Processing of the Present Embodiment> Next, each of the processes performed by the present embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. <Recording of Real-Time Video> First, the recording of real-time video performed under the control of the second control unit 200 will be described with reference to FIG. 2. In the present embodiment, there are three recording methods: continuous recording, manual recording, and event recording.

[0165] First, as a premise, the acquisition of real-time video starts with the start of the engine of the automobile in which the integrated device 1000 is installed. Then, the acquisition of real-time video ends when the engine of the automobile is stopped.

[0166] Here, whether the engine of the automobile is operating or not may be determined according to, for example, whether there is power supply from the automobile via the USB terminal 320. That is, if the power supply starts, the acquisition of real-time video is started, and if the power supply ends, the acquisition of real-time video is ended.

[0167] Next, continuous recording will be described. The real-time video is stored in the second storage unit 230 from the start of the acquisition of the real-time video until the end of the acquisition of the real-time video. That is, continuous recording is always performed while the engine of the automobile is operating. The recorded real-time video is divided into a plurality of files in units of a predetermined length and stored in the second storage unit 230. The unit of the predetermined length is arbitrary, but for example, it may be one file in units of 30 seconds. In the following description, this file is referred to as a "video file".

[0168] As shown in "Until the capacity of the second storage unit 230 is full from startup" in the upper left of FIG. 2, the storage of video files continues until the capacity of the second storage unit 230, which is the capacity allocated for continuous recording, becomes full. The capacity allocated for continuous recording is arbitrary, but for example, it may be a capacity that can record video files corresponding to a length of 20 minutes.

[0169] Also, the storage of video files continues even after the capacity of the second storage unit 230, which is the capacity allocated for continuous recording, becomes full. However, with this state, there is not enough capacity and new video files cannot be stored. Therefore, when storing new video files, it is advisable to delete the oldest video file.

[0170] Next, manual recording will be described. When the user presses the button 140, manual recording is executed. Then, the video file including the time point when the pressing of the button 140 is detected and the video file immediately before that video file are protected. That is, two video files are protected in response to a single press. Being protected here means that the protected video file is excluded from the target of deletion of the oldest video file by continuous recording.

[0171] Then, the two protected video files, the date and time when the two video files were captured, and the position information identifying the positions where the two video files were captured are associated and stored in the second storage unit 230 as a set. Also, although an identification code needs to be further added to the set to identify this set, the date and time when the two video files were captured should not be used merely for checking the date and time, but also used as an identification code. Also, as the position information, the coordinate information measured by the GPS sensor 160 is requested from the first control unit 100, and the coordinate information transmitted from the first control unit 100 in response to the request should be used.

[0172] Furthermore, the second control unit 200 notifies the first control unit 100 that manual recording has occurred. Specifically, the fact that manual recording has occurred, the date and time when the manual recording was performed, and the position information identifying the position where the manual recording was performed are associated and transmitted to the first control unit 100 as a set. Then, the first control unit 100 stores the received information as this set in the main storage unit 190.

[0173] The number of items that can be protected may be arbitrarily determined according to the capacity of the second storage unit 230. For example, it may be set to the capacity for up to 10 cases, that is, 20 video files. When it is detected that the user presses the button 140 and a new manual recording is executed while 20 video files are being protected, and when a new event recording described later is executed, the two oldest video files are removed from the protection target and deleted. This makes it possible to target new video files for protection.

[0174] Next, event recording will be described. When the first control unit 100 determines that an event has occurred, event recording is executed. The criteria by which the first control unit 100 determines that an event has occurred will be described after the description of this event recording.

[0175] When an event occurs, the video file including the time point when the event occurred and the video file immediately before that video file are protected. That is, two video files are protected in response to a single event occurrence.

[0176] Then, the two protected video files, the date and time when the two video files were captured, and the position information identifying the positions where the two video files were captured are associated and stored as a set in the second storage unit 230. Also, similar to manual recording, the date and time when the two video files were captured may also be used as an identification code. Furthermore, regarding the position information, similar to manual recording, the coordinate information transmitted from the first control unit 100 may be used. Also, similar to manual recording, as the position information, the coordinate information transmitted from the first control unit 100 may be used.

[0177] Similar to manual recording, the number of items that can be protected may be arbitrarily determined according to the capacity of the second storage unit 230. For example, when added to the number of manual recordings, it may be set to a maximum of 10 events, that is, the capacity for 20 video files. Similar to manual recording, when recording is further executed while 20 video files are being protected, the two oldest video files may be removed from the protection target and deleted.

[0178] The video files recorded in this way are made playable according to the user's operation. For example, as shown in FIG. 3, the date and time when the protected video file was captured is used as an identifier and listed on the touch panel 110. Then, the user's selection is received on the touch panel 110, and the video file corresponding to the selection is played on the touch panel 110. Note that the user can distinguish between manual recording and event recording by attaching an icon such as i1 in FIG. 3 for manual recording and an icon such as i2 in FIG. 3 with a different shape for event recording.

[0179] <Judgment of Event Occurrence> In this embodiment, the first control unit 100 determines that an event has occurred.

[0180] To determine the occurrence of this event, the acceleration measured by the acceleration sensor 170, which is measurement information that changes as the vehicle moves, and a threshold value are used. Then, when the measured acceleration exceeds the threshold value, it is determined that an event has occurred. By doing so, it can be determined that the vehicle has collided with another moving object or installation, or that there has been a sudden stop, sudden acceleration, or sudden turn based on the driving of the user operating the vehicle, that is, an event has occurred.

[0181] Also, not just one threshold value is provided, but a plurality of threshold values are provided step by step. And by also determining which of the stepwise provided threshold values the measured value of the acceleration sensor 170 has exceeded, it is possible to determine not only that the vehicle has collided with another moving object or installation, but also the degree of impact at the time of the collision.

[0182] For example, the threshold value of the most sensitive stage is set to 0.5G, and it becomes less sensitive step by step from there. That is, the threshold value of the second least sensitive stage is 0.8G, the threshold value of the intermediate stage is 1.1G, the threshold value of the second least sensitive stage is 1.4G, and the threshold value of the least sensitive stage is 1.7G. For example, it is set in 5 steps step by step.

[0183] And if the measured value of the acceleration sensor 170 is less than 0.5G, for example, it is not determined that an event has occurred. Also, if the measured value of the acceleration sensor 170 is 0.9G, for example, since it has exceeded the threshold value of the second least sensitive stage, it is determined that an event of level 2 has occurred. Also, for example, if the measured value of the acceleration sensor 170 is 1.9G, for example, since it has exceeded the threshold value of the least sensitive stage, it is determined that an event of level 5 has occurred. Thus, the higher the measured value of the acceleration sensor 170, the higher level event is determined to have occurred. In other words, the higher the level of the event, the greater the impact detected.

[0184] When it is determined that an event has occurred, the first control unit 100 associates and stores, as a set, the position information for identifying the position where the event has occurred, the level of the event that has occurred, and the date and time when the event has occurred, in the main memory unit 190. Also, in the same manner as when the second control unit 200 performs manual recording or event recording, the date and time when the event has occurred may also be used as an identification code for identifying each event.

[0185] Furthermore, when it is determined that an event has occurred, the first control unit 100 notifies the user of the occurrence of the event by lighting or blinking the notification LED 130. Also, the first control unit 100 simultaneously pops up and displays a message such as "***** An event has occurred" on the touch panel 110.

[0186] For example, when using the navigation function, a message is popped up and displayed on the map. An example of the display of this message is shown in FIG. 4.

[0187] First, as shown in FIG. 4, a map for operation guidance is displayed on the entire touch panel 110. And i3 shown in FIG. 4 is a message that is popped up and displayed to indicate the occurrence of an event. In the "*****" of this message, the level of the event that has occurred is displayed. For example, it may be displayed as "An event with level 3 has occurred". Also, such a message is urgent and has a high importance to convey to the user. Therefore, when using a function other than the navigation function, for example, even when playing back a TV video, a message may be popped up and displayed on the TV video.

[0188] Also, in the area of i4 shown in FIG. 4, an area for displaying various types of information used for operation guidance is provided. In the example shown in FIG. 4, in this area, from the top, for example, the current time acquired from GPS satellites, the reception strength and azimuth of the GPS signal, a value representing the scale of the map, and the shortcut button 140 are arranged.

[0189] Here, the shortcut button 140 is a button 140 that switches the screen each time it is pressed. Since the screen switching, that is, the screen transition, will be described later, a detailed explanation is omitted here.

[0190] In addition, on i5 shown in FIG. 4, the current traveling speed of the automobile in which the integrated device 1000 is installed is displayed.

[0191] In addition, on i6 shown in FIG. 4, the address, road name, latitude and longitude of the location where the automobile in which the integrated device 1000 is installed is currently traveling are displayed. Also, it is preferable that a menu screen is displayed when i6 shown in FIG. 4 is pressed.

