Inventors:
John Senatore - Westville NJ, US
International Classification:
H04N007/18
H04N009/47
US Classification:
348/148000, 348/144000, 348/158000
Abstract:
A system which includes a housing having a video camera removably mounted to the control or instrument panel of an airplane, train, or boat is disclosed. The camera records the airway, track, or waterway in front of the airplane, train, or boat, respectively. The camera focuses on the airway, track, or waterway in front of the vehicle and includes three additional lenses where each additional lens is focused on a different view. That is, the first lens is focused on the operator, the second lens is focused on one part of the instrument panel that may show speed or altitude or the like, and the third lens is focused on another part of the panel that may display other relevant information. The system is wired into the airplane, train, or boat so that when it is turned on the camera is activated. A recording unit is located in the airplane, train, or boat in a waterproof and/or fireproof housing. The recording unit includes a cassette tape, disc, or chip. A key-lock prevents the unauthorized removal of the tape. As video images are received from the camera, the date and time are superimposed on the recorded image by a time and date generator that is always running regardless of the operation of the airplane, train, or boat. A button on the housing allows the operator to retrieve the last ten minutes of the tape. The present invention also includes an output jack which allows authorized personnel to retrieve the last fifteen minutes of the tape via a separate mini recorder.
