Systems and programs, etc.

Abstract

To provide a system and program with superior characteristics compared to conventional systems. [Solution] A system that operates by receiving power from a battery installed in the vehicle when the vehicle 400 is in a predetermined off state, and includes a function to notify predetermined information when the vehicle subsequently enters a predetermined on state, which was provided when the system operated by receiving power from the battery while the vehicle was in a predetermined off state.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to, for example, systems and programs.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, various systems such as a drive recorder having a function of recording an image captured by a vehicle, for example, are known.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, there have been various problems in conventional various systems and the like.

[0005] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a system, a program, and the like having characteristics superior to those of the prior art.

[0006] However, the object of the present invention is not limited to this, and the applicant also intends to obtain rights by means of a divisional application, amendment, etc. for a configuration that aims to obtain an effect resulting from a part of the configuration disclosed in this specification and drawings. For example, in this specification, the problems obtained by reading the parts described as "can" or "is possible" as "is a problem" are disclosed in this specification. The problems are described as independent ones, and the applicant also intends to obtain rights by means of a divisional application, amendment, etc. alone for the configuration for solving each problem. Even if the problem is implicitly grasped from the description of the specification, the applicant intends to make the scope of claims by amending or filing a divisional application for a part of the configuration described in this specification. Also, the configuration for solving the problem combining these independent problems is disclosed and the applicant intends to obtain rights. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] (1) For example, the system may be one that operates by receiving power from a battery provided in the mobile body when the mobile body is in a predetermined off state. It is preferable to have a configuration that includes a function to notify predetermined information when the mobile body operates by receiving power from the battery while it is in a predetermined off state, when the mobile body subsequently enters a predetermined on state.

[0008] In this way, the user can operate the system when the mobile device is in a predetermined off state without having to provide a battery other than the one the mobile device has, and can also receive notification of predetermined information when the mobile device subsequently turns on, regarding the operation powered by the mobile device's battery while it was in the predetermined off state.

[0009] The "mobile body" may be an internal combustion engine vehicle, a hybrid vehicle, or an electric vehicle. Furthermore, it may be a four-wheeled automobile, or any mobile body capable of mounting a camera device, regardless of whether it has four wheels or not. The system may also be detachable from the mobile body and function even without being fixed in place. The mobile body may also be an automobile, a large transport vehicle with four or more wheels such as a bus or truck, a two-wheeled vehicle such as a motorcycle or bicycle, or a ship. Furthermore, the mobile body may also be a vehicle of a transportation system such as a train, monorail, or maglev train.

[0010] The "predetermined off state" may be a state in which the main power supply of the mobile device is turned off. More preferably, the vehicle's accessory power supply may be turned off. The "predetermined off state" may also be a state in which the mobile device is unable to move. The "predetermined off state" may also be a state in which the engine of the mobile device is stopped. The "predetermined off state" may also be a state in which the mobile device is parked. The "predetermined off state" may be a state after the change from on to off and before the change from off to on. More preferably, the state after the change from on to off and before the change from off to on may be a period of time between the time the change from on to off and the time the change from off to on. Multiple such periods of time may be provided, and intervals may be provided between the periods. For example, it may be a period from after a predetermined time has elapsed since the time the change from on to off until before the predetermined time the change from off to on occurs. Alternatively, it may be the period between the time the change from on to off and the time the change from off to on occurs. The accessory power supply may also be turned off. Furthermore, the vehicle speed may be 0 km / h, or it may be below a predetermined speed. In addition, the moving object may be in a predetermined position, or power supply from an external battery may have started. It is preferable to have a function that includes at least two of these conditions and allows the user to select which one to adopt and perform the selected action. The settings may be made automatically, but it is preferable to have a function that allows the settings to be made based on user operation.

[0011] The configuration "to be installed on the mobile body" may be installed at any location on the mobile body, but it is preferable to have a configuration that is installed inside the mobile body. The configuration "to be installed on the mobile body" may be installed in a location inside the mobile body but not in the passenger compartment. The configuration "to be installed on the mobile body" may be installed inside the hood if the mobile body has a hood. The configuration "to be installed on the mobile body" may be installed in a location inside the mobile body but in the passenger compartment. The configuration "to be installed on the mobile body" may be installed at the factory when the mobile body is shipped from the manufacturer. It may also be installed by the user or by the dealer.

[0012] For "power supply from a battery installed in the mobile unit," it is preferable to have a configuration in which power is supplied from a connector installed in the mobile unit. For "power supply from a battery installed in the mobile unit," it is preferable to have a configuration in which power is supplied from a fuse box installed in the mobile unit. Alternatively, power can be supplied directly from the vehicle's battery, or from an external battery.

[0013] The "specified information" can be any information, but it is preferable to include information indicating that an irregular condition occurred while the parking surveillance function was running, and in particular, information indicating that the parking surveillance function terminated under an irregular condition. For example, it is preferable to include a function to identify that an irregular condition occurred while the parking surveillance function was running, and to include information indicating that the irregular condition occurred while the parking surveillance function was running. For example, when the parking surveillance function terminates under an irregular condition, it is preferable to include a function to store information indicating that the parking surveillance function terminated under an irregular condition. It is also preferable to include multiple functions for terminating the parking surveillance function, and if the parking surveillance function is terminated, to include information indicating which of the functions terminated the parking surveillance function. It is also preferable to include information indicating whether the timer function or the voltage monitoring function was activated. Furthermore, it is preferable to include information indicating that the vehicle battery is degraded, or information indicating that the vehicle battery needs to be inspected, or information indicating the reason why the parking surveillance function terminated midway. The system may include information indicating that the parking surveillance function was terminated midway, information indicating that the voltage of the vehicle battery has dropped, information indicating that the detected voltage needs to be reviewed, information indicating that the vehicle needs to be inspected at a dealership, or information indicating that the vehicle needs to be inspected. In addition, the system may include parking surveillance history information, information indicating that there is parking surveillance history information, or information indicating that an event occurred during parking surveillance. Furthermore, the system may include information on the time the mobile device was operating while powered by the battery installed in the mobile device when it was in a predetermined off state, or it may store information about when the mobile device was operating while powered by the battery installed in the mobile device when it was in a predetermined off state, and include predetermined information generated based on that information.The function that notifies a predetermined information when the mobile device is in a predetermined ON state, based on power supplied by the battery while the mobile device is in a predetermined OFF state, may, for example, include a function that stores information when the mobile device is in a predetermined OFF state while powered by the battery, and generates and notifies the predetermined information based on that information. Furthermore, the "predetermined information" is preferably stored in the system's memory, preferably in non-volatile memory, and may be an SD card. In addition, it may be good to add the time obtained from GPS, or the time obtained and added by the RTC, or the start time of the event, or the end time of the event, or a configuration that adds both the start and end times of the event. It may also include information on the number of events per unit time, or information on how many days one event occurs.

[0014] "When the mobile body enters a predetermined ON state" may be configured to be, for example, the reverse of a predetermined OFF state. "When the mobile body enters a predetermined ON state" may be configured to be, for example, the state after entering the reverse of a predetermined OFF state and then entering a first predetermined state. More preferably, the first predetermined state may be configured to be the elapsed time, and more preferably, the first predetermined state may be configured to be the completion of the system startup process. "When the mobile body enters a predetermined ON state" may be configured to be the state when the main power supply of the mobile body is turned ON. More preferably, the vehicle's accessory power supply may be turned ON. "The predetermined ON state" may be configured to be the state when the mobile body is in a drivable state, or the state when the mobile body is in motion. "The predetermined ON state" may be configured to be the state when the engine of the mobile body is running. "The predetermined ON state" may be configured to be the state when the mobile body is in motion. "The predetermined ON state" may be configured to be the state after changing from OFF to ON and before changing from ON to OFF. More preferably, the period includes the time from when the state changes from off to on to when it changes from on to off, and particularly preferably the time from when the state changes from off to on to when it changes from on to off. The time when it happens may be immediately after it happens. It may also be the time when it is determined that it has happened. The configuration may also include the time when the state happens and then a first predetermined state is reached.

[0015] For "notification," a display is preferable. For "notification," a configuration for audio notification is also preferable. More preferably, it is preferable to display it on the screen, play a sound effect, make a pop-up on the screen, make an announcement, illuminate a light-emitting part of the system, or have a configuration to make the light-emitting part blink. Even more preferably, a configuration to display a button that allows playback of the recording is also preferable, or a configuration to display a screen for setting the detected voltage is also preferable. In addition, it is preferable to have a warning screen that is relatively stronger than the normal display screen, or to display text on the screen, but more preferably a configuration to display using graphs or diagrams is preferable. Even more preferably, an event history screen is also preferable, or a button to display the event history screen is also preferable, or when displaying information including time, a configuration to display the time range as a graph clock is preferable. In that case, it is also preferable to highlight only the range of time when the event occurred. Furthermore, it is preferable to have a configuration in which these are communicated with a smartphone and a PC and performed on the smartphone and the PC.

[0016] (2) The system of the present invention may be configured to include a function that notifies that the moving body has deviated from the normal operation it takes when it is in a predetermined off state, as predetermined information.

[0017] In this way, the user can receive notification of predetermined information when the mobile device operates using power supplied by its battery while it is in a predetermined off state, and then receive notification when the mobile device subsequently enters a predetermined on state.

[0018] "A deviation from the normal operation taken when the moving object is in a predetermined off state" may be information that the parking surveillance function terminated in an irregular state, but more preferably it should be information that the voltage monitoring function was activated. Furthermore, it may also be information about the reason why the parking surveillance function terminated midway. In addition, it may also be information that the parking surveillance function terminated midway. Furthermore, it may also be information that an event occurred during parking surveillance, or parking surveillance history information, or information that there is parking surveillance history information, or that the voltage of the vehicle battery has dropped.

[0019] For example, if the "specified information" is the termination of the dashcam's parking surveillance function, the monitoring function should terminate normally, for example, by a timer function. However, if it does not terminate normally, the next time the engine is started, the system should notify the user that the parking surveillance has ended under irregular circumstances through a pop-up or announcement such as: "Parking surveillance was terminated midway because the car battery was weak," "Event recording was terminated midway because the battery voltage became insufficient," "Please check the car battery," "An unusual event occurred," "Parking surveillance was terminated midway because the battery voltage fell below the set voltage," "Please check the battery," "Please check the instruction manual," "Please check the detection voltage setting," "Please have the battery checked at the dealership," or "Please have the car inspected."

[0020] Furthermore, for normal operation, it would be desirable to have a configuration that terminates the parking surveillance function using, for example, a timer function. If the timer function is set to, for example, one hour, it will terminate the parking surveillance function one hour after the engine is turned off. However, if the system is configured to notify the user that the parking surveillance has ended under irregular circumstances as described above, the user will be able to determine whether the parking surveillance was terminated by the timer function or the voltage monitoring function the next time they start the engine, and will be able to judge whether the parking surveillance has ended normally. In addition, the function that caused the parking surveillance function to end will be stored in memory or a storage medium as described above. The storage location should preferably be non-volatile memory so that the record remains even if the battery is dead, and more preferably it should be a configuration in which it is recorded on a removable SD card.

[0021] Furthermore, while any type of notification is acceptable, it is preferable to have a configuration that uses pop-ups or announcements, as such notifications are effective in preventing users from overlooking them. In other words, if an event occurs during parking surveillance and the system deviates from normal operation, a pop-up and sound effect will be displayed, while if there is no pop-up or sound effect, the user can assume that there is nothing wrong.

[0022] Furthermore, as a way to notify the user when parking surveillance has ended under irregular circumstances, normally when the engine starts and the drive recorder is turned on, a logo is displayed and the camera image is switched on. However, if there is an event recorded during the parking surveillance function, a "beep beep beep" sound effect may be played. More preferably, the system should have an overlay display on the image shown on the display screen that reads, "An event has occurred," or "This is the parking surveillance history," which would help prevent the user from overlooking the notification.

[0023] When performing notification by pop-up and announcement when an event occurs and deviates from normal operation, it may have a configuration to notify together with the time when the corresponding event occurred. Here, the time to be displayed may have a configuration to obtain from GPS, or may have an RTC (Real-time clock) internally and obtain the time from GPS at startup, or may have a configuration to obtain the time from GPS at the end of recording etc. Also, since an event such as the seconds suddenly jumping occurs when updating the time in real time, it is more preferable to have a configuration to perform periodic time update using RTC. Here, for example, it may pop up and announce the date and time range such as the time in the parking monitoring state or the event recording time, or may have a configuration to pop up and announce the start time and end time of the event.

[0024] Particularly for a drive recorder, it is for confirming what kind of accident occurred based on the video when encountering an accident. The user is not usually conscious of it, and it is difficult to notice when a problem occurs because they are not conscious. However, the fact that the corresponding time is displayed means that it can show the user that the drive recorder was operating. As a result, in addition to the user being able to recognize various times, for example, if the user knows the institution monitored by the parking monitoring function, the user can feel that they were being monitored by the drive recorder and can have a sense of security.

[0025] Furthermore, when displaying the time, it is preferable to have a configuration that uses graphs or diagrams for display. For example, it may have a configuration that displays the time range of the operation time of the parking monitoring function as a graph clock, or it may have a configuration that displays the time range as a sector or the like. Also, it may have a configuration that announces the start time and the end time together. More preferably, it has a configuration that pops up and announces, for example, how many recordings occur per unit time by the parking monitoring function and how many recordings are made per day. Also, it may have a configuration that pops up and announces not only the start time and the end time of a specific period but also the occurrence time of events and the like. For example, it is also good to display the time range of the operation time of the parking monitoring function as a graph clock and only highlight the type of event and the range of the occurrence time of the event. Also, it may have a configuration that, by selecting (touching) the highlighted part, plays back the recording corresponding to the time.

[0026] (3) The system of the present invention has a function of receiving power supply from a battery provided in the moving body and operating in a predetermined mode when the moving body is in a predetermined off state, and a function of notifying, as the predetermined information, that the operation in the predetermined mode has been terminated when the operation in the predetermined mode is terminated due to a predetermined factor when the moving body is in the predetermined off state. It is preferable to have a configuration including these functions.

[0027] In this way, when there is a predetermined mode in which the moving body operates by receiving power supply from the battery when the moving body is in a predetermined off state, and when the predetermined mode is terminated due to a predetermined factor, the user can receive notification that the predetermined mode has been terminated when the moving body subsequently becomes in a predetermined on state.

[0028] The "predetermined mode" may be a configuration that includes a parking surveillance function, a configuration that includes a voltage monitoring function, or a configuration that includes a timer function. The timer function, for example, can be set to 1 hour, which means that the parking surveillance function will end 1 hour after the engine is turned off, and the system may also be configured to notify that the operation in the predetermined mode has ended due to the timer function.

[0029] The "specified factor" could be a drop in the vehicle battery voltage, the activation of the timer function, the activation of the voltage monitoring function, the power of the dashcam being turned off, a change in temperature, or a deviation from a specified threshold.

[0030] (4) The system of the present invention may be configured to include a function that notifies information identifying the cause of the termination of operation in the predetermined mode, in addition to the termination of operation in the predetermined mode.

[0031] In this way, when a predetermined mode is terminated due to a predetermined factor, the user can receive notification not only that the predetermined mode has ended when the mobile device subsequently enters a predetermined ON state, but also about the factor that caused the predetermined mode to terminate.

[0032] The "factor that terminated operation in the specified mode" can be anything that caused the operation in the specified mode to terminate, but it is more desirable that the voltage of the vehicle battery drops. Alternatively, it could be the activation of the timer function, the activation of the voltage monitoring function, or the power of the dashcam being turned off.

[0033] For example, the pop-up and announcement that notifies the user that the parking surveillance function has been terminated by the voltage monitoring function may include a configuration that notifies the user of the reason why the parking surveillance function has been terminated, and the function of notifying the user of the reason why the parking surveillance function has been terminated by the voltage monitoring function may be disabled by setting. It is desirable that the user's operation after the announcement is simple, and preferably, it is good to have a function that allows playback of the recording with a single button press, and more preferably, it is good to be able to move to the detection voltage setting screen with a single button press. Furthermore, it is also possible to automatically move to the detection voltage setting screen without being triggered by a button press.

[0034] Furthermore, while (2) states that a "beep beep beep" sound effect will be emitted in addition to a pop-up when the engine is started after an event occurs during the parking surveillance function, it would be even better to have a configuration that provides user voice notification of the occurrence of an event and the recording of the event. Here, if an event occurs during the parking surveillance function and event recording is made, and then the status monitoring function is terminated by the voltage monitoring function, the system may have a configuration that announces and pops up that the vehicle battery voltage has fallen below the detected voltage after announcing the occurrence of the event and event recording, or it may have a configuration that announces and pops up in the reverse order. Alternatively, the system may have a configuration that divides the screen displayed on the display surface to simultaneously display pop-ups for the occurrence of the event and event recording, and a pop-up indicating that the voltage has fallen below the detected voltage.

[0035] In addition, regarding the screen display when the engine starts, since users may become accustomed to the screen and lose their attention, it would be good to have a configuration that makes the pop-up warning for a low vehicle battery voltage relatively stronger than the normal history screen. For example, the background color could be changed to a conspicuous and easily noticeable color such as red, or it could switch between yellow and blue. If the color is switched, it is preferable that it is not the same color as other functions. It is also good to have a configuration that displays a battery icon on the screen. In this case, it is preferable that the battery icon be a picture representing a car battery, taking into account that it may be mistaken for the built-in battery of the dashcam. Since a vehicle battery voltage below the detected voltage does not necessarily mean that the battery needs to be replaced, and in some cases the settings of the dashcam should be reviewed, it would be good to also display text such as "Please check now" on the screen.