[0192] In addition, when it is determined that an event has occurred as described above, event recording is performed. <Display method> Next, the display method in the present embodiment will be described. In the present embodiment, the position where event recording was performed because an event occurred, and the position where manual recording was performed according to the user's operation are displayed as, for example, icons on the operation guidance map displayed by the car navigation system function. In the following description, this icon is referred to as an "event icon".

[0193] Then, when the user presses such an event icon on the touch panel 110, the corresponding image data is reproduced. Here, the corresponding image data is captured by the function of the drive recorder. That is, in the present embodiment, the car navigation function and the drive recorder function are linked.

[0194] The event icon may be monochromatic, but it is preferable to use different colors according to, for example, the level of the event. By doing so, the user who refers to the event icon can not only know the position where the event occurred, but also know that there were "events of what level".

[0195] Furthermore, it is preferable to be able to distinguish whether it is the position where event recording was performed because an event occurred, or the position where manual recording was performed according to the user's operation. Therefore, the color of the event icon representing the position where manual recording was performed is set to a color different from the color of the event icon representing the position where event recording was performed. Also, for example, colors may be assigned according to signal signs so that the user can recognize them intuitively.

[0196] For example, the event icon for a level 1 event, which is an event based on a minor impact, is green. Also, the event icon for a level 2 event, which is an event based on a medium-level impact, is yellow. Furthermore, the event icon for a level 5 event, which is an event based on a large impact, is red. Also, the event icon corresponding to manual recording is blue.

[0197] The following [Table 1] shows an example of this color assignment. In the following description, the explanation will be based on this assignment.

[0198]

Table 1

[0199] Then, the event icons with colors assigned in this way are overlaid on the map for operation guidance as shown in Fig. 5 and displayed on the touch panel 110.

[0200] Furthermore, as described above with reference to Fig. 2, in this embodiment, an upper limit on the number of recordable cases is determined for each of manual recording and event recording. For example, the total number of video files for manual recording and event recording is 20, that is, the upper limit is 10 in total. And when a new recording is made, even if the user has not viewed it yet, the oldest one will be deleted. Therefore, it is preferable to let the user know which old ones will soon be deleted. And it is preferable to prompt the user to view them before deletion.

[0201] In addition, it is preferable to enable the user to understand which event icon corresponds to the event recording that occurred just now, which event icon corresponds to the manual recording performed, for example, three times ago, and so on.

[0202] Therefore, rather than simply displaying each event icon in a color-coded manner, for example, the event icon is a circled number including a number along the time series. As a result, the user can grasp all of which event icon is new, which is old, and which one it was several times ago.

[0203] To display these event icons, the first control unit 100 uses the map information stored in the main storage unit 190. Also, information received from the second control unit 200 when a manual recording occurs and stored in the main storage unit 190, which is "a set of the fact that a manual recording has occurred, the date and time when the manual recording was performed, and the position information specifying the position where the manual recording was performed" is used. Furthermore, information stored in the main storage unit 190 when an event occurs, which is "a set of the position information for specifying the position where the event occurred, the level of the event that occurred, and the date and time when the event occurred" is used.

[0204] A specific example of displaying event icons with these contents is shown in FIG. 5.

[0205] Referring to FIG. 5, first, a map for route guidance is displayed on the touch panel 110. And it can be seen that i8 on the map is an event icon that is blue and represents the position where a manual recording was performed. Also, since the number is 1, it can be seen that it represents the position where the most recent manual recording was performed.

[0206] Also, i9 on the map is yellow and is an event icon indicating the position where a level 3 event recording was performed. Also, since its number is 2, it can be seen that it represents the position of the event recording performed immediately before the manual event performed at i8 on the map.

[0207] Furthermore, i10 on the map is red and is an event icon indicating the position where a level 5 event recording was performed. Also, since its number is 3, it can be seen that it represents the position of the event recording performed immediately before the event recording corresponding to i9 on the map.

[0208] Furthermore, i11 on the map is green and is an event icon indicating the position where a level 1 event recording was performed. Also, since its number is 4, it can be seen that it represents the position of the event recording performed immediately before the event recording corresponding to i10 on the map.

[0209] Furthermore, i12 on the map is an event icon representing the current position and traveling direction of the vehicle in which the integrated device 1000 is installed.

[0210] A user referring to the information displayed in FIG. 5 can make judgments such as, for example, "Since I am approaching the place where a level 5 event occurred before, I will avoid driving in a way that an event will occur this time." or "If I proceed like this, I will pass the place where a manual recording was made before." That is, it becomes possible to present useful information to the user.

[0211] Also, when the user presses the event icon, the video file corresponding to the event icon is played.

[0212] Specifically, when any event icon is pressed, as shown in i13 of FIG. 6, a list of event icons including the pressed event icon is displayed, for example, in the right half of the touch panel 110. For this purpose, as shown in i14 of FIG. 6, the map is displayed, for example, in the left half.

[0213] Then, based on where on the touch panel 110 the first control unit 100 is pressed, the first control unit 100 determines which event icon in the event list the user has pressed. Then, the date and time when the event recording corresponding to the pressed event icon was performed, or the date and time when the manual recording corresponding to the pressed event icon was performed, is read from the main storage unit 190. Then, the read date and time is transmitted to the second control unit 200.

[0214] The second control unit 200 searches the second storage unit 230 using the received date and time as a search key. Then, the video file corresponding to the date and time is read out. Here, since two video files are grouped for each manual recording and each event recording, the two grouped video files are read out. Then, the second control unit 200 decodes the two read video files into image data. Then, the image data is transmitted to the first control unit 100.

[0215] The first control unit 100 performs playback by outputting the received image data to the touch panel 110. By referring to the played-back image data, the user can confirm the state at the time of manual recording or event recording.

[0216] Next, a history icon, which is an icon separate from the event icon, will be described. As described above, since there is an upper limit to the number of video files that can be protected for manual recording and event recording, for example, when more than 10 files are exceeded, the video files are deleted in order from the oldest. Therefore, the event icons corresponding to the deleted video files will also be deleted.

[0217] Here, the reason for deleting the video file is to consider the capacity of the second storage unit 230. If possible, it is preferable to display information about manual recordings and event recordings older than 10 on the map.

[0218] In this regard, the data size such as the information on the occurrence positions of manual recordings and event recordings stored in the main storage unit 190 is small compared to the data size of the video file.

[0219] Therefore, these pieces of information are left stored in the main storage unit 190 without being deleted. Then, using these pieces of information, icons representing the occurrence positions of manual recordings and event recordings and the level of event recordings are displayed on the map. In the following description, in order to distinguish such icons from event icons, they are called "history icons".

[0220] Note that the amount of data required to display the history icons is small as described above. However, if the history icons are to be displayed even for past manual recordings and event recordings, a very large number of icons will be displayed on the screen, which will interfere with the navigation guidance.

[0221] Therefore, an upper limit is set on the number of icons to be displayed. For example, a total of 500 icons are set, including 10 event icons and 490 history icons.

[0222] Also, it is necessary to distinguish between history icons and event icons. For this purpose, for example, the shapes and sizes of the history icons and the event icons are made different. For example, the shapes are made different, such as round and rectangular. Or, although both are the same round shape, the event icon is larger and the history icon is smaller, so that the sizes are made different. Also, in any case, the shapes and sizes are made such that the colors of each history icon can be distinguished. In the following description, the history icons are described as being displayed in a diamond shape.

[0223] Note that the information used to display the history icon is specifically the information received from the second control unit 200 when manual recording occurs and stored in the main memory unit 190, which is "a combination of the fact that manual recording has occurred, the date and time when the manual recording was performed, and the position information specifying the position where the manual recording was performed". Furthermore, the information stored in the main memory unit 190 when an event occurs, which is "a combination of the position information for specifying the position where the event occurred, the level of the event that occurred, and the date and time when the event occurred", is used.

[0224] A specific example of displaying an event icon with this content is shown in FIG. 7. The specific example in FIG. 7 is one in which the video file corresponding to the event icon shown in the specific example of FIG. 5 has become old and has been deleted, and has been replaced with a history icon.

[0225] Referring to FIG. 7, first, a map for route guidance is displayed on the touch panel 110. And i15 on the map is a history icon that is blue and represents the position where manual recording was performed.

[0226] Also, i16 on the map is a history icon that is yellow and represents the position where event recording of level 3 was performed.

[0227] Furthermore, i17 on the map is a history icon that is red and represents the position where event recording of level 5 was performed.

[0228] Furthermore, i18 on the map is a history icon that is green and represents the position where event recording of level 1 was performed.

[0229] Furthermore, i19 on the map is an icon representing the current position and traveling direction of the automobile in which the integrated device 1000 is installed.

[0230] In this way, by displaying not only event icons but also history icons, the user can grasp the locations where events frequently occur. <Screen Transition> Next, with reference to the transition diagrams of FIGS. 8 to 10, how the screen transitions according to the situation of the vehicle and the operations of the user will be described.

