JP2015195132A - Power plug and electronic apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a configuration that can suppress the possibility of the occurrence of a trouble in a storage medium beforehand for an electronic apparatus to which the storage medium such as a memory card is detachable.SOLUTION: A power plug 10, which is used for an electronic apparatus 2 that includes a slot 25 for mounting a memory card and a power supply terminal 27 for receiving power supply and that executes at least either a read operation or write operation for the recording data in the memory card, is constituted so as to restrict the removal of a microSD card from the slot 25 when being inserted into the power supply terminal 27.

Description

  The present invention relates to an electronic device to which a storage medium can be attached and detached.

  Conventionally, various in-vehicle devices with removable storage media, such as portable navigation devices that read map data recorded on a memory card and display the map, and drive recorders that record image data on a memory card have been sold. (For example, refer to Patent Documents 1 and 2).

  Using a memory card facilitates data exchange with other electronic devices such as personal computers. For example, when you want to retrieve data from the in-vehicle device side, you can eliminate the hassle of having to carry the in-vehicle device near the electronic device to which you want to move the data, and connecting both with a communication cable such as a USB cable. It becomes very convenient.

JP 2011-257849 A JP 2011-150573 A

  However, the conventional electronic device has the following problems. In other words, if the memory card is removed while the control circuit of the electronic device is accessing the memory area, the data stored in the memory card becomes unreadable and corrupted by software. In some cases, the memory card may be broken by hardware due to physical damage.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-described conventional problems. For example, an electronic device in which a storage medium such as a memory card can be attached and detached can be configured to suppress a possibility that a trouble may occur in the storage medium. It is what.

(1) An electronic apparatus that includes a medium mounting unit to which a storage medium can be attached and detached, and a power supply terminal for receiving power supply, and that performs at least one of a reading operation and a writing operation of recorded data on the storage medium. A power plug used to connect to the power terminal,
A power plug configured to restrict removal of the storage medium from the medium mounting portion when attached to the power terminal is preferable.

  According to such a power plug, removal of the storage medium attached to the medium attachment portion can be restricted when attached to the power supply terminal. In a state where the power plug is attached to the power terminal and is operated by receiving power supply, the possibility that the storage medium mounted on the medium mounting unit is removed is reduced. If the removal of the storage medium in the operating state can be regulated, for example, the possibility of the storage medium being removed during data writing can be suppressed, and software problems such as data writing errors and hardware problems due to physical damage to the storage medium can be suppressed. Trouble can be avoided in advance.

  According to the power plug configured as described above, it is possible to regulate the removal of the storage medium under the operation state of the electronic device, and thus it is possible to suppress the possibility of trouble occurring in the storage medium. In an electronic device equipped with this power plug, troubles such as the storage medium itself being broken or the recorded data become unreadable are reduced.

  In general, it is preferable that the operation of the storage medium is stopped rather than the operation of the device. If an attempt is made to ensure high reliability when a storage medium is mounted during operation, there is a risk of inducing an increase in product cost, for example, a special design is required for an electric circuit. In the case of the power plug as described above, if the power plug is attached to the power terminal, not only the removal of the storage medium but also the mounting can be regulated. Therefore, it is possible to avoid the need for a special design for ensuring reliability and to reduce the product cost.

Here, as a configuration for restricting removal of the storage medium, for example, a configuration that makes removal of the storage medium impossible is preferable. In this way, it is possible to more reliably prevent software troubles such as data write errors and hardware troubles due to physical damage of the storage medium. Further, as a configuration for restricting the removal of the storage medium, for example, it is preferable that the removal work is difficult because a tool is required for the removal or the trouble of the removal increases. For example, it may be configured such that the trouble of removing the storage medium when the power plug is attached is more difficult to remove than when the power plug is not attached.
Further, for example, a configuration that restricts removal of the storage medium from the medium mounting portion when attached to the power supply terminal, and cancels restriction of removal of the storage medium from the medium attachment portion when removed from the power supply terminal. Good. In this way, the user is more likely to remove the storage medium after removing it from the power supply terminal in order to release the restriction on removal of the storage medium from the medium mounting portion. Therefore, it is possible to more reliably prevent software troubles such as data write errors and hardware troubles due to physical damage of the storage medium.

  Note that various electronic devices can be used as the electronic device. For example, a navigation device, a drive recorder, a radar detector, an event data recorder, a GPS logger, or the like may be used. Furthermore, it is preferable to use an electronic device such as a multifunctional mobile phone (for example, a smartphone), an electronic notebook, a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), a portable music player, a digital camera, or a digital recorder.

  In particular, these electronic devices include, for example, a configuration including a rechargeable battery, and a configuration in which power is supplied from the battery to a location where at least one of a recording data reading operation and a writing operation is performed. Also good. In particular, in such a configuration, the configuration of the power plug as described above is very effective in a state where the power plug is attached and the battery is operating. As the configuration of the power plug as described above, in particular, the power supply to the location where at least one of the read operation and the write operation of the recording data of the storage medium is performed is based on the power supplied to the power supply terminal. It is recommended to use In particular, when power is not supplied to the power supply terminal, the power is not supplied to a location where at least one of the recording data reading operation and the writing operation of the storage medium is performed. Demonstrate the effect.

(2) The power plug may be configured to restrict the mounting of the storage medium to the medium mounting portion when attached to the power terminal.
In this case, the power plug attached to the power terminal can regulate not only the removal but also the mounting of the storage medium. When a storage medium is attached to an energized electronic device, a voltage or the like may suddenly act on the storage medium, causing a hardware problem. On the other hand, if the mounting of the storage medium can be regulated in a state where the power plug is attached, the occurrence of the hardware trouble as described above can be avoided in advance.

(3) The power plug may be configured to occupy at least a part of a work space, which is a space area necessary for mounting or removing the storage medium with respect to the medium mounting portion when the power plug is attached to the power terminal.
When the power plug occupies a part of the work space, the mounting or removal of the storage medium with respect to the medium mounting portion can be regulated by attaching the power plug to the power terminal. Accordingly, it is possible to suppress the possibility that the storage medium is attached or removed while the electronic apparatus is operating by receiving power supply through the power plug attached to the power terminal.