[0036] Furthermore, while any type of notification is acceptable, it is preferable to have a configuration that uses pop-ups or announcements, as such notifications are effective in preventing users from overlooking important information. Specifically, if an event occurs during parking surveillance and the system deviates from normal operation, a pop-up and sound effect will be displayed. However, if there is no pop-up or sound effect, the user will assume that there is no abnormality. However, if the parking surveillance function terminates because the voltage falls below the detection voltage set by the user, it is highly likely that the vehicle's battery is deteriorating. Continuing to use the system in this state may prevent the engine from starting. To prevent this, displaying a pop-up and announcement explaining why the parking surveillance function terminated prematurely can prevent the user from assuming that there was no abnormality if no notification is received.

[0037] (5) The system of the present invention has a function that terminates operation in the predetermined mode when the voltage of the battery reaches a predetermined state while the mobile body is in a predetermined off state, It is preferable to have a configuration that includes a function to notify, as predetermined information, that the operation in the predetermined mode has ended because the battery voltage has reached a predetermined state, when the mobile body is in a predetermined off state and the battery voltage has reached a predetermined state, which is considered a predetermined factor.

[0038] In this way, when the battery reaches a predetermined state and terminates a predetermined mode, the user can be notified that the predetermined mode was terminated due to the battery voltage when the mobile device subsequently enters a predetermined ON state.

[0039] The "predetermined state" may be a state in which the battery voltage is lower than normal, a state in which the battery voltage is different from normal, or a state in which it deviates from a predetermined threshold.

[0040] Furthermore, while any voltage is acceptable for the voltage at a predetermined state (detection voltage), it is preferable to set it to a voltage that allows the engine to be started and also to a voltage that indicates the battery is weak. It is best not to set it to a voltage value that prevents the engine from starting. Such voltage values ​​vary depending on the vehicle type and battery type. For example, hybrid cars tend to have relatively low voltage values, gasoline cars relatively high voltage values, and batteries for kei cars tend to have relatively low voltage values, while batteries for large vehicles tend to have relatively high voltage values. In addition, vehicles with charge control systems also tend to have relatively low voltage values, and since driving frequency, electrical equipment conditions, and battery degradation status differ for each, it is desirable for the user to set an appropriate value for the detection voltage. However, since it is difficult for users to determine what value to set, it is preferable for a service technician to set it when installing the drive recorder at the dealership. Also, although there are few opportunities to change the detection voltage once it has been set, it is preferable to have a configuration that allows users to easily change the detection voltage via screen operation if they wish to do so depending on the situation.

[0041] Furthermore, since a car engine failing to start is likely to be more troublesome for the user than recording using the parking surveillance function, the system may be configured to stop recording via a voltage monitoring function if the voltage drops during recording using the parking surveillance function. Even in this case, it is preferable that the recording up to the point where the voltage monitoring function is activated is stored as a single recording.

[0042] Furthermore, if recording is stopped due to the voltage monitoring function, it would be preferable to have a configuration that displays a pop-up when the engine is started next time, similar to when recording by the parking monitoring function is not interrupted. It would also be preferable to display a play button, and when the OK button is pressed, a list of recorded footage will be displayed, and the recording can be played back. More preferably, it would be preferable to have a configuration that also provides notification by voice or sound effect.

[0043] (6) The system of the present invention is equipped with a predetermined voltage or less as the predetermined state, A function to set the predetermined voltage by user operation, The configuration may include a function that prompts a change in the predetermined voltage setting when the operation in the predetermined mode is terminated due to the predetermined factor that the battery voltage falls below a predetermined voltage while the mobile body is in a predetermined off state.

[0044] In this way, when a predetermined mode is terminated due to a drop in battery voltage, the user will be notified that the mode was terminated due to a drop in battery voltage. Furthermore, the user will have the opportunity to review the voltage setting that triggers the termination of the predetermined mode. This will allow them to set the voltage to match the battery's degradation state.

[0045] The "specified voltage" should ideally be a voltage that allows the engine to start, and also a voltage that indicates the battery is weak. Since this voltage varies depending on the vehicle model and battery type, it is preferable to set an appropriate value for each vehicle model and battery type.

[0046] Regarding "functions that can be set by user operation," it is desirable to have a configuration that allows manual setting, for example, a configuration that allows a service technician at a dealership to set it. More preferably, it is desirable to have a configuration that allows settings to be easily made using a screen. Furthermore, it is desirable that the settings can be easily changed according to the situation after they have been set once, and it is even more preferable to have a configuration that allows settings to be made by screen operation. It is also desirable to have a function that allows the setting menu to be switched between beginner mode and expert mode, or it may be possible to switch between a simple menu and a detailed menu, or between a facilitator mode and a dealer mode. Moreover, it is also desirable to have a setting screen that displays the battery condition, driving frequency, current battery voltage value, battery voltage value over a certain period, and a graph of these values, and it is also desirable to have a confirmation dialog displayed when setting. If a graph is displayed, it is possible to check whether the battery is weak while observing the battery voltage discharge curve. It may also be possible to make an automatic judgment from the graph. In addition, it is also good to have a function that is performed when installing a dashcam, and it may be possible to have a function that instructs the system to apply voltage during setting and also determines the degree of battery deterioration.

[0047] While using the vehicle's battery for parking surveillance is not problematic, it's important to remember that the vehicle's battery is primarily designed to power the car and therefore needs to maintain a certain voltage to start the engine. For this reason, it's desirable to have a voltage monitoring function that allows the user to set a minimum voltage limit for the vehicle's battery, and automatically terminates the parking surveillance function if the voltage falls below that limit. For example, if the detection voltage is set to 11.6V during parking surveillance, the system could be configured to terminate the surveillance if the voltage drops below 11.6V.

[0048] Furthermore, the pop-up and announcement displayed to the user when the engine is started may be configured to ask the user whether to "review the detection voltage or turn off the parking surveillance function." In addition, the system may be configured to allow separate settings for the detection voltage that terminates the parking surveillance function and the voltage that turns off the parking surveillance function. For example, if the parking surveillance function is terminated when it falls below the detection voltage that terminates the parking surveillance function, and then another electrical component causes the voltage to fall below the voltage that turns off the parking surveillance function, the system may be configured so that the parking surveillance function does not operate the next time the engine is stopped. Also, if there are two detection voltages in this way, the system may be configured to display different pop-ups and announcements the next time the engine is started for each voltage, and it is preferable to have a system that announces that the battery voltage has dropped due to other factors even though the parking surveillance function is stopped.

[0049] (7) The system of the present invention is equipped with a predetermined voltage or less as the predetermined state, The aforementioned battery has a function to monitor voltage changes, It is preferable to have a configuration that includes a function to automatically change the predetermined voltage based on the voltage change of the battery.

[0050] In this way, the system can estimate the battery's degradation state from the voltage changes and automatically adjust the voltage setting to match the battery's degradation status. As a result, users no longer need to manually adjust the voltage setting, improving convenience.

[0051] The "function to automatically change the predetermined voltage based on voltage changes" may have a configuration that flows a current larger than the current that flows when the drive recorder is operating in a steady state, and monitors and sets the voltage drop at that time. As a method of flowing a current larger than the current that flows when operating in a steady state, it may be a dedicated circuit equipped with a discharge resistor, etc., or it may be used to charge the naturally discharged energy storage component when the engine is started next time. Furthermore, it may also record and detect voltage changes, and determine the degree of battery weakness based on the degree of voltage change and the length of time that voltage is generated, and change the setting of the detected voltage. In addition, it may also monitor and record voltage changes due to starter motor starting, and have a configuration that determines the battery health, for example, the degree of weakness, based on the degree of voltage change due to starter motor starting and the length of time that voltage is generated, and change the setting of the detected voltage.

[0052] Furthermore, the voltage monitoring function may have a configuration that records the vehicle battery voltage value to a memory storage medium regardless of whether the vehicle battery voltage is below the detected voltage. In this case, the recording destination is preferably a non-volatile memory so that the record remains even when the vehicle battery is dead, and it is preferable to have a configuration that stores it on an SD card. It is also preferable to configure the system to record various information and the date and time obtained by the sensor in accordance with the vehicle battery voltage, and it is even preferable to have a configuration that displays the record in a graph when the user checks it. This allows the user to check the vehicle battery voltage value at any time, and furthermore, the voltage monitoring function allows them to check the voltage value before the parking monitoring function ends, and it can be used as a clue to find the cause of the vehicle battery failure.

[0053] Furthermore, it would be beneficial to have a configuration that records the vehicle voltage history even when not recording video. The main function of a dashcam is to record, which consumes power, but if the vehicle battery voltage decreases when not recording, it indicates that there is a factor other than the dashcam, making it easier to use as a clue to find the cause of the vehicle battery drain.

[0054] Furthermore, it is preferable to have a configuration that not only records the voltage value of the vehicle battery but also detects changes in the vehicle battery voltage and monitors and records the voltage change caused by the starter motor starting. More preferably, it is preferable to have a configuration that determines the health of the battery, for example, how weak it is, based on the degree of voltage change caused by the starter motor starting and the length of time that voltage is generated, and changes the setting of the detected voltage or terminates the parking monitoring function. For example, the rotation speed of the starter motor is monitored from the voltage change, and if it rotates 3 times, it is determined that the vehicle battery is weak, and if it rotates 1 time, it is determined that it is not weak.

[0055] Furthermore, the dashcam may have a function to supply a current larger than the current that flows when it is operating in a steady state, and a function to monitor the voltage drop in that case and change the timer function and voltage monitoring function accordingly. This utilizes the characteristic that a degraded battery generally exhibits a different voltage drop when a certain voltage is applied compared to a non-degraded battery. It would be good to have a configuration that temporarily loads the vehicle battery, and if the voltage drop is large, it is judged that the battery is weak, and if the voltage drop is small, it is judged that the battery is not weak. Here, the function to supply a current larger than the current that flows when it is operating in a steady state may be a dedicated circuit equipped with a discharge resistor, etc., or it may be used to charge a naturally discharged supercapacitor when the engine is started next time.

[0056] Furthermore, the system may have a function to set the detection voltage when the drive recorder is installed. When the detection voltage is set and the engine is off, it is preferable to have a configuration that displays a pop-up and announcement instructing the user to perform an action such as "Turn on the headlights and hazard lights" so that the vehicle battery applies voltage. This allows the system to set the detection voltage based on the degree of deterioration of the vehicle battery as described above.

[0057] Furthermore, since hybrid vehicles do not use the 12V battery much and instead use the traction battery, it is possible that this invention cannot be used in hybrid vehicles. Also, it is possible that it cannot be used in EV vehicles, so it is desirable that the detection voltage can be set manually in accordance with this invention, and the function for setting the detection voltage when installing the drive recorder should have a function that allows for easy switching to manual setting for hybrid vehicles and EV vehicles.

[0058] The voltage monitoring function should have a configuration that patterns the voltage value based on the voltage value of the vehicle battery. More preferably, it should have a configuration that compares the patterned value with the vehicle battery voltage and notifies the user of, for example, "The battery is draining very quickly," or "Please check the battery." When patterning, the recorded voltage value should be used as the basis for the pattern, and the recording destination should be memory or a storage medium, preferably non-volatile memory, and more preferably an SD card. It is even better to create an area that will not be overwritten and record the data there. The system should have a configuration that records the voltage value information at regular intervals, for example, 10 minutes, 15 minutes, or 1 hour. In addition, the notification may be made when the parking surveillance function is activated, or when the engine is started. For example, it may notify the user of, "This value deviates from the average of the last 10 measurements," or it may display a graph. In addition, it is also good to include the battery voltage as subtitles in the recorded video. This allows for verification by watching the video, making it applicable to field services and for identifying various causes of malfunctions.

[0059] (8) The system of the present invention may be configured to have a function that automatically changes the predetermined state at a predetermined time.

[0060] This allows the system to automatically change the termination conditions for a predetermined mode according to the time of year. As a result, users no longer need to manually review the termination conditions for a predetermined mode according to the time of year, improving convenience.

[0061] The "specified time" can be any time, but preferably the change of seasons. It can also be when there is a change in temperature, immediately before or after the change of season, or immediately before or after a change in temperature.

[0062] The "function that automatically changes the predetermined state at a predetermined time" should preferably include a function that takes into account the temperature at that predetermined time.

[0063] (9) The system of the present invention has a function to set the predetermined state by user operation, The system should be configured to include a function that prompts the user to review the settings for the predetermined state at a predetermined time.

[0064] This allows users to review the settings for the termination conditions of a given mode as time progresses. This enables them to set termination conditions for a given mode that are appropriate for the current time period.

[0065] The "function to prompt the user to review settings for a given state" can be displayed on the screen, accompanied by a sound effect, displayed as a pop-up, announced, illuminated, or flashed by the system's built-in light-emitting parts. Furthermore, a button to display the detection voltage setting screen can also be displayed. Additionally, it can be a relatively stronger warning screen than the normal display, displaying text, graphs, or diagrams, and these can be controlled via communication with a smartphone or PC. It could also be set up to prompt users to review the detection voltage setting at pre-set times, such as during seasonal changes. For example, in November, as winter approaches, a message such as "Please increase the detection voltage" could be issued. This would highlight the need for caution due to the battery's characteristics, as batteries are strongly affected by temperature. For instance, a user who set their summer setting to 11.6V may be at risk in winter, as -15°C could reduce battery capacity to approximately 60%. Alternatively, the system could automatically review the settings instead of issuing a notification.

[0066] Furthermore, the "specified time" does not necessarily have to be a season, but rather the time when the work was performed. For example, it would be good to detect that the battery has been removed, i.e., replaced, when the monitoring voltage drops to 0V. Then, when the engine is started for the first time after the battery replacement, the system may notify that the battery has been replaced. It may also prompt the system to reset the detection voltage.

[0067] (10) The system of the present invention has a function to acquire at least one of the following states: the temperature of the device to be operated by the system, the temperature outside the mobile body, the temperature inside the mobile body, and the illuminance. It is preferable to have a configuration that includes a function to automatically change the predetermined state based on the acquired information.

[0068] In this way, the system can automatically change the termination conditions for a predetermined mode based on at least one piece of information, such as the temperature of the device being operated on, the ambient temperature outside the mobile body, the ambient temperature inside the mobile body, and the illuminance. As a result, users no longer need to manually review the termination conditions for the predetermined mode to match these external environmental factors, improving convenience.

[0069] The "operating device" may be any device that has one or more of (1) through (23), any device that uses one or more of them, any dashcam, or any device that can be attached to a dashcam.

[0070] "Temperature of the device being operated on" may refer to the internal temperature of the device, the external temperature of the device, or the temperature of the device's components such as the circuit board, CPU, and case.

[0071] Furthermore, it is also good to have a configuration that takes temperature into account using sensor measurements without prior configuration. For example, when the engine is off, the temperature of the drive recorder, such as the circuit board, CPU, and case, can be measured to estimate the outside temperature. It would be good to have a configuration that automatically corrects the detection voltage setting based on the estimated outside temperature. Here, a temperature sensor could be directly attached to the vehicle battery. However, wiring is difficult, and the location of the vehicle battery varies from car to car. For example, the vehicle battery is installed under the rear seat or in the trunk. Also, since the measured temperature is affected by whether or not it is exposed to direct sunlight, it is good to use measurement with an illuminance sensor in conjunction. Depending on the location of the drive recorder, the temperature will change due to the influence of direct sunlight, so this allows for a more accurate estimation of the outside temperature.

[0072] Furthermore, when the dashcam's power consumption is high, the dashcam itself generates heat, and the difference with the outside temperature becomes large. Therefore, it is preferable to have a configuration that reduces power consumption in the engine-off parking surveillance function compared to normal recording, thereby suppressing the heat generation of the dashcam. In addition to continuous recording, it is also good to have a configuration that measures the temperature when there are few operations that generate heat. For example, when only the external sensor is operating during parking surveillance, the difference with the outside air becomes smaller, and it is not affected by self-heating. Moreover, by waiting a certain amount of time after activating the parking surveillance function, the heat generated by self-heating is gradually released and it cools down, so it is good to have a configuration that measures after a certain amount of time has passed. In addition, depending on the vehicle model, it is also good to read the outside temperature displayed on the instrument panel using image recognition, or to have a configuration that obtains the temperature from the OBD connector.

[0073] Furthermore, in order to suppress the heat generated by the drive recorder, it is advisable to have a configuration that limits the drive recorder's functions when the temperature of the drive recorder is high. It is also advisable to have a configuration that activates a cooling device such as a fan to cool the device.

[0074] Furthermore, the pop-up and announcement notifications mentioned above should ideally be configured to notify the user when the power is turned on again, such as when the engine starts or when the ACC is turned on. For example, a message such as, "During parking surveillance, the internal temperature of the device exceeded 7.5°C at 1:25 AM on July 19th, so the device has been turned off," is also good, and it is good to notify the specific temperature of the device. Notifying the ambient temperature of the device is also good, and a configuration that displays it as a graph is also good.

[0075] (11) The system of the present invention may be configured to include a function that, when the operation of the mobile body receiving power from the battery is terminated due to a predetermined factor while the mobile body is in a predetermined off state, and the predetermined factor is subsequently resolved, the operation of the mobile body receiving power from the battery when the terminated mobile body is in a predetermined off state.

[0076] In this way, the system can be operated when the mobile object is in a predetermined off state, and even if the operation is terminated due to a predetermined factor, it can be resumed once that factor is resolved, allowing the user to have as many opportunities as possible to operate the system.

[0077] "Operation powered by battery" can refer to any function that operates while powered by the battery installed in the mobile device, such as a parking surveillance function, a voltage monitoring function, a timer function, a time-lapse mode, an event recording function, or a motion detection mode.

[0078] For example, if the detection voltage is set to 11.6V and the parking surveillance function is terminated by the voltage monitoring function, the system can be configured to restart the parking surveillance function once the voltage returns to 11.6V. This is because the voltage drop is caused by some vehicle operation, such as a periodic operation or the vehicle's anti-theft system, and although the parking surveillance function was stopped once, it is determined that it can be restarted once the voltage recovers. Furthermore, the system can be configured to notify the system of the time when the system was terminated or resumed from restriction, along with the temperature, when the power engine is started, taking into account the period during which monitoring was not possible.