[0231] First, refer to FIG. 8. When the first control unit 100 is activated, the main menu is displayed as on screen S1. On the main menu screen, various functions such as navigation, TV, music, picture, and drive recorder can be selected. Among these, the functions of the navigation and drive recorder, which are the features of this embodiment, will be described.

[0232] When the [Navigation] button 140 is selected on screen S1, the navigation function is activated and the screen transitions to screen S2.

[0233] On screen S2, as described with reference to FIGS. 5 and 7, event icons and history icons are displayed on the map for route guidance, and route guidance is executed with voice output. The content of such display is the same as that described in the section of <Display Method> above. Also, the method for determining the occurrence of an event by the first control unit 100 and the operations at the time of event occurrence, etc. are the same as those described in the section of <Occurrence of Event> above. Here, assume that the user presses the [Shortcut] button 140. Here, assume that "Camera 210 video" is associated with the [Shortcut] button 140. In this case, the screen transitions to screen S3, and a real-time video that is currently being captured by camera 210 is displayed on the screen. In this state, when the user presses the [End] button 140, the screen transitions to screen S2, and route guidance is executed again.

[0234] Also, when any of the [Icon] buttons 140 is pressed in the state of screen S2, the process for playing the video file corresponding to the pressed event icon or history icon is started. Specifically, the screen transitions to screen S4, a message indicating that the continuous recording is paused is output, and a selection of either the [Yes] or [No] button 140 by the user is accepted.

[0235] Here, this is the reason for temporarily interrupting the continuous recording. By doing so, it becomes possible to prevent a situation where the image data being played back is overwritten when it is determined that a new event has occurred during the playback of the image data.

[0236] Also, in the case where numbers are assigned to each piece of image data and they are managed in a list, and when it is determined that a new event has occurred during the playback of the image data, it is also possible to prevent a situation where the number assigned to the new image data overlaps with the number assigned to the image data being played back. For example, when the currently played-back recording data is managed as the latest image data, if new image data occurs, it becomes possible to prevent a situation where it becomes impossible to manage which data is the latest data after the playback ends.

[0237] Here, when the user presses the [No] button 140, the screen transitions to S2 and the route guidance continues.

[0238] On the other hand, when the user presses the [Yes] button 140, the screen transitions to S5, and as described with reference to FIG. 6, the event list is displayed in the right half of the screen. Here, this time the user hopes to play back the video file corresponding to the icon selected on screen S2, rather than the video file corresponding to the icon selected from the event list on screen S5.

[0239] Therefore, the entire event list is treated as the [Event Item] button 140. When the [Event Item] button 140 is pressed for the first time, the map is moved to the coordinate value where the icon selected on screen S2 is located. Then, when the [Event Item] button 140 is pressed for the second time, the screen transitions to S6 and video playback starts.

[0240] On screen S6, while performing the processing for generating the video, a message "Video will be played." is displayed. And when the message "Video will be played." is displayed for a length equal to or longer than a predetermined time required for performing the processing for generating the video, it is determined that a timeout has occurred and the screen transitions to screen S7. Then, on screen S7, the video file corresponding to the icon selected on screen S2 is played.

[0241] Then, when the pressing of the [Back] button 140 is received from the user during or after shooting, the screen transitions to screen S5. And when the pressing of the [Back] button 140 is received on screen S5, the screen transitions to screen S2 and the operation guidance continues. Also, continuous recording is restarted without requiring the user's operation.

[0242] Next, when any of the [Icon] buttons 140 is pressed in the state of screen S2 as described above, instead of playing the video file corresponding to the pressed icon, the operation when the user selects an icon from the event list and plays the video file corresponding to the icon selected from this event list will be described.

[0243] When the pressing of the [MENU] button 140 provided at the lower part of the screen is received in the state of screen S2, the screen transitions to screen S8 which is the menu screen of the navigation function.

[0244] After that, when the pressing of the [Registration / Editing] button 140 is received in the state of screen S8, the screen transitions to screen S9 which is the registration / editing menu screen.

[0245] Then, when the pressing of the [Event] button 140 is received in the state of screen S9, the screen transitions to screen S10 in FIG. 9.

[0246] On screen S10, similar to screen S4, a message indicating that continuous recording will be temporarily interrupted is output, and selection of either the [Yes] or [No] button 140 by the user is received. The reason for the temporary interruption of continuous recording is as described when explaining screen S4.

[0247] Here, when the user presses the [No] button 140, the process transitions to the screen S9 in FIG. 8, which is the registration / editing menu screen.

[0248] On the other hand, when the user presses the [Yes] button 140, the process transitions to screen S11, and as described with reference to FIG. 6, the event list is displayed in the right half of the screen. Different from the case of screen S5, since the user has not selected an icon on screen S2, the user's icon selection from the event list on screen S5 is accepted.

[0249] Then, the playback of the video file corresponding to the icon selected by the user is started. Regarding the processing on screens S6 and S7 thereafter, since it is the same as the processing when transitioning from screen S5 to screen S6, a detailed description is omitted. Note that in FIG. 9, when the return button 140 is pressed on screen S7, the process returns to screen S5, but it is also possible to return to screen S11 instead of screen S7.

[0250] The screen transitions when using the car navigation function have been described above. Next, the screen transitions when using the drive recorder function will be described.

[0251] First, when the [Drive Recorder] button 140 is pressed on screen S1, the process transitions to screen S12 or screen S13 shown in FIG. 10. Here, the condition for which screen to transition to is that when the integrated device 1000 is not installed in the vehicle and the integrated device 1000 is being powered by the secondary battery included in the power supply unit 310, the process transitions to screen S12. On the other hand, when the integrated device 1000 is installed in the vehicle and the integrated device 1000 is being powered by the vehicle, the process transitions to screen S13.

[0252] First, a case where the former integrated device 1000 is not installed in an automobile and the integrated device 1000 is powered by a secondary battery included in the power supply unit 310 and thus transitions to the screen S12 will be described. In this case, since there is an upper limit to the battery capacity of the secondary battery, it is necessary to suppress power consumption. Also, in this case, the user is carrying and using the integrated device 1000, and the camera 210 is not fixed, so it is difficult to effectively utilize the function of the drive recorder. Therefore, in the present embodiment, when being powered by the secondary battery, the function of the drive recorder is not operated. And, in order to convey that fact to the user, when transitioning to the screen S12, a message such as "While the device is being driven by the built-in battery, the recording / playback function of the drive recorder does not operate." is displayed. Then, when a predetermined time during which it is considered that the user can recognize this message has elapsed, it is determined that a timeout has occurred and the screen transitions to S1.

[0253] Next, a case where the integrated device 1000 is installed in an automobile and the integrated device 1000 is powered by the automobile and thus transitions to the screen S13 will be described.

[0254] On the screen S13, the real-time video captured by the camera 210 is reproduced in full-screen display. And when receiving a press on the touch panel 110 from the user in this state, that is, when any part of the screen is touched, the screen transitions to S14.

[0255] And on the screen S14, the [Application End] button 140 is displayed. And when receiving a press on this [Application End] button 140 from the user, the operation of the application that realizes the drive recorder function is terminated and the screen transitions to S1. On the other hand, when receiving a press on the screen on the screen S14, it returns to the screen S13 again and the real-time video is reproduced in full-screen display. Note that on the screen S14, for example, a button 140 for setting change is displayed, and when such a button 140 for setting change is pressed, for example, it may further transition to a screen for performing various settings related to the drive recorder function.

[0256] Also, when receiving a user operation while the screens S13 and S14 are being displayed, manual recording described with reference to the middle section of FIG. 2 is started based on this. That is, the real-time video reproduced on the screens S13 and S14 is used as a preview image for performing manual recording. <Battery Control> Next, the control of the battery in this embodiment will be described.

[0257] The power supply unit 310 of the integrated device 1000 of this embodiment receives power supply from an external device via the USB terminal 320 as described with reference to FIG. 1. Here, the external device is, for example, an automobile in which the integrated device 1000 is installed.

[0258] Specifically, one end of a cigarette plug cord is inserted into the cigarette lighter socket of the automobile. And the other end of the cigarette plug cord is connected to the USB terminal 320. Also, a cigarette plug cord with a converter is used. Assume that the cigarette plug cord and the converter have a rated voltage of 5V and a rated current of 2A, for example.

[0259] After that, when the engine of the automobile starts, power supply from the cigarette lighter socket is started in conjunction with this. And when the engine of the automobile stops, the power supply from the cigarette lighter socket also stops.

[0260] Next, with reference to FIG. 11, the detailed configuration of the power supply unit 310 will be described. Referring to FIG. 11, the power supply unit 310 includes a power control unit 311, a lithium-ion battery 312, and a supercapacitor 313 (registered trademark). Also, the power supply unit 310 is connected to the first control unit 100 and the second control unit 200. Among the functional blocks shown in FIG. 1, functional blocks not directly related to the description of battery control are not shown in FIG. 11.

