Side and rear vision enhancement for vehicles

• US 20030214584A1
• Filed: 05/14/2002
• Published: 11/20/2003
• Est. Priority Date: 05/14/2002
• Status: Abandoned Application

• Current Assignee: Bruce Eliot Jr. Ross
• Original Assignee: Bruce Eliot Jr. Ross
• Inventors: Ross, Bruce Eliot Jr.
• Application Number:
  US10/145,537
• Publication Number:
  US 20030214584A1
• Time in Patent Office: Days
• US Class Current: 348/148
• CPC Class Codes: B60R 1/23 with a predetermined field of view
• CPC Class Codes: B60R 1/28 with an adjustable field of view
• CPC Class Codes: B60R 2300/101 using cameras with adjustable capturing direction
• CPC Class Codes: B60R 2300/105 using multiple cameras
• CPC Class Codes: B60R 2300/802 for monitoring and displaying vehicle exterior blind spot views
• CPC Class Codes: B60R 2300/8053 for bad weather conditions or night vision
• CPC Class Codes: B60R 2300/8066 for monitoring rearward traffic
• CPC Class Codes: H04N 7/181 for receiving images from a plurality of remote sources

Abstract

A system that enables enhanced vision while driving a vehicle generally three respects: (1) extended vision in front and perpendicular to the vehicle, (2) rearward vision without the “blind” spots caused by mirrors and (3) rear detection of faster oncoming traffic. A pair of side view cameras integrated into the headlight assembly of a vehicle allows extended vision perpendicular to the direction of vehicular travel, such that an obstruction beside the vehicle will not block vision. A pair of rear view cameras also preferably integrated into the headlight assembly of the vehicle allows rearward vision to be displayed where a rear view mirror is typically positioned. A speed and distance-detecting device, such as a laser or radar gun, is mounted near the rear bumper in order to observe the speed of an approaching vehicle.

Claims

1. An enhanced vision system for a vehicle having a front bumper and a rear bumper, said vision system comprising:

A side view camera secured to the front bumper of the vehicle, said side view camera positioned perpendicular to the vehicle;

A side view monitor in communication with said side view camera;

A rear view camera secured to the front bumper of the vehicle, said rear view camera positioned approximately parallel to the vehicle;

A rear view camera in communication with said rear view camera;

and means for detecting the speed and distance of oncoming vehicle, said detecting means mounted to the rear bumper of a vehicle.