[0079] (12) The present invention is a system in which the mobile body is a vehicle and the drive recorder functions by receiving power from a battery provided in the vehicle, It is preferable to configure the drive recorder to operate in parking surveillance mode by receiving power from the vehicle's battery when the vehicle's ACC power is off.

[0080] In this way, users can operate the drive recorder in parking surveillance mode when the vehicle's ACC power is off, without needing to install a battery other than the vehicle's own battery. Furthermore, they can receive notification of the drive recorder's data when it was powered by the vehicle's battery while the vehicle's ACC power was off, when the vehicle's ACC power is subsequently turned on.

[0081] For "parking surveillance mode," it is acceptable for the parking surveillance function to be already active.

[0082] Furthermore, during a parking surveillance event, it would be beneficial to have a configuration that alerts the driver by alternating between black and white light on the display screen when an event occurs. Primarily at night, for example, when an impact is made, the interior of the car could start flashing. This would create the impression that something has activated inside the car in the dark, putting psychological pressure on any malicious actor. At this time, it would be good to display "Security surveillance in progress," or to emit a sound, or to configure the system to remotely activate the alarm function wirelessly.

[0083] Furthermore, the system could be configured to allow users to turn off the parking surveillance function if they do not need it. This would ensure that the dashcam's power is also turned off when the engine is stopped. For example, if a user has a parking lot along a main road, the motion detection function may record continuously if it is on, or if the sensors in a mechanical parking lot such as an apartment building are triggered, the user may not need the parking surveillance function. Therefore, it would be good to have a function that uses GPS to disable the parking surveillance function within a set area, and it would also be good to have a pop-up and announcement that parking surveillance will not be performed because the user is in a set area.

[0084] Furthermore, the parking surveillance function, timer function, and voltage monitoring function could be displayed as icons on the screen. For example, the timer function's set time could be displayed as an icon, allowing the user to see the monitoring time of the parking surveillance function at a glance. Too many icons would hinder usability and visibility, so it's best to carefully select which icons to display. It would also be good to allow the user to select which icons to display in the settings, or to allow the user to hide the icons only when they want to. Additionally, it would be good to have pop-ups or announcements that appear in response to icon operation.

[0085] Furthermore, if the dashcam does not have a parking surveillance function, it draws power from the vehicle's accessory power supply. Therefore, when the engine is not running, no power is supplied, and recording is not possible while parked. For this reason, it is preferable to connect it directly to the car's constant power supply, also known as the onboard battery, rather than to the accessory power supply. Alternatively, power can be supplied from an external battery. Here, the accessory power supply is, for example, the car's cigarette lighter socket or the back of the cigarette lighter socket.

[0086] On the other hand, it's also possible to configure the dashcam to draw power from the accessory power supply to recognize when the accessory power is turned off. In other words, it's also possible to use a configuration that draws power directly from the car battery and power from the accessory power supply to recognize when the engine is running, with the accessory power supply only used as a trigger. Dashcams with this combination of a terminal to draw main power from the car battery and a power line to recognize when the engine is running are becoming more common these days, and it's also possible to have a dashcam with two power lines.

[0087] Furthermore, when the parking surveillance function is active and set to motion detection mode, the frequency of motion detection is monitored, and if the frequency is high, the system can be configured to automatically control the frequency of motion detection to a lower level. In other words, if the number of motion detections is high, this automatically changes the threshold of the motion detection sensor, etc., and this can be combined with a function that allows the user to set two levels, one for normal operation and one for parking surveillance operation.

[0088] Furthermore, the system could be configured to display a pop-up and announcement to the user indicating the remaining capacity and the recording time based on that capacity. For example, "If you set it to continuous recording, you can only record for 1 hour." would be good. Alternatively, the recording time could be calculated assuming the use of the SD card included with the unit, or it could be calculated based on the remaining capacity of the storage device. In addition, if the setting is changed to select continuous recording as the recording method during parking surveillance, it would be good to display a notification like the one above, or a pop-up and announcement warning such as "There is a high possibility that the car battery will run out."

[0089] (13) The system of the present invention may be configured such that, in addition to the fact that the mobile body has completed a predetermined operation while in a predetermined off state and receiving power from the battery provided by the mobile body, the predetermined operation was performed while in a predetermined off state and the predetermined operation was performed while in a predetermined off state and information generated within that time range.

[0090] In this way, when a predetermined operation is completed while the mobile device is in a predetermined off state, the user can receive a report not only that the predetermined operation has been completed, but also the time range during which the predetermined operation was performed and the information that occurred during that time.

[0091] The "time range and the information that occurred within that time range" should preferably be the time obtained from GPS, or the time obtained from RTC, or the start and end times of the time range, or the start and end times of the information that occurred. Furthermore, it is preferable to add the number of information items that occurred per unit time, and it is even better to add information on how many days it takes for one vent to occur.

[0092] (14) The system of the present invention has a function to acquire the temperature of the device to be operated by the system, It is preferable to have a configuration that includes a function to terminate a predetermined operation powered by a battery provided in the mobile body when the temperature of the device exceeds a predetermined temperature while the mobile body is in a predetermined off state.

[0093] In this way, if the temperature of the device being operated by the system becomes too high, it becomes possible to terminate a predetermined operation to prevent the device from becoming even hotter.

[0094] The "predetermined temperature" can be any temperature, but it is preferable to set it in advance. It may be set by the user or by a service technician. Furthermore, it is even preferable to allow for step-by-step temperature setting.

[0095] (15) The system of the present invention may be configured to include a function that notifies, as predetermined information, that the predetermined operation has been terminated because the temperature of the device has reached a predetermined temperature or higher, when the predetermined operation is terminated due to power supply from a battery provided in the mobile body as a result of the temperature of the device reaching a predetermined temperature or higher.

[0096] In this way, when a predetermined operation is terminated because the temperature of the device being operated by the system becomes too high, the user will be able to receive a report that the predetermined operation has been terminated because the temperature of the device being operated by the system has become too high.

[0097] Furthermore, it is advisable to change the permissible operating temperature between normal recording while the engine is running and when using the parking surveillance function, setting the permissible operating temperature higher when using the parking surveillance function than when driving. More preferably, the shutdown temperature when using the parking surveillance function should be higher than when driving. When monitoring in motion detection mode during parking surveillance, only the external sensors are operating and recording is not usually performed, so the temperature rise of the drive recorder itself will be less than when recording normally. This makes it possible to operate even at higher ambient temperatures. For example, it is advisable to set the permissible operating temperature to 70°C when the ACC power is on, and to set it to 80°C when the ACC power is off. In addition, the impact detection threshold may be changed between recording other than parking and parking recording, or the permissible operating temperature may be changed.

[0098] (16) The system of the present invention may be configured to have a function that restarts the predetermined operation that was terminated when the temperature of the device exceeds a predetermined temperature and the operation is terminated by power supplied by a battery provided in the mobile body, if the temperature of the device subsequently falls below the predetermined temperature.

[0099] In this way, even if the system terminates a predetermined operation because the temperature of the device it controls becomes too high, it will be possible to resume the predetermined operation once the device's temperature drops. This allows the user to have as many opportunities as possible to operate the system.

[0100] For example, even if the temperature rises during the day and the function is limited, the system may have a configuration that determines that it is okay to resume operation once the temperature drops and it cools down at night or in the evening.

[0101] Furthermore, the sensor during the event recording function may have a configuration that controls a predetermined threshold temperature based on the temperature. Specifically, the threshold setting may be increased as the temperature rises. Since perpetrators would not want to commit crimes in hot places, the sensor's response may be weakened and recording may be delayed in the scorching midday sun. On the other hand, the sensor's response may be strengthened in the cooler nighttime hours, as crimes are more likely to occur in the dark, such as evening or night.

[0102] (17) The system of the present invention may be configured to include a function for acquiring the temperature of the device to be operated by the system, and a function for gradually limiting the operation of the device as the temperature rises when the mobile body is in a predetermined off state.

[0103] In this way, even if the temperature of the device operated by the system becomes high, the temperature rise can be suppressed and the predetermined operation can be avoided by gradually limiting the function as the temperature rises.

[0104] Furthermore, especially for drive recorders, a configuration that restricts functions in stages according to the drive recorder's temperature may be included. For example, recording could be performed with the LCD screen off from 60°C to 65°C, recording could be performed with the AI ​​function and ADAS (Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems) function turned off in addition from 65°C to 70°C, and time-lapse recording could be performed in addition from 70°C to 75°C. It is even more preferable to have a configuration that notifies the user via pop-up and announcement, associating the temperature with which functions have been restricted. In addition, a configuration that measures the temperature using a thermistor inside the drive recorder and estimates the temperature based on how much the main unit temperature rises when operated at room temperature may be included. For example, if the temperature rises by 40°C when operated at room temperature, then if the main unit temperature is 65°C, the external temperature will be 20°C.

[0105] (18) The system of the present invention performs an operation by receiving power from a battery provided in the mobile body, which is an operation to image the surrounding environment of the mobile body, The system should be configured to include a function that provides information regarding the content of the captured image as the predetermined information.

[0106] In this way, users can receive information about the content of images taken around the mobile object when it is powered by its battery while it is in a predetermined off state, and then be notified when the mobile object is subsequently turned on.

[0107] The "surrounding environment" may be the area outside the moving object or the area inside the moving object. Furthermore, it may be the area in front of the moving object through the windshield, the area behind the moving object through the rear window, or the areas to the left and right of the moving object through the rear window. However, it is preferable to define the area as the range that can be imaged from the device equipped with this system, or the range that can be imaged from the moving object on which the device equipped with this system is mounted.

[0108] "Information regarding the content of the captured image" could include information that a moving object was captured, information that the entire image or a large portion of it is covered by a sunshade, information that a person is in the image, or information that the image is completely dark. It could also include information that these are possible, or information that these were detected.

[0109] Furthermore, if the system detects that the entire image, or a large portion of it, is covered by a sunshade or the like while the parking surveillance function is operating, at the start of the parking surveillance function, or before the parking surveillance function starts, it may be configured to notify the system of the possibility that the image was covered by a sunshade or the like the next time the system is started. This can stop unnecessary recording and reduce wasted memory capacity. On the other hand, if the camera is an external camera, the sunshade will not be visible, so the system may be configured to warn the system if the image becomes dark due to the sunshade. If a series of actions occur while the parking surveillance function is operating, such as turning off the engine and then setting the sunshade, the camera operating the parking surveillance function can determine that the sunshade has been installed. On the other hand, if the system determines that the sunshade has been installed while the engine is running, it may be good to notify the system at that time with sound effects such as "beep beep" or "sunshade is covering the image," as well as with a pop-up and announcement.

[0110] Furthermore, the system may include a function to determine if there is footage in the recorded image that may contain a person while the parking surveillance function is operating, and a configuration that notifies the user that the footage may contain a person the next time the engine is started. Here, in the aforementioned motion detection mode, the image is treated as a background and detection is based on the amount of change in that background, and it does not recognize a specific object. On the other hand, the present invention recognizes people. Furthermore, when providing notification, it is preferable to use a pop-up and announcement, and the system may also include a configuration that displays a thumbnail. If the screen resolution is sufficiently high, it is also good to display the thumbnail in sections.

[0111] Furthermore, if all the footage recorded while the parking surveillance function is operating is nearly completely dark, the system may be configured to provide a notification via pop-up and announcement the next time the engine is started, such as "The ambient light during parking surveillance was insufficient," "The brightness is insufficient," or "It appears that no people were captured." This encourages the user to check the system and prompts them to reconsider the necessity of the parking surveillance function. Even if the footage is completely dark, it may still be important to the user. For example, this invention is preferable when the vehicle is stored in a garage with the shutters closed.

[0112] (19) The system of the present invention may be configured to have a function that reduces the power consumption of the battery when the voltage of the battery reaches a predetermined state while the mobile body is in a predetermined off state.

[0113] In this way, by reducing battery power consumption when the mobile device is in a predetermined off state, it is possible to continue operations powered by the mobile device's battery for as long as possible.

[0114] The "power consumption reduction function" may include common power consumption reduction methods such as clock gating or power gating. Furthermore, any method of reducing power consumption is acceptable, but preferably it is to turn off the LCD screen. Alternatively, it may be to not use AI, switch to time-lapse mode, or, more preferably, lower the frame rate.

[0115] Furthermore, it is preferable to have a configuration that turns off the parking surveillance function when the voltage falls below the detected voltage. Even more preferable is a configuration that, after ending the parking surveillance function, displays a pop-up and announcement to the user to confirm whether to turn off the parking surveillance function the next time the engine is started. This allows the parking surveillance function to not operate until the battery is checked or the detected voltage is reviewed and the setting is changed back to ON. For example, if the detected voltage is 11.6V, and the battery voltage falls below the detected voltage of 11.5V, the parking surveillance function will be terminated, and the next time the engine is started, the voltage monitoring function will notify the user that the parking surveillance function has ended, such as "The battery voltage has dropped, so parking surveillance has been interrupted," and a pop-up and announcement such as "Do you want to change the setting to not perform parking surveillance from now on?" may also be displayed.

[0116] This allows the parking surveillance function to be disabled until the battery is inspected or the detected voltage is reviewed. This has the effect of easily changing to a conservative setting that disables the parking surveillance function when the battery is degraded, and it also makes it possible to apply this effect to users who are not familiar with dashcams or cars.

[0117] Furthermore, the dashcam is equipped with a fan, which operates when the engine is stopped. It would be preferable for the dashcam to have a function that limits or stops the fan's operation while other functions are performed if the voltage of the onboard battery supplying power is below a predetermined value, even if the fan should be running. For example, this function could be operated while the parking surveillance function is running, and it is preferable to turn on the fan when the AI ​​function detects a person, as this consumes a lot of electricity and generates heat. It would also be preferable to have a function that limits or stops the fan and then operates other functions with restrictions. In addition, it would be even preferable to have a configuration that notifies the user of such actions, such as "Operating in restricted mode with restrictions in place" or "Recording stopped in restricted mode," through announcements and pop-ups, when the engine is started next time.

[0118] (20) The system of the present invention is an operation in which power is supplied by a battery provided in the mobile body and the operation is performed by executing a predetermined process when a predetermined condition is met. It is preferable to have a configuration that includes a function to change to stricter conditions than the predetermined conditions if the frequency of satisfying the predetermined conditions exceeds a predetermined frequency.

[0119] In this way, it is possible to reduce the frequency at which a predetermined process is executed when the mobile device is in a predetermined off state, and by reducing the power consumption of the battery, it is possible to continue operations that are powered by the battery of the mobile device for as long as possible.

[0120] The "predetermined frequency" can be any frequency, but it is preferable that it be configured to be set in advance. This frequency may be set by the user, by a service technician, or automatically based on historical information, etc.

[0121] The "conditions stricter than the specified conditions" can be any conditions, but preferably they should be pre-set conditions. These conditions may be set by the user, by a service technician, or automatically based on historical information, etc. Furthermore, they may be conditions that tighten the sensor's response conditions or lower the detected voltage value.

[0122] (21) The system of the present invention includes a function to determine whether the cause is an external environmental factor or an internal environmental factor when the mobile body terminates a predetermined operation due to power supply from a battery provided in the mobile body while the mobile body is in a predetermined off state, The system should be configured to include a function that notifies the result of the judgment as predetermined information.

[0123] In this way, when a predetermined operation is completed on a device controlled by the system, the user can receive a report on whether the termination was due to an external or internal environmental factor.

[0124] The "external environment" can be any environment outside the device, but it is preferable to define it as the activation of the voltage monitoring function. This could be a weakening of the battery voltage, a loss of power from the battery, a problem caused by a device other than the one equipped with this system, or a problem caused by the surrounding environment of the device equipped with this system.

[0125] The "internal environment" can be any environment within the device, but it is preferable that the operation be terminated by a timer function. The cause may be the device equipped with this system, or it may not be related to the external environment. For example, if the operation is terminated due to a rise in temperature, the system may determine whether the cause of the temperature rise is the external environment of the device, such as direct sunlight, or internal heat generation within the main unit of the device, and notify accordingly.

[0126] (22) The system of the present invention has a function of storing the history of the predetermined information in a storage medium, The configuration may include a function to display the history of the predetermined information stored in the storage medium on an external device.

[0127] In this way, the user can receive notification on an external device of a history of predetermined information when the mobile device operated using power supplied by its battery while it was in a predetermined off state.

[0128] The "function for displaying the history of the predetermined information stored in the storage medium on an external device" may have a configuration that saves the information in a playable file format on a device equipped with a display function, such as a PC or smartphone, or it may have a configuration that makes images captured by the shooting device playable on a viewer program of a PC, smartphone, tablet computer, or other device.

[0129] Furthermore, it is preferable to have a configuration that records the history as information necessary for displaying it in a PC viewer or smartphone app, and that displays the history in a PC viewer or smartphone app. Preferably, it is also preferable to have a configuration that provides pop-ups, announcements, sound effects, and notifications to the user, thereby allowing the user to view and confirm the recorded information.

[0130] Furthermore, it is preferable to have a configuration that allows the recorded history and information to be retrieved by removing the SD card and connecting it to a PC. More preferably, it is preferable to have a configuration that allows the data to be retrieved to a smartphone or PC via wireless LAN or Bluetooth. Moreover, it is even more preferable to have LTE (Long Term Evolution) communication functionality that allows easy connection to a server, and it is preferable to have a configuration that has Wi-Fi connectivity functionality.

[0131] For example, if a dashcam app is installed on a smartphone, it would be good to have a configuration that transfers the history information held by the dashcam to the smartphone. If there is a dashcam that works in conjunction with a smartphone, it would be good to have a configuration that displays the history when the user connects to the smartphone to view the footage. If the dashcam itself stores all the history, it would be good to have a configuration that allows it to connect to the smartphone wirelessly and allow the user to view that information using the smartphone app. The smartphone app would have a function to connect to the dashcam via Wi-Fi and display the history information when connected. It would be good to have a configuration where images are displayed on the PC software and the video is played when the play button is pressed. It would be good to have a configuration where event files are displayed at the edge of the screen, and the location where they were recorded is displayed when selected. It would be good to have a configuration that includes a smartphone app that supports these functions. In addition, the PC viewer described above would be good to have a configuration that displays the history when the user inserts the SD card into the PC and views the video using a program that displays the information.

