U.S. patent application number 11/524387 was filed with the patent office on 2007-03-22 for attachment unit for installing imaging apparatus in vehicle.
This patent application is currently assigned to Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.. Invention is credited to Akito Harada, Takamitsu Kouchi, Kazumi Teratani.
Application Number | 20070063124 11/524387 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 37883137 |
Filed Date | 2007-03-22 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070063124 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Kouchi; Takamitsu ; et
al. |
March 22, 2007 |
Attachment unit for installing imaging apparatus in vehicle
Abstract
The invention provides an attachment unit for installing a video
camera in various vehicles. This attachment unit prevents a mount
from rotating together with an arm. The attachment unit includes a
mount secured to a hook member for a sun visor, an arm attached to
the mount, and an attachment table attached to a tip end of the
arm. Herein, the arm is rotatable about a first vertical axis with
respect to the mount. An attachment hole is formed in a base end of
the mount, and includes a square main hole and irregularities each
formed around the main hole. The attachment hole is formed into a
shape such that fitting parts of various hook members are fitted
thereinto.
Inventors: |
Kouchi; Takamitsu; (Osaka,
JP) ; Harada; Akito; (Osaka, JP) ; Teratani;
Kazumi; (Osaka, JP) |
Correspondence
Address: |
STEPTOE & JOHNSON LLP
1330 CONNECTICUT AVE., NW
WASHINGTON
DC
20036
US
|
Assignee: |
Matsushita Electric Industrial Co.,
Ltd.
Kadoma-shi
JP
571-8501
|
Family ID: |
37883137 |
Appl. No.: |
11/524387 |
Filed: |
September 21, 2006 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
248/690 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B60R 2011/004 20130101;
B60R 11/04 20130101; B60R 2011/008 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
248/690 |
International
Class: |
A47G 29/00 20060101
A47G029/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Sep 22, 2005 |
JP |
2005-274826 |
Claims
1. An attachment unit for installing an imaging apparatus in a
vehicle by means of a hook member for a sun visor fastened to a
ceiling of the vehicle with a screw, the hook member including a
pedestal part, a hooking part formed under the pedestal part and a
fitting part protruding upward from the pedestal part, the fitting
part including a fastening portion having a screw hole for
attachment formed therein and rotation locking pieces each formed
on an outer periphery of the fastening portion, the attachment unit
comprising a mount secured to the hook member, an arm attached to
the mount, and an attachment table attached to a tip end of the
arm, wherein the arm rotates about a vertical axis with respect to
the mount, the imaging apparatus is attached to the attachment
table, the mount includes an attachment hole formed in a base end
thereof, the attachment hole includes a main hole into which at
least the fastening portion of the hook member is fitted, and
abutment portions each formed on an outer periphery of the main
hole in correspondence with rotation locking pieces of a variety of
hook members such that at least one of the rotation locking pieces
of the variety of hook members abuts against the abutment portions,
and the outer periphery of the main hole prevents the rotation
locking pieces from being disengaged from the abutment
portions.
2. The attachment unit according to claim 1, wherein irregularities
are formed as abutment portions on the outer periphery of the main
hole.
3. The attachment unit according to claim 2, wherein concaves are
formed at a rear side of the main hole such that the mount slides
forward with respect to the hook member and the rotation locking
pieces of the hook member are engaged with the concaves.
4. The attachment unit according to claim 1, wherein a clearance is
created between the rotation locking piece and the abutment
portion.
5. The attachment unit according to claim 1, wherein rotation
locking pieces of each hook member abut against the abutment
portions at three points.
6. The attachment unit according to claim 2, wherein two convexes
are formed on one side of the main hole with a space into which the
rotation locking pieces of the hook member are fitted, and spaces
are provided between outer ends of the convexes and both sides of
the main hole respectively such that the rotation locking pieces of
the hook members are fitted into the spaces.
