Patent ID: 7621579
Filing Date: 2009-11-24
Classification: B60K,B60R,F16M,G06F,H04N

Abstract:
1. An overhead automotive display unit, the display unit comprising: an automotive-ceiling-mounted housing defining a cavity of a shape and size; and a screen sized to fit at least partially within the cavity, the screen having a viewing surface and being mounted on the housing for pivotal movement about a first axis extending generally parallel to an edge of the screen between a stowed position wherein the screen is at least partially contained within the cavity of the housing, and a deployed position wherein the screen pivotally projects from the cavity of the housing to present the viewing surface to an automobile occupant, and wherein the display unit has a thickness of less than 1.5 inches; and wherein the screen further includes a hinge pivotally coupling the screen with the housing, the screen being pivotal about the hinge between the stowed position and the deployed position under a first torque to provide for deployment of the screen, and being pivotal between the deployed position and a break-away position under a higher second torque to provide for emergency collapse of the screen.