  As the work space, for example, in the case of a medium mounting unit that inserts a storage medium in a predetermined direction, a space area that constitutes a path for moving the storage medium in the predetermined direction when the storage medium is mounted or removed, or A space area or the like for the user to insert a finger or the like to attach or detach the storage medium may be used. For example, when the power plug is configured so as to occupy a part of the work space when attached to the power terminal, a function for restricting the mounting or removal of the storage medium can be realized at a low cost with a simple configuration.

(4) The power plug includes a plug electrode that is electrically connected to the power terminal, and a plug holding portion made of an insulating material that exhibits electrical insulation characteristics and is formed to hold the plug electrode. ,
At least a part of the plug holding part is located in a work space, which is a space area necessary for attaching or removing the storage medium to or from the medium attaching part when it is attached to the power supply terminal. It may be configured to restrict the mounting or removal of the storage medium from the unit.

  When the plug holding part occupies a part of the work space, the attachment or removal of the storage medium from the medium attachment part can be restricted by attaching the power plug to the power terminal. Accordingly, it is possible to suppress the possibility that the storage medium is attached or removed while the electronic apparatus is operating by receiving power supply through the power plug attached to the power terminal.

  For example, in the case of a plug holding portion made of an insulating material, even when the shape is changed to occupy a part of the work space, there is little possibility of affecting the electrical characteristics. Furthermore, for example, when a resin material is employed as the insulating material, a desired shape can be realized relatively easily while suppressing costs by, for example, injection molding.

(5) The power plug is a power plug used for an electronic device in which a power terminal is arranged adjacent to a medium mounting portion configured to be able to insert a storage medium from an opening.
A configuration may be adopted in which at least a part of the opening of the medium mounting portion is covered and attached to the power supply terminal in a state in which mounting or removal of the storage medium is restricted.
In this case, the power plug attached to the power supply terminal covers at least a part of the opening of the medium mounting portion, thereby restricting the mounting or removal of the storage medium from the medium mounting portion. The medium mounting part is disposed adjacent to the power terminal, and the power plug attached to the power terminal is configured to cover the opening, so that the storage medium can be mounted or removed by the power plug as described above. The effect of being able to regulate can be realized. For example, it is not necessary to add a special configuration for making it difficult to attach or remove the storage medium, such as providing an openable / closable cover that covers the opening, so that an effective operation effect can be realized with a simple and low-cost configuration. . The degree of covering may be, for example, at least part of the opening of the medium mounting portion so as to restrict mounting or removal, but may be close, particularly in close contact.

(6) The power plug is a power plug used for an electronic device including a terminal hole in which a power terminal is disposed in the hole,
Including a fitting portion that includes the plug electrode and is accommodated in a terminal hole;
The plug holding part may be configured to extend in a direction substantially orthogonal to the fitting part.

  Since the terminal hole is drilled so as to be dug from the outer peripheral surface of the electronic device, when the power plug is attached to the power terminal, the plug holding portion extends along the outer peripheral surface of the electronic device. Thereby, the degree to which a power plug, an extended electric wire, etc. protrude to the outer peripheral side of an electronic device can be reduced, and aesthetics can be improved. For example, the power plug may be attached so that the extending direction of the plug holding portion substantially coincides with the direction in which the medium mounting portion is adjacent to the power terminal. In this case, when the power plug is attached to the power terminal, the plug holding portion extends on the medium mounting portion side, and it is difficult to mount or remove the storage medium from the medium mounting portion. Furthermore, for example, it is preferable to adopt a structure that regulates the direction of the power plug so that the extending direction of the plug holding portion substantially coincides with the direction in which the medium mounting portions are adjacent. In this case, when the power plug is attached to the power terminal, the plug holding portion extending in a substantially orthogonal direction is located facing the medium mounting portion, and thereby, the attachment / detachment of the storage medium can be regulated. Become.

(7) The power plug is a power plug used for an electronic device installed in a vehicle having an interior member capable of concealing an electric wire,
The plug holding portion is attached to the power supply terminal so as to extend to the interior member side, and the electric wire extends from the end of the plug holding portion on the side opposite to the fitting portion. .

  In this case, when the power plug is attached to the power terminal, the electric wire extending toward the interior member can be easily concealed by the interior member. The length of exposure of the electric wire can be shortened, and since the electric wire can be laid linearly toward the interior member, the appearance can be improved.

(8) The power plug is a power plug used for an electronic device installed near the ceiling of the passenger compartment in a posture in which the medium mounting portion is on the upper side and the power terminal and the medium mounting portion are positioned adjacent to each other in the vertical direction. ,
The plug holding portion may be attached to the power supply terminal so as to extend upward.

  Examples of electronic devices that are preferably installed near the ceiling of a vehicle compartment include a drive recorder and a radar detector. When installed near the ceiling, since the electric wires are easily noticeable from the driver or passenger side, the above-described effect of improving the aesthetics when the electric wires are routed is particularly effective.

(9) The power plug has a first state in which at least a part of the medium mounting portion is covered so that the storage medium cannot be detached, and the medium mounting portion is exposed to the outside so that the storage medium can be detached. A power plug used in an electronic device having a shielding means capable of switching between two states,
The power plug cannot be attached to the power terminal when the shielding means is in the second state, but can be attached to the power terminal when the shielding means is in the first state. The concealing means may be configured to restrict the transition from the first state to the second state in the attached state.

  The storage medium becomes removable when the shielding means is in the second state. In this second state, since the power plug cannot be attached, there is no possibility that the power plug is attached and power supply is started while the storage medium is being removed. Further, in the first state where the power plug can be attached, the storage medium cannot be detached. Therefore, there is no possibility that the storage medium is detached while power is supplied through the power plug. As described above, according to the shielding means capable of switching between the first state and the second state, the detachment of the storage medium during the power supply through the power plug can be regulated with high certainty, and the occurrence of trouble can be prevented. Can be avoided.

(10) An electronic device that includes a medium mounting unit to which a storage medium can be attached and detached, and a power supply terminal for receiving power supply, and that performs at least one of a reading operation and a writing operation of recording data in the storage medium There,
The power supply plug of the first aspect may be an electronic device that operates by receiving power supply in a state where the power supply plug is attached to the power supply terminal.

