Imaging devices, systems, and programs, etc.

Abstract

To provide technology that improves functionality over conventional methods, e.g., to make it easier to understand the conditions under which an image was captured.SOLUTION: An imaging device 100 includes an imaging unit that captures an image of the surroundings of a vehicle, and a control unit that associates the image captured by the imaging unit with information specifying conditions for capturing the image and controls the transmission of the image via a specified communication line NW.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

【Technical Field】 【0001】 The present invention relates to an imaging device, a system, a program, and the like. 【Background Art】 【0002】 Patent Document 1 discloses a drive recorder that can be attached to the front glass of a vehicle using a bracket. 【Prior Art Documents】 【Patent Documents】 【0003】 【Patent Document 1】 Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2010-105530 【Summary of the Invention】 【Problems to be Solved by the Invention】 【0004】 One of the objects of the present invention is to provide a technique with improved functions compared to the prior art, for example, to provide a technique for making it easier to grasp the conditions when imaging an image around a vehicle. 【0005】 The object of the invention of the present application is not limited to this, and the applicant also has the intention of obtaining rights by means of divisional application, amendment, etc. for a configuration aimed at obtaining an effect exerted by a part of the configuration disclosed in this specification and drawings. For example, the problems obtained by reading the part described as "can be" in this specification as "is a problem" are disclosed in this specification. The problems are described as independent ones, and the applicant also has the intention of obtaining rights by means of divisional application, amendment, etc. alone for the configuration for solving each problem. Even if the problems are implicitly grasped from the description of the specification, the applicant has the intention of making a part of the configuration described in this specification the scope of claims by amendment or divisional application. In addition, the applicant also discloses a configuration for solving a problem combining these independent problems and has the intention of obtaining rights. 【Means for Solving the Problems】 【0006】 (1) It is preferable to provide an imaging device having an imaging unit that images the area around a vehicle, and a control unit that controls the transmission of image data showing the image captured by the imaging unit and information specifying the conditions for the imaging via a predetermined communication line. 【0007】 In this way, the imaging conditions under which the image captured by the imaging unit that captures the area around the vehicle were taken can be determined along with the image data representing the image after it has been transmitted via a predetermined communication line. 【0008】 For example, a first other device that can communicate with the imaging device via a communication line, or a second other device that acquires images from the first other device, can identify the imaging conditions under which the images captured by the imaging unit that images the area around the vehicle were taken. The first other device may be, for example, a server device managed and operated by a business that manufactures or sells imaging devices. The second other device may be a business that provides a predetermined service, for example, a server device managed and operated by an insurance company that grasps the situation of vehicle accidents, etc., based on images captured by the imaging device and pays insurance claims, or by a public institution such as a security company or the police. 【0009】 (2) The information that specifies the imaging conditions may include information corresponding to the type of self-imaging device or its components. 【0010】 In this way, after the image data showing the image is transmitted, it becomes possible to determine what type of imaging device or what type of components were used to capture the image taken by the imaging unit that captures the area around the vehicle. Information corresponding to the type of imaging device or its components is particularly good if it directly or indirectly identifies the type. Information corresponding to the type of imaging device is good if it is information that identifies all or part of the type of imaging device, such as the model number, lot number, series name, and name of the imaging device. Components of the imaging device are good if they are, for example, an image sensor, an imaging lens, and a control unit that processes the image captured by the imaging unit (for example, the type of SoC that constitutes the control unit). Information corresponding to the type of components of the imaging device is good if it is information that identifies all or part of the type of component, such as the model number, lot number, series name, and name of the component. 【0011】 (3) The information that specifies the imaging conditions may include characteristic information corresponding to the optical characteristics of the imaging unit. 【0012】 In this way, it becomes possible to determine, after the image data representing the image has been transmitted, what kind of optical characteristics the image captured by the imaging unit had. The characteristic information corresponding to the optical characteristics of the imaging unit should be information that directly or indirectly identifies the characteristics. Understanding the optical characteristics of the imaging unit can be useful in understanding the relationship between the object captured by the imaging unit and how that object appears in the captured image. For example, it can be useful in determining whether the object captured by the imaging unit appears visually nearly identical, or whether the captured object appears distorted due to distortion (which can also be called image distortion) caused by the lens or other optical characteristics of the imaging unit. 【0013】 (4) The characteristic information may include parameters used to identify at least one of the distance and direction from the imaging point by the imaging unit to the point on the captured image where the object captured by the imaging unit is located. 【0014】 In this way, parameters can be obtained that are useful for determining the distance or direction from the point where the imaging unit captures an image to the point on the captured image where the object captured by the imaging unit is located. It can be difficult to accurately determine the distance or direction from the point where the imaging unit captures an image to the point on the captured image solely through image analysis. By considering these parameters, the accuracy of determining the distance or direction can be improved compared to when these parameters are not considered. For example, these parameters can be useful in understanding the circumstances of an accident or other incident from captured images. Parameters that affect the distortion contained in the captured image are particularly effective. 【0015】 (5) The characteristic information may include information that identifies the focal length of the imaging unit, the optical axis center of the imaging lens of the imaging unit, skew distortion, and distortion coefficient. 【0016】 In this way, at least one of the following parameters can be obtained as reference for determining the distance or direction from the imaging point of the imaging unit to the point on the captured image where the object captured by the imaging unit exists: the focal length of the imaging unit, the optical axis center of the imaging lens of the imaging unit, skew distortion, and distortion coefficient. These are parameters that are particularly useful for understanding how the captured object appears in the captured image. Obtaining such parameters can contribute to improving the accuracy of determining the distance or direction from the imaging point of the imaging unit to the point on the captured image compared to when such parameters cannot be obtained. 【0017】 (6) The imaging unit captures a circumferential image, and the characteristic information may include at least one of the radial distortion coefficient and the circumferential distortion coefficient of the circumferential image. 【0018】 In this way, at least one of the radial distortion coefficient and the circumferential distortion coefficient of the circumferential image can be obtained as parameters that serve as reference for determining the distance or direction from the imaging point by the imaging unit to the point on the captured image where the object captured by the imaging unit exists, based on the circumferential image. These are parameters that are particularly useful for understanding how the captured object appears in the captured circumferential image. Obtaining such parameters can contribute to improving the accuracy of determining the distance or direction from the imaging point by the imaging unit to the point on the captured image, compared to cases where such parameters cannot be obtained. 【0019】 (7) The characteristic information may include pattern image data that shows an image that serves as an indicator of the degree of distortion contained in the captured image. 【0020】 In this way, it becomes possible to visually understand what kind of distortion is contained in the image captured by the imaging unit by looking at the pattern image. For example, by looking at the image shown by the pattern image data, it is possible to understand what kind of distortion is contained in each position on the image. The pattern image data should be image data that serves as an indicator of the degree of distortion contained in the image captured by the imaging unit, and the degree of distortion should be at least one of the magnitude of the distortion and the direction in which the distortion occurs, but it is especially good if both are included. 【0021】 (8) The characteristic information may include pattern image data showing an image obtained when a predetermined pattern is captured by the imaging unit. 【0022】 By doing so, it is possible to visually grasp what kind of distortion is included in the image captured by the imaging unit from the image when a predetermined pattern is captured by the imaging unit. For example, by looking at the image showing the pattern image data, it is possible to grasp what kind of distortion is included at each position on the image. The pattern image data is preferably image data that serves as an index of the degree of distortion included in the image captured by the imaging unit. As the degree of distortion, it is preferably at least one of the magnitude of the distortion and the direction in which the distortion occurs, and it is particularly good if both are used. The pattern image data may be generated by actually capturing a pattern image by the imaging unit, or pre-stored pattern image data may be prepared. 【0023】 (9) The control unit may perform control to transmit the pattern image data acquired from the storage unit that stores the pattern image data in advance, in association with the image data indicating the image captured by the imaging unit. 【0024】 By doing so, compared to the case where the pattern image data is generated by actually capturing a pattern image by the imaging unit, it is desirable in terms of reducing the imaging burden and easily obtaining pattern image data that faithfully represents the distortion included in the image captured by the imaging unit. 【0025】 (10) The control unit may perform control to superimpose and display the pattern image indicated by the pattern image data on the image captured by the imaging unit. 【0026】 By doing so, from the relationship between the image captured by the imaging unit and the pattern indicated by the pattern image data, it is possible to visually grasp what kind of distortion is included in the captured image. For example, by looking at the image captured by the imaging unit, it is possible to grasp what kind of distortion is included at each position on the image. Pa 【0027】 (11) The control unit may perform control to transmit second image data in which information specifying the imaging conditions is embedded in first image data indicating the captured image. 【0028】 In this way, since second image data integrating the image data indicating the captured image and the information specifying the imaging conditions is transmitted, the information specifying the imaging conditions can be obtained from the second image data. 【0029】 (12) The imaging unit captures a moving image, and the second image data may be image data in which information specifying the imaging conditions is associated with each image in each section obtained by dividing the moving image captured by the imaging unit at predetermined units on the time axis. 【0030】 In this way, since the information specifying the imaging conditions is associated with each section of the moving image captured by the imaging unit at predetermined units on the time axis, even if an image of a partial section is extracted, the information specifying the imaging conditions of that image can be obtained. 【0031】 (13) The predetermined unit may be a frame unit. 【0032】 In this way, since the information specifying the imaging conditions is associated with each frame of the moving image captured by the imaging unit, the information specifying the imaging conditions of an image of any frame can be obtained. 【0033】 (14) The control unit may perform control to separately transmit third image data indicating the captured image and imaging condition information indicating the information specifying the imaging conditions. 【0034】 In this way, the imaging condition information can be transmitted regardless of the format of the image data indicating the captured image. For example, it is possible to solve a problem that it is difficult to embed the information specifying the imaging conditions depending on the format of the image data indicating the captured image. 【0035】 (15) The control unit is capable of operating by receiving power from an external source or by an internal power source when the vehicle's power source or power supply is turned off, and the control unit is set to either a first mode or a second mode which consumes less power than the first mode, and is set to the second mode when the vehicle's power source or power supply is turned off, and to the first mode when it receives a predetermined notification from an external communication terminal. 【0036】 In this way, the power consumption of the imaging device when the vehicle's power source or power supply is turned off can be suppressed, while the imaging device can be operated in the first mode in response to notifications from an external communication terminal. Furthermore, the imaging device can be operated in response to notifications from an external communication terminal while suppressing the use of communication resources on the communication line or the increase in communication charges for communication conducted via the communication line. For example, the first mode may be a normal mode, and the second mode may be a power-saving mode. 