[0132] (23) A system that includes an energy storage component that can be charged when power is supplied from an external source and supplies power to a predetermined circuit when the power supply from the external source is interrupted, and which includes a degradation reduction means for reducing the degradation of the energy storage component. In this way, it is possible to suppress degradation of energy storage components that can be charged when power is supplied from an external source and that supply power to a designated circuit when the external power supply is cut off.

[0133] (24) The degradation reduction means may be configured such that the energy storage component and the predetermined circuit are housed in a separate enclosure. By doing so, housing the energy storage components and the designated circuit in separate enclosures makes it less likely for heat from the circuit to be transferred to the energy storage components, thereby suppressing the deterioration of the energy storage components.

[0134] (25) The degradation reduction means may be configured such that the energy storage component and the heat-generating component are housed in separate enclosures. By housing the energy storage component and the heat-generating component in separate enclosures, heat from the heat-generating component is less likely to transfer to the energy storage component, thereby suppressing the degradation of the energy storage component.

[0135] (26) The degradation reduction means may be configured such that the energy storage component and the converter that supplies power to the energy storage component are housed in a separate enclosure. This eliminates the constraints on the installation of energy storage components and makes it possible to suppress the deterioration of these components.

[0136] (27) The degradation reduction means is configured such that the energy storage component and the heat-generating component are housed in separate spaces within the same housing, separated from each other. By housing the energy storage component and the heat-generating component in separate spaces, heat from the heat-generating component is less likely to be transferred to the energy storage component, thereby suppressing the degradation of the energy storage component.

[0137] (28) The degradation reduction means is configured such that the energy storage component and the heat-generating component that operates based on the power supply from the outside are arranged on the same substrate but on different surfaces. In this way, by placing the energy storage component and the heat-generating component on different surfaces without having to house them in separate enclosures, heat from the heat-generating component is less likely to be transferred to the energy storage component, making it possible to achieve miniaturization while suppressing the degradation of the energy storage component.

[0138] (29) The deterioration reduction means may be configured to include a member for dissipating or cooling the heat of the energy storage component. In this way, by installing components to dissipate or cool the heat generated in the energy storage components, it becomes possible to suppress the deterioration of the energy storage components.

[0139] (30) The degradation reduction means may be configured by connecting three or more of the energy storage components in series. This method makes it possible to increase the voltage withstand capability.

[0140] (31) The degradation reduction means is configured such that the component to which power is supplied by the energy storage component operates at an operating voltage lower than the voltage value of the energy storage component. This approach ensures that there is sufficient voltage margin in the energy storage components when operating them, thus suppressing their degradation. Furthermore, it reduces the number of energy storage components that are consumed by avoiding the need to directly connect multiple components.

[0141] (32) The deterioration reduction means is configured to allow the energy storage component to be replaced without disassembling the device that houses the energy storage component. This approach makes it possible to easily replace energy storage components, thereby suppressing their deterioration.

[0142] (33) The energy storage component is equipped with a pressure valve on its side, The degradation reduction means is preferably configured such that the upper surface of the energy storage component is in contact with the heat conductive member. In this way, the heat from the energy storage component can be dissipated by contact with the heat conductive material. On the other hand, since the pressure valve is located on the side, it can be prevented from being closed by the heat conductive material.

[0143] (34) The means for reducing degradation should be configured to monitor parameters related to degradation and to change the method of charging the energy storage component according to the movement of the parameters to be monitored. This method makes it possible to suppress the deterioration of energy storage components.

[0144] (35) The means for reducing degradation should include a function that monitors the temperature of the energy storage component and restricts the operation of surrounding components based on the temperature fluctuations being monitored. In this way, by restricting the operation of surrounding components when the temperature of the energy storage component is high, it is possible to prevent the temperature of the energy storage component from rising any further.

[0145] (36) The above-mentioned component is a heat-generating component that operates based on the power supplied from the outside, As a means of reducing degradation, it is preferable to have a configuration that includes a function to suppress the heat generation of the heat-generating component by restricting its operation. In this way, by controlling the heat generated in the heat-generating components, it becomes more difficult for heat from the heat-generating components to be transferred to the energy storage components, thereby suppressing the degradation of the energy storage components.

[0146] (37) The means for reducing deterioration should be configured to include a function for notifying about performance deterioration. In this way, it becomes possible to alert users about the performance degradation of energy storage components and draw their attention to the issue.

[0147] (38) The means for reducing degradation should be configured to include a function that controls the charging of the energy storage component to not be performed under predetermined charging restriction conditions, even if it is possible to charge it when there is an external power supply. This method makes it possible to suppress the deterioration of energy storage components.

[0148] (39) The charging limiting condition may be configured such that the ambient temperature of the energy storage component is above a predetermined temperature. In this way, for example, by not charging under high-temperature conditions where degradation of the energy storage components is expected, it becomes possible to suppress the degradation of the energy storage components.

[0149] (40) The predetermined circuit is a circuit provided by the drive recorder, As a means of reducing degradation, it is preferable to have a configuration that includes a function to control the charging of the energy storage component so as not to charge it until predetermined charging start conditions are met, even if it is possible to charge it when there is power supplied from an external source. By doing this, the energy storage component that supplies power to the dashcam is not constantly being charged, thereby suppressing the deterioration of the energy storage component.

[0150] (41) The charging start condition may include the detection that the user has entered the mobile vehicle on which the drive recorder is installed. In this way, for example, the energy storage component that supplies power to the dashcam can be kept from degrading by not charging it until it is predicted that the dashcam will start recording.

[0151] The electronic device may have the system configuration described in any of (1) to (41). The system may be housed in a single enclosure, or it may be arranged in multiple enclosures and connected to each other. The device may have the configuration described in (1) to (41).

[0152] (42) A program for a computer to implement the functions of any of the configurations described in (1) to (41). A program for a computer to implement the functions of a system having any of the configurations described in (1) to (41).

[0153] The inventions described in (1) to (42) above can be combined in any way. For example, one may combine all or part of the configuration of the invention described in (1) with at least part of the configuration of at least one of the inventions described in (2) and later. For example, one may combine all or part of the configuration of the invention described in (1) with at least part of the configuration of at least one of the inventions described in (2) and later. In particular, it is preferable to create an invention by adding at least part of the configuration of at least one of the inventions described in (2) and later to the invention described in (1). In particular, it is preferable to create an invention by adding at least part of the configuration of at least one of the inventions described in (23) and later or (22) and earlier to the invention described in (23). Alternatively, one may extract any configuration from the inventions described in (1) to (42) and combine the extracted configurations. The applicant of this application intends to acquire rights to inventions that include these configurations. Furthermore, even if there is a description such as "in the case of" or "when," it is not meant to be a configuration that is limited to that case or time. These are examples of better configurations, and the applicant intends to acquire rights to configurations that do not fall under these cases or times. Furthermore, sections that are listed in a specific order are not limited to this order. We are also disclosing configurations in which some sections have been deleted or the order has been rearranged, and we intend to acquire the rights to such configurations. [Effects of the Invention]

[0154] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a system that is superior to conventional systems. Furthermore, the effects of the present invention are not limited to those described herein. Effects derived from the components disclosed in this specification and the drawings are also disclosed, and the applicant intends to obtain rights to such components through divisional applications, amendments, etc. For example, phrases such as "can do" or "is possible" in this specification are descriptions that clearly indicate the effects to be achieved, and there are components that demonstrate effects even without such descriptions. Moreover, there are effects that can be grasped by the component even without such descriptions. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0155] [Figure 1]This diagram shows an example of the system configuration. [Figure 2] This figure shows an example of the external configuration of equipment equipped with the system. [Figure 3] This figure shows an example of a bracket configuration for mounting equipment to a vehicle. [Figure 4] This is a block diagram showing an example of the electrical configuration of the equipment. [Figure 5] This diagram shows the relationship between the parking surveillance function, timer function, and voltage monitoring function. [Figure 6] This diagram illustrates the alarm function. [Figure 7] This screen is displayed on the display when the engine is started again if an event occurs while the parking surveillance function is active. [Figure 8] This is the screen displayed on the display panel when setting the detection voltage. [Figure 9] This is an example illustrating the voltage drop of the vehicle's battery due to various operations. [Figure 10] This diagram shows the relationship between the capacity of the vehicle battery and the temperature of the vehicle battery. [Figure 11] This is an example of a power supply circuit using a supercapacitor. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0156] The following describes in detail the first and second embodiments of the system and program according to the present invention. In the description of the second embodiment, for the sake of clarity, the same reference numerals are used for components having the same function as those described in the first embodiment, and their descriptions are not repeated.

[0157] [First Embodiment] [Overall System Configuration] Figure 1 is a diagram illustrating the system configuration of this embodiment. Figure 1 shows a schematic diagram of a vehicle 400 viewed from the side. The vehicle 400 is, for example, an internal combustion engine vehicle with an engine as a power source, a hybrid vehicle with an engine and a drive motor as power sources, an electric vehicle with a drive motor as a power source, etc. System 1 has a first imaging device, an imaging device 100, and a second imaging device, an imaging device 200, which are installed on the vehicle 400. The vehicle 400 is, for example, a four-wheeled automobile, but is not limited to a four-wheeled automobile; any vehicle capable of installing the imaging device 100 and the imaging device 200 is acceptable. The vehicle may be, for example, a large transport vehicle with four or more wheels such as an automobile, bus, or truck, or a two-wheeled vehicle such as a motorcycle or bicycle, or other vehicles. The vehicle may also be a vehicle of a transportation system such as a train, monorail, or maglev train.

[0158] The camera 100 and camera 200 are devices (also called aftermarket products) that are retrofitted to the vehicle 400, such as by being purchased separately by the user. However, at least one of the camera 100 and camera 200 may be a device that is pre-installed in the vehicle 400 (i.e., is standard equipment). The camera 100 is a front camera positioned on the front side of the vehicle 400. For example, the camera 100 is mounted at a predetermined position on the front side of the passenger compartment of the vehicle 400 and takes pictures of the area in front of the vehicle 400 through the windshield. The camera 100 is a drive recorder. Specifically, the camera 100 has a function to take pictures, a function to record image data showing the pictures taken, and a function to record image data acquired from the camera 200.

[0159] The imaging device 200 is a rear camera positioned on the rear side of the vehicle 400. The imaging device 200 is, for example, mounted at a predetermined position on the rear side of the passenger compartment of the vehicle 400 and captures images of the rear of the vehicle through the rear window. The imaging device 200 has the function of capturing images and the function of outputting image data showing the captured images to the imaging device 100.

[0160] The imaging device 100 and the imaging device 200 are connected via a cable 300. The cable 300 is a wired communication path connecting the imaging device 100 and the imaging device 200. The cable 300 includes, for example, a power line that supplies power for operation from the imaging device 100 to the imaging device 200, and a signal line for transmitting various signals between the imaging device 100 and the imaging device 200. The imaging device 200 operates by receiving power from the imaging device 100 via the cable 300. The imaging device 100 and the imaging device 200 may be connected by a wireless communication path such as Wi-Fi®, Bluetooth®, or other standards, instead of a wired communication path. Furthermore, the imaging device 100 may be used without being connected to the imaging device 200 by communication.

[0161] [External configuration of the imaging device 100] Figure 2 shows an example of the external configuration of the imaging device 100. Figure 2(A) is a view of the imaging device 100 from the front, diagonally upward to the right. Figure 2(B) is a view of the imaging device 100 from the rear, diagonally upward to the right. The imaging device 100 has a housing 101. The housing 101 is a rectangular parallelepiped that is longer in the left-right direction than in the up-down direction and has a relatively small thickness. The housing 101 has an upper surface 1011 that faces upward when attached to the vehicle 400, a first side surface 1012, a second side surface 1013, a third side surface 1014 located opposite the second side surface 1013, and a fourth side surface 1015 located opposite the first side surface 1012.

[0162] The upper surface 1011 is provided with a joint rail 102 and a camera jack 191. The joint rail 102 is detachable from a bracket (for example, a bracket 600 described later) for attaching the imaging device 100 to a predetermined mounting position on the vehicle 400. The mounting position may be, for example, the windshield of the vehicle 400 (for example, near the upper edge of the windshield), or the rearview mirror or the ceiling inside the vehicle 400. When the imaging device 100 is attached to the vehicle 400, the first side surface 1012 faces the front of the vehicle 400. At this time, the second side surface 1013 faces the right when viewed from the rear of the vehicle 400. The third side surface 1014 faces the left when viewed from the rear of the vehicle 400. The fourth side surface 1015 faces the rear of the vehicle 400.

[0163] The camera jack 191 is a terminal to which one end of the cable 300 is connected. The camera jack 191 may, for example, be compatible with the USB Type-C standard and may also serve as a terminal for the imaging device 100 to communicate with the imaging device 200 using the Ethernet standard.

[0164] The first side surface 1012 is provided with an imaging lens 151, a sound emission hole 103, and a microphone hole 104. The imaging lens 151 is a light-gathering lens of the imaging unit (imaging unit 15, described later) of the imaging device 100. The sound emission hole 103 is located above the imaging lens 151 and is a hole that allows sound output by the audio output unit (audio output unit 14, described later) of the imaging device 100 to pass from the inside to the outside of the housing 101. The microphone hole 104 is located below the imaging lens 151 and is a hole that allows sound from the outside to pass from the outside to the inside of the housing 101. The sound that has passed through to the inside of the housing 101 is input to the microphone (microphone 121, described later) of the imaging device 100.

[0165] An event recording button 122 is provided on the second side 1013. The event recording button 122 is an operating means for instructing the start or end of recording of images captured by the shooting unit 15. When the user operates the event recording button 122 when event recording is not in progress, the shooting device 100 starts event recording. More details about event recording will be described later. The event recording button 122 is located on the second side 1013 facing the driver's seat so that it is easy for the driver of a right-hand drive vehicle 400 to operate.

[0166] The third side 1014 is provided with a terminal 192 and a storage medium insertion slot 181. Terminal 192 is a terminal for receiving power from an external device. Terminal 192 is, for example, a DC jack. One end of a power cord (for example, a cigarette lighter plug cord) is connected to terminal 192. The other end of the power cord is connected to a power supply terminal (for example, a cigarette lighter socket) provided on the vehicle 400 side.

[0167] Terminal 192 may be connected to an OBDII adapter that can be connected to the OBDII connector (where "II" is the Roman numeral for "2") of the vehicle 400. The OBDII connector, also called a fault diagnosis connector, is connected to the vehicle's ECU (Engine Control Unit) and is a terminal that outputs various vehicle information at predetermined intervals (for example, every 0.5 seconds). By connecting terminal 192 to the OBDII connector using an OBDII adapter, the imaging device 100 can receive power for operation and acquire vehicle information.

[0168] Vehicle information refers to information about the status of vehicle 400. Vehicle information should include at least one of the following: vehicle speed, engine speed, engine load percentage, throttle angle, ignition timing, percentage of remaining fuel, intake manifold pressure, intake air volume (MAF), injection opening time, engine coolant temperature, intake air temperature, outside temperature, interior temperature, amount of fuel remaining in the fuel tank, fuel flow rate, instantaneous fuel consumption, accelerator pedal position, turn signal information (operation of left and right turn signals (ON / OFF)), brake position, steering wheel rotation angle, gear position, and door open / closed status.

[0169] The storage medium insertion slot 181 is an insertion slot for inserting a storage medium 500, which serves as an external storage means, into the inside of the imaging device 100. The storage medium 500 is a storage medium on which images captured by the imaging device 100 or imaging device 200 are recorded, and is, for example, an SD card. The SD card includes any of the following forms, such as an SD memory card, a miniSD card, and a microSD card. The storage medium 500 may also store a program for a viewer (for example, a dedicated viewer) for playing back the stored images on an information display terminal such as a personal computer.

[0170] The fourth side 1015 is provided with an operating section 123, a display surface 131, and a light-emitting section 21. The operating section 123 has a first button 1231, a second button 1232, a third button 1233, and a fourth button 1234. The first button 1231, the second button 1232, the third button 1233, and the fourth button 1234 are arranged vertically along the right edge of the display surface 131. The functions that can be assigned to each of these buttons include, for example, the following:

[0171] The first button 1231 functions as a button to switch images when pressed and held, and as a button to instruct the formatting of the storage medium 500 when pressed briefly. The image displayed on the display surface 131 is, for example, one or both of the image currently being captured by the camera 100 and the image currently being captured by the camera 200. Formatting the storage medium 500 is understood as initializing the storage medium 500, and is understood as at least one of the following: erasing data such as images stored in the storage medium 500, writing setting information indicating the contents of the operation settings to the storage medium 500 in order to make the camera 100 able to use the storage medium 500 (for example, to make it possible to record and read images), and putting the storage medium 500 into a specific file state.

[0172] The second button 1232 is for displaying a selection screen for selecting the image to be played back by the camera 100. The third button 1233 is for displaying a menu related to the settings of the camera 100 and the camera 200. The fourth button 1234 is for instructing the start and stop of image recording. For example, if the fourth button 1234 is briefly pressed while recording is being done using the continuous recording function described later, the recording will be paused. If the fourth button 1234 is briefly pressed during this pause, image recording using the continuous recording function will resume. If the fourth button 1234 is long-pressed, the frame rate when recording images can be changed.

[0173] The display surface 131 is the area where the image displayed by the display unit (display unit 13, described later) of the imaging device 100 is displayed. The display surface 131 is, for example, a rectangular or square area. A touch sensor 124 for detecting user touch operations is provided superimposed on the display surface 131.

[0174] The light-emitting unit 21 is located above the first button 1231 and emits light in a predetermined color. Furthermore, the camera 200 may also function as a drive recorder, and may have a configuration similar to that of the camera 100. In addition, one or more cameras that capture other directions may be used as cameras connected to the camera 100 by communication, instead of or in addition to the camera 200. Other directions include the right rear, left rear, and width of the vehicle (side) of the vehicle 400.