(11) The electronic device requires a certain time until the data writing operation is normally completed when the power plug is removed during the data writing to the storage medium, and at least the operation over the certain time. The power storage means for storing the power required for the purpose may be provided.
In this case, even if the power plug is removed during data writing to the storage medium, the data writing operation can be completed with high certainty. In addition to avoiding data write errors, it is possible to reliably avoid hardware problems in storage media.

(12) The electronic device includes a power supply switching unit for cutting off power supply via the power plug, and when the power supply switching unit cuts off the power supply, the electronic device removes power from the power storage unit until the predetermined time elapses. It is preferable that power supply be continued.
By providing the power supply switching means as described above, the operation of the electronic device can be stopped when unnecessary, and the energy saving effect can be improved. On the other hand, there is a risk that power supply via the power plug is interrupted during data writing to the storage medium. When the power supply switching means cuts off the power supply as described above, if the power supply from the power storage means is continued until the predetermined time elapses, for example, a data write operation failure occurs. The fear can be suppressed in advance.

(13) The electronic device may be configured to repeatedly execute a data writing operation for storing a captured image acquired by an imaging unit that captures an image in a storage medium while receiving power supply.
Such an electronic device repeatedly performs a data writing operation while receiving power. Even if the data writing operation is performed at high speed, there is a high possibility that the timing at which the power plug is removed and the power supply is cut off coincides with the execution period of the data writing operation. Therefore, in the case of the electronic device as described above, the function and effect exhibited are particularly effective. This is particularly effective in the case of an electronic device that frequently performs data writing operations during operation.

Further, the following configuration is preferable.
(A) a connection state in which the electronic device has a function of storing in a storage medium that can be attached to and detached from the electronic device and is electrically connected in a proximity state that is close to a power input unit of the electronic device; An electrical connection portion that is in a disconnected state that is not electrically connected in a separated state that is in a separated state from the power input portion, and the storage unless the electrical connection portion is brought into the separated state from the electronic device. A system comprising a removal restriction unit that makes it difficult to remove a medium from the electronic device. According to this system, the problem that the recording medium is taken out from the electronic device and the data in the storage medium or the storage medium itself is destroyed while the electronic device is performing storage in the storage medium can be suppressed more than before. . The system may be realized only on the electrical connection side or only on the electronic device side. Moreover, you may implement | achieve both in the electrical connection part side and the electronic device side. In the case where it is realized only on the electrical connection side, the take-out limiting means is provided on the electrical connection side. In the case of realizing only on the electronic device side, the take-out limiting means is provided on the electronic device side. In the case of realizing both the electrical connection portion side and the electronic device side, the take-out restricting means is constituted by an electrical connection portion side portion and an electronic device side portion.

  The electrical connection portion may be, for example, a connection portion that performs non-contact power supply by electromagnetic induction or the like, but may be a contact type connection portion. For example, the electrical connection unit includes a power supply terminal, the electronic device includes a power reception terminal as a power input unit, and the power supply terminal included in the electrical connection unit in the proximity state includes the electronic device. While in the state of being in contact with the terminal for power reception and in the connection state, the terminal for power supply provided in the electrical connection portion in the separated state is not in contact with the terminal for power reception provided in the electronic device. It is preferable that the connection state be established.

  In the case of a contact-type connection part, the electrical connection part may be configured so that conductive members are in contact with each other. For example, when the conductive member is configured to contact with each other by a magnet, or a connector is used. Well, it can be a jack, but it is particularly good as a plug. If the electrical connection portion is a plug, it is necessary to pull out from the electronic device by a predetermined distance before the separation state is reached. Therefore, a configuration using this pulling operation and a distance necessary for pulling out are used. As a configuration, it is easy to implement the take-out limiting means at low cost.

  For example, a power plug for supplying power to an electronic device having a function of storing in a storage medium, and an extraction restriction unit that makes it difficult to remove the storage medium from the electronic device unless the power plug is removed from the electronic device. It is good to set it as the system characterized by providing. In this case, the system may be realized only on the power plug side or only on the electronic device side. Moreover, you may implement | achieve both in the power plug side and the electronic device side. In the case of realizing only on the power plug side, the take-out limiting means is provided on the power plug side. In the case of realizing only on the electronic device side, the take-out limiting means is provided on the electronic device side. In the case of realizing both the power plug side and the electronic device side, the take-out limiting means is composed of a power plug side portion and an electronic device side portion.

(B) The “becomes difficult to take out” may be a system characterized by having a configuration that “cannot be taken out”. For example, even if it can be actually taken out, it will be effective even if it seems that it cannot be taken out.

(C) Further, it is preferable that the system is characterized in that the “being difficult to take out” is configured as “cannot be taken out”. In this way, it is possible to further reduce the risk of destruction of the data on the storage medium and the storage medium itself.

(D) The removal restriction unit restricts removal of the storage medium from the electronic device when the electrical connection unit is in the proximity state with respect to the electronic device, and the electrical connection unit includes the electronic device. On the other hand, it is preferable that the storage medium is not restricted from being taken out from the electronic device in the separated state. In this way, it is easy to take out the storage medium when the electrical connection portion and the electronic device are separated from each other, while when the electrical connection portion and the electronic device are close to each other, the storage medium is removed. It becomes difficult to take out. Therefore, when taking out the storage medium from the electronic device, it is possible to increase the possibility that an operation of taking out the storage medium from the electronic device after the electrical connection portion is first separated. As a result, it is possible to suppress the problem that the recording medium is taken out from the electronic device and the data in the storage medium or the storage medium itself is destroyed while the electronic device is performing storage in the storage medium.

  For example, when the electrical connection portion is configured as a power plug, the removal restriction means restricts removal of the storage medium from the electronic device while the power plug is inserted into the electronic device, and the power plug is removed from the electronic device. It is preferable that the storage medium is not restricted from being taken out from the electronic device. In this way, it is easy to take out the storage medium when the power plug is removed from the electronic device, but it is difficult to take out the storage medium when the power plug is inserted into the electronic device. Therefore, it is possible to increase the possibility that the storage medium is taken out with the power plug removed from the electronic device, and it is possible to suppress the problem that the data of the storage medium and the storage medium itself are destroyed.

