Video camera for an automobile

• US 5,096,287 A
• Filed: 03/15/1991
• Issued: 03/17/1992
• Est. Priority Date: 03/15/1990
• Status: Expired due to Fees

• Current Assignee: Aisin Seiki Co., Ltd. (Aisin Corp.)
• Original Assignee: Aisin Seiki Co., Ltd. (Aisin Corp.)
• Inventors: Kakinami, Toshiaki, Saiki, Mitsuyoshi
• Primary Examiner(s): Hayes, Monroe H.
• Application Number:
  US07/670,105
• Time in Patent Office: 368 Days
• Field of Search: 352/131, 352/132
• US Class Current: 352/132
• CPC Class Codes: B60R 1/12 Mirror assemblies combined with other articles, e.g. clocks
• CPC Class Codes: B60R 11/04 Mounting of cameras operative during drive; Arrangement of controls thereof relative to the vehicle
• CPC Class Codes: B60R 2001/1253 with cameras, video cameras or video screens

Abstract

A video camera for an automobile is mounted on the arm which carries a rear view mirror. The camera is directed forwardly to take pictures through the front windshield of an automobile and a boot is connected between the camera and the windshield to isolate the camera lens from moisture and dust. An air duct may be connected between the boot and the air conditioner to provide a flow of air through the boot.

Claims

1. A video camera for an automobile comprising:

an arm adapted to be mounted in an automobile to support a rear view mirror,

a video camera mounted on said arm in a position to take pictures through a front glass windshield,

a boot connected between said video camera and said front glass windshield, and

an air passage adapted to connect said boot with an air conditioner.

2. A video camera as set forth in claim 1, wherein said air passage extends through said arm with an end of the passage in communication with said boot.

3. A video camera as set forth in claim 2, further comprising another passage extending through said arm through which cables may be connected to said video camera.