Deborah L Mccullough

US Patent:

56507640, Jul 22, 1997

Filed:

Aug 25, 1994

Appl. No.:

8/295559

Inventors:

Deborah Y. McCullough - Tulsa OK

International Classification:

G08B 2100

US Classification:

340431

Abstract:

A visual aid for assisting a driver backing up a towing vehicle to a drawn vehicle. A visual display includes a flat screen upon which are depicted images in the form of silhouettes or like simulations of the respective vehicles. This effect is provided by partially and selectively illuminating the screen. A sensor is placed on at least one of the vehicles for detecting relative alignment therebetween and proximity thereof. The sensor generates a signal which controls the screen. The silhouettes are moved on the screen in proportion to the actual relationship of the two vehicles. In a preferred embodiment, the image of the towing vehicle is stationary, and the image of the drawn vehicle moves responsive to input from the sensor. The sensor may employ an emitting coil and an induction coil, or may be of the reflected energy type, such as radar and infrared radiation. The display control preferably comprises a microprocessor.