[0261] Here, the power control unit 311 has a function of controlling which device to apply a voltage to. The power control unit 311 is realized by, for example, a power management IC. Also, it is possible that the first control unit 100 performs part or all of the control of the power control unit 311. In FIG. 11, the signal lines for the first control unit 100 to transmit and receive signals for controlling the power control unit 311 are shown by broken lines. On the other hand, the lines for applying the voltage are shown in solid lines in FIG. 11.

[0262] The lithium-ion battery 312 is a secondary battery that stores electricity by charging and can then be used as a battery. The lithium-ion battery 312 is charged under the control of the power control unit 311. And when the integrated device 1000 is receiving power supply from an external device, the first control unit 100 is driven by the power supplied from such external device.

[0263] On the other hand, when the integrated device 1000 is not receiving power supply from an external device, the first control unit 100 is driven by the power supplied by the lithium-ion battery 312. Also, as described above in the section on <screen transition>, when the integrated device 1000 is not receiving power supply from an external device and is being driven by the power supplied by the lithium-ion battery 312, the function of the drive recorder is stopped. Since the purpose is to reduce power consumption, not only the software operating in the second control unit 200 is simply shut down, but also the application of voltage to the second control unit 200 itself is stopped.

[0264] The supercapacitor 313 is a capacitor and is charged when the integrated device 1000 is receiving power supply from an external device.

[0265] In this regard, in this embodiment, when the integrated device 1000 is removed from the vehicle, the second control unit 200 performs a shutdown process such as storing the information it has cached in the second storage unit 230 which is a non-volatile memory, so as to prevent data from being damaged.

[0266] However, as described above, when the integrated device 1000 is removed from the vehicle, the application of voltage to the second control unit 200 is stopped. Therefore, the second control unit 200 performs this shutdown process using the charge stored in the supercapacitor 313. For this reason, the supercapacitor 313 uses one with a capacity that can guarantee performing such a shutdown process.

[0267] Note that the information cached by the second control unit 200 is, for example, real-time video before conversion to a video file that has been cached.

[0268] The first control unit 100 also controls the power supply. For example, the first control unit 100 performs power supply control for, among others, the touch panel 110, the speaker 120, the notification LED 130, the button 140, the TV tuner 150, the GPS sensor 160, the acceleration sensor 170, the first storage unit 180, and the main storage unit 190, which are shown in FIG. 1. Also, part or all of the control of the power supply control unit 311 may be performed by the first control unit 100.

[0269] On the other hand, the second control unit 200 performs power supply control for, among others, the camera 210, the microphone 220, and the second storage unit 230, which are shown in FIG. 1.

[0270] Next, the basic concept of battery control in this embodiment will be described. In this embodiment, instead of performing all of the startup of the first control unit 100 and the second control unit 200 and the charging of the supercapacitor 313 and the lithium ion battery 312 in parallel, the timing of performing them is controlled to perform them step by step. This is to perform the startup of the first control unit 100 and the second control unit 200 and the charging of the supercapacitor 313 and the lithium ion battery 312 without exceeding the rated current of the cigarette plug cord.

[0271] Here, the rated current of the cigar plug cord is, for example, 2 A. In this regard, it is also conceivable to use a cigar plug cord with a rated current exceeding 2 A. However, as the rated current increases, it becomes necessary to thicken the cigar plug cord. This is because conductors such as the electric wires forming the cord have a small but non - zero resistance, and there is a risk that the insulation coating will melt due to the heat generated. Therefore, as the current increases, the cord needs to be thickened.

[0272] However, if the cord is thickened, it becomes difficult to handle the cord, which is very inconvenient for users who use the integrated device 1000 in the limited space inside the vehicle. Also, there is a problem that the manufacturing cost increases when using a thick cord.

[0273] Therefore, in the present embodiment, as described above, instead of performing all of the activation of the first control unit 100 and the second control unit 200, and the charging of the supercapacitor 313 and the lithium - ion battery 312 in parallel, they are performed step - by - step by controlling the timing. Thereby, in the present embodiment, the maximum value of the current when the integrated device 1000 is activated is suppressed.

[0274] Next, with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 12 and the flowchart of FIG. 13, the power control process of the present embodiment will be described in detail.

[0275] First, when the integrated device 1000 is in the shutdown state and connected to the charger, the engine of the vehicle is started. Along with this, the supply of power to the integrated device 1000 is started (Yes in step A1).

[0276] Then, the power control unit 311 starts applying a voltage to the first control unit 100. Thereby, the first control unit 100 starts the startup process (step A2). Such a startup process includes, for example, processes for starting the touch panel 110 and the GPS sensor 160.

[0277] The first control unit 100 that has performed the startup process displays on the touch panel 110. What is displayed at this time is the screen S1 shown in FIG. 8. Then, in response to the pressing of the [Navigation] button 140, the navigation function is executed (step A3). Also, even if the [Drive Recorder] button 140 is pressed, the drive recorder function has not yet been executed. Therefore, a message such as "The drive recorder is starting up. Please wait a moment." is displayed on the screen as shown in the screen S14 in FIG. 14. Then, when a predetermined time elapses during which it is considered that the user can recognize this message, it is determined that a timeout has occurred and the screen transitions to S1. In this way, first, by starting up the first control unit 100 and displaying on the touch panel 110, it becomes possible to convey to the user that the startup process is being performed.

[0278] Also, the power control unit 311 starts applying a voltage to the supercapacitor 313. Along with this, the supercapacitor 313 starts storing electricity, and the voltage of the supercapacitor 313 rises (step A4).

[0279] Next, it is determined whether or not the voltage of the current supercapacitor 313 has become larger than a predetermined first voltage (step A5). And when the voltage of the current supercapacitor 313 becomes larger than the predetermined first voltage (Yes in step A5), the power control unit 311 starts applying a voltage to the second control unit 200. As a result, the second control unit 200 starts the startup process. This startup process also includes processes for starting up the camera 210 and the microphone 220.

[0280] However, if the drive recorder function is executed, there is a possibility that the maximum value of the current will exceed the rated current of the cigarette plug cord. Therefore, the second control unit 200 performs the startup process, but keeps the drive recorder function unexecuted for the time being. Therefore, even if the [Drive Recorder] button 140 is pressed at this time, a message such as the one shown in the screen S14 in FIG. 14 is displayed as in step A3, and the drive recorder function is not executed.

[0281] Next, it is determined whether the voltage of the current supercapacitor 313 has become greater than a predetermined second voltage (step A7). Here, the predetermined second voltage is a value greater than the predetermined first voltage.

[0282] Then, when the voltage of the current supercapacitor 313 becomes greater than the predetermined second voltage (Yes in step A7), it means that the supercapacitor 313 has been sufficiently charged, and not much current is required for charging the supercapacitor 313. Therefore, triggered by the fact that it becomes Yes in step A7, the process proceeds to step A8, and the second control unit 200 executes the drive recorder function (step A8). Further, the power supply control unit 311 starts applying a voltage to the lithium ion battery 312. Thereby, charging of the lithium ion battery 312 is started (step A9).

[0283] As described above, in this embodiment, the timing of applying voltage to each part included in the integrated device 1000 is controlled. Thereby, the maximum value of the current at the time of starting the integrated device 1000 can be suppressed, and there is no need to make the cigarette plug cord thicker than necessary.

[0284] Specific values will be used to explain this point. For example, it is assumed that, for example, 1.3 A is used when applying voltage to the first control unit 100 in step A2. Also, it is assumed that, for example, at least 0.5 A is used until it becomes Yes in step A5 when applying voltage to the supercapacitor 313 in step A4. Further, it is assumed that, for example, 0.2 to 0.3 A is used when applying voltage to the second control unit 200 in step A6. Further, it is assumed that, for example, 0.35 A is used when applying voltage to the lithium ion battery 312 in step A9.

[0285] When these currents are summed up, a total of 2.35 to 2.36 A is required, exceeding the rated current of 2 A of the cigarette plug cord described above. However, in this embodiment, by controlling the timing of applying voltage to each part included in the integrated device 1000, it becomes possible to start the integrated device 1000 without exceeding the rated current of 2 A.

[0286] Next, with reference to FIG. 13, the battery control after the integrated device 1000 is started will be described.

[0287] The integrated device 1000 that is executing the navigation function and the drive recorder function continues to monitor whether the supply of power from the car charger has been interrupted as the engine of the vehicle stops. Also, when the cigarette plug cord is removed from the USB terminal 320, or when the cigarette plug cord is removed from the car charger, it continues to monitor whether the integrated device 1000 has been removed from the car charger (No in step A10 and No in step A12).

[0288] Then, when the supply of power from the car charger is interrupted as the engine of the vehicle stops (Yes in step A10), the shutdown processes of the first control unit 100 and the second control unit 200 are performed. At this time, the shutdown process of the first control unit 100 is performed by power supply from the lithium - ion battery 312, and the shutdown process of the second control unit 200 is performed by power supply from the super capacitor 313. Then, it returns to step A1 and waits until the power supply is resumed again.