【0037】 (16) The aforementioned notification may be a message that can be received via the communication line. 【0038】 In this way, if the communication terminal sends a message that the imaging device can receive even in the second mode, the imaging device can be switched to the first mode. The message can be, for example, a short message that can be sent and received using the Short Message Service (SMS). 【0039】 (17) The control unit may, after receiving the predetermined notification, set to the first mode and then, in response to a request from the communication terminal, perform control to transmit image data showing the image captured by the imaging unit via the communication line. 【0040】 In this way, when switching from the second mode to the first mode in response to receiving a predetermined notification from an external communication terminal, image data can be transmitted while suppressing power consumption of the imaging device, which is powered off by the vehicle's drive source or power supply. Furthermore, image data can be transmitted while suppressing the use of communication resources on the communication line or the increase in communication charges for communication conducted via the communication line. 【0041】 (18) The control unit may, when it has successfully authenticated the communication terminal, perform control to transmit the image data captured by the imaging unit in response to a request from the communication terminal. 【0042】 This approach ensures that image data is only transmitted after successful authentication of the designated communication terminal, thus reducing the possibility of image data being transmitted through fraudulent means. 【0043】 (19) It is preferable to provide a system having a control unit that performs control to correct an image captured by an imaging unit that captures the area around a vehicle transmitted by an imaging device, based on information that identifies the imaging conditions associated with the image. 【0044】 In this way, a corrected image can be obtained from the image captured by the imaging unit, which captures the area around the vehicle transmitted by the imaging device. The correction can be, for example, a process that reduces the distortion contained in the image captured by the imaging unit. 【0045】 (20) It is preferable to provide a system having a control unit that performs control to superimpose and display the pattern indicated by the pattern image data transmitted by the imaging device onto the image captured by any of the imaging devices described above. 【0046】 In this way, by examining the relationship between the image captured by the imaging unit and the pattern shown in the pattern image data, it becomes possible to visually understand what kind of distortion is contained in the captured image. 【0047】 (21) A system is provided which has a control unit that generates a fourth image data in which information specifying the conditions for the imaging is embedded in the image data showing the captured image, based on the third image data transmitted by any of the above imaging devices and the imaging condition information transmitted by the imaging device. 【0048】 This approach solves the problem of difficulty in embedding information that identifies imaging conditions depending on the image format, while still allowing for the acquisition of image data with embedded information that identifies imaging conditions. 【0049】 (22) It would be preferable that a computer be provided with a program to implement the functions of the control unit of any of the above imaging devices. 【0050】 (23) It would be preferable that a computer be provided with a program to implement the functions of the control unit of any of the above systems. 【0051】 The inventions described in (1) to (23) above can be combined in any way. For example, one could 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 onward. In particular, one could combine the invention described in (1) with at least part of the configuration of at least one of the inventions described in (2) and onward. Alternatively, one could extract any configuration from the inventions described in (1) to (23) and combine the extracted configurations. The applicant of this application intends to acquire rights to inventions that include these configurations. Furthermore, even if there are descriptions such as "in the case of..." or "when...", these are not meant to indicate that the configuration is limited to that case or time. These are merely examples of better configurations, and the applicant intends to acquire rights to configurations that do not fall under these cases or times. Also, even if there is a sequence of descriptions, the order is not limited to that sequence. Configurations with some parts deleted or the order rearranged are also disclosed, and the applicant intends to acquire rights to them as well. [Effects of the Invention] 【0052】 According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a technology with improved functionality compared to conventional methods, for example, a technology that makes it easier to understand the conditions when capturing images of the area around a vehicle. 【0053】 The effects of the present invention are not limited thereto, and the effects produced by the components of the structure disclosed in this specification and drawings are also disclosed. The present invention intends to obtain rights to the components that produce such effects through divisional applications, amendments, etc. For example, the phrases "can do..." in this specification are descriptions that clearly indicate the effects produced, and there are components that produce effects even without such descriptions. Furthermore, there are effects that can be grasped by the component even without such descriptions. [Brief explanation of the drawing] 【0054】 [Figure 1] This diagram illustrates the overall configuration of the system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This diagram illustrates the overall configuration of the vehicle-side system in the same embodiment. [Figure 3] This figure shows an example of the external configuration of the imaging device according to the same embodiment. [Figure 4] This figure shows an example of the bracket configuration of the same embodiment. [Figure 5] This is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the imaging device in the same embodiment. [Figure 6] This figure shows another example of the external configuration of the imaging device according to the same embodiment. [Figure 7] This figure shows another example of the external configuration of the imaging device according to the same embodiment. [Figure 8] This figure shows an example of the external configuration of the imaging device according to the same embodiment. [Figure 9] This figure shows another example of the external configuration of the imaging device according to the same embodiment. [Figure 10] This is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the display device according to the same embodiment. [Figure 11] This is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the server device in the same embodiment. [Figure 12]This figure illustrates the internal structure and basic storage format of a storage medium on which video files of the same embodiment are recorded. [Figure 13] This flowchart shows the processing performed by the imaging device of the same embodiment. [Figure 14] This figure illustrates the storage format of the captured image and the imaging condition information in the same embodiment. [Figure 15] This figure illustrates the internal structure and storage format of a storage medium on which a video file containing the imaging conditions of the same embodiment is recorded. [Figure 16] This figure illustrates the content of the imaging condition information when the imaging condition information of the same embodiment is specified according to the type of imaging device. [Figure 17] This figure illustrates an example of a predetermined pattern and pattern image related to a modified example of the same embodiment. [Figure 18] This figure illustrates an example of an image captured by taking a pattern image related to the same modified example. [Figure 19] This figure shows an example of a screen related to a viewer program displayed by the display device according to the modified example. [Figure 20] This figure shows an example of a screen related to a viewer program displayed by the display device according to the modified example. [Figure 21] This flowchart shows the processes performed by the system according to the second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 22] This diagram illustrates the overall configuration of the system according to the third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 23] This flowchart shows the processes performed by the system of the same embodiment. [Figure 24] This is an example of a screen for specifying the video to be acquired from the imaging device in the display device of the same embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention] 【0055】 The embodiments will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. The embodiments shown below are examples of embodiments of the present disclosure, and the present disclosure is not limited to these embodiments. In the drawings referenced in these embodiments, the same parts or parts having similar functions are denoted by the same or similar reference numerals (simply a number followed by A, B, etc.), and repeated explanations may be omitted. In addition, in the drawings referenced in the following description, the scale may be different from that of the actual parts in order to make each component, area, etc. recognizable. 【0056】 [First Embodiment] First, a first embodiment of the present invention will be described. [1. Overall Structure] Figure 1 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of a system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. System 1 comprises an imaging device 100, an imaging device 200, a display device 700, and a server device 800. The imaging devices 100, 200, 700, and 800 are referred to as devices here, but may be understood as a system, etc. The imaging devices 100 and 200 capture images and generate image data showing the captured images. The imaging devices 100 and 200 are imaging devices mounted on a vehicle that capture images of the area around the vehicle, and their specific configuration will be described later. The display device 700 is a display device that displays images. If the imaging devices 100 and 200 are privately owned, the display device 700 is used, for example, by the same user as the imaging devices 100 and 200. If the imaging devices 100 and 200 are owned by a corporation, for example, the imaging devices 100 and 200 are used by the corporation's employees (e.g., sales staff), and the display device 700 is managed and operated by, for example, an employee of the corporation's administrative department (e.g., an administrator). The display device 700 is, for example, a personal computer, and is a stationary display device such as a desktop personal computer. The display device 700 may also be a portable display device such as a smartphone, tablet, feature phone, or wearable device. Various data, such as images captured by the imaging devices 100 and 200, are stored in the storage medium 500. The display device 700 displays information such as images captured by the imaging devices 100 and 200 based on the data stored in the storage medium 500. 【0057】 The server device 800 communicates with the imaging device 100 via a predetermined communication line NW. The server device 800 is managed and operated by, for example, a business that manufactures or sells the imaging devices 100 and 200, or a business that provides predetermined services based on images captured by the imaging devices 100 and 200. Examples of businesses that provide predetermined services include insurance companies that grasp the circumstances of vehicle accidents, etc., based on images captured by the imaging devices 100 or 200 and pay insurance claims, or server devices managed and operated by public institutions such as security companies and police. 【0058】 The communication line NW does not have any specific specifications, but includes, for example, wireless communication LANs (Local Area Networks) of Wi-Fi® and other standards, and public communication lines of LTE, 4G, 5G and other standards. The communication path between the imaging device 100 and the communication line NW is a wireless communication path. The communication path between the server device 800 and the communication line NW may be a wireless, wired, or a combination thereof. 【0059】 [2. Overall System Configuration on the Vehicle Side] Figure 2 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the vehicle-side system in this embodiment. Figure 2 shows a schematic diagram of the vehicle 400 as viewed from the side. The vehicle 400 is, for example, an internal combustion engine vehicle with an engine as the drive source, a hybrid vehicle with an engine and a drive motor as the drive sources, an electric vehicle with a drive motor as the drive source, etc. The vehicle 400 is, for example, a four-wheeled automobile, but any vehicle capable of mounting the imaging device 100 and 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, a forklift, or other vehicle. The vehicle may also be, for example, a vehicle of a transportation system such as a train, monorail, or maglev train. 【0060】 The imaging device 100 and the imaging device 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 imaging device 100 and the imaging device 200 may be a device that is pre-installed in the vehicle 400 (i.e., is standard equipment). The imaging device 100 is a front camera located on the front side of the vehicle 400. The imaging device 100 is, for example, mounted at a predetermined position on the front side of the passenger compartment of the vehicle 400 and captures images in front of the vehicle 400 through the windshield. The imaging device 100 is a drive recorder. Specifically, the imaging device 100 has the function of capturing images, the function of recording image data showing the captured images, and the function of recording image data acquired from the imaging device 200. 【0061】 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. 【0062】 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. 【0063】 [3. External configuration of the imaging device 100] Figure 3 shows an example of the external configuration of the imaging device 100. Figure 3(A) is a view of the imaging device 100 from the front, diagonally upward to the right. Figure 3(B) is a view of the imaging device 100 from the rear, diagonally upward to the right. The front side of the imaging device 100 faces the front of the vehicle 400, and the rear side of the imaging device 100 faces the rear of the vehicle 400. 