7. The attachment unit according to claim 1, wherein an attachment
hole having a size larger than that of the fitting part of the hook
member is formed in the base end of the mount, and set screws are
allowed to protrude from the attachment hole so as to serve as
abutment portions.
8. The attachment unit according to claim 1, wherein an attachment
hole having a size larger than that of the fitting part of the hook
member is formed in the base end of the mount, a pair of engagement
members each sliding in one of a longitudinal direction and a
lateral direction of the mount are provided in the attachment hole,
abutment portions engaged with the rotation locking pieces of the
hook member are formed on an inner circumference of each engagement
member.
9. An attachment unit for installing an imaging apparatus in a
vehicle by means of a hook member for a sun visor fastened to a
ceiling of the vehicle with a screw, the hook member including a
pedestal part, a hooking part formed under the pedestal part and a
fitting part protruding upward from the pedestal part, the fitting
part including a fastening portion having a screw hole for
attachment formed therein and rotation locking pieces each formed
on an outer periphery of the fastening portion, the attachment unit
comprising a mount secured to the hook member, an arm attached to
the mount, and an attachment table attached to a tip end of the
arm, wherein the arm rotates about a vertical axis with respect to
the mount, the imaging apparatus is attached to the attachment
table, the mount includes an attachment hole formed in a base end
thereof, the mount includes a mount main body, and mount
replacement parts each engaged/disengaged with/from the mount main
body and each having an attachment hole formed therein, the mount
replacement parts are provided in correspondence with fitting parts
of a variety of hook members, and the attachment holes of the mount
replacement parts are formed in accordance with shapes of the
fitting parts of the hook members.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] (1) Field of the Invention
[0002] The present invention relates to an attachment unit for
installing an imaging apparatus such as a video camera in a vehicle
such as a squad car.
[0003] (2) Description of the Related Art
[0004] In recent years, a video camera is installed in a vehicle
such as a squad car, and a police officer records an image in order
to enforce a crackdown on a person who violates traffic
regulations. As illustrated in FIGS. 17 and 18, for example, an
attachment unit 102 is used for installing a video camera 101 in a
vehicle. The attachment unit 102 includes a mount 103, an arm 104
attached to the mount 103, and an attachment table 105 attached to
a tip end of the arm 104. The arm 104 is rotatable about a vertical
axis 106 with respect to the mount 103. Herein, the video camera
101 is attached to the attachment table 105. A circular attachment
hole 107 is formed in a base end of the mount 103.
[0005] As illustrated in FIG. 19, a pair of sun visors 109 for
shielding sunlight are provided side by side at a front side of a
ceiling 108 of the vehicle. Each sun visor 109 can pivot about a
shaft 110 provided at its outward end. An engagement piece 111 is
provided at an inward end of the sun visor 109, and can be engaged
with/disengaged from a hook member 113 fastened to the ceiling 108
with a screw 112.
[0006] As illustrated in FIG. 18, the hook member 113 includes a
pedestal part 114, a hooking part 115 formed under the pedestal
part 114, and a fitting part 116 protruding upward from the
pedestal part 114. As illustrated in FIG. 17, the ceiling 108 is
provided with a ceiling frame 118 having a screw hole (not
illustrated) formed therein.
[0007] The fitting part 116 of the hook member 113 is fitted into
the attachment hole 107 in the mount 103 from below. The screw 112
is inserted into the hook member 113 and, then, is screwed into the
screw hole of the ceiling frame 118. Thus, as illustrated in FIG.
17, both the hook member 113 and the mount 103 are fastened to the
ceiling frame 118 with the screw 112, that is, are secured to the
ceiling 108.
[0008] As illustrated in FIG. 17, the video camera 101 is directed
forward, so that an image of a forward scene can be captured in the
vehicle. Further, when the arm 104 is allowed to rotate by
180.degree. about the vertical axis 106 with respect to the secured
mount 103, the video camera 101 is directed rearward, so that an
image of a rearward scene can be captured in the vehicle.