[0175] [Bracket configuration] Figure 3 shows the configuration of the bracket 600. Figure 3(A) is a view of the bracket 600 from the front, diagonally upward right. Figure 3(B) is a view of the bracket 600 from the side. Figure 3(C) is a view of the bracket 600 from the front, diagonally downward right. The bracket 600 is an example of a mounting member for attaching the imaging device 100 to the vehicle 400.

[0176] The bracket 600 is a mounting member that uses a ball joint mechanism. In the bracket 600, the flat base portion 610 has a mounting surface 611 that is attached to the windshield of the vehicle 400. The base portion 610 is inclined by a predetermined angle with respect to the support column of the ball stud 620. An adhesive member such as double-sided tape is attached to the mounting surface 611, and the bracket is attached to the windshield of the vehicle 400 via the adhesive member.

[0177] The ball stud 620 is the portion of the base portion 610 that rises from the side opposite to the mounting surface 611. The ball portion 621 of the ball stud 620 is mounted on the socket portion 630. The nut 640 is detachably attached around the socket portion 630. Screw threads are formed on the outer circumference of the socket portion 630. The nut 640, which fits into these screw threads, is mounted on the outer circumference of the socket portion 630. With the ball portion 621 of the ball stud 620 mounted inside the socket portion 630, before the nut 640 is tightened, the socket portion 630 can rotate along the circumferential surface of the ball portion 621 in the desired direction, thereby displacing the posture and position of the base portion 650. Once the nut 640 is tightened, the posture and position of the base portion 650 are fixed.

[0178] The base portion 650 is formed in conjunction with the socket portion 630 and is the part for attaching to the imaging device 100. The base portion 650 has a pair of guide rails 651 on its underside. The pair of guide rails 651 are configured to slide along the joint rail 102 of the imaging device 100. The tip of the base portion 650 is provided with a claw-shaped tip portion 652. The bracket 600 is attached to the imaging device 100 by hooking the tip portion 652 near the front end of the joint rail 102 of the imaging device 100.

[0179] [Electrical configuration of imaging device 100] Figure 4 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the imaging device 100. The control unit 11 controls each part of the imaging device 100. The control unit 11 is a computer that includes, for example, a processor 111 and a memory 112. The processor 111 has, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), an MPU (Micro Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), an ASIC (Application-Specific Integrated Circuit), and an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array). The memory 112 is a main memory that has, for example, RAM (Random Access Memory) and ROM (Read Only Memory). The processor 111 temporarily stores the program read from the ROM of the memory 112 in the RAM. The RAM of the memory 112 provides the processor 111 with a workspace. The processor 111 performs various controls by performing calculations while temporarily storing data generated during program execution in the RAM. The control unit 11 further includes a timekeeping unit 113 for measuring time. The timekeeping unit 113 is, for example, a real-time clock. The timing unit 113 may be mounted on the motherboard of the processor 111, or it may be externally connected to the processor 111.

[0180] The input unit 12 receives information input from the user. The input unit 12 includes, for example, the microphone 121, event recording button 122, operation unit 123, and touch sensor 124. The microphone 121 converts sound incident through the microphone hole 104, etc., into an electrical signal. The microphone 121 is, for example, a condenser microphone. The touch sensor 124 detects the position touched by the user on the display surface 131. The touch sensor 124 is, for example, a capacitive type.

[0181] The display unit 13 displays an image on the display surface 131. The display unit 13 is, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD).

[0182] The audio output unit 14 outputs sound. This sound may include, for example, notification sounds, background music, or voice messages. The audio output unit 14 includes, for example, an audio processing circuit and a speaker.

[0183] The imaging unit 15 captures images and generates image data obtained from the images. The imaging unit 15 includes, for example, an imaging lens 151 and an image sensor that captures the light focused by the imaging lens 151. The image sensor is, for example, a CMOS (Complementary MOS) or a CCD (Charge Coupled Device). The imaging unit 15 generates a color (multicolor) image consisting of, for example, red (R), green (G), and blue (B) color components.

[0184] The communication unit 16 communicates with external devices. The communication unit 16 has a communication circuit for wireless communication with external devices, for example, by Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), other wireless LAN (Local Area Network) communication, or short-range wireless communication. The communication unit 16 may also have a communication circuit for performing communication compliant with standards for mobile communication systems such as LTE (Long Term Evolution), 4G, 5G, etc.

[0185] The sensor unit 17 has various sensors. The sensor unit 17 has, for example, at least one of an acceleration sensor, a gyro sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a temperature sensor, and an illuminance sensor. The acceleration sensor is, for example, a three-axis acceleration sensor that detects the acceleration of the vehicle in the forward / backward, left / right, and up / down directions. The gyro sensor is a sensor that detects the tilt of the camera 100. The acceleration sensor and gyro sensor may be used, for example, to estimate the position of the vehicle 400 by autonomous navigation when signals from GNSS satellites cannot be received. The barometric pressure sensor measures atmospheric pressure. The barometric pressure sensor is used, for example, to detect differences in elevation and determine whether it is a highway or a regular road. The temperature sensor is a sensor that detects the temperature inside and outside the vehicle, as well as the camera 100 and the inside of the camera 100. The illuminance sensor is a sensor that detects the illuminance indicating the brightness inside the vehicle, which is the area around the camera 100. The illuminance sensor is used, for example, to adjust the brightness of the display on the display unit 13.

[0186] The reader / writer 18 functions as a media holder that holds the storage medium 500 inserted into the imaging device 100 through the storage medium insertion slot 181. The reader / writer 18 writes data to the storage medium 500 and reads data from the storage medium 500. The reader / writer 18 may hold only one storage medium 500, but it may also be configured to hold two or more storage mediums 500 simultaneously.

[0187] The terminal section 19 has terminals for electrically connecting to external devices. The terminal section 19 has the camera jack 191 and terminal 192 described above. As a device connected to the terminal section 19, an external battery may be used so that the camera 100 and camera 200 can operate even without power supply from the vehicle 400. The device connected to the terminal section 19 may be, for example, a device that has a function to support the user's safe driving. Such devices include, for example, a device that has a function to photograph the driver (e.g., face) and detect and notify the driver's state, such as distracted driving and drowsy driving, or a device that has a function to detect and notify obstacles around the vehicle 400 (for example, a device used for vehicle detection for a Forward Vehicle Collision Warning System (FCWS)). Other devices connected to the terminal section 19 may be in-vehicle devices such as a radar detector, laser detector, car navigation system, or display device.

[0188] The position information acquisition unit 20 acquires position information indicating the position of the camera 100 (more specifically, its current position). The position of the camera 100 can be considered equivalent to the position of the vehicle 400 on which the camera 100 is located, the position of the camera 200 located on the vehicle 400, and the positions of the driver and other people riding in the vehicle 400. The position information acquisition unit 20 acquires position information (latitude information and longitude information) of the camera 100 based on signals from GPS (Global Positioning System), which is one of the GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite Systems). The position information acquisition unit 20 may also use Michibiki as a QZSS (Quasi-Zenith Satellite System).

[0189] The light-emitting unit 21 emits light in a predetermined color. The light-emitting unit 21 includes, for example, a light-emitting diode.

[0190] The power control unit 22 controls the supply of power to each part of the imaging device 100 and to the imaging device 200. The power control unit 22 includes, for example, a power switch and a power control circuit. The power control unit 22 supplies power supplied from the vehicle 400 side via the terminal section 19 to each part of the imaging device 100 and to the imaging device 200. The power control unit 22 may also have a secondary battery, a button battery, or an electric double-layer capacitor (also called a supercapacitor) as a means of power storage. The imaging device 100 may further have an auxiliary storage device as an internal storage means, such as flash memory (e.g., eMMC, SSD). Various storage media, such as optical storage media, magnetic storage media, and semiconductor storage media, can be used as the auxiliary storage device.

[0191] [Image recording function of the imaging device 100] The imaging device 100 has one or more of the following image recording functions. The image recording function is a function that records images captured by the imaging device 100 as image data in a predetermined file format. The image data is often in a video format, such as MPEG (Moving Picture Experts Group) format (e.g., MPEG2, MPEG4), but also AVI, MOV, WMV, etc.

[0192] <5-1. Continuous Recording Function> The continuous recording function (also called the continuous video recording function) is a function that continuously (i.e., continuously) records images captured by either or both of the camera 100 and the camera 200 while the camera 100 is in operation. When the control unit 11 is executing the continuous recording function, it stores video data captured from the start to the stop of the vehicle 400's engine. Engine start is detected, for example, by turning on the accessory power of the vehicle 400, and engine stop is detected by turning off the accessory power.

[0193] <5-2. Event Recording Function> The event recording function is a function that records images captured by either or both of the camera 100 and camera 200 in response to the occurrence of a specific event. An event is an occurrence for which images captured by camera 100 or camera 200 should be recorded, such as when the user performs sudden steering or braking operations while the vehicle 400 is in motion, or when the vehicle 400 collides with another object. The control unit 11 determines that an event has occurred, for example, based on the measured value from the acceleration sensor of the sensor unit 17. Specifically, the control unit 11 determines that an event has occurred when the measured value from the acceleration sensor exceeds a predetermined threshold or shows a predetermined temporal change. The conditions for determining the occurrence of an event are not limited to these. The control unit 11 may also determine that an event has occurred based on vehicle information, for example, when the state of the vehicle 400, such as vehicle speed or steering state, meets predetermined conditions. The control unit 11 may analyze the images captured by the imaging unit 15 or the imaging device 200 and determine that an event has occurred if it detects dangerous driving by the vehicle 400 or another vehicle (e.g., aggressive driving, approaching, or dangerously close approach). The control unit 11 also determines that an event has occurred if the event recording button 122 is operated.

[0194] When the control unit 11 determines that an event has occurred, it records images captured during a predetermined period before and after the event (hereinafter referred to as the "event recording period") onto the storage medium 500. The control unit 11 may, for example, temporarily store images captured by the imaging unit 15 and the imaging device 200 in the memory 112 (e.g., RAM), and when it determines that an event has occurred, it may read the images from the memory 112 for the event recording period and record them onto the storage medium 500. For example, the control unit 11 may create a single file containing images from 20 seconds before the event and 20 seconds after the event, for a total of 40 seconds. The event recording period is just an example and may vary depending on the type of event, and may also be changeable by the user. The control unit 11 may record images consisting of multiple files onto the storage medium 500 for each event. The control unit 11 may also record values ​​measured by the sensor unit 17 during the event recording period (e.g., acceleration in each of the three axes) and position information acquired by the position information acquisition unit 20, in association with the images, onto the storage medium 500.

[0195] <5-3. Parking Surveillance Function> The parking surveillance function is a function that records images taken by either or both of the camera 100 and the camera 200 while the vehicle 400 is parked. The parking surveillance function is a function for monitoring the interior of the parked vehicle 400 or the exterior surrounding the vehicle 400. When the engine of the vehicle 400 is off, the control unit 11 receives power from the onboard battery and records images to the storage medium 500. The control unit 11 determines whether or not the vehicle 400 is parked based on one or more of the following: for example, the accessory power is turned off, the engine is turned off, power supply from the external battery has started, the vehicle speed is 0 km / h or below a predetermined speed, and the location information acquired by the location information acquisition unit 20 is predetermined location information (for example, location information of home, workplace, or parking lot).

[0196] Conventional dashcams without a parking surveillance function draw power from the vehicle's accessory power supply. Therefore, when the engine is not running, no power is supplied, and recording is not possible while parked. For this reason, as explained above, it is preferable to connect the dashcam directly to the car's constant power supply, the onboard battery, rather than the accessory power supply, in order to power the parking surveillance function. Alternatively, power can be supplied from an external battery. Here, the accessory power supply is, for example, the car's cigarette lighter socket or the area behind the cigarette lighter socket.

[0197] On the other hand, while the above explanation described how to determine whether or not vehicle 400 is parked, sometimes the accessory power is also taken to recognize that the accessory power has been turned off. In other words, the direct power from the car battery and the accessory power, which is used to recognize that the engine has started, are taken, and the accessory power is used only as a trigger. Drive recorders with this combination of a terminal that takes the main power from the car battery and a power line that recognizes that the engine has started are increasing these days, and drive recorders with two power lines are becoming mainstream.

[0198] The parking surveillance function may include a time-lapse mode, an event recording function, and a motion detection mode. Specifically, when the user selects the time-lapse mode, the control unit 11 records images at a lower frame rate than other image recording functions such as the continuous recording function and the event recording function. For example, while the frame rate of other image recording functions is 20-30 frames / second, the frame rate of the time-lapse mode is 1 frame / second. The event recording function is a mode that determines whether a specific event has occurred based on the measurement value by the sensor unit 17, and records video when the specific event occurs. The motion detection mode is a mode that records images in response to the detection of motion. Specifically, when the user selects the motion detection mode, the control unit 11 detects motion from changes in images captured by the shooting device 100 and the shooting device 200, and records the images captured during a predetermined period before and after the detection to the storage medium 500. The frame rate may be the same as that of the continuous recording function and the event recording function.

[0199] Furthermore, the imaging devices 100 and 200 may be imaging devices that capture celestial images such as a full sphere or a hemisphere. Also, the imaging device 100 may be an imaging device that does not have a display unit 13. In addition, the housing of the imaging device 100 does not have to be a rectangular parallelepiped, but may be a cylindrical imaging device, for example.

[0200] [6. Timer function of the imaging device 100] The timer function terminates the parking monitoring function after a certain period of time has elapsed since the start of the status monitoring function while the vehicle 400 is parked. This certain period of time can be set arbitrarily by the user.

[0201] [7. Voltage monitoring function of the imaging device 100] While using the car's battery for parking surveillance is not a problem, the car's battery is primarily designed to power the vehicle and needs to retain a certain voltage to start the engine. Therefore, the voltage monitoring function prevents the dashcam from completely draining its power. The user sets a minimum voltage limit for the car's battery, and if the voltage falls below this limit, the parking surveillance function will be forcibly terminated. Here, the minimum voltage set by the user will be referred to as the detection voltage in the following explanation. For example, if the detection voltage is set to 11.6V during parking surveillance, the parking surveillance will terminate if the voltage falls below 11.6V.

[0202] Figure 5 is an illustrative diagram showing the relationship between the parking surveillance function, timer function, and voltage monitoring function. In the diagram, "parking record" refers to the monitoring time by the parking surveillance function, "detected voltage" refers to the voltage monitoring function, and "off timer setting" refers to the timer function. The parking surveillance function will terminate via the timer function if the vehicle battery voltage does not drop, i.e., if it terminates normally. However, in the irregular case where the vehicle battery voltage drops, the parking surveillance function will terminate via the voltage monitoring function.

[0203] [8. Alarm function of the imaging device 100] Figure 6 shows an example of an alarm function. During a parking surveillance event, when an event occurs, the screen displayed on the display surface 131 flashes alternately in black and white to warn the user. Primarily at night, for example, when an impact occurs, the interior of the car will flash brightly. This can create the impression that something has activated inside the car in the dark, putting psychological pressure on any malicious actor. At this time, as shown in Figure 6, it is also possible to display "Security Monitoring in Progress," emit a sound, or activate the alarm function remotely via wireless communication.

[0204] The above description explained the basic configuration and functions of this embodiment. The following description will explain a new technical concept based on the above explanation.

[0205] If the monitoring function completes normally, the timer function will terminate the monitoring function. However, if the voltage monitoring function detects that the parking monitoring function has terminated, the next time the engine is started, the user will be notified that the parking monitoring function has ended under irregular circumstances through a pop-up or announcement such as: "Parking monitoring was terminated midway because the car battery was weak," "Event recording was terminated midway because the battery voltage was insufficient," "Please check the car battery," "An unusual event occurred," "Parking monitoring was terminated midway because the battery voltage fell below the set voltage," "Please check the battery," "Please check the owner's manual," "Please check the detection voltage setting," "Please have the battery checked at a dealership," or "Please have the car inspected." For example, when the detection voltage is set to 11.6V during parking monitoring, parking monitoring will terminate if the voltage of the car battery falls below 11.6V. This allows the user to know whether the timer function or the voltage monitoring function activated to terminate the parking monitoring function the next time the engine is started, and to determine whether the parking monitoring function ended normally. Furthermore, the function that caused the parking surveillance function to terminate is stored in memory 112 or storage medium 500. The storage location should preferably be non-volatile memory, and an SD card is preferable, so that the record remains even if the battery runs out.

[0206] Here, Figure 7 is an example of the screen displayed on the display panel 131 when the engine is started again if an event occurs while the parking surveillance function is operating. Normally, when the engine is started and the drive recorder is turned on, the logo is displayed and the camera image is shown. However, if there is an event recorded during the parking surveillance function, Figure 7 is displayed and a "beep beep beep" sound effect is heard. It is also a good idea to display an overlay on the image displayed on the display panel 131, such as "An event has occurred." or "This is the parking surveillance history," which helps prevent the user from overlooking it. If an event is recorded during parking surveillance, a pop-up and sound effect will appear as shown in Figure 7 indicating that an event occurred during parking surveillance. On the other hand, if there is no pop-up or sound effect, the user will assume that there is nothing wrong. However, if the parking surveillance function has ended because the detection voltage has fallen below the user-set level, it is highly likely that the vehicle battery has deteriorated. Continuing to use it in this condition may result in the engine not starting. To prevent this, the invention provides a pop-up and announcement that informs the user of the reason why the parking surveillance function terminated midway, thereby preventing the user from assuming that there was no abnormality if no notification is given.

[0207] Furthermore, the pop-up and announcement that notifies the user that the parking surveillance function has been terminated by the voltage monitoring function may also include an explanation of why the parking surveillance function has been terminated, and it may be possible to disable the function of notifying the user of the reason for termination by the voltage monitoring function through the settings. It is good that the user's operation after the announcement is simple; for example, it may be good to have a function that allows playback of the recording with a single button press, or to move to the detection voltage setting screen with a single button press.