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 that is opposite the second side surface 1013, and a fourth side surface 1015 that is opposite the first side surface 1012. 【0064】 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 location on the vehicle 400. The mounting location 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 mounted on the vehicle 400, the first side surface 1012 faces the front of the vehicle 400. At this time, the second side surface 1013 faces to the right when viewed from the rear of the vehicle 400. The third side surface 1014 faces to the left when viewed from the rear of the vehicle 400. The fourth side surface 1015 faces the rear of the vehicle 400. 【0065】 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. 【0066】 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 through 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 through 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. 【0067】 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 (video recording) of images captured by the imaging unit 15. When event recording is not being performed, if the user operates the event recording button 122, the imaging device 100 starts event recording. More details about event recording will be described later. The event recording button 122 is provided on the second side 1013 facing the driver's seat so that it can be easily operated by the driver of a right-hand drive vehicle 400. 【0068】 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. 【0069】 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. 【0070】 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 position, ignition timing, percentage of remaining fuel, intake manifold pressure, intake air volume (MAF), injection opening time, engine coolant temperature, intake air temperature, ambient temperature, fuel tank volume, 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. 【0071】 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 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. 【0072】 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: 【0073】 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 imaging device 100 and the image currently being captured by the imaging device 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 imaging device 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. 【0074】 The second button 1232 is for displaying a selection screen for selecting the image to be played back by the imaging device 100. The third button 1233 is for displaying a menu related to the settings of the imaging device 100 and the imaging device 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 performed 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. 【0075】 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. 【0076】 The light-emitting unit 21 is located above the first button 1231 and emits light in a predetermined color. 【0077】 Furthermore, the imaging device 200 may also function as a drive recorder, and may have a configuration similar to that of the imaging device 100. In addition, one or more imaging devices that capture images in other directions may be used as imaging devices connected to the imaging device 100 by communication, instead of or in addition to the imaging device 200. Other directions include the right rear, left rear, and width of the vehicle (side) of the vehicle 400. 【0078】 [4. Bracket Configuration] Figure 4 shows an example of the configuration of the bracket 600. Figure 4(A) is a view of the bracket 600 from the front, looking diagonally upward to the right. Figure 4(B) is a view of the bracket 600 from the side. Figure 4(C) is a view of the bracket 600 from the front, looking diagonally downward to the right. The bracket 600 is an example of a mounting member for attaching the imaging device 100 to the vehicle 400. 【0079】 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. 【0080】 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. A screw groove is formed on the outer circumference of the socket portion 630. The nut 640, which fits into the screw groove, 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 changing the orientation of the base portion 650. Once the nut 640 is tightened, the orientation of the base portion 650 is fixed. 【0081】 The base portion 650 is formed in conjunction with the socket portion 630 and is the part for mounting 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 onto the end of the joint rail 102 on the front side of the imaging device 100. 【0082】 [5. Electrical configuration of the imaging device 100] Figure 5 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. 【0083】 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. 【0084】 The display unit 13 displays an image on the display surface 131. The display unit 13 is, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD). 【0085】 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. 【0086】 The imaging unit 15 captures images and generates image data obtained from the imaging. 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. 【0087】 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®, Bluetooth®, other wireless LAN communication, LPWA (Low Power Wide Area), or short-range wireless communication. The communication unit 16 may also have a communication circuit for communication compliant with standards for mobile communication systems such as LTE (Long Term Evolution), 4G, 5G, etc. 【0088】 The sensor unit 17 has various sensors. The sensor unit 17 has, for example, at least one of an acceleration sensor (e.g., a G sensor), a gyro sensor, a barometric pressure 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 imaging device 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 illuminance sensor is a sensor that detects the illuminance indicating the brightness inside the vehicle interior, which is the area around the imaging device 100. The illuminance sensor is used, for example, to adjust the brightness of the display on the display unit 13. 【0089】 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. 【0090】 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 imaging device 100 and imaging device 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 image 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. 【0091】 The position information acquisition unit 20 acquires position information indicating the position of the imaging device 100 (more specifically, its current position). The position of the imaging device 100 can be considered equivalent to the position of the vehicle 400 on which the imaging device 100 is located, the position of the imaging device 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 imaging device 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). 【0092】 The light-emitting unit 21 emits light in a predetermined color. The light-emitting unit 21 includes, for example, a light-emitting diode. 【0093】 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 supply on the vehicle 400 side may be, for example, at least one of a constant power supply and an accessory power supply, but it is desirable for the imaging device 100 to function when the vehicle 400 is not being used by the user, such as when the vehicle is parked, if it is connected to a constant power supply. The power control unit 22 may further include a secondary battery, a button battery, or an electric double-layer capacitor (also called a supercapacitor) as a means of power storage. 【0094】 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. 【0095】 [6. Image recording function of 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 there are also AVI, MOV, WMV, etc. In this embodiment, a video file in the format described in Figure 12 is recorded. 【0096】 <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 imaging device 100 and the imaging device 200 while the imaging device 100 is in operation. When the continuous recording function is running, the control unit 11 stores images (image data, or video data) captured from the start to the stop of the vehicle 400's engine, or stores images captured from the time the vehicle 400's power supply (e.g., accessory power) is turned on until it is turned off. 【0097】 <5-2. Event Recording Function> The event recording function is a function that records images captured by either or both of the imaging device 100 and the imaging device 200 in response to the occurrence of a specific event. An event is an occurrence for which images captured by the imaging device 100 or the imaging device 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 measurement value from the acceleration sensor of the sensor unit 17. Specifically, the control unit 11 determines that an event has occurred when the measurement value from the acceleration sensor exceeds a predetermined threshold or shows a predetermined temporal change. Such an event is called a "G-sensor event," and the event recording performed when a G-sensor event occurs is sometimes called a "G-sensor event recording." The control unit 11 also determines that an event has occurred when the event recording button 122 is operated. An event caused by the operation of the event recording button 122 is called a "manual event," and the event recording performed when a manual event occurs is sometimes called a "manual recording." The conditions for determining the occurrence of an event are not limited to these. The control unit 11 may determine that an event has occurred based on vehicle information, for example, if the state of the vehicle 400, such as vehicle speed or steering state, meets predetermined conditions. The control unit 11 may also determine that an event has occurred by analyzing images captured by the imaging unit 15 or imaging device 200 and detecting dangerous driving by the vehicle 400 or another vehicle (for example, aggressive driving, approaching, or dangerously close approach). 【0098】 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 length of 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. 【0099】 <5-3. Parking Surveillance Function> The parking surveillance function is a function that records images captured by either or both of the imaging device 100 and the imaging device 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 an external 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 drive source is stopped, power supply from the external battery is 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). 【0100】 The parking surveillance function may include a time-lapse mode and a motion detection mode. Specifically, when the time-lapse mode is selected by the user, 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 to 30 frames / second, the frame rate of the time-lapse mode is 1 frame / second. The motion detection mode is a mode that records images in response to the detection of a moving object. Specifically, when the motion detection mode is selected by the user, the control unit 11 detects a moving object from changes in images captured by the imaging device 100 and the imaging 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. 【0101】 [6. Other forms of imaging devices] The imaging devices 100 and 200 may be imaging devices that capture celestial images such as a full sphere or a hemisphere. A celestial image is an example of a circular image. The imaging device 100 may be an imaging device without a display unit 13. The imaging device 200 may be an imaging device that has various sensors and a display unit. The housing of the imaging device 100 does not have to be rectangular parallelepiped, and may be cylindrical, for example. The housing of the imaging device 200 does not have to be cylindrical, and may be rectangular parallelepiped, for example. The following are examples of other forms of the imaging devices 100 and 200. 【0102】 <6-1>Figure 6 shows another example of the external configuration of the imaging device 100. The imaging device 100 is an example of a wide-angle camera. Figure 6(A) shows the imaging device 100 viewed from the rear and from the upper right. Figure 6(B) shows the imaging device 100 viewed from the rear and from the upper right. The imaging device 100 is attached to a predetermined mounting location on the vehicle using a bracket 600. On the side of the imaging device 100 (more specifically, the right side), there is an operation unit 123 with operation buttons arranged in a vertical row for user operation. On the back of the imaging device 100, there is a display surface 131 and a touch sensor 124. The imaging device 100 has an imaging lens 151 on the lower side of its outer surface. When the imaging device 100 is attached to a mounting location such as the windshield of the vehicle 400, the optical axis of the imaging lens 151 is tilted by a predetermined angle θ toward the rear side where the mounting location of the vehicle 400 is located, relative to the vertically downward direction. The relationship between the direction the imaging lens 151 of the imaging device 100 faces and the field of view is described, for example, in Japanese Patent Publication No. 2021-56746. 【0103】 <6-2>Figure 7 shows another example of the external configuration of the imaging device 100. The imaging device 100 is an example of a wide-angle camera. Figure 7(A) shows the imaging device 100 viewed from the front left of the vehicle 400. Figure 7(B) shows the imaging device 100 viewed from the rear right of the vehicle 400. The imaging device 100 captures a 360-degree spherical image obtained by capturing all directions of 360 degrees in the horizontal plane and 360 degrees in the vertical plane. The imaging device 100 includes an imaging unit 15 located on the lower side when mounted on the vehicle 400. The imaging unit 15 has a first camera and a second camera arranged back to back, each positioned to capture images in opposite directions. The imaging lens 151A of the first camera faces forward of the vehicle 400. The imaging lens 151B of the second camera faces rear of the vehicle 400. The relationship between the direction in which the imaging lenses 151A and 151B of the imaging device 100 face and the field of view is described, for example, in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-145687. 【0104】 <6-3>Figure 8 shows an example of the external configuration of the imaging device 200. Figure 8 shows the imaging device 200 viewed from the upper right rear of the vehicle 400. The front side of the imaging device 200 where the imaging lens 220 is located faces the rear of the vehicle 400. The imaging device 200 is cylindrical (or can also be described as cylindrical) and is attached to a mounting location on the rear of the vehicle 400 (for example, the rear window) using a bracket 210. The imaging device 200 is configured so that the orientation of the imaging lens 220 can be changed while it is mounted. 