[0009] JP10-288811A discloses a unit used for attaching a camera to
a tripod.
[0010] However, the attachment unit 102 illustrated in FIG. 18 has
the following problem. That is, the attachment hole 107 in the
mount 103 is formed into a circular shape. Consequently, if the arm
104 is allowed to rotate about the vertical axis 106 so as to
change a direction of the video camera 101, the mount 103
disadvantageously rotates together with the arm 104.
[0011] In order to prevent the mount 103 from rotating, the
attachment hole 107 in the mount 103 is not formed into a circular
shape, but is formed into a shape identical to that of the fitting
part 116 of the hook member 113, in other words, an irregular
shape.
[0012] However, the shape of the fitting part 116 of the hook
member 113 differs for each type of a vehicle. More specifically,
an attachment hole 107 in a mount 103, formed in accordance with a
shape of a fitting part 116 of a hook member 113 for a certain type
of a vehicle, cannot be used for a fitting part 116 of a hook
member 113 for another type of a vehicle. Consequently, there
arises a problem that the fitting part 116 of the hook member 113
cannot be fitted into the attachment hole 107 in the mount 103, so
that the mount 103 cannot be secured to the ceiling 108.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0013] An object of the present invention is to provide an
attachment unit for installing an imaging apparatus in a vehicle.
This attachment unit can prevent a mount from rotating together
with an arm, and can be used for various types of vehicles.
[0014] In order to accomplish this object, according to a first
aspect of the present invention, an attachment unit is used for
installing an imaging apparatus in a vehicle by means of a hook
member for a sun visor fastened to a ceiling of the vehicle with a
screw. The hook member includes a pedestal part, a hooking part
formed under the pedestal part and a fitting part protruding upward
from the pedestal part. The fitting part includes a fastening
portion having a screw hole for attachment formed therein and
rotation locking pieces each formed on an outer periphery of the
fastening portion. The attachment unit comprises a mount secured to
the hook member, an arm attached to the mount, and an attachment
table attached to a tip end of the arm. The arm rotates about a
vertical axis with respect to the mount. The imaging apparatus is
attached to the attachment table. The mount includes an attachment
hole formed in a base end thereof. The attachment hole includes a
main hole into which at least the fastening portion of the hook
member is fitted, and abutment portions each formed on an outer
periphery of the main hole in correspondence with rotation locking
pieces of various hook members such that at least one of the
rotation locking pieces of the various members abuts against the
abutment portions. The outer periphery of the main hole prevents
the rotation locking pieces from being disengaged from the abutment
portions.
[0015] With this configuration, the fitting part of the hook member
is fitted into the attachment hole in the mount from below. Then, a
screw is inserted into the fastening portion of the fitting part,
so that the hook member is fastened to the ceiling with the screw.
Thus, both the hook member and the mount are secured to the
ceiling.
[0016] When the arm is allowed to rotate about the vertical axis
with respect to the mount, a direction of the imaging apparatus can
be changed. Herein, the attachment hole is not formed into a
circular shape, and includes the main hole into which at least the
fastening portion of the hook member is fitted, and the abutment
portions each formed on the outer periphery of the main hole in
correspondence with rotation locking pieces of various hook members
such that at least one of the rotation locking pieces of the
various hook members abuts against the abutment portions. Further,
the outer periphery of the main hole prevents the rotation locking
pieces from being disengaged from the abutment portions. Therefore,
both the mount and the hook member are secured to the ceiling;
thus, the mount can be prevented from rotating together with the
arm.
[0017] In addition, the abutment portions are formed on the outer
periphery of the main hole of the attachment hole in correspondence
with the rotation locking pieces of the various hook members such
that at least one of the rotation locking pieces of the various
hook members abuts against the abutment portions. Further, the
outer periphery of the main hole prevents the rotation locking
pieces from being disengaged from the abutment portions. Therefore,
the attachment unit can be used for all types of vehicles. Thus, an
imaging apparatus can be installed in all types of vehicles by
means of one type of attachment unit.