[0208] Furthermore, while it was mentioned above that a "beep beep beep" sound effect will play in addition to a pop-up when the engine is started after an event occurs during parking surveillance, it would also be good to announce to the user that an event has occurred and that recording has been made during the event. Here, if an event occurs during parking surveillance and event recording has been made, and then the status monitoring function is terminated by the voltage monitoring function, it would be good to announce and pop up that the vehicle battery voltage has fallen below the detected voltage after an announcement of the event occurrence and event recording, or the announcement and pop-up may be in the reverse order. Alternatively, by dividing the screen displayed on the display surface 131, the pop-ups for the event occurrence and event recording and the pop-up indicating that the voltage has fallen below the detected voltage may be displayed on the display surface 131 simultaneously.

[0209] In addition, regarding the screen display when the engine starts, since users may become accustomed to the screen and lose their attention, it would be good to make the warning more strongly than the normal history screen when a low vehicle battery voltage pops up. For example, the background color could be changed to a more noticeable color such as red, or it could switch between yellow and blue. If the color changes, it is preferable that it is not the same color as other functions. A battery icon may also be displayed on the screen. In this case, it is preferable that the battery icon be a picture representing a car battery, considering that it may be mistaken for the built-in battery of the dashcam. Since a vehicle battery voltage below the detected voltage does not necessarily mean that the battery needs to be replaced, and in some cases the dashcam settings should be reviewed, it would be good to also display text such as "Please check now" on the screen.

[0210] Furthermore, the detection voltage must be set to a voltage that allows the engine to be started, as well as a voltage that indicates the battery is weak; it must not be set to a voltage that prevents the engine from starting. Such voltage values ​​vary depending on the vehicle type and battery type. For example, hybrid cars tend to have relatively low voltages, gasoline cars relatively high voltages, and batteries for kei cars tend to have relatively low voltages, while batteries for large vehicles tend to have relatively high voltages. In addition, vehicles with charging control systems also tend to have relatively low voltages, and since driving frequency, electrical equipment conditions, and battery degradation status differ for each vehicle, the detection voltage needs to be set to an appropriate value for each user. However, it is difficult for users to determine what value to set, so it is preferable for a service technician to set it when installing the drive recorder at the dealership. Here, Figure 8 shows an example of the screen displayed on the display surface 131 when setting the detection voltage, and it is good that the setting can be easily done using the screen in this way. Also, although there are few occasions to change the detection voltage once it has been set, it is preferable that it be possible to easily change it via screen operation if the user wishes to change the detection voltage depending on the situation.

[0211] Furthermore, since some users may not need the parking surveillance function, it can be turned off as shown in the settings screen in Figure 8. This way, the dashcam's power will also turn off when the engine is stopped. For example, if a user has a parking lot along a main road, the motion detection function might record continuously if it's on, or if the sensor might be triggered in a mechanical parking system like those in an apartment building, the parking surveillance function might be unnecessary for that user. Therefore, it would be good to implement a function that uses GPS to disable the parking surveillance function within a set area, or to display a pop-up and announcement indicating that parking surveillance will not be performed because the user is in a set area.

[0212] Furthermore, for the parking surveillance function, timer function, and voltage monitoring function, it would be good to display icons on the screen shown on each display panel 131. For example, it would be good if the timer function's set time could be displayed as an icon, allowing the monitoring time of the parking surveillance function to be seen at a glance. Too many icons displayed would impair usability and visibility, so it would be good to carefully select the icons to display, and it would also be good if the user could select which icons to display in the settings, or if the user could hide the icons only when they want to. It would also be good if pop-ups or announcements were displayed in conjunction with icon operation.

[0213] Furthermore, since a car engine failing to start is likely to be more troublesome for the user than recording with the parking surveillance function, it is preferable that the voltage monitoring function stop recording when the voltage drops during parking surveillance recording. Even in this case, it is good that the recording up to the point where the voltage monitoring function activates should be stored as a single recording until it is interrupted, and a pop-up should be displayed the next time the engine is started, just as if the parking surveillance recording was not interrupted. It is also good to display a play button, and pressing the OK button should display a list of recordings, allowing playback of the recordings. It is also good to provide notification with voice or sound effects.

[0214] Furthermore, it would be beneficial to have a function that allows switching the settings menu between beginner mode and expert mode, or to switch between a simple menu and a detailed menu, or between a facilitator mode and a dealer mode. Regarding the detection voltage setting, if the user does not have a detailed understanding of the dashcam or the vehicle, this would prevent them from unintentionally changing the detection voltage setting, thus preventing the present invention from being effective. For example, battery condition, driving frequency, current battery voltage value, battery voltage value over a certain period, and a graph of these values ​​could be displayed only in expert mode, while a confirmation dialog could be displayed in beginner mode.

[0215] In the above explanation, we have listed various types of notifications and examples of notification content in different situations using pop-ups and announcements. From here on, we will explain the technical characteristics common to these types of notifications using pop-ups and announcements. Note that the pop-ups and announcements in the modified examples described later also have the same technical characteristics.

[0216] When providing notifications via pop-ups and announcements, the time at which the relevant event occurred should also be included in the notification. The displayed time may be obtained from GPS, or it may be obtained from GPS at startup using an internal RTC (Real-time clock), or at the end of recording, etc. Furthermore, since updating the time in real time may cause the seconds to jump suddenly, it is preferable to update the time periodically using an RTC. For example, the date and time range, such as the time the vehicle was in parking surveillance mode or the event recording time, may be displayed via pop-ups and announcements, or the start and end times of the event may be displayed via pop-ups and announcements.

[0217] Dashcams are used to review footage of an accident to determine what happened, and users are usually unaware of them. Because they are not consciously aware of their operation, problems are often overlooked when they occur. However, displaying the relevant time shows the user that the dashcam was operating. This allows users to recognize various time periods, and if they can see, for example, the period monitored by the parking surveillance function, they can feel a sense of security knowing that they were being monitored by the dashcam.

[0218] Furthermore, when displaying time, it is preferable to use graphs or diagrams. For example, the time range of the parking surveillance function's operating time could be displayed as a graph clock, or the time range could be displayed as a sector or similar. It is also good to announce the start and end times. Additionally, it is good to display a pop-up and announcement indicating how many recordings are made per unit of time by the parking surveillance function, and how many days a recording is made. It is also good to display a pop-up and announcement not only the start and end times of a specific period, but also the time when events occurred. For example, the time range of the parking surveillance function's operating time could be displayed as a graph clock, with only the event type and the time range of the event highlighted. Furthermore, selecting the highlighted portion could play the recording corresponding to that time.

[0219] In the following paragraphs, we will describe modified versions of the inventions described above, as well as inventions that are preferable to be provided in combination with the inventions described above, as examples of modifications.

[0220] [Modification 1 of the First Embodiment] Firstly, in the first embodiment, the voltage monitoring function terminated and notified the user when the vehicle battery voltage fell below the detected voltage. However, when the voltage falls below the detected voltage, the parking monitoring function is turned off. Alternatively, after terminating the parking monitoring function, a pop-up and announcement are made to ask the user whether to turn off the parking monitoring function the next time the engine is started. This allows the parking monitoring function to be disabled until the battery is checked or the detected voltage is reviewed and the setting is turned back on. For example, if the detected voltage is 11.6V, and the battery voltage falls below the detected voltage of 11.5V, the parking monitoring function will be terminated. The next time the engine is started, the voltage monitoring function will notify the user that the parking monitoring function has been terminated, with a message such as "Battery voltage has dropped, so parking monitoring has been interrupted," and a pop-up and announcement such as "Do you want to change the setting to disable parking monitoring from now on?" will be made.

[0221] This allows the parking surveillance function to be disabled until the battery is inspected or the detected voltage is reviewed. This has the effect of easily changing to a conservative setting that disables the parking surveillance function when the battery is degraded, and it also makes it possible to apply this effect to users who are not familiar with dashcams or cars.

[0222] As mentioned above, the pop-up and announcement to the user the next time the engine is started should ask, "Do you want to turn off the parking surveillance function?" However, it is also acceptable to ask the user, "Do you want to review the detection voltage, or turn off the parking surveillance function?" Furthermore, it is also possible to set the detection voltage that terminates the parking surveillance function and the voltage that turns off the parking surveillance function separately. For example, if the parking surveillance function is terminated because it falls below the detection voltage that terminates the parking surveillance function, and then another electrical component causes the voltage to fall below the voltage that turns off the parking surveillance function, the parking surveillance function will not operate the next time the engine is stopped. In addition, if there are two detection voltages in this way, it is also good practice to display different pop-ups and announcements the next time the engine is started for each, and it is preferable to announce that the battery voltage has dropped due to other factors even though the parking surveillance function is stopped.

[0223] [Modification 2 of the First Embodiment] Secondly, the voltage monitoring function of this modified version records the vehicle battery voltage value to the memory 112 or storage medium 500, regardless of whether the vehicle battery voltage is below the detected voltage. Preferably, the recording destination is a non-volatile memory, and an SD card is preferable, so that the record remains even when the vehicle battery is dead. It is also good to record various information and the date and time obtained from the sensor unit 17 in conjunction with the vehicle battery voltage, and it is also good to display the record as a graph when the user checks it. This allows the user to check the vehicle battery voltage value at any time, and furthermore, the voltage monitoring function allows them to check the voltage value before the parking monitoring function ends, and it can be used as a clue to find the cause of the vehicle battery failure.

[0224] Furthermore, while the voltage monitoring function in the first embodiment operates during monitoring and recording by the parking surveillance function, this modified version also records the vehicle voltage history even when no video is being recorded. The main function of a drive recorder is to record, which consumes power, but if the vehicle battery voltage decreases when no video is being recorded, it indicates that there is a factor other than the drive recorder, making it easier to use as a clue to find the cause of the vehicle battery drain.

[0225] Furthermore, in addition to recording the voltage value of the vehicle battery, the system can also detect changes in the vehicle battery voltage and monitor and record voltage changes caused by the starter motor starting. Based on the degree of voltage change caused by the starter motor starting and the duration of that voltage, the system can determine the battery's health, such as its weakening, and either change the detected voltage setting or terminate the parking monitoring function. For example, by monitoring the starter motor's rotation speed from the voltage change, it can determine that the vehicle battery is weak if it rotates 3 times, and healthy if it rotates 1 time.

[0226] In this invention, recording is required as described above, which puts a strain on memory capacity. Therefore, it is advisable to display a pop-up and announcement to the user indicating the remaining capacity and the amount of time that can be recorded based on the remaining capacity. For example, "If you set it to continuous recording, you can only record for 1 hour." would be appropriate. Alternatively, the recording time could be calculated assuming that the SD card included with the unit is being used, or it could be calculated based on the remaining capacity of the storage device. Furthermore, if the setting is changed to select continuous recording as the recording method during parking surveillance, it would be advisable to display a notification like the one described above, or a pop-up and announcement warning such as "There is a high possibility that the car battery will run out."

[0227] [Modification 3 of the First Embodiment] Thirdly, the dashcam may have a function to supply a current larger than the current that flows when it is operating in a steady state, and a function to monitor the voltage drop in that case and change the timer function and voltage monitoring function accordingly. This utilizes the characteristic that a degraded battery generally exhibits a different voltage drop when a certain voltage is applied compared to a non-degraded battery. Here, Figure 9 shows an example of the voltage drop of the onboard battery due to various operations. By performing an operation that temporarily loads the onboard battery, if the voltage drop is large, it is judged that the battery is weak, and if the voltage drop is small, it is judged that it is not weak. Here, the function to supply a current larger than the current that flows when it is operating in a steady state may be a dedicated circuit equipped with a discharge resistor, etc., or it may be used to charge a naturally discharged supercapacitor when the engine is started next time.

[0228] Furthermore, the system has a function to set the detection voltage when the dashcam is installed. When the detection voltage is set and the engine is off, a pop-up and announcement may be displayed instructing the user to take action, such as "Turn on the headlights and hazard lights," so that the vehicle battery applies voltage. This allows the detection voltage to be set based on the degree of deterioration of the vehicle battery as described above.

[0229] Hybrid vehicles do not use the 12V battery much, instead using the traction battery, so this invention may not be applicable to hybrid vehicles. Also, it may not be applicable to electric vehicles (EVs), so it would be good to be able to manually set the detection voltage in accordance with this invention, and the function to set the detection voltage when installing the drive recorder should be able to easily switch to manual setting for hybrid and electric vehicles.

[0230] [Modification 4 of the First Embodiment] Fourthly, while the voltage monitoring function in the first embodiment terminated the parking surveillance function and issued a notification when the vehicle battery voltage fell below the detected voltage, this modified version also patterns the voltage value based on the vehicle battery voltage. By comparing the pattern with the vehicle battery voltage, a notification is issued, for example, "The battery is draining very quickly," or "Please check the battery." When patterning, the recorded voltage value is used as the basis for the pattern, and the recording destination is memory 112 or storage medium 500, preferably non-volatile memory, and better if it is an SD card, and it is better to create an area that will not be overwritten and record there. It is also good to record the voltage value information at regular intervals, for example, 10 minutes, 15 minutes, or 1 hour. In addition, the notification may be issued when the parking surveillance function is activated, or when the engine is started. For example, it may be issued as "It deviates from the average of the last 10 times," or a graph may be displayed. In addition, it is also good to include the battery voltage as subtitles in the recorded video. This allows for verification through video, making it applicable to field services and enabling the identification of various causes of malfunctions.

[0231] [Modification 5 of the First Embodiment] Fifth, as a seasonal change, notifications should be issued at pre-set times to review the detection voltage setting. For example, in November, as winter approaches, a notification could be issued saying, "Please increase the detection voltage." This is to make users aware that, due to the characteristics of vehicle batteries, batteries are strongly affected by temperature and therefore require attention. Figure 10 shows an example of the relationship between vehicle battery capacity and vehicle battery temperature. For example, even a user who set the voltage to 11.6V in the summer may be at risk in winter, and at -15℃, the battery capacity may drop to about 60%. Alternatively, the system could automatically review the setting instead of issuing a notification.

[0232] Furthermore, the timing of the notification doesn't necessarily have to be seasonal; it could be based on when the work was performed. For example, it would be good to detect that the battery has been removed, i.e., replaced, when the monitoring voltage drops to 0V. Then, when the engine is started for the first time after the battery replacement, the notification could be given to indicate that the battery has been replaced. It would also be good to prompt the user to reset the detection voltage.

[0233] As a further variation, it is also good to consider the effect of temperature by using sensor measurements without pre-setting. For example, when the engine is off, the temperature of the drive recorder, such as the circuit board, CPU, and case, can be measured to estimate the outside temperature. The detection voltage setting is automatically corrected based on the estimated outside temperature. Here, a temperature sensor could be directly attached to the car battery. However, wiring is difficult, and the location of the car battery varies from car to car. For example, the car battery is installed under the rear seat or in the trunk. Also, since the measured temperature is affected by whether or not it is exposed to direct sunlight, it is good to use measurements with an illuminance sensor in conjunction. Depending on the location of the drive recorder, the temperature will change due to the influence of direct sunlight, so this allows for a more accurate estimation of the outside temperature.

[0234] Furthermore, when the dashcam's power consumption is high, the dashcam itself generates heat, and the difference between it and the outside temperature becomes large. Therefore, it is preferable to reduce power consumption in the parking surveillance function with the engine off compared to normal recording to suppress the dashcam's heat generation. In addition to continuous recording, it is best to measure the temperature when there are few operations that generate heat. For example, when only the external sensor is operating during parking surveillance, the difference with the outside air is smaller, and it is not affected by self-heating. Moreover, by waiting a certain amount of time after activating the parking surveillance function, the heat generated by self-heating is gradually released and it cools down, so it is best to measure after some time has passed. In addition, depending on the vehicle model, it is also possible to read the outside temperature displayed on the instrument panel using image recognition, or to obtain the temperature from the OBD connector.

[0235] [Modification 6 of the First Embodiment] Sixth, the dashcam's functions could be restricted in stages according to its temperature. For example, recording could be done with the LCD screen off from 60°C to 65°C, recording could be done with AI and ADAS (Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems) functions turned off from 65°C to 70°C, and recording could be done in time-lapse mode from 70°C to 75°C. Furthermore, it would be good to notify the user via pop-ups and announcements, associating the temperature with which functions have been restricted. Alternatively, the dashcam could use a thermistor to measure the temperature and estimate the temperature based on how much the device temperature rises when operating at room temperature. For example, if the temperature rises by 40°C when operating at room temperature, then the external temperature would be 20°C if the device temperature is 65°C.

[0236] The pop-up and announcement notifications mentioned above are best used when the engine starts, when the ACC is turned on, or when the next power is turned on. For example, "During parking surveillance, the internal temperature of the device exceeded 7.5°C at 1:25 AM on July 19th, so the device has been turned off." is also good, and it is good to notify the specific temperature of the device. Notifying the ambient temperature of the device is also good, as is displaying it as a graph.

[0237] [Modification 7 of the first embodiment] Seventh, if the system detects that the entire image, or a large portion of it, is covered by a sunshade or similar object while the parking surveillance function is operating, at the start of the parking surveillance function, or before the parking surveillance function starts, it should notify the user of the possibility that the image was covered by a sunshade or similar object the next time the system is started. This will stop unnecessary recording and reduce wasted memory capacity. On the other hand, if the camera is an external camera, the sunshade will not be visible, so it would be good to issue a warning if the image becomes dark due to the sunshade. If a series of actions occur while the parking surveillance function is operating, such as turning off the engine and then setting up the sunshade, the camera operating the parking surveillance function can determine that the sunshade has been installed. On the other hand, if the system determines that the sunshade has been installed while the engine is running, it would be good to notify the user at that point with a sound effect such as "beep beep" or "sunshade is covering the image," as well as a pop-up and announcement.