【0105】 <6-4>Figure 9 shows another example of the external configuration of the imaging device 200. Figure 9(A) is a view of the imaging device 200 from the upper right of the front side of the vehicle 400. Figure 9(B) is a view of the imaging device 200 from the upper right of the rear side of the vehicle 400. The front side of the imaging device 200 where the imaging lens 220 is located faces the rear side of the vehicle 400. The rear side of the imaging device 200 where the imaging lens 230 is located faces the front side (passenger compartment side) of the vehicle 400. The imaging device 200 is cylindrical (or can also be described as cylindrical) and is attached to a mounting location on the rear side of the vehicle 400 (for example, the rear window) using a bracket 210. The imaging device 200 is configured so that the orientation of the imaging lenses 220 and 230 can be changed while it is mounted. 【0106】 [7. Electrical configuration of the display device 700] Figure 10 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the display device 700. The control unit 71 controls each part of the display device 700. The control unit 71 may have a hardware configuration similar to that of the control unit 11, for example. The input unit 72 receives information input from the user. The input unit 72 has operating means, such as a keyboard, mouse, or touch sensor. The display unit 73 displays images. The display unit 73 is, for example, a liquid crystal display. The communication unit 74 communicates with external devices via a communication line NW. The communication unit 74 has, for example, a communication circuit and an antenna. The storage unit 75 stores data. The storage unit 75 stores the program executed by the control unit 71 as well as the viewer program 751. The viewer program 751 is a program for displaying images captured and recorded by the imaging devices 100 and 200 in the display device 700. The storage unit 75 has an auxiliary storage device, such as a flash memory or a magnetic storage medium. The reader / writer 76 functions as a media holder that holds the storage medium 500 inserted into the device through a storage medium insertion slot (not shown). The reader / writer 76 writes data to the storage medium 500 and reads data from the storage medium 500. The control unit 71 executes the viewer program 751 and displays the images captured and recorded by the imaging devices 100 and 200 on the display unit 73 based on the data read from the storage medium 500 by the reader / writer 76. 【0107】 [8. Electrical configuration of server device 800] Figure 11 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the server device 800. The control unit 81 controls each part of the server device 800. The control unit 81 may have a hardware configuration similar to that of the control unit 11, for example. The communication unit 82 communicates with external devices via a communication line NW. The communication unit 82 may have, for example, a communication circuit and an antenna. The storage unit 83 stores data. The storage unit 83 stores the program executed by the control unit 81 as well as the database 831. The database 831 stores "imaging condition information," which is information that identifies the captured images transmitted from the imaging device 100 and the conditions under which the imaging was performed (hereinafter referred to as "imaging conditions"). More details about imaging conditions and imaging condition information will be described later. The control unit 81 may have the function of displaying data stored in the database 831 on a display unit (not shown) or transmitting this data to other devices via the communication unit 82. The control unit 81 may have functions to generate, display, transmit, etc., other data based on (for example, by processing) the data stored in the database 831. 【0108】 [9. Video File Structure] This embodiment describes the configuration of a video file (an example of the first image data) recorded by the imaging device 100 on the storage medium 500. Unless otherwise specified, the video file refers to a video recording file that includes the captured image and the sound captured at the time of the image capture. In the following description, we will explain the case where two types of event recording are performed: "G-sensor event recording" and "manual recording". The G-sensor event recording and manual recording are stored in separately separated storage areas. 【0109】 Figure 12 is a diagram illustrating the internal structure and basic storage format of the storage medium 500 on which the video file 900 is recorded. This storage format is an example of a method that does not record FAT (File Allocation Tables). The storage medium 500 is divided into a file system area 910 and an image storage area 920 for use. The file system area 910 is a file system that can be read and written to by an OS (e.g., Windows®) that is standardly installed on information processing devices such as personal computers. The file system area 910 stores a dedicated browser program 911, which is a dedicated browser program. When an information processing device plays back the contents of the video file 900 (in other words, recorded video and audio), if the dedicated browser program 911 is not installed on the information processing device, the dedicated browser program 911 is installed from the file system area 910. The dedicated browser program 911 installed on the display device 700 is an example of the viewer program 751 described above. 【0110】 The imaging memory area 920 is a partition in a proprietary format that cannot be read or written to by the OS that is standardly installed on the information processing device. The imaging memory area 920 is divided into a constant memory area 930, a G-sensor memory area 940, and a memory area 950. The image data recorded in each of these areas is labeled as "imaging image" in Figure 12. The imaging image shown in Figure 12 is an image of each section of a video, which is an image captured, divided into predetermined units on the time axis. More specifically, it is an image of each section divided into predetermined units of frames. In the imaging memory area 920, the images of each frame of multiple frames are stored in chronological order in the constant memory area 930, the G-sensor memory area 940, and the memory area 950. 【0111】 The always-on storage area 930 comprises a management area 930A and a storage area 930B. The management area 930A is an area where various setting information is recorded by a dedicated browser program in the information processing device, and when continuous recording is being performed, no data is recorded in the management area 930A. In this way, even if the power is cut off during imaging, the setting data in the management area 930A is not lost. The management area 930A records the overwrite count master value MUC, the format count master value MFC, and the overwrite upper limit value UL. The overwrite count master value MUC indicates the maximum number of overwrites performed on each storage unit of the always-on storage area 930. When the dedicated browser program records setting information in the management area 930A of the storage medium 500, the overwrite count master value MUC is updated to the same value as the maximum overwrite count value UC in the storage area 930B. The format count master value MFC indicates the number of times the always-on storage area 930 has been formatted. The overwrite upper limit value UL indicates the number of overwrites that will cause a failure of the storage medium 500. The overwrite limit value UL can be used as a guideline for determining the lifespan (i.e., approximately how many more times it can be overwritten). The overwrite limit value UL varies depending on the type of storage medium 500. When the information processing device formats the storage medium 500 using a dedicated browser, the overwrite limit value UL is recorded in the management area 930A by specifying the model number of the storage medium 500 to be used, or by directly entering the value. 【0112】 The memory area 930B is an area for storing captured image data. The control unit 11 provides a header and footer associated with one frame of image data, and records information associated with the image data of that frame (hereinafter referred to as "associated information") in this header and footer. Since the combined recording size of the image data and associated information is greater than 1 byte, which is the addressing unit of the storage medium 500, the image data and associated information for one frame are recorded in multiple consecutive addresses. In the example shown in Figure 12, 32,768 bytes (32 kilobytes) are recorded per frame. Associated information can also be called "additional information" in the sense that it is information added to the image data. 【0113】 The relevant information recorded in the header and footer of each frame includes the image acquisition time CT of the frame's image data, the format count value FC, the overwrite count value UC (which is "1" for the first write), and the trigger flag TF, which indicates that the image was captured at the time the event occurred. The format count value FC indicates the number of times the storage medium 500 has been formatted. The overwrite count value UC indicates the number of times data has been written to that address. The format count value FC and the overwrite count value UC are used for life management and recording control of the storage medium 500. The relevant information recorded in the header and footer may not overlap, or it may be completely identical, but it is particularly good to overlap only a part, as shown in the example in Figure 12. By overlapping only a part of the header and footer content, the difficulty of tampering with the data, including the relevant information, can be increased. 【0114】 The control unit 11 of the imaging device 100 sequentially stores the image data continuously captured by the imaging unit 15 in the memory area 930B in the order in which the images were captured, at consecutive addresses in chronological order. Specifically, when the control unit 11 records an image in the memory area 930B for the first time, it starts recording sequentially from the first address of the memory area 930B. For example, as shown in Figure 12, the control unit 11 records the images in the order they were captured using consecutive addresses in the memory area 930B, such as addresses "0" to "32767" for the first frame, and addresses "32768" to "65535" for the second frame. When the control unit 11 reaches the last address of the memory area 930B, it returns to the first address of the memory area 930B and continues recording while overwriting the data that has already been written. For recording from the second cycle onward, the control unit 11 records a value that increases the overwrite count value UC by 1 from its current value. 【0115】 The G-sensor storage area 940, which is used for recording G-sensor events, one of the event recording functions, also includes a management area 940A and a storage area 940B, similar to the constant storage area 930. The management area 940A stores the format count master value MFC, the overwrite count master value MUC, and the overwrite upper limit value UL, among other things. The storage area 940B stores image data captured around the time when the detection value of the acceleration sensor of the sensor unit 17 meets predetermined conditions, along with related information. The management area 940A and the storage area 940B store the same information as the management area 930A and the storage area 930B, respectively. The related information recorded is the same as the related information stored in the storage area 930B of the constant storage area 930. 【0116】 When the control unit 11 determines that the detection value of the acceleration sensor of the sensor unit 17 satisfies a predetermined condition, it sequentially stores the image data captured by the imaging unit 15 during the event recording period, including the time before and after when the condition was met, in the storage area 940B at consecutive addresses, using the same method as for recording to the storage area 930B. 【0117】 The memory area 950, used for manual recording, one of the event recording functions, also includes a management area 950A and a memory area 145B, similar to the constant memory area 930. The management area 950A stores the format count master value MFC, the overwrite count master value MUC, and the overwrite upper limit value UL, among other information. The memory area 950B stores image data captured around the time of the event, along with related information. The management area 950A and the memory area 950B store the same information as the management area 930A and the memory area 930B, respectively. The related information stored here is the same as the related information stored in the memory area 930B of the constant memory area 930. 【0118】 When the event recording button 122 is operated, the control unit 11 sequentially stores the image data captured by the imaging unit 15 during the event recording period, including the time after the operation was performed, in the storage area 940C in the same manner as when recording to the storage area 930B, at consecutive addresses. 【0119】 The control unit 11, using the recording method described above, sequentially writes each type of image data to the designated memory areas 930B, 940B, and 950B for consecutive addresses within those memory areas. As a result, the latest overwrite count value UC is recorded in the associated information of the most recently written frame, and a lesser overwrite count value UC is recorded in the associated information of the next frame. The control unit 11 finds the frame in which the overwrite count value UC changes for consecutive addresses within memory areas 930B, 940B, and 950B, and controls the next write from that frame. In this way, the oldest data can be overwritten in real time while recording. Moreover, by simply finding the frame in which the overwrite count value UC changes and controlling the next write from that frame, the oldest data can be overwritten in real time without requiring any other complex control. Furthermore, since the number of overwrites required to record the image data is recorded, if this can be checked using a dedicated browser program, the overwrite count value UC (and other related information) can be used to verify whether the data has been tampered with. 【0120】 In this embodiment, areas for recording each image data are predetermined, and image data is recorded sequentially in a predetermined order within those areas. As a result, the captured and stored image data is arranged chronologically in memory. In other words, the cluster numbers and sector numbers on which the image data is recorded are arranged chronologically, and unlike FAT32, for example, data is not written sequentially to empty areas, i.e., empty clusters. Therefore, this recording format is less prone to fragmentation. Because the storage medium 500 is less prone to fragmentation, it can continue recording in a predetermined order by overwriting image data without formatting after initial use. As a result, it is sometimes referred to as "format-free" because formatting is unnecessary over long periods. This recording format does not record FAT on the storage medium 500. More specifically, it is a method that eliminates the need for information on which cluster the continuation is in when a single file spans multiple clusters. 