[0018] According to a second aspect of the present invention, an
attachment unit is used for installing an imaging apparatus in a
vehicle by means of a hook member for a sun visor fastened to a
ceiling of the vehicle with a screw. The hook member includes a
pedestal part, a hooking part formed under the pedestal part and a
fitting part protruding upward from the pedestal part. The fitting
part includes a fastening portion having a screw hole for
attachment formed therein and rotation locking pieces each formed
on an outer periphery of the fastening portion. The attachment unit
comprises a mount secured to the hook member, an arm attached to
the mount, and an attachment table attached to a tip end of the
arm. The arm rotates about a vertical axis with respect to the
mount. The imaging apparatus is attached to the attachment table.
The mount includes an attachment hole formed in a base end thereof.
The mount includes a mount main body, and mount replacement parts
each engaged with/disengaged from the mount main body and each
having an attachment hole formed therein. The mount replacement
parts are provided in correspondence with fitting parts of various
hook members. The attachment holes of the mount replacement parts
are formed in accordance with shapes of the fitting parts of the
hook members.
[0019] With this configuration, the fitting part of the hook member
is fitted into the attachment hole in the mount from below. Then, a
screw is inserted into the fastening portion of the fitting part,
so that the hook member is fastened to the ceiling with the screw.
Thus, both the hook member and the mount are secured to the
ceiling.
[0020] When the arm is allowed to rotate about the vertical axis
with respect to the mount, a direction of the imaging apparatus can
be changed. Herein, the rotation locking pieces of the hook member
are fitted into the attachment hole in the mount; therefore, both
the mount and the hook member are secured to the ceiling. Thus, the
mount can be prevented from rotating together with the arm.
[0021] In addition, one mount replacement part is detached from the
mount main body and, then, another mount replacement part is
attached to the mount main body; thus, a shape of an attachment
hole can be changed in accordance with a type of a vehicle.
Accordingly, the attachment unit can be used for all types of
vehicles. Herein, one type of mount main body taking a part of a
mount can be used.
[0022] According to the first aspect of the present invention, as
described above, even when the arm is allowed to rotate about the
vertical axis, the mount can be prevented from rotating together
with the arm. In addition, the attachment hole includes the main
hole into which at least the fastening portion of the hook member
is fitted, and the abutment portions formed on the outer periphery
of the main hole in correspondence with rotation locking pieces of
various hook members such that at least one of the rotation locking
pieces of the various hook members abuts against the abutment
portions. Further, the outer periphery of the main hole prevents
the rotation locking pieces from being disengaged from the abutment
portions. Therefore, the attachment unit can be used for all types
of vehicles. Thus, an imaging apparatus can be installed in all
types of vehicles by means of one type of attachment unit. This
leads to cost reduction and the like.