(E) For example, the storage medium may be configured to be inserted from the outside of the casing of the electronic device into the casing of the electronic device and be stored, and taken out of the casing to be non-storable.

(F) The take-out restricting unit obstructs the take-out of the storage medium with respect to the take-out direction of the storage medium from the electronic device in the proximity state, and from the electronic device of the storage medium in the separated state. It is preferable to include a take-out obstruction means that does not obstruct the removal of the storage medium with respect to the take-out direction.

(G) The removal restriction means includes the power input unit adjacent to a portion (hereinafter referred to as a passage) that becomes a passage of the storage medium when the storage medium is removed from the electronic apparatus. The general connection portion includes an extraction passage obstructing means that does not obstruct the passage when the power input portion is separated from the power input portion and does not obstruct the passage when the power input portion is brought close to the power input portion. It may be configured.

  For example, in an electronic device, a power connector having a power input portion and a memory card slot as a passage of a storage medium are arranged side by side as the adjoining, and an L-shaped plug is used for a power plug having an electrical connection portion. As the take-out passage obstructing means, it is preferable that the memory card cannot be taken out unless a part of the L shape of the power plug or the cord from the power plug interferes and the power plug is removed. For example, a cover may be provided in the memory card slot and the cover cannot be opened unless the power plug is removed from the electronic device. In this way, the possibility that the recording medium is taken out from the electronic device and the data in the storage medium or the storage medium itself is destroyed while the electronic device is storing data in the storage medium is more reliably reduced. it can.

(H) The storage function of the storage medium of the electronic device may be realized based on power supplied via the power connection unit. For example, the power supply of the storage control unit having a storage function in the electronic device may be configured to use power supplied via the power supply connection unit.

(I) When the storage medium is taken out from the electronic device by breaking through the restriction of removal by the removal restriction unit, it is preferable to include a protection unit that can safely remove the storage medium from the electronic device. For example, the protection means may be configured to provide a cover in the memory card slot and to turn off the power when the cover is removed or to start a process for safely removing the memory card. In this way, it is possible to further reduce the possibility that the recording medium is taken out from the electronic device while the electronic device is storing data in the storage medium, and the data in the storage medium or the storage medium itself is destroyed.

(J) It is preferable to have a backup power source inside the electronic device and perform a process of safely removing the memory card when the power supply to the power input unit is stopped.

(K) The electronic device is particularly preferably an in-vehicle device, and particularly preferably has a configuration of an in-vehicle recording device.

The perspective view of the front side of a drive recorder. The perspective view of the back side of a drive recorder. The perspective view which shows the slot periphery. Explanatory drawing which shows the structure of a power supply terminal. The front view of an electronic substrate. The back view of an electric board. The perspective view which shows a cigar plug cord. Explanatory drawing which shows the structure of a plug. Explanatory drawing which shows a mode that the drive recorder was mounted in-vehicle. Explanatory drawing which shows a bracket. Explanatory drawing which shows the attachment procedure of a drive recorder. Explanatory drawing which shows a mode that a microSD card is set. Explanatory drawing which shows a mode that a cigar plug cord is connected. Explanatory drawing of the fitting structure of the plug with respect to a power supply terminal. Explanatory drawing which shows the connection state of a power plug. Explanatory drawing which shows the procedure which browses the image data recorded on the microSD card with PC. The perspective view which shows the slot periphery of another drive recorder. Explanatory drawing which shows another power terminal and power plug. The perspective view which shows the slot periphery of another drive record. Sectional drawing which shows the connection structure of another power plug.

The embodiment of the present invention will be specifically described with reference to the following examples.
(Example 1)
A drive recorder 2 which is an example of an in-vehicle recording device as an example of the electronic apparatus illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 is an on-board electronic apparatus for capturing and recording (recording) images inside and outside the vehicle. The drive recorder 2 is an electronic device in which an electronic board 30 (see FIGS. 5 and 6) is housed inside a substantially rectangular housing 20 in front. A lens 311 of the camera unit 31 is disposed on the front surface of the housing 20, and a liquid crystal screen 330 and operation buttons 205 are disposed on the back surface. A recording button 221 and a power button 223 for starting and stopping the recording operation are disposed on the upper surface of the housing 20, and a screw hole 201 for attaching the bracket 4 (see FIG. 10) is formed. Yes. A power supply terminal (a member constituting a power connector which is an example of a power input unit) 27 and a microSD card (an example of a memory card which is an example of a storage medium) 24 are inserted into the side surface of the housing 20. A slot (example of forming an opening) 25 that forms a passage for the purpose is disposed.

  The slot 25 is drilled along the extending direction of the side surface of the housing 20 (see FIG. 2). A curved concave recess 250 extends in the thickness direction of the housing 20 on the back side of the side surface of the housing 20 adjacent to the slot 25 (FIG. 3). The width of the depression 250 is as wide as the fingertip of the index finger. The end portion of the microSD card 24 mounted using the slot 25 is substantially flush with the side surface of the housing 20, and therefore the end portion of the microSD card 24 slightly protrudes in the recess 250.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the power supply terminal 27 is a connection terminal in which positive and negative electrode members are disposed in a round hole-shaped terminal hole 270. In the power supply terminal 27, a pin-like positive electrode (an example of a terminal) 27P is disposed along the central axis of the terminal hole 270, and a negative electrode (an example of a terminal) is disposed so as to face the positive electrode 27P. ) 27C is arranged oppositely. In the terminal hole 270, a convex portion 27T that protrudes toward the inner peripheral side in the substantially circular cross section is provided at one place in the circumferential direction. As will be described in detail later, this convex portion 27T constitutes a positioning structure for defining the circumferential position of the power plug 10 connected to the power terminal 27.