【0121】 Furthermore, the 930B, 940B, and 950B memory areas can be used evenly, preventing bottlenecks caused by areas with a high number of overwrites, which can shorten the lifespan of the memory card itself. 【0122】 [10. Operation of the imaging device 100] Figure 13 is a flowchart showing the processes performed by the imaging device 100. The control unit 11 of the imaging device 100 performs imaging using the imaging unit 15 (step S11). The control unit 11 stores the image data representing the captured image (an example of second image data) in the storage medium 500 in association with imaging condition information indicating the imaging conditions (step S12). The recording of image data here is performed according to the recording format described in Figure 12. However, in this embodiment, the control unit 11 stores the imaging condition information for each frame in association with the captured image of each frame in the format shown in Figure 14(A). In this way, the imaging conditions can be identified on a frame-by-frame basis. For example, even if some of the captured images of frames are extracted from the storage medium 500, the imaging conditions at the time of capturing those images can be identified because the imaging condition information is associated with them. If, as shown in Figure 14(B), the area for storing image data of multiple frames and the area for storing imaging condition information are separated, there is a possibility that if some of the captured images are extracted, the imaging condition information will not be associated with them and the imaging conditions cannot be identified, but this possibility can be reduced. 【0123】 To explain the process of step S12 in terms of the storage format described in Figure 12, the control unit 11 may store the shooting condition information in a header associated with the captured image of each frame, as shown in Figure 15. The header associated with the captured image of frame 1 of continuous recording stores the shooting condition information SC11 for identifying the shooting conditions of the image of frame 1 of continuous recording. The header associated with the captured image of frame 2 of continuous recording stores the shooting condition information SC12 for identifying the shooting conditions of the image of frame 2 of continuous recording. The header associated with the captured image of frame 3 of continuous recording stores the shooting condition information SC13 for identifying the shooting conditions of the image of frame 3 of continuous recording. Similarly, the header associated with the captured image of frame 1 of G-sensor event recording stores the shooting condition information SC21 for identifying the shooting conditions of the image of frame 1 of G-sensor event recording. The header associated with the captured image of frame 2 of G-sensor event recording stores the shooting condition information SC22 for identifying the shooting conditions of the image of frame 2 of G-sensor event recording. The header associated with the image captured in frame 3 of the G-sensor event recording stores imaging condition information SC23 to identify the shooting conditions of the image in frame 3 of the G-sensor event recording. Similarly, the header associated with the image captured in frame 1 of the manual recording stores imaging condition information SC31 to identify the shooting conditions of the image in frame 1 of the manual recording. The header associated with the image captured in frame 2 of the manual recording stores imaging condition information SC32 to identify the shooting conditions of the image in frame 2 of the manual recording. The header associated with the image captured in frame 3 of the manual recording stores imaging condition information SC33 to identify the shooting conditions of the image in frame 3 of the manual recording. The same procedure should be followed for other frames. 【0124】 Here, the control unit 11 stores the shooting condition information in a header associated with the captured image of each frame. However, it is sufficient to store it in an area associated with the captured image of each frame. For example, it may be stored in the footer, or in other areas associated with the frame (for example, an area for storing comments, an area for storing properties, or an area for storing subtitles / captions). 【0125】 The following are good examples of imaging condition information, but they are not limited to these. 【0126】 (A) The imaging condition information may include characteristic information corresponding to the optical characteristics of the imaging unit 15. The characteristic information may be information that directly or indirectly identifies such optical characteristics. The characteristic information may include parameters used to identify at least one of the distance and direction from the imaging point by the imaging unit 15 to the point on the captured image where the object captured by the imaging unit 15 exists. Such parameters may be parameters that act on the distortion contained in the captured image. Here, the imaging point is the imaging point in real space, and typically refers to the point where the imaging unit 15 (in other words, the imaging device 100 having the imaging unit 15) is located. The object may refer to a person, an object (e.g., another vehicle), or other object to be imaged that exists in real space. The point on the captured image where the object exists may refer to the point in the captured image where the object is visible. 【0127】 Such parameters are reference parameters used to analyze captured images and determine (for example, calculate) the distance or direction from the point of imaging by the imaging unit 15 to a point on the captured image. It can be difficult to accurately determine the distance or direction from the point of imaging by the imaging unit 15 to a point on the captured image solely through image analysis. Considering such parameters can improve the accuracy of determining that distance or direction. For example, it can be used to determine whether the object captured by the imaging unit appears visually nearly identical, or whether the captured object is distorted due to distortion or other causes. For instance, determining this distance is important when determining the cause of an accident or the percentage of fault in an accident from captured images. Furthermore, determining the distance from captured images is useful information for determining the presence or absence of aggressive driving or other dangerous driving behaviors. 【0128】 The characteristic information should preferably include information that identifies at least one of the following: the focal length of the imaging unit 15, the optical axis center of the imaging lens of the imaging unit 15, skew distortion, and distortion coefficient; preferably two or more, and more preferably all of them. These are parameters that are particularly useful for understanding how the imaged object appears in the captured image. Obtaining such parameters can contribute to improving the accuracy of the imaging unit's determination of the distance or direction from the imaging point to a point on the captured image, compared to cases where such parameters cannot be obtained. 【0129】 The information used to identify the optical axis center of the imaging lens of the imaging unit 15 may be information that identifies which position in the image region of the captured image corresponds to the imaging point corresponding to the optical axis center, and in particular, the coordinates (X, Y) in the image region of the captured image may be used. The information used to identify skew distortion may be information that identifies whether or not skew distortion occurs in the captured image, and if so, the degree of skew distortion. The distortion coefficient is a coefficient that identifies the distortion contained in the captured image and is a coefficient that identifies the degree of distortion. The distortion coefficient may be a coefficient that identifies distortion (e.g., lens distortion or lens aberration) mainly caused by the optical characteristics of the imaging unit 15, in particular the optical characteristics of the imaging lens 151. The distortion coefficient may be a coefficient determined for each direction in the captured image, and for example, for a low-distortion image that can be captured by the imaging device 100 shown in Figure 3 (here, for simplicity of explanation, it will be considered a planar image), it may include at least one of the distortion coefficients for the X direction (horizontal direction) and the Y direction (vertical direction), and preferably all of them. 【0130】 For example, in the case of a celestial spherical image that can be captured by the imaging device 100 shown in Figure 7, the characteristic information should preferably include at least one of the radial distortion coefficient and the circumferential distortion coefficient of the circumferential image, and preferably all of them. These are parameters that are particularly useful for understanding how the captured object appears in the captured circumferential image. Obtaining such parameters can contribute to improving the accuracy of determining the distance or direction from the imaging point to a point on the captured image by the imaging unit, compared to cases where such parameters cannot be obtained. 【0131】 Furthermore, the imaging condition information should include the following: (B) The imaging condition information may be information that specifies conditions unique to the imaging unit 15 and that are the same regardless of when imaging is performed (i.e., static information), but it is preferable to include information that can change depending on the timing of the imaging unit 15's shooting (i.e., dynamic information). The latter imaging condition information may be vehicle information, and it is preferable to include location information of the imaging point (e.g., latitude, longitude, and altitude), imaging direction (e.g., bearing), and values ​​of the sensor unit 17 at the time of imaging, in particular the values ​​of the acceleration sensor and the gyro sensor, and preferably all of them. Including these helps to understand the situation at the time of imaging. 【0132】 Furthermore, the imaging condition information should include the following: (C) The imaging condition information may include information corresponding to the type of imaging device 100 or imaging unit 15. The information corresponding to the type of imaging device 100 or its components may be information that directly or indirectly identifies the type of imaging device 100 or its components. Figure 16 is a diagram illustrating the content of the imaging condition information when the imaging condition information corresponds to the type of imaging device 100. In Figure 16, combinations of "seller code," "supplier code," and "series code" are shown as different imaging condition information depending on the type of imaging device 100, and imaging condition information showing this content is included in the video file. 【0133】 In Figure 16, "Model" identifies the model (or type) of the imaging device 100 and is an example of a type. The model differs depending on, for example, the supplier of the imaging device 100 and the imaging method. The supplier of the imaging device 100 is the business that supplies the imaging device 100 to the seller (e.g., a sales company). The imaging method varies depending on the number of cameras the imaging device 100 has (e.g., the number of imaging lenses) and the type of camera (e.g., wide-angle camera or hemispherical camera). For example, the imaging devices 100 in Figures 3, 6, and 7 have different imaging methods. In Figure 16, the models are represented as "MODEL1" to "MODEL6". The "Seller Code" is information that identifies the seller of the imaging device 100 and is represented by, for example, three characters. In this case, the "Seller Code" is "ABC", meaning that the imaging devices 100 "MODEL1" to "MODEL6" are sold by the same seller. The "supplier code" is information that identifies the supplier that provides the imaging device 100 to the seller, and is represented by, for example, two characters. There are four types of "supplier codes" here: "DE", "FG", "HI", and "JK". The "series code" is information that identifies the series of the imaging device 100, and is represented by, for example, four characters. The series refers to the series of imaging device models, and for example, the series code is the same for older and newer models in the same series. For example, multiple imaging devices in the same series share a basic part that is part of the model number, but other parts that indicate the version differ. For example, in the case of drive recorders manufactured and sold by the applicant, "Q-20" and "Q-30" are drive recorders of the same series. There are five types of "series codes" here: "LMNO", "PQRS", "TUVW", "XYZa", and "bcde". 【0134】 If the imaging device 100 is "MODEL1", "ABCDELMNO" is embedded in the video file as imaging condition information. If the imaging device 100 is "MODEL2", "ABCDEPQRS" is embedded in the video file as imaging condition information. If the imaging device 100 is "MODEL3", "ABCFGTUVW" is embedded in the video file as imaging condition information. If the imaging device 100 is "MODEL4", "ABCHIXYZa" is embedded in the video file as imaging condition information. If the imaging device 100 is "MODEL5" or "MODEL6", "ABCJKbcde" is embedded in the video file as imaging condition information. Note that even if the model of the imaging device 100 is different, such as "MODEL5" and "MODEL6", the "seller code", "supplier code", and "series code" may all match. Thus, in this embodiment, it is not necessary to uniquely identify the type of imaging device 100; it is sufficient to narrow it down to a certain extent. For example, it is sufficient if the optical characteristics of the imaging unit 15 can be identified to a certain degree. Furthermore, the information corresponding to the type of imaging device is not limited to the above information; for example, it may include information such as the model number, lot number, and name of the imaging device. 