Recording device with pre-start signal storage capability

摘要

A surveillance system uses a flash or other memory to store multiple data streams, each of which includes pre-start signal and post-start signal data. An area of the memory is preferably utilized as a circular buffer, in which a second data stream can be recorded without overwriting a first data stream. Buffers can have sufficient to capacity to capture up to an hour or more of image frames. All suitable methods and apparatus for initiating start and stop signals are contemplated, including for example using a button, toggle or other switch, a verbal or other human interface, and using motion, sound, light or other sensors. It is also contemplated that embodiments can include an interface for altering or otherwise designating a pre-signal size of the recently used segment. Cameras according to present invention can be mounted in any desired manner, including for example in camera boxes, on eyeglasses, and on automobiles or other vehicle.

主权项

1. A surveillance system comprising:
a camera that converts images into first and second data streams; a memory; and hardware that executes an instruction set that utilizes an area of the memory as a circular buffer, records the first data stream in the buffer; responds to a first signal by protecting a recently used segment of the buffer storing at least a portion of the first data stream corresponding to a duration of time prior to the first signal, while at the same time continuously recording the first data stream as the second data stream in an unprotected segment of the buffer, without overwriting the protected segment; and responds to a second signal received after the first signal by increasing the duration of the protected segment of the buffer prior to the first signal.