[0023] According to the second aspect of the present invention,
even when the arm is allowed to rotate about the vertical axis, the
mount can be prevented from rotating together with the arm. In
addition, by replacement of a mount replacement part, a shape of an
attachment hole can be changed in accordance with a type of a
vehicle. Accordingly, the attachment unit can be used for all types
of vehicles. Herein, one type of mount main body taking a part of a
mount can be used. This leads to effects of cost reduction and the
like.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0024] FIG. 1 is a side view illustrating a squad car having a
video camera installed therein by means of an attachment unit
according to a first embodiment of the present invention;
[0025] FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating the attachment
unit according to the first embodiment;
[0026] FIG. 3A is a bottom view illustrating a hook member for a
squad car of type A in the first embodiment;
[0027] FIG. 3B is a side view illustrating the hook member for the
squad car of type A in the first embodiment;
[0028] FIG. 3C is a plan view illustrating a ceiling frame for the
squad car of type A in the first embodiment;
[0029] FIG. 4A is a bottom view illustrating a hook member for a
squad car of type B in the first embodiment;
[0030] FIG. 4B is a side view illustrating the hook member for the
squad car of type B in the first embodiment;
[0031] FIG. 4C is a plan view illustrating a ceiling frame for the
squad car of type B in the first embodiment;
[0032] FIG. 5A is a bottom view illustrating a hook member for a
squad car of type C in the first embodiment;
[0033] FIG. 5B is a side view illustrating the hook member for the
squad car of type C in the first embodiment;
[0034] FIG. 5C is a plan view illustrating a ceiling frame for the
squad car of type C in the first embodiment;
[0035] FIG. 6A is a bottom view illustrating a hook member for a
squad car of type D in the first embodiment;
[0036] FIG. 6B is a side view illustrating the hook member for the
squad car of type D in the first embodiment;
[0037] FIG. 6C is a plan view illustrating a ceiling frame for the
squad car of type D in the first embodiment;
[0038] FIG. 7A is a bottom view illustrating a hook member for a
squad car of type E in the first embodiment;
[0039] FIG. 7B is a side view illustrating the hook member for the
squad car of type E in the first embodiment;
[0040] FIG. 7C is a plan view illustrating a ceiling frame for the
squad car of type E in the first embodiment;
[0041] FIG. 8A is a bottom view illustrating a hook member for a
squad car of type F in the first embodiment;
[0042] FIG. 8B is a side view illustrating the hook member for the
squad car of type F in the first embodiment;
[0043] FIG. 8C is a plan view illustrating a ceiling frame for the
squad car of type F in the first embodiment;
[0044] FIG. 9A is a perspective view illustrating a mount of the
attachment unit according to the first embodiment;
[0045] FIG. 9B is a side view illustrating the mount of the
attachment unit according to the first embodiment;
[0046] FIG. 9C is a plan view illustrating the mount of the
attachment unit according to the first embodiment;
[0047] FIG. 10A is a plan view illustrating a state that a fitting
part of the hook member for the squad car of type A is fitted into
an attachment hole in the mount of the attachment unit according to
the first embodiment;
[0048] FIG. 10B is a plan view illustrating a state that a fitting
part of the hook member for the squad car of type B is fitted into
the attachment hole in the mount of the attachment unit according
to the first embodiment;
[0049] FIG. 10C is a plan view illustrating a state that a fitting
part of the hook member for the squad car of type C is fitted into
the attachment hole in the mount of the attachment unit according
to the first embodiment;
[0050] FIG. 10D is a plan view illustrating a state that a fitting
part of the hook member for the squad car of type D is fitted into
the attachment hole in the mount of the attachment unit according
to the first embodiment;
[0051] FIG. 10E is a plan view illustrating a state that a fitting
part of the hook member for the squad car of type E is fitted into
the attachment hole in the mount of the attachment unit according
to the first embodiment;
[0052] FIG. 10F is a plan view illustrating a state that a fitting
part of the hook member for the squad car of type F is fitted into
the attachment hole in the mount of the attachment unit according
to the first embodiment;
[0053] FIG. 11 is a plan view illustrating the attachment unit
according to the first embodiment;
[0054] FIG. 12A is a plan view illustrating a mount main body of an
attachment unit according to a second embodiment of the present
invention;
[0055] FIG. 12B is a plan view illustrating mount replacement parts
of the attachment unit for the squad cars of types A to F in the
second embodiment;
[0056] FIG. 13 is a sectional view taken along a line X-X in FIG.