【0135】 Furthermore, the imaging condition information should include the following: (D) The imaging condition information may include information corresponding to the types of components of the imaging device 100. The information corresponding to the types of components of the imaging device 100 may include one or more types of the imaging unit 15, image sensor, imaging lens, and control unit 11 (for example, the SoC that constitutes the control unit 11) that processes the image captured by the imaging unit 15. The information corresponding to the type of imaging lens may be the model number of the imaging lens. The information corresponding to the type of image sensor may be, for example, the model number of the image sensor. Regarding the information corresponding to the types of components of the imaging device 100, as with the information corresponding to the type of imaging device 100, it is not necessary to uniquely identify the type of component, and it is sufficient to narrow it down to a certain extent. For example, it is sufficient if the optical characteristics of the imaging unit 15 can be identified to a certain level. 【0136】 In this document, we have described the imaging condition information for the imaging device 100, but imaging condition information for the imaging device 200, or for both the imaging device 100 and the imaging device 200, may also be embedded in the video file. 【0137】 The control unit 11 may include one or more of the imaging condition information from (A) to (D) in the video file, but including at least (A) or (C) in particular allows the system to determine from the video file what kind of imaging device was used to capture and record the image, making it possible to later understand the effects of the equipment-dependent nature of the captured image. For example, it becomes possible to understand the situation more accurately than by understanding the situation from sensor values ​​and captured images alone, because even among imaging devices, the images obtained vary depending on their characteristics. 【0138】 Let's go back to Figure 13 and explain. The control unit 11 transmits image data showing an image captured by the imaging unit 15, and imaging condition information showing the imaging conditions for the image data, to the server device 800 at a predetermined timing (step S13). In this embodiment, the image data transmitted in step S13 is image data stored in the storage medium 500, but image data showing an image captured by the imaging unit 15 that is not stored in the storage medium 500 may also be transmitted. The predetermined timing may be a pre-determined timing. For example, a pre-determined timing may be a timing that occurs periodically or a timing when a predetermined event occurs. The predetermined timing may be the timing when a request is received from the server device 800. For example, if a request specifying a date and time is received from the server device 800, the control unit 11 may transmit a video file that was captured and recorded at the date and time specified in the request. The control unit 11 may transmit any untransmitted video files. The above is an explanation of the flowchart in Figure 13. 【0139】 According to the embodiments described above, a technology can be provided to make it easier to understand the conditions under which the imaging device 100 or 200 captured an image of the area around the vehicle 400. This makes it possible to understand the conditions under which the image was captured, along with the image itself, after the image has been transmitted via the communication line NW. 【0140】 [11. Modified Examples of the First Embodiment] The first embodiment of the present invention is not limited to the embodiment described above, and can be modified as appropriate without departing from the spirit of the invention. 【0141】 <11-1> Selecting a Viewer Program Figure 16 also shows viewer type information, which indicates the type (or category) of the viewer program. This means that the viewer program for displaying the image from the imaging device 100 on the display device 700 is uniquely determined by the combination of the "seller code," "supplier code," and "series code." When the control unit 71 plays back a video file stored on the storage medium 500, it may select a viewer program 751 that can be used to play back the video file based on the "seller code," "supplier code," and "series code" contained in the video file, execute it, and play back the video file. In this way, the user does not need to select the viewer program necessary for playing back the video file. Alternatively, if a viewer program for displaying the image from the imaging device 100 is not installed, the control unit 71 may download and install a viewer program selected based on the "seller code," "supplier code," and "series code" by accessing a predetermined access point via the communication unit 74. In this embodiment, the viewer type information is not embedded in the video file, but it may be embedded. In this case, the control unit 71 can perform the above processing based on the viewer type information. In this example, the control unit 71 selected and executed the viewer program 751, but it may also have a function to notify the user by displaying information about viewer programs available for playback of video files. Alternatively, information about viewer programs available for playback may be included in the imaging condition information. This modified example reduces the burden on the user in selecting a viewer program. 【0142】 <11-2> Area for adding shooting condition information In the embodiment described above, shooting condition information was embedded in the header for each frame, but some or all of the common imaging condition information within the video file (e.g., static information) may be embedded only once per video file. Such shooting condition information may include some or all of (A), (C), and (D). The areas where it can be embedded include the video file header, footer, file comment section, etc. The common imaging condition information within the video file may also be included in the file name. 【0143】 <11-3> Pattern image data as characteristic information When the imaging condition information includes characteristic information corresponding to the optical characteristics of the imaging unit 15, this characteristic information may include pattern image data showing an image (hereinafter referred to as "pattern image") when a predetermined pattern is captured by the imaging unit 15. The pattern image data may be embedded in the video file when a predetermined pattern is actually captured in response to user operation, or it may be stored in the memory 112 in advance before the product shipment stage of the imaging device 100, or downloaded from a predetermined server device, etc., after the product shipment stage and stored in the memory 112, and then embedded in the video file. Such pattern image data is image data that shows an image that serves as an indicator of the degree of distortion contained in the image captured by the imaging unit 15. The pattern image data may be image data that serves as an indicator of the degree of distortion contained in the image captured by the imaging unit, and the degree of distortion may be at least one of the magnitude of the distortion and the direction in which the distortion occurs, but it is especially good if it is both. 【0144】 Figure 17 shows an example of a predetermined pattern and pattern image. The pattern P shown in Figure 17 is a grid image in which multiple parallel lines extending horizontally and multiple parallel lines extending vertically are mutually orthogonal. When such a pattern P is imaged, if the image captured by the imaging unit 15 is not affected by distortion, then a pattern image P1 that can be identified with pattern P is obtained in the captured image. The imaging device 100 shown in Figure 3 has relatively little distortion, and for example, if it is used as a planar image, the pattern image data representing pattern image P1 is stored in the memory 112. When pattern P is imaged with an imaging device 100 that captures a circumferential image as shown in Figure 7, a pattern image P2 as shown in Figure 18 is obtained. For example, in the imaging device 100 of Figure 7, the pattern image data representing pattern image P2 is stored in the memory 112. Figures 17 and 18 are provided to make the distortion easier to understand. 【0145】 If the control unit 11 includes pattern image data, as described in Figures 17 and 18, as characteristic information in the video file, it can visually understand what kind of distortion is contained in the captured image from the image shown by the pattern image data. For example, since it is possible to determine from the video file what kind of imaging device was used to capture and record the image, the effects of the equipment-dependent nature of the captured image can also be identified later. 【0146】 <11-4> Displaying pattern images on the viewer screen Under the configuration of <11-3>, when displaying an captured image with the imaging device 100, or when displaying an captured image with the viewer program 751 installed on the display device 700, it is preferable to superimpose the pattern image indicated by the pattern image data onto the image captured by the imaging unit 15. Figure 19 is a diagram showing an example of a screen related to the viewer program 751 displayed by the display device 700. Figure 19 shows the viewer screen when displaying an image captured by the imaging device 100 shown in Figure 3. 【0147】 In the display device 700, the control unit 71 displays the viewer screen shown in Figure 19(A) based on the viewer program 751. The viewer screen displays the captured image IMG1, which is stored in the storage medium 500 and included in the video file. When the user turns on the display of the pattern image, the control unit 71 displays the pattern image indicated by the pattern image data superimposed on the captured image on the viewer screen. Figure 19(B) shows the viewer screen when the pattern image is displayed. The viewer screen displays the pattern image IMG-P1, which is stored in the memory 112, superimposed on the captured image IMG1, which is stored in the storage medium 500 and included in the video file. A user who sees this viewer screen can visually understand from the content of the pattern image IMG-P1 what kind of distortion is contained in the captured image IMG1, or in this example, there is no distortion. 【0148】 Figure 20 shows the captured image on the viewer screen when the captured image from the imaging device 100 shown in Figure 7 is displayed. In the display device 700, the control unit 71 displays the captured image IMG2 shown in Figure 20(A) on the viewer screen based on the viewer program 751. When the user turns on the display of the pattern image, the control unit 71 displays the pattern image indicated by the pattern image data superimposed on the captured image on the viewer screen. Figure 20(B) shows the viewer screen when the pattern image is displayed. On the viewer screen, the pattern image IMG-P2 stored in memory 112 is displayed superimposed on the captured image IMG2, which is stored in the storage medium 500 and included in the video file. A user who sees such a viewer screen can visually understand from the content of the pattern image IMG-P2 what kind of distortion is contained in the captured image IMG2, in this example that distortion is contained, and that the distortion is particularly greater closer to the circumference, making the size of objects relatively smaller. 【0149】 <11-5> Correction of captured images based on pattern image data Under configuration <11-3> or <11-4>, the control unit 71 may have a function to correct the captured image using pattern image data based on the viewer program 751. For example, the control unit 71 may correct the captured image by a correction process that corrects the image shown by the pattern image data in a direction that brings it closer to, and more preferably to, a pattern image without distortion (here, the image in Figure 17). In this way, an image that is close to or matches a planar image can be obtained from the circumferential image. The correction process is not limited to this, and may also be other processes that change (typically deform) the captured image in conjunction with changes (typically deformation) in the pattern image. 【0150】 <11-6> Other examples of displaying pattern images Sections <11-3> to <11-5> describe the case where the captured image and pattern image are displayed using a viewer screen based on the viewer program 751. However, when the control unit 11 of the imaging device 100 displays the captured image stored in the storage medium 500 on the display unit 13, it is also preferable to display the captured image shown in the captured image area of ​​Figure 19(B) and Figure 20(B). Furthermore, the correction process described above may be implemented by the control unit 11 of the imaging device 100 or the control unit 81 of the server device 800. 【0151】 <11-7> Other examples of predetermined patterns and pattern images The predetermined patterns described in <11-3> to <11-6> may be other patterns as long as they are useful for understanding the distortion and deformation contained in the image, such as other patterns in which elements are arranged regularly. Examples of such patterns include checkerboard patterns. Furthermore, the predetermined patterns and pattern images do not have to be images represented using lines; the degree of distortion may be expressed by other methods of representation, such as the intensity of a predetermined color or the selective use of multiple colors. The direction and magnitude of the distortion may also be expressed by the direction pointed to by an arrow and the size (e.g., length) of that arrow. When such other patterns or pattern images are used, if they are superimposed on the captured image as in <11-4>, it is desirable to display the pattern image as a transparent image so that both the captured image and the pattern image can be seen. Furthermore, although the description has focused on cases where the representation methods of the predetermined patterns and pattern images are the same, they do not have to be the same. 【0152】 <11-8> Other examples of the given pattern In <11-3> to <11-7>, the pattern image data may be generated by the imaging device 100. For example, the imaging device 100 may obtain the pattern image data by photographing a printed document on which the pattern image has been printed. This printed document may be included with the imaging device 100. Alternatively, the pattern image indicated by the pattern image data may be displayed on a predetermined web page, and the imaging device 100 may photograph it to obtain the pattern image data. Furthermore, the imaging device 100 may obtain the pattern image data by photographing a structure with an appearance that is useful for understanding distortion, such as a concrete block wall. 