[0289] On the other hand, when the integrated device 1000 is removed from the car charger (Yes in step A12) by removing the cigar plug cord from the USB terminal 320 or by removing the cigar plug cord from the car charger, the second control unit 200 starts the shutdown process by powering from the supercapacitor 313. By doing so, the user can no longer use the drive recorder function, but since the first control unit 100 does not perform a shutdown in particular, the navigation function can continue to be used. That is, the integrated device 1000 can be used as a portable navigation device. Note that the first control unit 100 continues to operate by being powered from the lithium-ion battery 312. In this way, since only one of the two control units can be shut down, the other control unit does not particularly need to perform a shutdown process and restart, and can continue to operate as it is.

[0290] Next, it is determined whether or not it is connected to the car charger of the vehicle again and whether or not it is connected to an external device other than the vehicle. Here, the external device is, for example, a personal computer connected to the USB terminal 320 via a USB cable. Whether it is connected to the car charger of the vehicle or a personal computer can be determined, for example, by a signal output from the USB cable. For example, the USB connector has five wires (VBus / D- / D+ / ID / GND). And when this ID wire is short-circuited to the GND wire, it can be determined that it is connected to a personal computer. On the other hand, if the ID wire is open (not connected), it can be determined that it is connected to the car charger.

[0291] When connected to the vehicle (Yes in step A14: vehicle), it returns to step A1 and waits until the power supply is resumed again.

[0292] On the other hand, when connected to an external device (Yes in step A14: external device), the process proceeds to step A15 to shut down the first control unit 100. This is because when the integrated device 1000 is connected to a personal computer, it is considered that there is no need to execute the navigation function any further. Also, the output of the USB terminal 320 of the personal computer may not be able to supply the current required to drive the integrated device 1000.

[0293] After shutting down the first control unit 100, charging of the lithium-ion battery 312 is started (step A16) in preparation for using the integrated device 1000 as a portable navigation device again.

[0294] Thereafter, it is monitored whether it has been removed from the external device (step A17). When it has been removed from the external device (Yes in step A17), the first control unit 100 starts the startup process by being powered by the lithium-ion battery 312 in order to realize the function of the portable navigation device (step A18).

[0295] Then, the first control unit 100 performs display on the touch panel 110 and executes the navigation function.

[0296] As described above with reference to FIG. 13, in this embodiment, when the engine of the automobile stops and the power supply from the car charger is interrupted, when removed from the car charger, and when connected to an external device, the first control unit 100 and the second control unit 200 can be driven or shut down appropriately in each case. <Car Navigation> Next, the navigation function of the first control unit 100 will be described in more detail. The first control unit 100 outputs a predetermined warning when the current position detected by the GPS sensor 160 and the position of a target such as a traffic monitoring point stored in the main storage unit 190 are in a predetermined positional relationship. Therefore, the main storage unit 190 stores information about the target to be detected (position information of the target including longitude and latitude, type information of the target, etc.), traffic safety information for driving safely with more caution such as accident-prone areas and traffic control information, landmarks, and various kinds of information useful for driving. Each piece of information is registered by associating the specific type of information (type of target, type of traffic control, accident-prone area, name of landmark, etc.) with the position information.

[0297] The distance to the target when issuing an alarm can be changed for each type of target. As the mode of the alarm, similar to the above, there are an alarm by voice using the speaker 120 and an alarm using the touch panel 110. In the present embodiment, since the integrated device 1000 realizes the navigation function, it has map data.

[0298] Therefore, as a basic screen, the first control unit 100 has a function of reading the road network information around the current position and displaying the map around the current position on the touch panel 110. Then, a warning screen is displayed on the touch panel 110 over the currently displayed screen. When the map is being displayed, if the distance between the current position and an LH system, which is a type of speed measurement device that is one of the traffic monitoring points, reaches, for example, 500 m, a warning screen is displayed. Further, the first control unit 100 performs a process of outputting from the speaker 120 a warning voice indicating the type of warning and the distance, such as "It is the LH system 500 m ahead".

[0299] On the other hand, the first control unit 100 for realizing the navigation function also performs the following operations. First, the main storage unit 190 stores the road network information for navigation.

[0300] The first control unit 100 has a function of reading road network information around the current position from the main memory unit 190 and displaying a map around the current position on the touch panel 110. This first control unit 100 can search for a route from a certain position to another position using this road network information. Also, the main memory unit 190 includes a telephone number database that stores telephone numbers in association with position information and names of residences, companies, facilities, etc. of those telephone numbers, and an address database that stores addresses in association with position information of those addresses. Further, in the main memory unit 190, position information of traffic monitoring points such as speed measuring devices is stored together with their types.

[0301] Also, the first control unit 100 has a function of performing the processing of a general navigation device. That is, it displays a map around the current position on the touch panel 110 at any time and displays the destination setting button 140. When the first control unit 100 detects a touch at a position corresponding to the display position of the destination setting button 140 on the touch panel 110, it performs destination setting processing. In the destination setting processing, it displays a destination setting menu on the touch panel 110 and prompts the user to select a method for setting the destination. The destination setting menu has a telephone number search button 140 and an address search button 140 that prompt the user to select a method for setting the destination. When it detects that the telephone number search button 140 has been touched, it displays an input screen for the telephone number and acquires position information corresponding to the input telephone number from the main memory unit 190. When it detects that the address search button 140 has been touched, it displays a selection input screen for the address and acquires position information corresponding to the input address from the main memory unit 190. Then, it sets the acquired position information as the position information of the destination, and obtains a recommended route from the current position to the destination based on the road network information stored in the main memory unit 190. As a method for calculating this recommended route, for example, a known method such as Dijkstra's method can be used.

[0302] Then, the first control unit 100 displays the calculated recommended route together with the surrounding map. For example, as shown in FIG. 15, a route i23 from the current position i21 to the destination i22 is displayed as the recommended route in a predetermined color (e.g., red). This is the same as a general navigation system. In this embodiment, the first control unit 100 compares the position information on the route i23 with the position information of targets such as traffic monitoring points stored in the main storage unit 190, and displays the positions of traffic monitoring points and the like located on the route i23.

[0303] Thereby, for example, as shown in FIG. 15, a balloon is displayed from the position on the road, and the type of the traffic monitoring point at that position stored in the main storage unit 190 is displayed in the balloon. For example, FIG. 15(a) is a display example of a warning point search screen, showing an example in which traffic monitoring points i25a to i25f are displayed. The traffic monitoring point i25a displays the character "N" indicating the N system in the balloon. The traffic monitoring points i25b, i25c, and i25e display the character "LH" indicating the LH system in the balloon. The traffic monitoring point i25d displays the character "loop" indicating a loop coil in the balloon. The traffic monitoring point i25f displays the character "H" indicating the H system in the balloon. When the touch panel 1108 detects a touch on the balloon position in the simplified display state where a character is displayed in the balloon, as shown in FIG. 4(b), the simplified display is switched to the detailed display.

[0304] Also, as shown in FIG. 4(a), a traffic monitoring point type designation section i26 is displayed on the lower right side within the touch panel 110. The traffic monitoring point type designation section i26 is a section that displays button 140 showing the types of traffic monitoring points existing on route i23. In the example of FIG. 4(a), a type button 140i27a showing the "N" system of traffic monitoring point i25a, a type button 140i27b showing the "LH" system of traffic monitoring points i25b, i25c, and i25e, a type button 140i27c showing the loop coil of traffic monitoring point i25d, and a type button 140i27d showing the "H" system of traffic monitoring point i25f are displayed. When the first control unit 100 detects a touch on the display section of this type button 140 from the touch panel 1108, the touched type button 140 is reversely displayed, and the display mode of the traffic monitoring point corresponding to the touched type button 140 is switched from the simple display to the detailed display if it is in the simple display, or switched from the detailed display to the simple display if it is in the detailed display.

[0305] The integrated device 1000 of the present embodiment has a surrounding search function as a method for setting a destination (hereinafter including a waypoint). When this surrounding search function is selected and activated, the first control unit 100 extracts facilities that meet the specified conditions and are close to the current position, and draws the extraction result on the touch panel 110. Then, the user can select any one from the candidates drawn on the touch panel 110 and specify it as the destination (including the waypoint) by confirming it.

[0306] That is, in order to realize such a function, the main memory unit 190 of the present embodiment stores information about each facility in association with information related to the classification of the facility together with its location information. The information related to the classification of the facility is a plurality of types of items grouped by the names of the genres to which each facility belongs.

[0307] In this embodiment, when any item is specified, the first control unit 100 extracts facilities that match the specified item and are close to the current position, and draws the extraction result on the touch panel 110 as candidates for the destination. The user can specify a destination by selecting any one of the candidates drawn on the touch panel 110.

