Trailer hitch video alignment system

• US 20030234512A1
• Filed: 06/20/2002
• Published: 12/25/2003
• Est. Priority Date: 06/20/2002
• Status: Abandoned Application

• Current Assignee: David G. Holub
• Original Assignee: David G. Holub
• Inventors: Holub, David G.
• Application Number:
  US10/175,279
• Publication Number:
  US 20030234512A1
• Time in Patent Office: Days
• US Class Current: 280/432
• CPC Class Codes: B60D 1/36 for facilitating connection, e.g. hitch catchers , visual guide means, signalling aids B60D1/465 takes precedence; vehicle signalling in general B60Q; optical arrangements specially adapted for viewing trailer-hitches B60R1/003

Abstract

The battery-powered trailer hitch video alignment system is wireless, having a video camera and transmitter relaying images of the trailer hitch to a monitor by the driver. The camera is mounted either on the towing vehicle or the trailer, whichever gives the best view of the alignment-between the trailer hitch and trailer. An infrared light arrangement provides light for the camera in low-light or no-light conditions. Also, the infrared light incorporates a tape measure in the lighting system to transmit distance measurements between the towed vehicle and trailer. In this regard the infrared system provides both light and distance measurements for the benefit of the operator.

Claims

1. An alignment system, comprising:

a towing vehicle, said towing vehicle having a hitch;

a towed vehicle;

a camera for transmitting images, said camera mounted on one of said towed vehicle or towing vehicle;

a monitor for viewing images from said camera, and an infrared light source, said infrared light providing light for said camera in low ambient light conditions and measuring the distance between said towed vehicle and said towing vehicle.

2. The alignment system of claim 1, wherein said towed vehicle is a boat trailer.

3. The alignment system of claim 1, wherein said towed vehicle is a camper.

4. The alignment system of claim 1, wherein said camera is mounted on said towed vehicle.

5. The alignment system of claim 1, wherein a connection between said camera and said monitor is wireless.

6. The alignment system of claim 1, further comprising reflective marking on one of said hitch and towed vehicle.

7. The alignment system of claim 1, wherein said towed vehicle is a car towed by a recreational vehicle.

8. The alignment system of claim 1, wherein said vehicle is a horse trailer.