12A;
[0057] FIG. 14 is a plan view illustrating a state that the mount
replacement part for the squad car of type A is attached to the
mount main body in the second embodiment;
[0058] FIG. 15 is a perspective view illustrating a mount of an
attachment unit according to a third embodiment of the present
invention;
[0059] FIG. 16 is a perspective view illustrating a mount of an
attachment unit according to a fourth embodiment of the present
invention;
[0060] FIG. 17 is a side view illustrating a squad car having a
video camera installed therein by means of a conventional
attachment unit;
[0061] FIG. 18 is a perspective view illustrating the conventional
attachment unit; and
[0062] FIG. 19 illustrates sun visors in the squad car.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0063] Hereinafter, description will be given of embodiments of the
present invention with reference to the drawings.
First Embodiment
[0064] Description will be given of a first embodiment with
reference to FIGS. 1 to 11.
[0065] As illustrated in FIG. 1, an attachment unit 1 is used for
installing a video camera 3 (one example of an imaging apparatus)
in a squad car 2 (one example of a vehicle). The attachment unit 1
is attached to a front end of a ceiling 6 of the squad car 2 by
means a hook member 5 of a sun visor (see the sun visor 109
illustrated in FIG. 19). As conventionally, the sun visor can pivot
about a shaft provided at its outward end. An engagement piece is
provided at an inward end of the sun visor, and can be engaged
with/disengaged from the hook member 5.
[0066] The ceiling 6 is provided with a ceiling frame 10 having a
screw hole 9 formed therein. As illustrated in FIG. 2, the hook
member 5 includes a pedestal part 11, a hooking part 12 formed
under the pedestal part 11, and a fitting part 13 protruding upward
from the pedestal part 11, and is fastened to the ceiling frame 10
with a screw 14.
[0067] The fitting part 13 of the hook member 5 is formed into a
shape differing for each type of a squad car 2. In this embodiment,
for example, there are prepared six different shapes as will be
described below.
[0068] (1) As illustrated in FIGS. 3A and 3B, a fitting part 13 of
a hook member 5 for a squad car 2 of type A includes an oval-shaped
cylindrical fastening portion 16 having a screw hole 15 for
attachment formed therein, and plural rotation locking pieces 17a
to 17d each formed on an outer periphery of the fastening portion
16. The rotation locking pieces 17a, 17b and 17c located at a front
side, a left side and a right side of the fastening portion 16 have
upper ends each protruding higher than an upper end face of the
fastening portion 16 in an upward direction. The rotation locking
piece 17d located at a rear side of the fastening portion 16 has a
protrusion 17e protruding higher than the upper end face of the
fastening portion 16 in the upward direction. At least one of the
rotation locking pieces 17a to 17d abuts against abutment portions
formed on an outer periphery of a main hole 61 in a mount 51 to
thereby prevent the mount 51 from rotating. The rotation locking
pieces 17a to 17d for the squad car 2 of type A have the following
feature. That is, arrangement of the rotation locking pieces 17a to
17d is bilaterally symmetrical. In each of the left rotation
locking piece 17b, the right rotation locking piece 17c and the
rear rotation locking piece 17d, a circular protrusion is formed at
a tip end of a plate extending outward.
[0069] As illustrated in FIG. 3C, a pair of front and rear holes
18a and 18e and a pair of right and left concaves 18b and 18c are
formed around the screw hole 9 as a center in a ceiling frame 10
for the squad car 2 of type A. When the hook member 5 is fastened
to the ceiling frame 10 with a screw 14, the rotation locking piece
17a and the protrusion 17e are fitted into the hole 18a and the
hole 18e, respectively, and the rotation locking piece 17b and the
rotation locking piece 17c are fitted into the concave 18b and the
concave 18c, respectively. Thus, the hook member 5 is secured to
the ceiling frame 10.