[0308] When any one of the items is selected, the first control unit 100 accesses the main storage unit 190, and extracts facilities that are within a reference distance (for example, 10 km) centered on the current position and match the classification of the specified item. Then, a predetermined number (for example, 10) of facilities are drawn on the corresponding locations on the map drawn on the touch panel 110 by superimposing icons (marks) indicating the facilities. As information on the facilities stored in the main storage unit 190, respective icons are registered in association with each facility, and when drawing, the associated icons are read out and drawn at predetermined positions on the touch panel 110.

[0309] If the current position exists on the map drawn on the touch panel 110, a self-vehicle icon indicating the self-vehicle is drawn by superimposing it on the position corresponding to the current position. Further, when drawing such facility icons, numbers are appended and displayed in the order from the closest to the self-vehicle. The numbers are updated as needed as the self-vehicle moves.

[0310] When the user selects a desired facility, the first control unit 100 that recognizes this obtains a recommended route with such a facility as the destination, and draws the result on the map of the touch panel 110 by superimposing it.

[0311] Furthermore, the first control unit 100 has a function of performing route guidance to the set destination. That is, in response to the user's selection to start guidance, the first control unit 100 sequentially detects the self-vehicle position by GPS or autonomous navigation, draws map information representing roads and the like on the touch panel 110, and performs route guidance to the destination using images and sounds.

[0312] The above-mentioned instruction input such as designation and selection by the user can be performed when the first control unit 100 detects that the user has touched a button 140 on which the name of an item or function is displayed on the touch panel 110 or an icon of a facility. <Implementation Example> The integrated device 1000 described above can be implemented in an electronic device as follows, for example.

[0313] FIG. 16 is a six-sided view showing an example of the appearance of an electronic device in which the integrated device 1000 is implemented. In FIG. 16, a front view is shown in the second row of the central column. Here, in FIG. 16, the surface facing the touch panel 110 when the integrated device 1000 is installed is regarded as the front view. A touch panel 110 is arranged on the front of the integrated device 1000. Further, buttons 140 and the like are not arranged on the bezel surrounding the touch panel 110 so as not to obstruct the view of the touch panel 110.

[0314] On the left of the front view, a left side view is shown. On the left side of the integrated device 1000, a first storage unit 180, a notification LED 130b, and a USB terminal 320 are arranged. The first storage unit 180 is realized by an SD slot, and an SD card, which is a storage medium, is inserted into such an SD slot. The notification LED 130b is an LED indicating whether power is supplied or not, and lights up green, for example, while power is being supplied. A cigarette plug cord 504 is connected to the USB terminal 320. As described in the section of <Battery Control>, the integrated device 1000 receives power supply from a car charger via such a cigarette plug cord 504. In order to clarify the shape of the integrated device 1000, in FIG. 15, illustration of the cord portion extending from the socket of the cigarette plug cord is omitted.

[0315] On the right of the front view, a right side view is shown. On the right side of the integrated device 1000, a second storage unit 230 is arranged. The second storage unit 230 is realized by an SD slot, and an SD card, which is a storage medium, is inserted into such an SD slot.

[0316] Above the front view, a top view is shown. On the top surface of the integrated device 1000, a notification LED 130a, buttons 140a, 140b, and 140c are arranged. The notification LED 130a is used for indicating whether continuous recording is being performed by the integrated device 1000. For example, it lights up red when continuous recording is not in progress. Button 140a is a button 140 for starting manual recording, and event recording is started when button 140a is pressed. Button 140b is a button 140 for stopping or resuming continuous recording, and continuous recording is stopped or resumed each time a press is received. Button 140c is a button 140 for turning the integrated device 1000 on or off. When pressed while the power is on, the integrated device 1000 turns off, and when pressed while the power is off, the integrated device 1000 turns on.

[0317] In the third row of the central column, a rear view is shown. On the back of the integrated device 1000, a camera 210 and a joint part 502 are arranged. Also, edges 501a, 501b, 501c, and 501d are formed on the back of the integrated device 1000. The unit of the camera 210 is incorporated into the integrated device 1000 by a ball joint, and the camera 210 is movable. The movable range of the camera 210 is, for example, 15 degrees in each direction. That is, if the camera 210 is in the center, it can move 15 degrees upward and 15 degrees downward, for example. The joint part is a part for attaching the integrated device 1000 to a cradle for fixing the integrated device 1000. Also, edges 501a, 501b, 501c, and 501d are ridge lines formed on the back. Edges 501a, 501b, 501c, and 501d are curved and are shaped so as not to catch on the hand of a user carrying the integrated device 1000.

[0318] In the third row of the central column, a bottom view is shown. On the bottom surface of the integrated device 1000, a speaker slit 503 is provided. The speaker slit 503 is a slit through which the sound output by the speaker 120 of the integrated device 1000 is output. Details of the speaker slit 503 and the speaker 120 will be described later.

[0319] Here, as described above, the integrated device 1000 is provided with four ridge lines, namely edge 501a, edge 501b, edge 501c, and edge 501d, on the back surface, thereby providing four surfaces on the back surface. Also, as can be seen by referring to, for example, the bottom view, top view, left side view, and right side view, it has a shape in which a downward slope is provided for each end of the back surface with the camera 210 as the vertex.

[0320] In this regard, it is also conceivable to make the housing of the integrated device 1000 into a flat rectangular shape by making the thickness of each end and the camera 210 part equal without providing such an inclination. However, if it is made into such a shape, the entire integrated device 1000 will become large and lack portability.

[0321] Also, the reason why the camera 210 part is thick and the camera 210 part becomes the vertex is due to the size of the camera 210 unit that forms the camera 210. Therefore, the thickness of the camera 210 part cannot be made thinner. On the other hand, other circuits can be made thinner than the camera 210 part. Therefore, even if the thickness of each end and the camera 210 part is made equal, only useless space will be generated inside the housing of the integrated device 1000. From this perspective, there is no need to make the housing of the integrated device 1000 into a flat rectangular shape.

[0322] Therefore, in this implementation example, by providing a downward slope for each end of the back surface with the camera 210 as the vertex, the thickness of the back surface is made thinner. As a result, it is possible to prevent the device from becoming unnecessarily thick and lacking portability, and to prevent useless space from being generated inside the housing.

[0323] Next, referring to FIG. 17, other features of this implementation example will also be described. FIG. 17(a) shows the left side surface of the integrated device 1000. As described with reference to FIG. 16, a USB terminal 320 for connecting the cigarette plug cord 504 is disposed on the left side surface of the integrated device 1000. And a notch 505 is formed in the right half of the periphery of the USB terminal 320 when viewed from the left side surface. Here, the notch 505 when viewed from the left side surface is substantially vertical from top to bottom up to around the height where the USB terminal 320 is provided, but is curved to the left in an arc shape in the portion below the height where the USB terminal 320 is provided.

[0324] Also, FIG. 17(b) shows the back surface of the integrated device 1000. The notch 505 when viewed from the back surface has different left - right lengths in the upper part (for example, approximately two - thirds of the whole) and the lower part (for example, approximately one - third of the whole). Specifically, the left - right length of the lower part is shorter.

[0325] The reason why the notch 505 has such a shape will be described with reference to FIG. 17(c). FIG. 17(c) is a left - side view showing a state where the cigarette plug cord 504 is attached to the USB terminal 320. Referring to FIG. 17(c), the cigarette plug cord 504 and the cord portion 504 - 1 extending from the cigarette plug cord 504 are shown.

[0326] First, as described with reference to FIG. 17(b), the notch 505 when viewed from the back surface has a shorter left - right length in the lower part, which is in accordance with the thickness of the cable. Therefore, when viewed from the back surface, the cord portion 504 - 1 will not shift left and right and will follow the shape of the notch 505. And the cord portion 504 - 1 hangs down along a shape that curves to the left in an arc when viewed from the left side surface of the notch 505. That is, the shape that curves to the left in an arc when viewed from the left side surface of the notch 505 does not let the cord portion 504 - 1 of the cigarette plug cord 504 hang down, but guides it in a desired direction.

[0327] By doing so, it becomes possible to prevent the code portion 504-1 from going in an unintended direction. Also, since it is drawn in an arc shape, it is possible to prevent the code from bending at an acute angle. This makes it possible to extend the life of the code.

[0328] In addition, the left and right width of the notch 505 when viewed from the back of the integrated device 1000 may be set to a width such that the cigarette plug cord 504 and the code portion 504-1 are not visible to the user when the integrated device 1000 is viewed from the front. As a result, only the rectangular shape on the front of the integrated device 1000 will be visible to the user, creating a sense of unity.

[0329] Furthermore, the left and right width of the notch 505 when viewed from the back of the integrated device 1000 may be set to a width such that the cigarette plug cord 504 and the code portion 504-1 are visible to the user when the integrated device 1000 is viewed from the front. This allows the user to confirm that the cigarette plug cord 504 is connected to the USB terminal 320.