【0153】 <11-9> Determining the distance and direction from the imaging point to the location on the image where the object exists. In the server device 800, the control unit 81 may have a function to identify at least one of the distance and direction from the imaging point by the imaging unit 15 to the point on the image where the object captured by the imaging unit 15 is located, based on image data received from the imaging device 100. In this case, when a certain point on the image is specified, the control unit 81 may identify at least one of the distance and direction from the imaging point to that point based on imaging condition information. The point on the image may be specified by the user of the server device 800 using, for example, an operation unit (not shown). For example, the control unit 81 may identify at least one of the distance and direction to the point by calculating based on a predetermined calculation formula that uses the location information and parameters of the characteristic information of the point as variables, based on the point on the image and characteristic information (e.g., parameters) included in the imaging condition information, or by referring to a predetermined table that defines the relationship between the location information and characteristic information of the point and at least one of the distance and direction to that point. The control unit 81 may notify the user of at least one of the identified distance and direction by displaying it on its own device. Alternatively, the control unit 81 may transmit at least one of the identified distance and direction to the imaging device 100 or other devices. These imaging devices 100 and other devices may notify the user of at least one of the distance and direction by displaying it on their own devices. The control unit 81 may also have a function to identify at least one of the distance and direction between two points on the image using a similar method. It is desirable that the identified distance be sufficiently accurate, but it is sufficient if it is only possible to grasp an approximate distance. 【0154】 <11-10> Determining distance and direction based on the viewer program In the display device 700, the control unit 71 may have a function to identify at least one of the distance and direction from the imaging point of the imaging unit 15 to the point on the image where the object captured by the imaging unit 15 is located, based on the image data received from the imaging device 100. The identification method in this case may be the same as the method described in <11-8>. The control unit 71 may display at least one of the distance and direction from the imaging point of the imaging unit 15 to the point on the image where the object captured by the imaging unit 15 is located on a viewer screen based on the viewer program 751 etc. described in <11-3> to <11-5>. In particular, the control unit 71 may display at least one of the distance and direction in association with a pattern image superimposed on the captured image (line pattern images IMG-P1, P2 in Figures 19(B) and 20(B)). In this way, the user can easily visually grasp the distance or direction of the position on the pattern image relative to the imaging point. Furthermore, when a position on the pattern image on the viewer screen is specified by user input or the like, the control unit 71 may display the distance and direction to that specified position. The functions described in this modified example may also be provided in other information processing devices such as the imaging device 100 or the server device 800. 【0155】 <11-11> Control based on the connection status of external devices The control unit 11 of the imaging device 100 may have a function to determine the connection status of external devices to the terminal unit 19, and may also have a function to record imaging condition information indicating imaging conditions, predetermined parameters, and the connection status of external devices as information that can be retrieved from the outside, in association with the imaging condition information indicating imaging conditions and predetermined parameters for use. The imaging condition information indicating imaging conditions may be static parameters such as the characteristic information and sensor information mentioned above. The predetermined parameters may be dynamic parameters such as setting information, for example, setting information related to the settings of external devices. In this way, it is possible to know that external devices such as radar detectors, OBD devices, drowsiness warning devices, distance warning devices, etc. are connected to the imaging device 100, and it becomes easy to refer to and use them together with the predetermined parameters. 【0156】 <11-12>Other examples of video file formats The video file format is not limited to the format described in Figure 12. Any other format is acceptable as long as it is image data in a format that allows information specifying the conditions of the imaging to be associated with the images of each section obtained by dividing the video captured by the imaging unit 15 into predetermined units on the time axis. 【0157】 <11-13> Other examples of image data formats The image data is preferably in video format, such as MPEG (Moving Picture Experts Group) format (e.g., MPEG2, MPEG4), but it may also be in a general-purpose format such as AVI, MOV, or WMV. In this case as well, the control unit 11 may associate the imaging condition information with the captured image as data in a predetermined format, such as table format data. The predetermined format data may be a spreadsheet file or a text file. 【0158】 [12. Second Embodiment] Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. The overall configuration of System 1 is the same as the configuration described in Figure 1, but the configuration of the data transmitted from the imaging device 100 to the server device 800 and the processing performed on the server device 800 side will differ from those of the first embodiment described above. 【0159】 Figure 21 is a flowchart showing the processes performed by System 1 of this embodiment. The control unit 11 of the imaging device 100 performs imaging using the imaging unit 15 and stores it in the storage medium 500 (step S21). The image data may be in video format, for example, MPEG (Moving Picture Experts Group) format (e.g., MPEG2, MPEG4), but AVI, MOV, WMV, etc. may also be used. Thus, in this embodiment, it is easy to use a general-purpose format for the image data. Next, the control unit 11 stores imaging condition information, which specifies the imaging conditions of step S21, in the storage medium 500 (step S22). The control unit 11 stores the imaging condition information as separate data from the image data. That is, it is preferable that the shooting condition information be stored as data independent of the video file. The control unit 11 transmits the video file containing the captured image and the imaging condition information separately (step S23). It is preferable that the video file and the imaging condition information be transmitted as at least separate data, and more preferably, that their transmission timings are different. 【0160】 In the server device 800, the control unit 81 receives a video file containing the captured image (an example of the third image data) and imaging condition information transmitted in step S23 (step S24). Based on the received video file and imaging condition information, the control unit 81 generates a recording video file (an example of the fourth image data) (step S25). The recording video file is a video file in the format described in Figure 12. The method for embedding the imaging condition information may be the method described in Figure 15 or other methods already described. The control unit 81 stores the generated recording video file in the database 831 (step S26). The processing after storage in the database 831 may be the same as in the first embodiment described above. 【0161】 The effects and benefits of doing this are as follows: Traditionally, when a dashcam transmits video files, using common containers (e.g., AVI, MP4) makes it difficult to include frame-by-frame data (e.g., the vehicle information mentioned above). Furthermore, if the communication is intercepted, it becomes easy to play back and view the captured images and recording conditions. On the other hand, using the storage format explained in Figure 12 makes it easier to include various information frame by frame, and because it's a proprietary format, the contents of the video file are less likely to be leaked. However, while it offers superior security, there's a problem: when playing back the video file, the content cannot be played back unless the format is known or converted to another format. Also, when converting to another format, the video and audio must be rearranged chronologically, requiring time and processing equivalent to copying the data twice: first writing to a storage device such as an HDD, then reading it, rearranging it again, and writing it again. 【0162】 Therefore, the inventor devised a configuration like that of this embodiment. This embodiment performs processing that is, so to speak, intermediate between the two conventional technologies described above. It is close to a proprietary format as shown in Figure 12, but it allows for easy conversion into a general container by adding the received information to the video file. The transmitted video file and the imaging condition information, which is basic information for generating related information for that video file, are transmitted separately, and related information is generated based on this basic information. In this way, by simply attaching the received basic information to the transmitted video information, it can be placed into a container for a specific video. In a sense, since it is copied to a storage device once via communication and then only some additional editing is performed, the processing time is shortened and the amount of processing is reduced. Furthermore, it has a much higher security effect than transmitting the container as is. 【0163】 [13. Third Embodiment] Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. First, let me explain the background of the conception for this embodiment. Conventionally, there are systems in which a drive recorder and a server device communicate, and also systems in which the server device communicates with a display device (for example, a customer terminal such as a customer PC). For example, the drive recorder transmits the current location, event recording video, and data requested by the server device (for example, data on an SD card), and the server device transmits the above transmission requests to the drive recorder. In this case, it is necessary to maintain a communication path at all times when the drive recorder is running, or to establish a communication path from the drive recorder side. Also, for example, information related to functions (services) such as vehicle management, accident analysis, history management, and video display is transmitted from the server device to the display device. 【0164】 Such systems have the problem of incurring server management costs (e.g., server maintenance costs). If management costs can be reduced, the fees charged to users of the display device can also be made cheaper. For example, for customers who handle vehicle management separately, we devised a system where the drive recorder and display device communicate without going through a server device, eliminating the need for a server and allowing users to view the contents recorded on the drive recorder's SD card directly using the display device. This way, server management costs can be saved, and since users only view the video and current status when something happens, communication costs are only incurred when something happens, allowing for savings in the contract structure (contract details). 【0165】 Figure 22 shows the overall configuration of a system according to a third embodiment of the present invention. System 1A comprises an imaging device 100 and a display device 700. The imaging device 100 and the display device 700 are connected via a communication line NW. The display device 700 is a device that remotely displays images captured by the imaging device 100 via communication via the communication line NW. The imaging device 100 communicates with the display device 700 via a communication unit 16, and the display device 700 communicates with the imaging device 100 via a communication unit 74. 【0166】 The electrical configuration of the imaging device 100 and the display device 700 is generally the same as in the embodiment described above, but has the following characteristics. The imaging device 100 can operate by receiving power from an external source or by using an internal power source even when the drive source or power supply of the vehicle 400 is turned off. In this case, the external power source may be an external battery, but it is preferable to use a constant power supply. The imaging device 100 also operates in either a normal state (an example of a first mode) or a standby state (an example of a second mode) that consumes less power than the normal state. The standby state is a so-called standby mode. The imaging device 100 receives power from the constant power supply (+B) of the vehicle 400 and puts the communication unit 16 (which may also be called a communication module) into a state where it is waiting for data. In this way, in this embodiment, when the drive source or power supply of the vehicle 400 is turned off, the imaging device 100 operates in a standby state and waits for communication from the display device 700. Such power control may be performed by either the power control unit 22 or the control unit 11, or by both of them working together. 【0167】 Furthermore, the imaging device 100 and the display device 700 have the function of sending and receiving short messages using the Short Message Service (SMS). Specifically, the display device 700 has the function of sending short messages via the communication unit 74, and the imaging device 100 has the function of receiving these short messages. In addition, the display device 700 is configured to have a SIM card, and preferably a SIM card to which a global IP address is assigned. The reason for this is to authenticate the legitimacy of the display device 700 based on the global IP address. The information for authentication is not limited to the method using the global IP address, and may also be used, such as user authentication information using a password or user ID to identify the user, group authentication information using a password or group ID to identify a corporation or other group, or device identification information such as a MAC address as unique information assigned to the display device 700. Users and corporations may be read as customers, etc. 【0168】 Figure 23 is a flowchart showing the process performed by system 1A in this embodiment. Before the start of the operation described below, the vehicle 400 is not being used by the user, and the imaging device 100 is operating in a standby state (step S31). Furthermore, a communication path for sending and receiving video files between the imaging device 100 and the display device 700 has not been established, and therefore no communication charges will be incurred for communication using that communication path. 