  The electronic board 30 accommodated in the housing 20 is a board mounted on both sides. On the mounting surface (FIG. 5) corresponding to the front side of the drive recorder 2, an electronic circuit comprising a camera unit 31, a microcomputer 32 equipped with a CPU, ROM, RAM, RTC (timer), etc., an example of a card connector (medium mounting unit) 35), a plug connector 37, which is a component of the power supply terminal 27, is disposed. The camera unit 31 is a unit in which a lens is attached to a chip-type CMOS element. On the mounting surface (FIG. 6) corresponding to the back side, a TFT liquid crystal display 33, a chip switch 305 corresponding to the operation button 205 (FIG. 2), and the like are arranged.

  The card connector 35 is a component that holds the microSD card 24 and realizes an electrical connection state to the electronic board 30. The card connector 35 has a latch mechanism for holding the microSD card 24. This latch mechanism is a mechanism that holds the pushed microSD card 24 and releases the latch when the held microSD card 24 is pushed and allows the microSD card 24 to be pushed back (an example of removal). is there.

  The ROM stores various programs such as an image processing program for recording image data acquired by the camera unit 31 on the microSD card 24 and an OS (Operation System). When the CPU executes these programs, various functions such as continuous recording of image data are realized. For example, when an operation mode for continuously recording image data is set, the CPU records new image data while allocating a recording area on the microSD card 24 by erasing old image data. The image data over a predetermined period in the past with respect to is recorded on the microSD card 24.

  The drive recorder 2 operates by receiving power from the vehicle side via a power cord such as the cigar plug cord 1 of FIG. The cigar plug cord 1 is a power cord having a cigar plug 15 that is connected to a cigar socket 83 on the vehicle side where power supply is started, for example, when the ignition switch of the vehicle is turned on. If the power plug 10 of the cigar plug cord 1 is connected, the power supply to the drive recorder 2 is started and the operation is started when the ignition switch is turned on.

  The power plug 10 provided at the tip of the cigar plug cord 1 and connected to the drive recorder 2 has positive and negative plug electrodes (terminals) on a plug holding portion 12 made of a resin material exhibiting electrical insulation characteristics as shown in FIG. Is an example). The plug holding part 12 has a curved upper surface and a horizontally long shape in the bending direction. On the bottom surface opposite to the curved upper surface, a substantially cylindrical plug (an example of a fitting portion) 11 inserted into the power terminal 27 is erected at one end in the bending direction. A cable 13 of a set of two wires extending from the cigar plug cord 1 is connected to a side surface far from the plug 11 among the side surfaces in the bending direction of the plug holding portion 12. The power plug 10 has a substantially L-shape as a whole by combining a horizontally long plug holding portion 12 and a plug 11 erected on the end of the bottom surface of the plug holding portion 12.

  The plug 11 is a part that is inserted into the terminal hole 270 of the power terminal 27. As shown in FIG. 8, the plug 11 having a substantially cylindrical outer diameter is formed with a bottomed pin hole 110 along the central axis, and the inner peripheral surface of the pin hole 110 is slightly stretched toward the inner peripheral side. A positive electrode 11P is disposed so as to be exposed. The outer peripheral surface of the plug 11 is formed by a negative electrode 11C around which a metal plate is wound.

  The negative electrode 11C and the positive electrode 11P of the plug 11 are held by a resin material exhibiting electrical insulation characteristics so that an electrical short circuit does not occur. Inside the plug holding portion 12 made of resin material, there is an electrical path for connecting one of the two sets of wires and the minus electrode 11C, and an electrical path for connecting the other wire and the plus electrode 11P. Is formed.

  As described above with reference to FIG. 4, in the terminal hole 270 of the power supply terminal 27, the convex portion 27 </ b> T protruding toward the inner peripheral side is provided at one place in the circumferential direction. On the other hand, in the outer cylindrical plug 11 to be inserted into the terminal hole 270, a concave portion 11D (FIG. 8) that is recessed toward the inner peripheral side in a substantially circular cross section is provided at one place in the circumferential direction. The convex portion 27T of the power terminal 27 and the concave portion 11D of the plug 11 form a positioning structure for restricting the circumferential position when the power plug 10 is connected.

  In this positioning structure, when the power plug 10 is connected to the power terminal 27 of the drive recorder 2, the plug holding portion 12, which is substantially L-shaped in combination with the plug 11, extends toward the slot 25, and the opening thereof is It is configured to be obscured. The plug holding unit 12 whose circumferential position with respect to the power supply terminal 27 is defined by the positioning structure covers and conceals the slot 25 that forms a passage when the microSD card 24 is attached and detached. The plug holding unit 12 includes a microSD card 24 such as a path through which the microSD card 24 passes when the microSD card 24 is inserted into or removed from the slot 25 and a space necessary for holding the microSD card 24 with a fingertip or the like. Occupying a work space for attaching and detaching the card, thereby making it difficult to take out the microSD card 24. Functions as a means.

  The drive recorder 2 can be attached to the windshield 80 of the vehicle, for example, as shown in FIGS. The bracket 4 includes a sticking stay 43 attached to the windshield 80 via a double-sided tape 400 and the like, a base 41 including a screw 411 corresponding to the screw hole 201 of the housing 20, and the like.

  As shown in FIG. 10, the sticking stay 43 is provided with a spherical sliding ball 435 at the tip of a curved arm portion 433 extending on the back surface of a circular sticking plate 430 attached to the glass surface of the windshield 80. It is a member. The pedestal 41 is a member in which a concave portion 417 having an inner spherical surface is provided on the opposite side of the pedestal surface 410 on which the screw 411 is erected. An outer peripheral screw 415 into which the outer peripheral nut 45 is screwed is provided on the outer peripheral side of the recess 417. If the outer peripheral nut 45 is tightened in a state where the sliding ball 435 is accommodated in the recess 417, the sliding ball 435 can be fastened and fixed, whereby the angle of the sticking stay 43 with respect to the base 41 can be fixed.

  In installing the drive recorder 2, for example, as shown in FIG. 11, first, the bracket 4 in which the outer peripheral nut 45 is lightly tightened to connect the sticking stay 43 and the base 41 is prepared, and the sticking plate 430 is attached using the double-sided tape 400. Affix to the windshield 80. Next, the drive recorder 2 is gripped so that the screw 411 of the bracket 4 can be inserted into the screw hole 201, and the screw 411 is screwed by rotating the drive recorder 2 itself. The screw 411 is screwed in until the housing 20 is pressed against the pedestal surface 410, thereby fixing the drive recorder 2 to the pedestal 41 of the bracket 4.