[0330] Also, referring to FIG. 18, other features of this implementation example will be described. FIG. 18 shows the shape when the back portion of the cover that realizes the housing of the integrated device 1000 is removed, which is a rear view of the integrated device 1000.

[0331] FIG. 18 shows the speaker unit 506, the speaker holding portion 507, and the speaker slit corresponding position 508 representing the position corresponding to the position of the speaker slit 503.

[0332] The speaker unit 506 corresponds to the speaker 120 in FIG. 1 and generates sounds such as voice for operation guidance, warning sounds, and music on the diaphragm. Here, generally, a sound emitting hole for guiding the sound generated by the diaphragm to the outside of the cover is provided at a portion corresponding to the speaker unit 506 on the back of the cover that realizes the housing of the integrated device 1000.

[0333] However, in this implementation example, it is assumed that the integrated device 1000 is carried around, and it is conceivable that the user may see the back side. In such a case, if a sound-emitting hole is provided, it will damage the aesthetic appearance.

[0334] Therefore, in this implementation example, the speaker holding portion 507 not only holds the speaker unit 506, but also surrounds the periphery of the speaker unit 506. However, the lower part of the speaker unit 506 is not surrounded. As a result, the sound generated by the diaphragm is guided from the lower part of the speaker unit 506 to the speaker slit corresponding position 508, and finally led out from the speaker slit 503. Thereby, it becomes possible to output sound to the outside without providing a sound-emitting hole in the portion corresponding to the speaker unit 506 on the back surface of the cover that realizes the housing of the integrated device 1000. This can prevent the aesthetic appearance from being damaged by the sound-emitting hole.

[0335] Next, with reference to FIG. 19, a diagram of the state in which the integrated device 1000 is mounted on the cradle 2000 and the pedestal portion 3000 to fix the integrated device 1000 to a dashboard or the like will be described. In this implementation example, the cradle 2000 is made detachable from the joint portion 502 shown in FIG. 16, and can be installed and used on the vehicle dashboard together with the cradle 2000, or the integrated device 1000 can be removed from the cradle 2000 and used as a portable navigation device.

[0336] The cradle 2000 is further connected to the pedestal portion 3000. The pedestal portion 3000 is Support the cradle 2000 in any posture. The pedestal portion 3000 is adsorbed and fixed on a dashboard or the like by a suction cup, an adsorption sheet, or the like provided on the bottom surface. The pedestal portion 3000 and the cradle 2000 are rotatably connected within a predetermined angle range via a connecting mechanism such as a ball joint. Since it is a ball joint, the pedestal portion 3000 and the cradle main body 2000 rotate relative to each other within an arbitrary angle range in the three-dimensional direction and maintain their positions at arbitrary angular positions due to the frictional resistance at the joint portion. Therefore, the integrated device 1000 attached to the cradle 2000 can also be arranged in any posture on the dashboard. <Modification> The above-described embodiments and implementation examples are preferred embodiments of the present invention, but the scope of the present invention is not limited to only the above embodiments, and the present invention may be implemented in various modified forms without departing from the gist of the present invention.

[0337] For example, in the above-described embodiment, the shape of the icon displayed on the map was made different according to the presence or absence of a video file. Also, the color of the icon displayed on the map was made different according to the level of the event. Furthermore, numbers were assigned to the events according to the time series, and the order was displayed numerically. That is, the display mode of each icon was made different according to such conditions. Here, making the display mode different includes, for example, making the color, shape, size, display of numbers, etc. of the icon different.

[0338] In this regard, the method of making the display mode different and the correspondence with the conditions for making the display mode different are not necessarily limited to the above-described embodiments. For example, it is preferable to make the color of the icon displayed on the map different according to the presence or absence of a video file. Also, it is preferable to make both the color and the shape different. For example, the number of the icon displayed on the map may be made different according to the level of the event. Also, when there are a first condition such as the presence or absence of a video file and a second condition such as the level of the event, the method of making the display mode different may be made different according to the conditions.

[0339] For example, when performing continuous recording, it may be good not to delete the oldest file. This way, although new real-time videos cannot be saved, it is possible to prevent the deletion of old real-time videos.

[0340] Also, it is advisable to start and stop continuous recording in conjunction with the power supply. This makes it possible to always perform continuous recording without requiring user operation.

[0341] Furthermore, even when a new event occurs or there is a user operation during manual recording and event recording, the oldest file may not be deleted. This way, although new files cannot be protected, it is possible to prevent the deletion of files that were protected in the past.

[0342] Furthermore, even files that are targeted for protection during manual recording and event recording may be made deletable according to user operations and settings. This makes it possible to delete files that are considered unnecessary after checking the content and increase the free capacity of the storage unit.

[0343] Furthermore, in the list of icons such as i13, it may be good to place the event icon or history icon pressed on the map at the top of the list. Also, it may be good to sort each event in chronological order based on the date and time when the event occurred.

[0344] Furthermore, the first recording unit and the second storage unit 230 may be able to use the same type of storage medium. For example, when the capacity of the storage medium used in the second storage unit 230 reaches its maximum, it may be good to swap and use the storage medium used in the first storage unit 180. This makes it possible to use the two storage media appropriately according to the situation. Also, by inserting the storage medium storing the video file in the second control unit 200 into the first storage unit 180, it may be possible to play back the video file by the first control unit 100.

[0345] Furthermore, when it is determined that an event has occurred, control may be performed so as not to execute a function that would interfere with the imaging of real-time video. The function that would interfere with the imaging of real-time video is, for example, the audio output function of the television. By doing so, at least after it is determined that an event has occurred during the imaging of image data, the audio of the television is stopped, and it is possible to prevent the audio of the television from being mixed into the data to be imaged.

[0346] Furthermore, when it is determined that an event has occurred, even if the measured value of the acceleration sensor 170 exceeds any of a plurality of threshold values, event recording may not be performed. As a result, for example, in a case where it frequently occurs that an event is determined to have occurred based on a minor impact, even if it is determined that an event has occurred based on a minor impact, the video file is not stored. Therefore, it is possible to prevent a situation where the video files increase too much and the capacity of the storage medium is quickly used up. For example, depending on the vehicle type, road conditions, driving habits, etc., in a case where it frequently occurs that an event is determined to have occurred at the most sensitive threshold value, if recording is performed every time, even the important recorded data will be overwritten immediately. Therefore, in such a case, for example, even if it is determined that an event has occurred at the most sensitive threshold value, the video file may not be stored.

[0347] Furthermore, since the camera 210 is movable, it may be made movable so as to be able to adjust either or both of the incident position and the orientation of the incident portion 211 of the camera 210. By doing so, it becomes possible to adjust the incident position even after the vehicle-integrated device 1000 is installed. As a result, it is possible to adjust the imaging range so as to correspond to the shape and installation position of the vehicle, and it is possible to image image data in a desired range.

[0348] Furthermore, the threshold value for determining that an event has occurred can be set to a different value for each measurement axis, and the threshold value for the measurement axis corresponding to the traveling direction of the automobile may be set higher than the threshold values for the other measurement axes. By doing so, it is possible to use a threshold value according to the usage situation of the integrated device 1000, and it is possible to prevent erroneously determining that an event has occurred when no event has occurred.

[0349] In this regard, depending on the usage situation of the integrated device 1000, there may be a case where the measured value by the acceleration sensor 170 increases with respect to a predetermined direction regardless of the occurrence of an event. For example, when the front surface of the integrated device 1000 is a touch panel 110, when the user presses the touch panel 110, the measured value by the acceleration sensor 170 increases in the measurement axis corresponding to the direction from the front surface to the rear surface of the integrated device 1000. Since this has nothing to do with the occurrence of an event, it is preferable not to determine that an event has occurred in such a case.

[0350] Therefore, for example, the threshold value may be increased for the measurement axis corresponding to the direction from the front surface to the rear surface of the integrated device 1000. For example, when installing the integrated device 1000 in an automobile, the front surface of the integrated device 1000 provided with the touch panel 110 faces the user's front, and the rear surface of the integrated device 1000 faces the traveling direction of the automobile. Therefore, for example, when the traveling direction of the automobile is taken as the front, the measurement axis corresponding to the traveling direction of the automobile is set as the X direction (front-rear), the measurement axis corresponding to the left and right of the automobile when the traveling direction of the automobile is taken as the front is set as the Y direction (left-right), the measurement axis corresponding to the up and down of the automobile when the traveling direction of the automobile is taken as the front is set as the Z direction (left-right), and it is preferable to increase the threshold value for the measurement axis in the X direction (front-rear).

[0351] Thereby, it becomes possible not to determine that an event has occurred even if a slight impact is detected.