[0238] [Modification 8 of the first embodiment] Eighthly, the system includes a function to determine if there is footage in the recorded image that may contain a person while the parking surveillance function is operating, and to notify the user that there is footage that may contain a person the next time the engine is started. Here, the aforementioned motion detection mode captures the image as a background and detects the change in how much it has changed, and does not recognize a specific object. On the other hand, this invention recognizes people. Furthermore, when providing notification, it is best to use a pop-up and announcement, and it is also good to display a thumbnail. If the screen resolution is high enough, it is also good to display the thumbnail in a split view.

[0239] [Modification 9 of the first embodiment] Ninthly, if all the footage recorded while the parking surveillance function is operating is nearly completely dark, the next time the engine is started, a pop-up and announcement will be made stating, "The ambient light during parking surveillance was insufficient," "The brightness is insufficient," or "It appears that no people were captured." This will prompt the user to check the footage and encourage them to reconsider the necessity of the parking surveillance function. Even if the footage is completely dark, it may still be important to the user. For example, this invention is preferable when the vehicle is stored in a garage with the shutters closed.

[0240] [Modification 10 of the first embodiment] Tenthly, the dashcam is equipped with a fan, which operates when the engine is stopped. When the voltage of the onboard battery supplying power is below a predetermined value, even if there is a function that should operate with the fan running, the dashcam has a function that limits or stops the fan's operation while other functions are performed. For example, this function may be operated while the parking surveillance function is running, and when the AI ​​function detects a person, it consumes a lot of electricity and generates heat, so it is preferable to have a fan, and it is preferable to incorporate the present invention in accordance with the first embodiment. Furthermore, it may also be a function that limits or stops the fan and then operates other functions with restrictions. In addition, it is also good to notify the user of such operation by announcement and pop-up such as "Operating in restricted mode with restrictions in place" or "Recording stopped in restricted mode" when the engine is started next time.

[0241] [Modification 11 of the first embodiment] 11th, when the parking surveillance function is active and set to motion detection mode, the frequency of motion detection is monitored, and if the frequency is high, the system automatically controls the frequency of motion detection to a lower level. In other words, if the number of motion detections is high, this automatically changes the threshold of the motion detection sensor, etc. It would be good to combine this with a function that allows the user to set two levels, one for normal operation and one for parking surveillance function operation.

[0242] [Modification 12 of the first embodiment] Twelfthly, the permissible operating temperature should be changed for normal recording while the engine is running and for parking surveillance function, with the permissible operating temperature set higher for parking surveillance than for driving. In particular, it is good to set the shutdown temperature higher for parking surveillance than for driving. When monitoring in motion detection mode during parking surveillance, only the external sensors are operating and recording is not usually performed, so the temperature rise of the drive recorder itself will be less than during normal recording. This will allow it to operate even at higher ambient temperatures. For example, it would be good to set the permissible operating temperature to 70°C when the ACC power is on, and to 80°C when the ACC power is off. In addition, the impact detection threshold should be changed for recording other than parking and for parking recording, or the permissible operating temperature should be changed.

[0243] [Modification 13 of the First Embodiment] Thirteenthly, the sensor unit 17 during the event recording function controls the threshold based on temperature. Specifically, the threshold setting may be increased as the temperature rises. Since perpetrators are unlikely to commit crimes in hot places, the sensor's response is weakened and recording is slowed down in the scorching midday sun. On the other hand, the sensor's response is strengthened in cooler nighttime hours, as crimes may occur in the dark, such as evening or night.

[0244] [Modification 14 of the First Embodiment] Fourteenthly, the present invention is an invention to be used in combination with either the first embodiment or a modified version of the first embodiment described above, and has the function to terminate or limit each invention and function, which differs depending on the invention and function, and then restore each terminated or limited invention and function when predetermined conditions are met. As a first example, when the modified version 6 of the first embodiment is combined with the present invention, while the modified version 6 of the first embodiment limits the function in accordance with the temperature rise, the limitation is released when the temperature drops. Even if the temperature rises during the day and the function is limited, it is determined that it is acceptable to restore it again when the temperature drops and it becomes cooler at night or in the evening. As a second example, when used in combination with the first embodiment, if the detection voltage is set to 11.6V and the parking surveillance function is terminated by the voltage monitoring function, the parking surveillance function will be restarted when the voltage returns to 11.6V. This is because the voltage dropped below 11.6V due to some operation on the vehicle side, such as a periodic operation or the vehicle's anti-theft system being activated, and although the parking surveillance function was stopped once, it is determined that it is acceptable to restart it again when the voltage recovers. Furthermore, it would be beneficial to notify the next time the power engine is started, along with the temperature, of the time when the system was terminated or restored from restrictions, including any periods when monitoring was not possible.

[0245] [Modification 15 of the First Embodiment] Fifteenth, in the case where a vehicle, being a moving object, terminates its parking surveillance function, which is a predetermined operation powered by the vehicle's onboard battery, due to a predetermined factor, for example, when the engine is turned off, the system may be equipped with a function to determine whether the cause is due to an external or internal environmental factor, and a function to notify the user of the result of that determination. In this way, the user can be informed whether the cause of the termination of the parking surveillance function is due to an external or internal environmental factor. The "external environment" can be any environment outside the device, but it is preferable that the voltage monitoring function is activated. This could be a weakening of the battery voltage, a disconnection of power from the battery, a cause from a device other than the device equipped with this system, or a cause from the surrounding environment of the device equipped with this system. On the other hand, the "internal environment" can be any environment inside the device, but it is preferable that the operation terminates due to a timer function. This could be caused by the device equipped with this system, or it could be something that does not fall under the category of an external environment. For example, if the device terminates operation due to a rise in temperature, it may be possible to determine whether the cause of the temperature rise is the external environment of the device, such as direct sunlight, or internal heat generation within the main unit of the device, and then provide notification accordingly.

[0246] [Modification 16 of the First Embodiment] Sixteenthly, the present invention is an invention used in combination with either the first embodiment or a modification thereof described above. The history of the series of inventions of the first embodiment and its modification is recorded as information necessary for display on a PC viewer or smartphone application, and the history is displayed on the PC viewer or smartphone application. Furthermore, in the series of inventions of the first embodiment and its modification, pop-ups, announcements, sound effects, and notifications to the user are also recorded, and the user can view and confirm the recorded information.

[0247] Furthermore, the recorded history and information can be retrieved by removing the SD card and connecting it to a PC, or by transferring the data to a smartphone or PC via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. In addition, it would be good to have LTE (Long Term Evolution) communication functionality for easy connection to a server, or to have Wi-Fi connectivity functionality.

[0248] Let's explain a specific example of the above description. If a dashcam app is installed on a smartphone, the history information held by the dashcam needs to be transferred to the smartphone. There are dashcams that work in conjunction with smartphones, and when a user connects to the smartphone and checks the footage, the history is displayed. If the dashcam itself stores all the history, it is possible to connect to the smartphone wirelessly and check the information using the smartphone app. The smartphone app has a function to connect to the dashcam via Wi-Fi, and can display the history information when connected. Images are displayed using PC software, and the video is played when the play button is pressed. Event files are displayed at the edge of the screen, and selecting them displays the location where they were recorded. A smartphone app that supports such functions would also be good. In addition, the PC viewer mentioned above will also display the history when the SD card is inserted into a computer and the video is checked using a program that displays the information.

[0249] [Second Embodiment] Next, we will explain the use of supercapacitors in dashcams. Dashcams use supercapacitors as a backup power source to save recording files without corruption in the event that the power from the vehicle's battery is cut off. They are used to maintain power for the last few seconds after the power switch, and are now used in almost all dashcams. Also, 2.7V rated and 5F supercapacitors are commonly used in dashcams. On the other hand, supercapacitors have a fatal flaw: their lifespan is shortened when used at the set voltage capacity, i.e., close to the rated voltage, and when used in high temperatures. This is also true for other batteries, but this drawback is particularly pronounced in supercapacitors and capacitors.

[0250] A power supply circuit using supercapacitors will be explained using Figure 11. This power supply circuit combines two supercapacitors in series, a DC / DC converter, a current-limiting resistor, and a balance resistor. The DC / DC converter receives power from the +B or ACC power supply, etc., and converts it from 12V to 5V for supply. However, in reality, there is voltage drop in each part, so the voltage is converted to 5.2V to account for the voltage drop and supplied. The current-limiting resistor is installed to prevent the vehicle's fuse from being damaged the moment the input power is applied if an infinite current flows. Furthermore, when using supercapacitors, a balance resistor is included because each supercapacitor needs to operate at the same voltage. The supercapacitors are rated at 2.7V MAX and are provided with a total of 5.4V, but when 5V is applied, each supercapacitor does not operate at 2.5V and 2.5V, and a difference occurs due to the internal resistance value of the supercapacitors due to manufacturing tolerances. The voltage of the supercapacitor with the lower resistance value will be higher, resulting in a difference such as 2.4V and 2.6V. Therefore, a balance resistor is used to connect a resistor larger than the internal resistance, resulting in a configuration where the voltage remains constant. In addition, each diode prevents the power supplied by the supercapacitor from flowing to the input power supply, and furthermore, the configuration prevents damage even if the user accidentally connects the positive and negative terminals in reverse.

[0251] If the supercapacitor is already fully charged, there is no need to wait for the supercapacitor to charge when the dashcam is turned on, and recording can start immediately, making it convenient for both designers and users. For example, by connecting to the +B power supply (constant power), i.e., keeping it constantly connected to the car battery, the supercapacitor is constantly charged and ready for use at any time. On the other hand, constantly charging to maintain a full charge shortens the lifespan of the supercapacitor.

[0252] Furthermore, due to the nature of capacitors and supercapacitors, they naturally discharge (leakage current) over time. Therefore, if you try to avoid the aforementioned disadvantages by stopping the charging of the supercapacitor when the car engine is turned off, you will need about 30 seconds of charging time for the supercapacitor between the time the engine is turned on and the start of recording.

[0253] If recording starts before the supercapacitor is fully charged, the recorded footage will be corrupted because there will be no backup power when the engine is turned off. For example, if a user gets into their car and starts the engine, but then realizes they've forgotten their glasses, they will stop the engine and get out of the car. During this time when the engine is running, recording will not be saved and will be corrupted.

[0254] Therefore, in conventional dashcams that only used ACC power and did not have a +B connection (constant power supply), a pop-up message such as "Recording in progress. Please wait." would appear on the screen, and the supercapacitor would be charged. As a countermeasure, the supercapacitor was constantly charged by connecting to the +B (constant power supply).

[0255] Based on the above, let's explain the characteristics of supercapacitors regarding their lifespan. Supercapacitors have been used in dashcams for about 10 years, and when they were first introduced, it was said that supercapacitors degrade less easily than ordinary lithium batteries. However, in the inventor's experience, degradation does progress considerably. There are three ways to extend the lifespan of a supercapacitor: "Don't apply voltage (don't use it)", "Don't use it at high temperatures", and "Don't apply high voltage". "Don't apply voltage (don't use it)" is the easiest way to extend its lifespan. Also, supercapacitors are affected by the time voltage is applied, not the number of charge cycles, which is different from lithium-ion batteries. "Don't use it at high temperatures" is difficult to implement in dashcams, especially in the car interior while parked in the summer, where temperatures are high. Here, similar to calculations for general capacitors, lowering the temperature by 10°C doubles the expected lifespan of a supercapacitor. "Don't apply high voltage" is also one way to extend its lifespan.

[0256] First, let me explain the invention of a dashcam that achieves the "no voltage applied (no use)" described above. When the dashcam is powered off, it does not charge the supercapacitor. When the user gets into the car and unlocks the doors, the dashcam receives a signal that the doors have been unlocked and starts charging from that moment, thus resolving the problems with the aforementioned method of charging the supercapacitor. Considering that the process of unlocking the doors, getting into the car, starting the engine, and driving away takes about 30 seconds, sufficient time can be secured for the supercapacitor to charge. In dashcams that only use ACC power and do not have a +B connection (constant power), charging of the supercapacitor starts from when the engine is started, so charging could not be completed in time before the car started moving. However, by using door unlocking as a trigger, charging time can be gained, and recording can be started quickly. Furthermore, this has the effect of extending the lifespan of the supercapacitor.

[0257] Here, while the above example described unlocking the doors, in this invention, signals may be obtained from other sources as long as it can detect that the user is getting into the car. For example, a signal may be obtained from the flashing of the turn signals when the doors are unlocked, or from the interior lights. In addition to obtaining signals from these sources, the system may also monitor the power supply to these sources. Furthermore, a Doppler sensor may be used to determine if there is a person outside the car, or the system may make this determination from other changes inside the car.

[0258] Furthermore, even if the system detects when the user is getting into the car and starts charging at that moment, there may be cases where the user does not actually drive, such as when retrieving luggage from inside the car. Therefore, a function is implemented that uses the detection of the user getting into the car as a trigger to operate the supercapacitor charging circuit for a certain period of time, and if the ACC power is not turned on within that period, the charging circuit will terminate. The certain period can be, for example, 5 minutes, and after the charging circuit has terminated, it will discharge naturally (leakage current). This has the effect of extending the lifespan of the supercapacitor and also has the effect of suppressing battery drain by reducing the use of the vehicle battery.

[0259] The above explanation applies when the dashcam receives a signal that the doors have been unlocked while the parking surveillance function is off. The supercapacitor needs to be charged while the dashcam is running, and the supercapacitor is not unused even with the parking surveillance function on. Therefore, if the parking surveillance function is on, the charging circuit is powered. For example, if an oncoming car crashes into the parking lot with enough force to crush the hood while parked, and the supercapacitor is not powered, the recorded footage will not be saved.

[0260] Next, an invention of a drive recorder that realizes "Do not use at high temperatures" described above will be explained. First, the super capacitor is installed in the drive recorder, but it is installed in another place where the temperature is relatively low. Another place may be outside the main body of the drive recorder. This has the effect of not being affected by the heat generated from other devices that are heat sources inside the drive recorder (100), and also has the effect of extending the life of the super capacitor. For example, it may be built into the cigarette socket, or it may be installed between the cigarette socket, +B, and the drive recorder (100). At this time, the super capacitor may be placed in a position where direct sunlight does not hit, such as under the passenger seat. Also, in order to prevent the power cord from coming out of the main body, it is advisable to use wiring or connectors with a locking structure.

[0261] In the above invention, the SoC (System on a Chip) inside the drive recorder is the main heat source, and particularly in the case of an SoC with an AI function, the amount of heat generated is large. Therefore, in the above invention, the super capacitor is moved outside the drive recorder (100), but the SoC may be installed outside the drive recorder (100). Also, since the microcomputer generates little heat, it has no effect even if it is installed near the super capacitor. Here, there are some drive recorders that integrate the front camera and the recording unit, but it is also good to attach the SoC to the rear camera side, or to integrate it with the rear camera.

[0262] Furthermore, for example, in a drive recorder equipped with a DC / DC converter that boosts 12V to 5V, the super capacitor may be provided in another housing instead of in the housing equipped with the DC / DC converter. Since the DC / DC converter is a heat source, it is intended not to be placed in the same housing as the super capacitor. This can also solve the problem regarding the size when installing it in the main body of the drive recorder. For example, when installing it under the passenger seat, it may be placed upright.

[0263] Second, if it is hot, that is, if the temperature is at or above a predetermined temperature, control is performed not to charge the supercapacitor, and recording is performed in a non-charged state to allow the recording file to be damaged. This is the technical idea of the inventor that there may be a mode that prioritizes the life of the supercapacitor, focusing on the concept of which to prioritize, the recording of the recording file or the life of the supercapacitor. It is the idea that the recording file may be damaged at a temperature outside the guaranteed range of operation. Here, the predetermined temperature is preferably set to a high temperature, for example, 70 °C or 80 °C, which is a temperature that is normally impossible.

[0264] Here, in the above description, if it is hot, that is, if the temperature is at or above a predetermined temperature, control is performed not to charge the supercapacitor. However, if the temperature is at or above the predetermined temperature, the operation of the members near the supercapacitor that become heat sources may be restricted. Nevertheless, it is necessary to have a configuration in which a member capable of restricting the operation is arranged near the supercapacitor. For example, if a SoC with an AI function is near the supercapacitor, when the temperature rises above a predetermined temperature, in order to limit the load of the AI processing, an algorithm with a small amount of calculation is used, and control is performed to perform the processing only with the CPU without using the AI engine.

[0265] Furthermore, not limited to only the temperature, parameters such as temperature and voltage that deteriorate are constantly monitored, and the charging method of the supercapacitor may be changed according to the parameters. Here, when monitoring the parameters, it is also good to record them cumulatively. It is also good to give notice regarding performance degradation. Similar to the first embodiment, it is also good to give notice by means such as an announcement, a pop-up, and a sound effect when the engine is started next time. Notice may be given only when the degradation has advanced particularly.

[0266] Third, in a board having a supercapacitor, as a structure in which the SoC is provided on the side opposite to the placement surface of the supercapacitor, heat transfer is made difficult. For example, it is preferable to secure a distance between the SoC and the supercapacitor, such as arranging them upright.

[0267] Fourthly, the structure is designed to separate the SoC and the supercapacitor within a single enclosure. As explained above, the SoC is a heat source, and it is undesirable to transfer heat to the supercapacitor, so the rooms in which they are placed are separated. Alternatively, the supercapacitor and SoC could be placed on separate boards, appearing as a single unit from the outside, but having separate rooms inside the drive recorder, with the SoC on one side and the supercapacitor on the other.

[0268] Fifthly, the supercapacitor is assumed to have a pressure valve on its side, with the top surface in close contact with the thermoelectric component. Normally, supercapacitors have a weak section, such as a slit, to prevent the internal electrolyte from turning into a gas and exploding; this is called a pressure valve or explosion-proof valve. Furthermore, while the pressure valve is generally installed on the top surface, there are also supercapacitors with the valve on the side. This allows for the installation of heat dissipation fins or heat sinks on the top surface. Here, the top surface and side surface are explained as follows: when the supercapacitor is cylindrical or rectangular, the surface that contacts the substrate is the bottom surface, the surface parallel to the bottom surface that does not contact the substrate is the top surface, and the surface perpendicular to the substrate and bottom surface is the side surface. The heat conductive component attached to the top surface is preferably made of aluminum, or is a heat conductive sheet or heat sink.