  After adjusting the imaging range of the drive recorder 2 to a desired range, the outer peripheral nut 45 is tightened and the sliding ball 435 housed in the recess 417 of the base 41 is tightened and fixed. Thereby, the mounting posture of the drive recorder 2 can be fixed and the imaging range can be set to a predetermined range, and the installation of the drive recorder 2 can be completed.

  When the drive recorder 2 is used, it is necessary to attach a microSD card 24 for recording image data to the card connector 35. In the state where the power plug 10 is connected (proximity state), the slot 25 that forms the card connector 35 insertion path is covered by the plug holding portion 12 and a fingertip or the like is used to insert the microSD card 24 into the card connector 35. The work space to be inserted cannot be secured. Therefore, it is necessary to insert the microSD card 24 before the power plug 10 is connected or in a state where the power plug 10 is removed (an example of a separated state) (FIG. 12).

  When the power plug 10 is connected as shown in FIG. 13 after the microSD card 24 is mounted, the plug 11 is inserted into the gap so as to widen the gap between the negative electrodes 27C of the power terminals 27 arranged opposite to each other as shown in FIG. Inserted. As a result, the negative electrode 11 </ b> C forming the outer peripheral surface of the plug 11 is in electrical contact with the negative electrode 27 </ b> C of the power supply terminal 27. At the same time, the pin-shaped positive electrode 27P of the power supply terminal 27 is inserted into the pin hole 110 of the plug 11 and is in electrical contact with the positive electrode 11P arranged so as to protrude from the pin hole 110 to the inner peripheral side. . In this way, the positive electrode 27P and the negative electrode 27C of the power supply terminal 27 are in a connection state in which they are in electrical contact with the positive electrode 11P or the negative electrode 11C of the power supply plug 10, respectively. The power supply is realized and the image data recording operation can be started.

  As described above, the power terminal 27 and the plug 11 are provided with a positioning structure that restricts the circumferential position of the plug holding portion 12 when the power plug 10 is connected to the slot 25 side. In a state where the power plug 10 is connected to the power terminal 27 (an example of a proximity state), the plug holding portion 12 is positioned so as to cover the slot 25 as shown in FIG. In this state, the slot 25 that forms a passage when the microSD card 24 is taken out (example of removal) is covered and the path for inserting or removing the microSD card 24 and the work space for inserting the fingertips are plugged. Since it is occupied by the holding unit 12, the removal of the microSD card 24 is restricted. The drive recorder 2 operates in a state in which the power plug 10 is connected and removal of the microSD card 24 is restricted, and image data can be recorded on the microSD card 24 with high reliability.

  The image data recorded on the microSD card 24 has a card reader function in addition to being played back by the drive recorder 2 or can be played back using the personal computer 7 to which the card reader 71 is externally connected (FIG. 16). . In order to view the playback image on the personal computer 7, the microSD card 24 is taken out from the drive recorder 2 and set in a card reader 71 or the like externally connected to the personal computer 7. Subsequently, a predetermined image browsing application previously installed in the personal computer 7 is activated, and a file reading operation is executed on the application screen (not shown).

  When the microSD card 24 on which the image data is recorded is taken out from the drive recorder 2, if the power plug 10 is connected (see FIG. 15), the microSD card 24 cannot be taken out. In order to take out the microSD card 24, first, it is necessary to remove the power plug 10 and set a non-connected state in which the power plug 10 is not connected (an example of a separated state) and no power is supplied through the power plug 10. There is. When the power plug 10 is removed, the slot 25 covered by the plug holding part 12 is exposed to the outside, and the end of the microSD card 24 is touched with a fingertip or the like, and the microSD card 24 is pulled out from the slot to be taken out. A working space such as a route can be secured.

  In order to take out the microSD card 24, a latch 250 provided adjacent to the slot 25 is used, and the latch mechanism of the card connector 35 is released by, for example, pushing the end of the microSD card 24 with a fingertip or the like. When the latch mechanism is released, the microSD card 24 is pushed back, and its end part slightly projects outward. When the power plug 10 is removed, a working space for pinching the protruding end with a fingertip or the like is secured, and the microSD card 24 can be taken out.

  In general, if the microSD card 24 is removed during access to a storage area (such as a data write operation or a read operation), a trouble may occur. There are troubles such as recording data is destroyed by software and cannot be read, or the microSD card 24 is destroyed by hardware and part or all of the storage area cannot be used. Similarly, when the microSD card 24 is inserted during the operation of the drive recorder 2, there is a possibility that troubles such as destruction of recorded data may occur due to a sudden voltage applied to the electric circuit of the microSD card 24.

  On the other hand, in the drive recorder 2 of this example, the microSD card 24 cannot be taken out or attached unless the power plug 10 is obstructed and the power plug 10 is removed (separated state). By adopting such a configuration, there is no possibility that the microSD card 24 is inadvertently taken out during access to the storage area of the microSD card 24, thereby causing troubles related to the microSD card 24 as described above. To avoid. In this drive recorder 2, troubles of the microSD card 24 are suppressed, and there is little possibility that recorded image data cannot be read out.

  The image data recorded by the drive recorder 2 is particularly important when the vehicle has an accident or is involved, for example. This is because image data before and after the moment of the accident is very useful for identifying the cause of the accident. On the other hand, in the event of an accident, the driver will be upset and take unusual actions that are usually wary, such as trying to remove the microSD card 24 even though the storage area is being accessed. The possibility increases. In the drive recorder 2 of this example, the microSD card 24 cannot be removed unless the power plug 10 is removed. Therefore, there is almost no possibility that the microSD card 24 is taken out during access to the storage area, and the possibility that the recorded important image data cannot be read is extremely reduced.