[0352] Furthermore, even if the measured value of the acceleration sensor 170 exceeds the threshold value, if it is within a predetermined period including when an operation is received by the touch panel 110, it is preferable not to consider that an event has occurred. As described above, for example, in the measurement axis corresponding to the front-to-back direction of the integrated device 1000, the measured value by the acceleration sensor 170 increases. Since this is not related to the occurrence of an event, it is preferable not to determine that an event has occurred in such a case. Therefore, if it is within a predetermined period including when an operation is received, it is not considered that an event has occurred. Thereby, even when the acceleration sensor 170 measures the impact associated with the operation, it is possible to prevent an incorrect determination that an event has occurred based on this. Also, in such a case, it is determined that an event has occurred and event recording is performed, but for example, it is also preferable not to perform a pop-up display indicating that an event has occurred or output a warning sound. Thereby, it is possible to prevent a situation where a warning is output even though an incorrect determination is made that an event has occurred because the acceleration sensor 170 measures the impact associated with the operation.

[0353] When the vehicle is located near the place where an event has occurred, it is preferable to limit at least a part of the functions executed by the integrated device 1000 that the integrated device 1000 to be controlled targets. By doing so, at the location where the previous event occurred, the user can concentrate on driving the vehicle. In many cases, it is desired to drive with concentration at the place where an event has occurred in the past. For example, assume that there is a place where it is determined that an event has occurred because of suddenly braking last time. In this case, near this place, a part of the functions of the integrated device 1000 to be controlled is limited. For example, it is preferable to limit the voice output function of the TV. By doing so, near the place where suddenly braking was applied before, it is possible to stop the output of the TV voice that obstructs driving, and the user can concentrate on driving the vehicle.

[0354] Furthermore, as measurement information other than the acceleration measured at the time of an event, for example, the moving speed of the vehicle may also be output. By doing so, the user can prove that, for example, the speed was below the legal speed or that the vehicle was decelerating properly at the time of the event. The moving speed of the vehicle can be calculated, for example, by using the position information of GPS. Also, for example, it is also possible to obtain the moving speed of the vehicle by using OBD (On-board diagnostics).

[0355] In the above description, it has been explained that the event icon and the history icon are displayed on the map including the current position of the vehicle in which the integrated device 1000 is installed. That is, it has been explained that the map around the vehicle is displayed. In addition to this, when performing route search or destination search, it is preferable to also display the event icon and the history icon for the manual recording and the event recording that occurred around the route and the destination. Thereby, the user can refer to the icons also for places not including the current position of the vehicle.

[0356] Furthermore, it is also preferable to provide route guidance to the position of the event icon and the history icon in response to pressing the event icon and the history icon. By doing so, it becomes possible to easily revisit the place where an accident occurred in the past, the place where events frequently occur, or the place where the user manually recorded.

[0357] Furthermore, the information for navigation stored in the main storage unit 190 may store all the information about the whole country at the time of shipment. Also, map data and the like may be provided by being stored in a storage medium for each region, and the user may prepare the storage medium storing the necessary map data and the like and mount it on the first storage unit 180 for use. Note that the map data and the like stored in the storage medium may be transferred to and stored in the main storage unit 190. Also, the first control unit 100 may access the storage medium and read and use the data therefrom.

[0358] In the above-described embodiment, three storage units such as the main storage unit 190, the first storage unit 180, and the second storage unit 230 are provided, but it is not always necessary to provide three storage units. For example, it is also possible not to provide the first control unit 100.

[0359] In the above-described embodiment, it has been explained that the software for realizing the control by the first control unit 100 is stored in the main storage unit 190, but it is also possible that part or all of the software is stored not in the main storage unit 190 but in the ROM included in the first control unit 100.

[0360] The threshold value may be adjustable by the user, but in view of the fact that generally the user is considered not to know to what extent the threshold value is adjusted, the threshold value may be fixed. This can prevent the user from setting an inappropriate threshold value.

[0361] In the above description, each icon is not simply color-coded, but for example, the icon is a circled number including a number along the time series. At this time, the numbers may be assigned in descending order or ascending order along the time series. That is, the number of the latest icon may be 1 and the number of the oldest icon may be 10. Also, the number of the latest icon may be 10 and the number of the oldest icon may be 1.

[0362] In the above description, the video file has been played back via the first control unit 100, but it may also be output directly from the second control unit 200 to the touch panel 110. Also, the process of decoding two video files into image data may be performed by the first control unit 100 instead of the second control unit 200.

[0363] In the above description, it is also possible to associate the [Shortcut] button 140 with "TV video" instead of "Camera 210 video". Since the user refers to "Camera 210 video" when installing the integrated device 1000 and refers to "TV video" after installation, it is possible to improve the usability of the user.

[0364] Also, even when the [Shortcut] button 140 is pressed and the screen transitions to S3, the voice guidance during operation may continue. This can prevent the inconvenience of the operation guidance being interrupted.

[0365] Also, a button 140 for receiving an operation that triggers manual recording may be displayed on the screen, that is, on the touch panel 110. Also, instead of the button 140 displayed on the touch panel 110, it is preferable to receive an operation that triggers manual recording with the button 140 which is a hard key. This eliminates the need to provide the button 140 on the touch panel 110, and thus it is possible to prevent, for example, a situation where a part of the real-time video displayed in full screen on the screen S13 becomes invisible due to the button 140.

[0366] In the description of FIG. 12, step A4 was performed after step A3, but if it is within the range of the rated current of the cigarette plug cord, it is also possible to perform steps A3 and A4 simultaneously. This makes it possible to shorten the time until the second control unit 200 is activated.

[0367] Furthermore, due to factors such as an individual's driving style, vehicle type, and the roads on which one usually drives, the acceleration detected by the acceleration sensor 170 differs. Therefore, in some cases, it is conceivable that the threshold value used as the criterion for determining that an event has occurred is too low. In this case, there is a possibility of false detection that an event has occurred even though no event has occurred. On the other hand, in some cases, it is conceivable that the threshold value used as the criterion for determining that an event has occurred is too high. In this case, there is a possibility of false detection that no event has occurred even though an event has occurred.

[0368] Therefore, it may be possible for the user to modify the threshold value set at the time of shipment. Further, in the present embodiment, a plurality of threshold values are provided, and the color of the icon displayed on the map is varied according to which threshold value the acceleration detected by the acceleration sensor 170 exceeds. By doing so, the user can use icons with different colors as a reference when making personal settings for individual differences in threshold values due to personal driving styles, vehicle types, roads frequently traveled, etc.

[0369] Also, when it is considered difficult for the user to set the threshold value, it may be possible to prevent the user from modifying the threshold value set at the time of shipment.

[0370] Furthermore, when inserting an SD card or the like as a storage medium into the second storage unit 230, since there is a limit to the number of video data saved according to the storage capacity of the SD card, etc., it is not possible to view videos for all the icons displayed on the map. However, it is preferable to distinguish between the latest file in which video data is stored and the past file in which video data is not stored. The distinction may be realized, for example, by varying the shape or color of the icon. For example, the latest files may be set to 10.

Description of Reference Numerals

[0371] 100 First control unit 110 Touch panel 120 Speaker 130 Notification LED 140 Button 150 TV tuner 160 GPS sensor 170 Acceleration sensor 180 First storage unit 190 Main storage unit 200 Second control unit 210 Camera 211 Incident part 220 Microphone 230 Second storage unit 310 Power supply unit 320 USB terminal 501 Edge 502 Joint part 503 Speaker slit 504 Cigarette plug cord 504-1 Cord part 505 Notch 506 Speaker unit 507 Speaker holding part 508 Speaker slit corresponding position 1000 Integrated device 2000 Cradle 3000 Pedestal part

Claims

1. When measurement information that changes as the moving body moves becomes information that satisfies a predetermined condition, a function of storing, in association with a storage medium, information for identifying the location where the condition is satisfied and image data captured during a period corresponding to the condition, and a function of deleting part or all of the stored image data when the condition is satisfied while the image data is stored in a predetermined number less than the maximum number of image data that can be stored in the storage medium. The apparatus having these functions.

2. The measurement information that changes as the moving body moves includes measurement values by an acceleration sensor, and it is determined whether the condition is satisfied depending on whether the measurement values by the acceleration sensor exceed a threshold value. The threshold value can be set to different values for each measurement axis, and the threshold value for the measurement axis corresponding to the traveling direction of the moving body is higher than the threshold values of other measurement axes. The apparatus according to Claim 1.

3. When the condition is satisfied, control is performed for the notification unit to light up, and the notification unit is arranged at a location where the lighting by the notification unit is reflected on the front glass of the moving body. The apparatus according to Claim 1 or 2.

4. When the moving body is located near the location where the condition is satisfied, at least part of the functions executed by the apparatus to be controlled by the apparatus is restricted. The apparatus according to any one of Claims 1 to 3.

5. The condition is any one of a plurality of conditions provided step by step, and the storing function stores, in association, information for identifying the location, the image data, and information indicating which of the plurality of conditions is satisfied. The apparatus according to any one of Claims 1 to 4.

6. A program for causing a computer to function as the apparatus according to any one of Claims 1 to 5.

Images