【0169】 In the display device 700, the control unit 71 determines whether to send a startup message (step S32). For example, the control unit 71 determines to send a startup message when it receives input from the user via the input unit 72 instructing the user to acquire a video file from the imaging device 100 (step S32: YES). Next, the control unit 71 sends the startup message to the imaging device 100 using the communication unit 74 (step S33). The startup message is a predetermined short message, which may be a short message containing a predetermined string, for example. 【0170】 In the imaging device 100, the control unit 11 waits for a startup message when in standby mode and uses the communication unit 16 to determine whether a startup message has been received (step S34). Until a startup message is received (step S34; NO), the control unit 11 remains in standby mode. When the control unit 11 receives a startup message, it transitions the imaging device 100 from standby mode to normal mode (step S35). Once the imaging device 100 transitions to normal mode, a communication path is established between the imaging device 100 and the display device 700 via the communication line NW (step S36). For example, the control unit 11 of the imaging device 100 that has received a startup message may request the establishment of a communication path. 【0171】 Once the communication channel is established, the control unit 71 determines whether to send a video transmission request (step S37). For example, the control unit 71 determines to send a video transmission request when it receives input from the user via the input unit 72 instructing the system to acquire a video file from the imaging device 100 (step S37: YES). The user may input information that identifies the video file to be acquired, such as the time of capture, the video file, and the type of event. Next, the control unit 71 sends the video transmission request to the imaging device 100 using the communication unit 74 (step S38). 【0172】 In the imaging device 100, the control unit 11 waits for video transmission requests when in the normal state and uses the communication unit 16 to determine whether or not a video transmission request has been received (step S39). The control unit 11 remains in the normal state until it receives a video transmission request (step S39; NO). The control unit 11 waits for a video transmission request in the normal state for a predetermined time, but may transition to a standby state if it does not receive a video transmission request for a predetermined time. 【0173】 When the control unit 11 determines that it has received a video transmission request (step S39; YES), it performs authentication processing (step S40). The authentication processing is a process to determine the legitimacy of the display device 700. The control unit 11 may perform a process to determine whether the display device 700 is one of the pre-registered display devices 700, for example, by determining whether the global IP is one of the pre-registered global IPs. In this case, the global IP of the display device 700 may be the global IP sent with the startup message in step S33. The display device 700 may also be configured to send user authentication information such as a password or user ID along with the video transmission request. In this case, the control unit 11 may determine whether the user authentication information is pre-registered user authentication information. The authentication information may be a MAC address or other device-specific information assigned to the display device 700. In this case, the control unit 11 may determine whether the user authentication information sent with the video transmission request is pre-registered user authentication information. The display device 700 may also transmit location information indicating its current location. In this case, the control unit 11 may determine whether the location information is pre-registered user authentication information. Alternatively, the authentication process may be performed using a string contained in a short message, in which case the string may include the user authentication information and device-specific information mentioned above. For example, if the SIM card does not support global IP, authentication processing using a short message or other methods of authentication processing may be performed. Various other methods can be used for the authentication process. 【0174】 Next, the control unit 11 determines whether the authentication process was successful (step S41). If it determines that the authentication process was successful, the control unit 11 sends the video file corresponding to the video transmission request to the display device 700 using the communication unit 16 (step S42). The control unit 11 reads the video file requested in the video transmission request from the storage medium 500 and transmits it. In this case, the imaging device 100 may transmit the video file corresponding to the video transmission request each time it receives a video transmission request. The control unit 11 may also transmit a video file showing the video being captured by the imaging unit 15 (for example, live video). In this case, when the imaging device 100 receives a video transmission request, it may continue to transmit the video being captured by the imaging unit 15 even if it does not receive any further requests. 【0175】 In the display device 700, the control unit 71 receives a video file from the imaging device 100 using the communication unit 74 (step S43), and displays the contents of the received video file on the display unit 73 (step S44). At this time, the control unit 71 may play back the contents of the video file based on the viewer program 751. 【0176】 Figure 24 shows an example of a screen for specifying the video to be acquired from the imaging device 100 on the display device 700. Figure 24(A) is a list screen that associates a list of video files stored in the imaging device 100 with a checkbox CK for selecting a video file. First, the control unit 71 selects the target imaging device (drive recorder, etc.) according to the user's input. The control unit 71 is configured to access the imaging device 100 using the communication unit 74 and acquire a list that is pre-managed in the imaging device 100. For this reason, the imaging device 100 is configured to have a function that allows the control unit 71 to generate a list and store it in a storage medium 500 or the like. 【0177】 Figure 24(A) shows a list of event recording video files, with No. 1 to No. 15 each corresponding to one video file. Since Figure 24(A) is the screen corresponding to event recording, the type of event that triggered the event recording (for example, "impact") is also displayed. The user specifies the video file by checking the checkbox CK for the video file they want to acquire. The control unit 71 generates a video transmission request based on the contents of the list and the input result of checking the checkbox CK, and sends it to the imaging device 100. This allows the control unit 71 to download the desired video file from the imaging device 100. Figure 24(B) is an example of a viewer screen displayed based on the video file transmitted from the imaging device 100 in response to this video transmission request. In this viewer screen, a list L showing a list of acquired video files is displayed, and the captured image IMG3 is displayed based on the video file selected from list L. In addition to this, the viewer screen also displays a map showing the shooting location and the measured values ​​of the acceleration sensor at the time of imaging. 【0178】 The information transmitted from the imaging device 100 to the display device 700 may be various types of information generated, acquired, and stored on the imaging device 100 side. For example, the current location, event recording video, data in the storage medium 500, vehicle management, accident analysis, history management, and video display information are some examples. As an example, vehicle information such as brakes, turn signals, acceleration, and GPS may also be transmitted and received. 【0179】 According to this embodiment, server management costs and communication costs are reduced, and running costs are lowered, providing a user-friendly system for both server administrators and users. 【0180】 [14. Variant] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and can be modified as appropriate without departing from the spirit of the invention. 【0181】 In the embodiment described above, the imaging device 100 was equipped with a communication unit 16 (for example, it was a communication-type drive recorder), but the imaging device 100 may not have a communication unit 16 and may be configured to have an external device with wireless communication functionality attached externally. In this case, the external device connected to the imaging device 100 may be an external device sold separately from the imaging device 100 (for example, an optional device). The external device with wireless communication functionality may operate by receiving power from the power supply of the vehicle 400. If the external device with wireless communication functionality is integrated with an external power supply unit that enables the imaging device 100 to operate even without power supply from the vehicle 400, the number of devices mounted on the vehicle 400 will be reduced, which is desirable. 【0182】 Some of the configurations and operations described in the embodiments described above may be omitted or modified. Also, the configuration that was set to transmit in the embodiments described above may be set to output. Output other than transmission is also possible, such as output by recording (storage) or printing. Furthermore, the functions of the control units 11, 71, and 81 may be realized by one or more hardware resources, one or more software resources, or a combination thereof. 【0183】 Furthermore, 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, we intend to include configurations disclosed herein that are not currently specified in the claims in the future. 【0184】 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. 【0185】 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 regardless of its components. A part of the device may be a component of the device, or a part of that component. We intend to acquire rights not only to the overall design, but also to a partial design where any part of the solid lines in the drawing is represented by dashed lines. In addition, modules, components, parts, images, etc. inside the device's casing are all independently tradable objects as shown in the drawing, and similarly, we intend to acquire rights to them by converting to a design registration application. [Explanation of Symbols] 【0186】 1: System 1A: System 2: Frame 3: Frame 11: Control Unit 12: Input section 13: Display section 14: Audio output section 15: Imaging Department 16: Communications Department 17: Sensor Unit 18: Reader / Writer 19:Terminal section 20: Location information acquisition section 21: Light-emitting part 22: Power supply control unit 71: Control Unit 72: Input section 73:Display section 74: Communications Department 75: Storage section 76: Reader / Writer 81: Control Unit 82: Communications Department 83: Storage section 100: Imaging device 101: Cabinet 102: Joint Rail 103: Sound emission hole 104: Microphone hole 111: Processor 112: Memory 113: Timing section 121: Microphone 122: Event Record Button 123:Operation unit 124: Touch sensor 131:Display surface 145B: Storage area 151: Imaging lens 151A: Imaging lens 151B: Imaging lens 181: Storage media slot 191: Camera Jack 192: Terminal 200: Imaging device 210: Bracket 220: Imaging lens 230: Imaging lens 300: Cable 400: Vehicle 500:Storage medium 600: Bracket 610: Base section 611: Mounting surface 620: Ball stud 621: Ball Department 630: Socket part 640: Nut 650: Base part 651: Guide rail 652:Tip 700:Display device 751: Viewer Program 800: Server device 831: Database 900: Video file 910: File system area 911: Dedicated browser program 920: Imaging memory area 930 :Storage area 930A: Management area 930B: Storage area 940: G-sensor memory area 940A: Management area 940B: Storage area 940C: Storage area 950 :Storage area 950A: Management area 950B: Storage area 1011:Top surface 1012: First Aspect 1013: The second aspect 1014: The third aspect 1015: The fourth aspect 1231: First button 1232: The second button 1233: The third button 1234: The fourth button

Claims

[Claim 1] An imaging unit that captures images of the area around the vehicle, A control unit performs control to transmit, via a predetermined communication line, an image data representing the image captured by the imaging unit and information specifying the conditions for the imaging, in association with the image data. It has, The information that specifies the imaging conditions includes characteristic information corresponding to the optical characteristics of the imaging unit. The characteristic information includes pattern image data that shows an image that serves as an indicator of the degree of distortion contained in the captured image. Imaging device. [Claim 2] An imaging unit that captures images of the area around the vehicle, A control unit performs control to transmit, via a predetermined communication line, an image data representing the image captured by the imaging unit and information specifying the conditions for the imaging, in association with the image data. It has, The information that specifies the imaging conditions includes characteristic information corresponding to the optical characteristics of the imaging unit. The characteristic information includes pattern image data showing an image of a predetermined pattern captured by the imaging unit. Imaging device. [Claim 3] The control unit, The system performs control to transmit the pattern image data acquired from a storage unit that stores the pattern image data in advance, in association with the image data representing the image captured by the imaging unit. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1 or 2. [Claim 4] The control unit, The system performs control to superimpose and display the pattern image shown by the pattern image data onto the image captured by the imaging unit. The imaging apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3. [Claim 5] The characteristic information includes parameters used to identify at least one of the distance and direction from the imaging point by the imaging unit to the point on the captured image where the object captured by the imaging unit is located. The imaging apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4. [Claim 6] A program for a computer to implement the functions of the control unit of the imaging device described in any one of claims 1 to 5.

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