  It is also possible to add a circuit including a backup battery (backup power supply, power storage means) to the electric circuit of the drive recorder 2. The backup battery may be a secondary battery such as a lithium ion battery, or an electric double layer capacitor (super capacitor). As the capacity of the backup battery (battery), for example, an operation required until the access process is completed after the power plug 10 is removed or the power button is turned off while the storage area of the microSD card 24 is being accessed. It is preferable to set a battery capacity capable of operating the drive recorder 2 over time. When the power plug 10 is removed or the power button is turned off and the external power supply is stopped, a process for safely removing the microSD card 24 is started, and a circuit that shuts off the power after this process is performed. It is recommended to use a backup battery. In this case, even if the external power supply is stopped during access to the storage area of the microSD card 24, the access process is safely terminated using the power supplied from the backup battery. Thus, the process for safely removing the microSD card 24 can be executed. In general, the operation time required until the access process to the storage area is safely completed is about 1 second.

  As shown in FIG. 17, the slot 25 and the power supply terminal 27 may be disposed on the bottom surface of the recess 204, and a slide cover 202 may be provided to cover about half of the recess 204. In order to connect the power plug 10 to the power terminal 27, the slide cover 202 must be moved to the slot 25 side (state shown in FIG. 5B). In this state, since the microSD card 24 cannot be removed, the power plug 10 is first removed from the power terminal 27 and then the slide cover 202 is moved to the power terminal 27 side to remove the slot 25. It is necessary to expose (the state of FIG. Thus, when the slide cover 202 is moved to expose the slot 25, the microSD card 24 can be removed for the first time. In the case of this figure, there is no need to configure a power plug so as to cover the slot 25. In this case, an extraction limiting means for limiting the removal of the microSD card 24 is configured only on the drive recorder 2 side. It will be. On the other hand, in the case of the example in FIG. 13, the extraction limiting means is configured only on the power plug 10 side.

  As shown in FIG. 18, an opening / closing cover 255 that can cover the slot 25 may be provided. In a state where the power plug 10 is connected, the open / close cover 255 may not be opened due to interference with the plug holding portion 12 or the cable 13 of the power plug 10. In this case, removal of the microSD card 24 in a state where the power plug 10 is connected can be made impossible, and the same effect as when the slide cover 202 is provided as shown in FIG. 17 can be obtained. It is also possible to provide protective means for turning off the power when the open / close cover 255 is opened, and protective means for starting a process for safely removing the microSD card 24 when the open / close cover 255 is opened. If such protection means are provided, the microSD card 24 is taken out while the drive recorder 2 is recording data on the microSD card 24 and the recorded data is destroyed, or the microSD card 24 itself is destroyed. It is possible to avoid the risk of being done. In the case of FIG. 18, both the drive recorder 2 and the power plug 10 constitute extraction restriction means.

  The configuration illustrated in FIGS. 17 and 18 is particularly effective when a backup battery is added. When a backup battery is added, there is a possibility that access to the storage area of the microSD card 24 will continue even after the power plug 10 is removed. In the above configuration, the slide cover 202 and the opening / closing cover 255 are required to be operated after the power plug 10 is removed. Therefore, until the microSD card 24 can be removed after the time required for this operation is set. Time can be delayed. As a result, it is possible to suppress the possibility that the microSD card 24 is removed after the power plug 10 is removed and before the above access process is safely terminated.

  As shown in FIG. 19, a slide type power button 29 may be provided adjacent to the slot 25, and a cover 291 linked to the power button 29 may be provided. If the cover 291 is configured to cover the slot 25 when the power button 29 is operated to be turned on (state shown in FIG. 5B), the microSD card 24 is operated while the power button 29 is operated to be turned on. There is no risk of being taken out. For example, when the power button 29 is turned off during access to the storage area of the microSD card 24 (the state shown in FIG. 5A), there is a possibility that the access process cannot be safely terminated if the power supply is immediately stopped. It may be configured such that the stop of power supply can be delayed until the access processing is completed. When the power button 29 is operated from on to off, a process for safely removing the microSD card 24 may be started.

  In this example, the power plug 10 provided with the plug 11 to be inserted into the round hole-shaped power terminal 27 is employed as the electrical connection portion (FIG. 14 and the like). The electrical connection unit may be an electrical connection unit that performs non-contact power supply by electromagnetic induction or the like, but may be a contact type connection unit. For example, the electrical connection unit includes a power supply terminal, the electronic device includes a power reception terminal as a power input unit, and the power supply terminal included in the electrical connection unit in the proximity state includes the electronic device. While the power receiving terminal comes into contact with the power receiving terminal and becomes the connection state, the power supply terminal provided in the electrical connection portion does not come into contact with the power receiving terminal provided in the electronic device in the separated state. It is preferable that the connection state be established.

  In the case of a contact-type connection part, the electrical connection part may be configured so that conductive members are in contact with each other. For example, when the conductive member is configured to contact with each other by a magnet, or a connector is used. Well, it can be a jack, but it is particularly good as a plug. If the electrical connection part is an insertion (insertion) type plug, it is necessary to pull out from the electronic device by a predetermined distance in order to set the separation state. As a configuration that uses the necessary distance, it is easy to implement the take-out limiting means at low cost.

  FIG. 20 is an example in which the connection structure of the power plug 10 is configured using the force with which the magnet 10M sticks to the magnetic member 20M disposed on the side surface of the housing 20. When the power plug 10 is connected by a magnetic force, the power terminal 27P of the housing 20 and the plug terminal 10P of the power plug 10 are in electrical contact with each other to realize an electrical connection state. When the power plug 10 is connected, the plug holding portion 12 may be configured so as to cover the slot 25.

In this example, a power plug 10 is employed that prevents the microSD card 24 from being taken out when connected, and prevents the microSD card 24 from being taken out. You may comprise so that the cable 13 may obstruct extraction.
Further, a configuration that “cannot be taken out” instead of “cannot be taken out” can be adopted. For example, even if it can be actually taken out, it will be effective even if it seems that it cannot be taken out. As a configuration that does not seem to be able to be removed, for example, even if the power plug 10 is connected, the microSD card 24 can actually be removed, while the microSD card 24 is hidden by the power plug 10 from the driver side. There are a configuration that cannot be seen, a configuration in which the power cord cable 13 (FIG. 13) is positioned in the extraction direction when the microSD card 24 is removed, and thus a configuration that seems to be difficult or troublesome to remove.

