Patent ID: 6300999
Filing Date: 2001-10-09
Classification: G03B,G07F

Abstract:
A coin-operable optical viewing apparatus fixedly mountable at a given location to permit users to view scenery in the vicinity of the location at a desired magnification by tendering a predetermined monetary amount, comprising: a support fixedly mountable to a structure at the given location; an optical imaging system pivotably mounted to the support for focusing on a desired object or scenery in the vicinity of the location; an image pickup device for capturing an image focused by the optical imaging system; a display device for displaying the captured image on a display screen viewable by multiple persons simultaneously; a zooming system for zooming the optical imaging system, the zooming system being operable by means of a control member mounted externally of the optical imaging system to permit desired magnification of the displayed image; and means responsive to payment by the user for outputting and displaying the captured image on the display screen for a predetermined period of time.