[0269] Alternatively, a supercapacitor with a pressure valve mounted on its top surface can be used, and a heat-conducting material (heat-conducting sheet) wrapped around from the side can be installed on the side surface. Furthermore, it is preferable that the pressure valve is not facing the user; for example, facing the windshield is preferable for safety reasons.

[0270] Sixth, the design incorporates a structure that conducts heat from the supercapacitor using cooling materials such as forced air cooling or Peltier elements. The reason conventional dashcams do not have built-in fans for forced air cooling is that the fan noise and wind noise are loud and can be picked up by the microphone. However, when parking surveillance is in progress using the parking surveillance function, the fan noise and wind noise are not a problem. Furthermore, when parking surveillance is not in progress, for example, the fan could be stopped only when an event occurs, or continuous recording could be performed as 1-frame recording, and when an event is detected by the event recording function, it could switch to 30-frame recording and stop the fan.

[0271] Furthermore, with regard to Peltier elements, it is necessary to consider the possibility of water droplets forming due to condensation. In addition to forced air cooling or Peltier elements, a fan could be used to cool a liquid and circulate it within the dashcam.

[0272] Here, forced air cooling can be provided as an additional option, specifically as an external forced air cooling device. By attaching an optional fan, the operating temperature for the parking surveillance function can be increased. This feature is considered unnecessary for users who do not use the parking surveillance function at high temperatures. Furthermore, it is advisable to have holes or slits in the drive recorder body to allow air to flow in, and to have a structure that allows a blower to be attached to the drive recorder body.

[0273] The direction of airflow through holes or slits should be determined by the structure of the blower and dashcam, such as up and down, left and right, front and back, or diagonally. Ideally, air should be drawn in from below and exhausted from above for a natural flow. Furthermore, it is a good idea to cover the opening when the blower is not installed.

[0274] Seventh, when the dashcam shuts down, it normally charges the supercapacitor, but in high temperatures, it uses a thermistor to discharge the supercapacitor depending on the ambient temperature. As already explained above, an increasing number of dashcams keep the supercapacitor fully charged at all times so that recording can start quickly the next time recording is initiated. Therefore, if the ambient temperature is high when the dashcam shuts down, it uses a thermistor to discharge the charge. Here, the effect on the supercapacitor's lifespan is that lower internal voltage, lower temperature, and longer periods of good conditions are better. Also, "shutdown" includes not only turning off the power of the dashcam, but also turning off functions other than power, such as when switching from normal recording to parking surveillance.

[0275] Furthermore, with this invention, the supercapacitor's charge is discharged during shutdown, and even if the system is switched to the parking surveillance function, the files can be closed using the voltage of the vehicle's battery, which is the constant power source. On the other hand, because the supercapacitor is not charged, if the cable is unplugged or the wire is broken, the constant power supply is cut off, and the recorded files cannot be closed. Moreover, if the vehicle's battery is damaged in a major accident, the files cannot be closed. However, since there is no one in the car while the parking surveillance function is active, the possibility of the cable being unplugged or the wire being broken is low, and the probability of a major accident that would damage the vehicle's battery while the car is parked is also extremely low. Therefore, similar to the second invention described, the inventor's technical idea is that it is acceptable to prioritize the lifespan of the supercapacitor.

[0276] This invention is not limited to situations where power is supplied by a constant power source, but is also effective when using an ACC power source and the file close process does not sufficiently discharge the charge. By discharging faster than natural discharge, it extends the lifespan. It is also advisable to use a thermistor to detect high temperatures and provide a separate circuit for discharging the charge.

[0277] Eighth, the device restricts operation as the temperature rises, and then releases the restriction when the temperature drops. Furthermore, the temperature at which the device returns to normal operation after the temperature drops is set lower than the temperature at which it restricts operation when the temperature rises. For example, the device may restrict operation when the temperature exceeds 60°C, and release the restriction at a lower temperature of 50°C. In other words, the temperature at which the restriction is triggered and the temperature at which it is released are not the same; the temperature at which the restriction is released is set lower to ensure safety.

[0278] Furthermore, it is also good to have two or more limiting operating modes and limit the operation variably. However, since it becomes difficult to create a temperature difference, it is good to skip one step when the operation returns to normal due to a drop in temperature. For example, the normal operation switches to the first limiting operating mode as the temperature rises, and if the temperature rises further, it switches to the second limiting mode. Here, when the temperature drops from the second limiting mode, the first limiting operating mode is skipped and the operation returns to normal. Also, if there are three or more limiting operating modes, the number of steps skipped may be two or more.

[0279] As a detailed example of the present invention, for instance, the device can operate normally up to 60°C. When the temperature exceeds 60°C, recording continues by turning off the LCD. When the temperature exceeds 63°C, in addition to turning off the LCD, the frame rate is changed to 1 frame / second, and when the temperature exceeds 65°C, the power is turned off. Subsequently, when the temperature drops below 60°C, recording resumes at 1 frame / second, and when it drops below 55°C, normal recording resumes. In this case, recording while the LCD is off is skipped.

[0280] Finally, I will explain the invention of a drive recorder that achieves the "avoiding high voltage" described above. The drive recorder uses multiple supercapacitors combined in series and parallel, and the structure avoids using them near the voltage limit of the supercapacitors. For example, a common configuration for a drive recorder uses two 2.7V supercapacitors in series to create a 5.4V capacitor, and then applies 5V to it. In other words, it is being used in a way that 5V is applied to a 5.4V rated capacitor. Also, if you consider each supercapacitor individually, 2.5V is applied to a 2.7V supercapacitor. Therefore, if you increase the number of supercapacitors to, for example, three, the voltage applied to each supercapacitor decreases, and if you increase it to, for example, four, it decreases even more. On the other hand, a disadvantage is that the drive recorder becomes larger and more expensive.

[0281] Like dry cell batteries, connecting two supercapacitors in series doubles the voltage but halves the capacitance. Connecting two in parallel does not increase the voltage but doubles the capacitance. Connecting four in series quadruples the voltage but reduces the capacitance to one-quarter. Connecting two more in parallel to a series of four supercapacitors reduces the capacitance to half.

[0282] The above is a description of the invention for extending the lifespan of supercapacitors. Furthermore, other inventions related to supercapacitors will be described. First, the supercapacitor can be replaced without disassembling the main unit. Similar to the replacement of an in-car battery, it is desirable to have a structure that is difficult for the user to remove but easy for a service technician to remove, making it highly maintainable, and it is desirable that the supercapacitor is connected to the circuit board with a connector.

[0283] Secondly, the overall configuration should be designed so that recording can be performed using only parts that operate at low voltages such as 1.8V in the event of a power supply failure, requiring only one supercapacitor of 2.5V or similar. For example, if a drive recorder operates at 3.3V, it may only need to supply 1.8V when closing the file.

[0284] Regarding each invention of the second embodiment described above, although it has been described as a supercapacitor, any power storage device may be used, such as an all-solid-state battery or a water battery. It may be a battery or a cell, and particularly a capacitor is also acceptable.

[0285] Regarding each invention of the second embodiment described above, for those described as being controlled according to temperature, the temperature of a drive recorder such as a base board, a CPU, or a case may be measured, or the outside air temperature may be used. The temperature inside the vehicle may also be used. Since whether direct sunlight is hitting the measured temperature affects the temperature, it is advisable to also use the measurement by an illuminance sensor. Also, depending on the vehicle type, it is acceptable to read the outside air temperature displayed on the instrument panel by image recognition, or to obtain the temperature from an OBD connector.

[0286] Each function described in the first and second embodiments described above may be realized by any one or more hardware elements, any one or more software elements, or a combination thereof. Also, each function may be realized by one physically or logically combined device, or may be realized by two or more physically or logically separated devices.

[0287] The storage medium storing the program described in the above-described embodiment is not limited to that described in the above-described embodiment, and any computer-readable storage medium may be used. As the computer-readable storage medium, storage media of various storage methods such as semiconductor storage media, optical storage media, and magnetic storage media may be used. Also, as the computer-readable storage medium, a storage medium built into a device that realizes a function based on a program, a storage medium externally attached to the device, a storage medium of a server or the like connected to the device via an electrical communication line (for example, wired and / or wireless), and other storage media may be used.

[0288] The computer that implements the functions based on the program described in the above-described embodiments is not limited to the computer of the device described in the above-described embodiments. Depending on the purpose, use, nature, etc., the function may be implemented by a different computer. For example, the function implemented by the viewer program of the shooting device may be implemented by a viewer program of a personal computer that plays back images taken by the shooting device, or a smartphone, tablet computer, or other device computer, as appropriate. Furthermore, the functions based on the program described in the above-described embodiments may be repurposed and implemented in a device different from the device described in the above-described embodiments, for example, by a computer for a more general purpose. The program described in the above-described embodiments may be executed by a personal computer (e.g., PC software), a smartphone (e.g., a smartphone app), or a computer in another information processing terminal. Alternatively, the computer that implements the functions based on the program may be a computer used in a device for a specific purpose, such as a home appliance or a business appliance.

[0289] Furthermore, functions described as being implemented by application programs may also be implemented by operating systems, firmware, or other programs other than application programs.

[0290] The scope of the present invention is not limited to the configurations explicitly described in the specification, but also includes combinations of various aspects of the present invention disclosed herein. While the configurations for which patent protection is sought are specified in the appended claims, the present inventors intend to include configurations not currently specified in the claims within the scope of the claims in the future.

[0291] The present invention is not limited to the configuration described in the embodiments above. The components of each embodiment and modification described above can be arbitrarily selected and combined. Furthermore, any component of each embodiment and modification can be arbitrarily combined with any component described in the means for solving the invention, or any component that embodies any component described in the means for solving the invention. The present application intends to obtain rights to these as well through amendments or divisional applications. Even if there is a description such as "in the case of..." or "when...", it is not meant to be a configuration that is limited to that case or time. Configurations that do not fall under these cases or times are also disclosed, and the present application intends to obtain rights to them. Also, even if there is a sequence of descriptions, it is not limited to that order. Configurations with some parts deleted or the order rearranged are also disclosed, and the present application intends to obtain rights to them.

[0292] Furthermore, by converting to a design registration application, we intend to acquire rights to the overall design or a partial design. The drawing depicts the entire device with solid lines, but it is a drawing that includes not only the overall design but also partial designs claimed for parts of the device. For example, it is a drawing that includes not only a partial design for a part of the device's components, but also a partial design for a part of the device that is unrelated to any component. A part of the device may be a component of the device, or a part of a component. We intend to acquire rights to the overall design, as well as to any partial design where any part of the solid lines in the drawing is represented by dashed lines. In addition, all modules, components, parts, images, etc. inside the device's casing that are shown in the drawing are also subject to independent trade, and similarly, we intend to acquire rights to them by converting to a design registration application.

[0293] The inventions of the first embodiment, each variation of the first embodiment, and the second embodiment contribute to, for example, the following SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals). Goal 7: Affordable and clean energy for all. The aforementioned technologies for efficient charging management and energy consumption optimization of supercapacitors will improve energy efficiency and promote sustainable energy use in the automotive industry. Goal 9: Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and foster innovation. The aforementioned technological innovations, such as advanced parking surveillance systems and the use of supercapacitors, contribute to technological innovation and improved infrastructure quality in the automotive industry. This will enable more efficient and environmentally friendly transportation solutions. Goal 11: Make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, and resilient. The improvements to the parking surveillance function mentioned above will enhance vehicle safety and security in urban areas. This will contribute to creating a safe and sustainable urban environment. Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production The inventions described above, which promote efficient energy management and effective resource utilization, extend product lifespan and reduce energy consumption, thereby promoting sustainable consumption and production patterns. Goal 13: Take concrete action to combat climate change. The aforementioned technologies that improve the energy efficiency of automobiles will reduce CO2 emissions. This will thus play a role in addressing climate change. These contributions to the SDGs will promote the sustainable development of automotive technology, contribute to building a cleaner and safer society, and reduce the overall environmental impact. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0294] 100...Shooting device, 101...Housing, 102...Joint rail, 103...Sound emission hole, 104...Microphone hole, 131...Display surface, 151...Imaging lens, 181...Storage medium insertion slot, 191...Camera jack, 192...Terminal, 200...Shooting device, 300...Cable, 400...Vehicle, 600...Bracket, 610...Base part, 611...Mounting surface, 620...Ball stud, 621...Ball part, 630...Socket part, 640...Nut, 650...Base part, 651...Guide rail, 652...Tip part

Claims

1. A system that operates by receiving power from a battery provided in the mobile body when the mobile body is in a predetermined off state, A system characterized by having a function that notifies predetermined information when the mobile body operates by receiving power from the battery while the mobile body is in a predetermined off state, when the mobile body subsequently enters a predetermined on state.

2. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that it includes a function to notify that the moving body has deviated from the normal operation it takes when it is in a predetermined off state, as the predetermined information.

3. The mobile body has a function that, when it is in a predetermined off state, receives power from a battery provided in the mobile body and operates in a predetermined mode, The system according to claim 1, further comprising a function that, when the moving body is in a predetermined off state and terminates operation in the predetermined mode due to a predetermined factor, notifies that the operation in the predetermined mode has been terminated as predetermined information.

4. The system according to claim 3, characterized in that, in addition to terminating the operation in the predetermined mode, it also has a function to notify information identifying the cause of terminating the operation in the predetermined mode.

5. A function that terminates operation in the predetermined mode when the battery voltage reaches a predetermined state while the mobile body is in a predetermined off state, The system according to claim 3, further comprising a function that, when the operation in the predetermined mode is terminated due to the battery voltage reaching a predetermined state while the mobile body is in a predetermined off state, provides predetermined information that the operation in the predetermined mode has been terminated because the battery voltage has reached a predetermined state.

6. The aforementioned predetermined state is provided with a voltage below a predetermined voltage, A function to set the predetermined voltage by user operation, The system according to claim 5, further comprising a function that prompts a change in the predetermined voltage setting when the operation in the predetermined mode is terminated due to the predetermined factor that the battery voltage falls below the predetermined voltage while the mobile body is in a predetermined off state.

7. The aforementioned predetermined state is provided with a voltage below a predetermined voltage, The aforementioned battery has a function to monitor voltage changes, The system according to claim 5, further comprising a function for automatically changing the predetermined voltage based on the voltage change of the battery.

8. The system according to claim 5, characterized in that it includes a function to automatically change the predetermined state at a predetermined time.

9. A function to set the aforementioned predetermined state through user operation, The system according to claim 5, further comprising a function that prompts the user to review the settings for the predetermined state at a predetermined time.

10. The system has a function to acquire at least one piece of information: the temperature of the device to be operated, the ambient temperature outside the mobile body, the ambient temperature inside the mobile body, and the illuminance. The system according to claim 5, further comprising a function for automatically changing the predetermined state based on acquired information.

11. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that, when the operation of the mobile body receiving power from the battery is terminated due to a predetermined factor while the mobile body is in a predetermined off state, and the predetermined factor is subsequently resolved, the system has a function to resume the operation of the mobile body receiving power from the battery while the terminated mobile body is in a predetermined off state.

12. The aforementioned mobile entity is a vehicle, and the system operates the functions of a drive recorder by receiving power from a battery installed in the vehicle. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that the drive recorder operates in parking surveillance mode when power is supplied by the vehicle's battery while the vehicle's ACC power is off.

13. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that the predetermined information includes, in addition to the fact that the mobile body has completed a predetermined operation while in a predetermined off state, powered by a battery provided in the mobile body, a time range in which the mobile body performed a predetermined operation while in a predetermined off state, powered by a battery provided in the mobile body, and information generated within that time range.

14. The system has a function to acquire the temperature of the device to be operated on, The system according to claim 1, further comprising a function that terminates a predetermined operation powered by a battery provided in the mobile body when the temperature of the device exceeds a predetermined temperature while the mobile body is in a predetermined off state.

15. The system according to claim 14, characterized in that when the temperature of the device exceeds a predetermined temperature, and the predetermined operation is terminated due to power supply from a battery provided in the mobile body, the system has a function to notify that the predetermined operation has been terminated because the temperature of the device has exceeded a predetermined temperature, as predetermined information.

16. The system according to claim 14, characterized in that, if the predetermined operation performed by receiving power from a battery provided in the mobile body is terminated due to the temperature of the device exceeding a predetermined temperature, and the temperature of the device subsequently falls below the predetermined temperature, the system has a function to resume the terminated predetermined operation.

17. The system has a function to acquire the temperature of the device to be operated on, The system according to claim 1, characterized in that it includes a function to gradually limit the operation of the device as the temperature rises when the moving body is in a predetermined off state.

18. The operation performed by receiving power from the battery provided in the mobile body is an operation to image the surrounding environment of the mobile body, The system according to claim 1, further comprising a function to notify information relating to the content of an image captured as the predetermined information.

19. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that it includes a function to reduce the power consumption of the battery when the voltage of the battery reaches a predetermined state while the mobile body is in a predetermined off state.

20. The operation performed by receiving power from a battery provided in the aforementioned mobile body is an operation that performs a predetermined process when predetermined conditions are met, The system according to claim 1, further comprising a function to change the predetermined conditions to stricter conditions when the frequency of satisfying the predetermined conditions exceeds a predetermined frequency.

21. A function to determine whether a predetermined operation performed by a battery installed in the mobile body is terminated when the mobile body is in a predetermined off state due to a predetermined factor, and whether that factor is due to an external environment or an internal environment. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that it includes a function for notifying the result of the determination as predetermined information.

22. A function to store the history of the aforementioned predetermined information in a storage medium, The system according to claim 1, further comprising a function for displaying the history of the predetermined information stored in the storage medium on an external device.

23. A program for a computer to implement the functions of the system described in any one of claims 1 to 22.

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