  For example, an electronic device including a rechargeable battery may be used, and power may be supplied from the battery to a location where at least one of the reading operation and the writing operation of the recording data of the microSD card 24 is performed. In particular, in such a configuration, the configuration of the power plug 10 as described above is very effective in a state where the power plug 10 is attached and is operating. As the configuration of the power plug 10 as described above, in particular, the power supply to the power terminal 27 is supplied to the location where the recording data reading operation and / or the writing operation of the microSD card 24 are executed. A configuration in which power is used is preferable. In particular, when power is not supplied to the power supply terminal 27, the power is not supplied to a location where at least one of the recording data reading operation and the writing operation of the storage medium is performed. Exerts a positive effect.

  This example is an example of the power supply terminal 27 and the corresponding power supply plug 10 provided with the terminal hole 270 having a substantially circular cross section, but the power supply terminal and the power supply plug include a connection terminal such as a USB terminal and a corresponding power supply plug. Also good. In particular, it may be a standard plug whose insertion direction is regulated in advance. Moreover, it is good also as an obstruction member which obstructs the taking-out direction of a storage medium by attaching to a general power plug such as an existing I-shaped power plug. For example, the blocking member may be a columnar member such as a square column or a cylinder, and one end of the columnar member may be fixed to the plug or the plug holding portion. The blocking member may be fixed to the plug or the plug holding part by bonding or screwing, but may be fixed by clamping or tightening the plug or the plug holding part. For example, a rubber band portion of a member in which one end of the blocking member is bonded to a rubber band-like elastic member may be fixed over an existing plug or plug holding portion. For example, the blocking member may be provided in a direction (for example, a direction of 90 degrees) in which the entire I-shaped plug is L-shaped. At this time, it is particularly preferable that the positioning member provided on the blocking member or the fixing member of the blocking member engages with the positioning unit of the plug, for example, such that the blocking direction of the storage medium is regulated by the blocking member.

  As described above, specific examples of the present invention have been described in detail as in the embodiments. However, these specific examples merely disclose an example of the technology included in the scope of claims. Needless to say, the scope of the claims should not be construed as limited by the configuration, numerical values, or the like of the specific examples. The scope of the claims includes techniques in which the specific examples are variously modified, changed, or appropriately combined using known techniques and knowledge of those skilled in the art.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Cigar plug cord 10 Power plug 11 Plug 12 Plug holding part 13 Cable 2 Drive recorder 20 Case 24 microSD card 25 Slot 27 Power supply terminal 30 Electronic board 31 Camera unit 35 Card connector 4 Bracket 41 Base 43 Sticking stay 7 Personal computer

Claims (13)

A storage medium detachable medium mounting portion; and a power supply terminal for receiving power supply, and is used in an electronic device that executes at least one of a recording data reading operation and a writing operation of the storage medium, A power plug connected to the power terminal,
A power plug configured to restrict removal of a storage medium from a medium mounting portion when attached to a power terminal.   The power plug according to claim 1, wherein the power plug is configured to regulate mounting of the storage medium on the medium mounting portion when the power plug is attached to the power terminal.   3. The power plug according to claim 1, wherein the power plug occupies at least a part of a work space, which is a space area necessary for mounting or removing the storage medium from the medium mounting portion when attached to the power terminal. 4. The plug holder according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the plug electrode is electrically connected to the power supply terminal, and is formed of an insulating material having an electrical insulation characteristic formed to hold the plug electrode. And comprising
At least a part of the plug holding part is located in a work space, which is a space area necessary for attaching or removing the storage medium to or from the medium attaching part when it is attached to the power supply terminal. A power plug that restricts the installation or removal of storage media from the unit. 5. The power plug according to claim 1, wherein the power plug is used in an electronic device in which a power terminal is disposed adjacent to a medium mounting portion configured to be able to insert a storage medium from an opening. ,
A power plug that covers at least a part of the opening of the medium mounting portion and is attached to the power terminal in a state in which mounting or removal of the storage medium is restricted. The power plug according to claim 4, wherein the power plug is used in an electronic device including a terminal hole in which a power terminal is disposed in the hole.
Including a fitting portion that includes the plug electrode and is accommodated in a terminal hole;
The plug holding portion is a power plug that extends in a direction substantially orthogonal to the fitting portion. In Claim 6, it is a power plug used for electronic equipment installed in vehicles which have an interior member which can conceal an electric wire,
The power plug is attached to the power supply terminal so that the plug holding portion extends toward the interior member, and an electric wire extends from an end portion of the plug holding portion on the side opposite to the fitting portion. The power plug according to claim 7, wherein the power plug is used in an electronic device installed near the ceiling of the passenger compartment in a posture in which the power supply terminal and the medium mounting portion are positioned adjacent to each other in the vertical direction with the medium mounting portion facing upward.
A power plug that is attached to a power terminal so that the plug holding portion extends upward. The first state of covering at least a part of the medium mounting part so that the storage medium cannot be detached, and the medium mounting part so that the storage medium can be detached. A power plug used in an electronic device including a shielding means capable of switching between a second state exposed to the outside,
When the shielding means is in the second state, it cannot be attached to the power supply terminal. On the other hand, when the shielding means is in the first state, it can be attached to the power supply terminal. A power plug configured to regulate the transition of the concealing means from the first state to the second state. An electronic device that includes a medium mounting unit to which a storage medium can be attached and detached, and a power supply terminal for receiving power supply, and performs at least one of a reading operation and a writing operation of recording data of the storage medium,
An electronic device that operates by receiving power supply in a state where the power plug according to claim 1 is attached to the power terminal.   11. The method according to claim 10, wherein when a power plug is removed during data writing to the storage medium, a certain time is required until the data writing operation is normally completed, and at least for the operation over the certain time. An electronic device provided with a power storage means for storing electric power necessary for the operation.   12. The power supply switching means according to claim 11, further comprising a power supply switching means for cutting off the power supply via the power plug, and when the power supply switching means cuts off the power supply, the power supply from the power storage means until the predetermined time elapses. Continue electronic equipment.   The electronic apparatus according to claim 10, wherein a data writing operation for repeatedly storing a captured image acquired by an imaging unit that captures an image in a storage medium while receiving power supply.