[0070] (2) As illustrated in FIGS. 4A and 4B, a fitting part 13 of
a hook member 5 for a squad car 2 of type B includes a cylindrical
fastening portion 21 having a screw hole 15 for attachment formed
therein, and plural rotation locking pieces 22a to 22c each formed
on an outer periphery of the fastening portion 21. The rotation
locking piece 22a and the rotation locking piece 22b, each formed
into a "T" shape, are provided at a front side and a rear side of
the fastening portion 21, respectively. The rotation locking piece
22c formed into a pin shape is provided at a rear side of the rear
rotation locking piece 22b. The rotation locking pieces 22a to 22c
for the squad car 2 of type B have the following feature. As
described above, the rotation locking pieces 22a and 22b each
formed into a "T" shape protrude from the cylindrical fastening
portion 21 in a longitudinal direction. The rotation locking piece
22c is formed as a circular protrusion at a tip end of a center of
the rotation locking piece 22b.
[0071] As illustrated in FIG. 4C, a hole 23c is formed behind a
screw hole 9 in a ceiling frame 10 for the squad car 2 of type B.
When the hook member 5 is fastened to the ceiling frame 10 with a
screw 14, the rotation locking piece 22c is fitted into the hole
23c. Thus, the hook member 5 is secured to the ceiling frame
10.
[0072] (3) As illustrated in FIGS. 5A and 5B, a fitting part 13 of
a hook member 5 for a squad car 2 of type C includes a fastening
portion 26 having a screw hole 15 for attachment formed therein,
and plural rotation locking pieces 27a to 27h each formed on an
outer periphery of the fastening portion 26. Herein, the rotation
locking pieces 27a and 27b are formed in a pair at a front side of
the fastening portion 26 in a bilaterally symmetrical manner. The
rotation locking pieces 27c and 27d are also formed in a pair at
the front side of the fastening portion 26 in a bilaterally
symmetrical manner. The rotation locking pieces 27g and 27h are
formed in a pair at a rear side of the fastening portion 26 in a
bilaterally symmetrical manner. The rotation locking pieces 27e and
27f are formed in a pair at a middle side of the fastening portion
26 in a bilaterally symmetrical manner. More specifically, the
front rotation locking pieces 27a and 27b are formed in parallel in
a longitudinal direction at both sides of the fastening portion 26.
The rotation locking pieces 27c and 27d are formed at outer rear
sides of the rotation locking pieces 27a and 27b, respectively. The
rear rotation locking pieces 27g and 27h, each formed as a
protrusion, are formed at both sides of the fastening portion 26
with a space identical to that between the front rotation locking
pieces 27a and 27b provided therebetween. As illustrated in FIG.
5B, the rotation locking pieces 27a to 27d, 27g and 27h are equal
in height to each other. The middle rotation locking pieces 27e and
27f, each formed as an almost "C"-shaped protrusion when being seen
from its plane, protrude higher than the rotation locking pieces
27a to 27d, 27g and 27h in an upward direction.
[0073] As illustrated in FIG. 5C, a ceiling frame 10 for the squad
car 2 of type C is attached to an opening of a main body frame 29
taking a part of a ceiling of the squad car 2 of type C. At a
center of the ceiling frame 10 for the squad car 2 of type C in a
longitudinal direction, a concave 28 having a top face bowed inward
is formed. The convex 28 includes a screw hole 9 and a pair of left
and right notches 30 and 31 formed at both sides of the screw hole
9 as a center. When the hook member 5 is fastened to the ceiling
frame 10 with a screw 14, the right rotation locking piece 27e is
fitted into the notch 30 and the left rotation locking piece 27f is
fitted into the notch 31. Further, outer ends of the respective
front rotation locking pieces 27a to 27d and outer ends of the
respective rear rotation locking pieces 27g and 27h abut against a
peripheral edge 29a of the opening of the main body frame 29. Thus,
the hook member 5 is secured to the ceiling frame 10.
[0074] (4) As illustrated in FIGS. 6A and 6B, a fitting part 13 of
a hook member 5 for a squad car 2 of type D includes a cylindrical
fastening portion 34 having a screw hole 15 for attachment formed
therein, and plural rotation locking pieces 35a to 35d each formed
on an outer periphery of the fastening member 34. The rotation
locking pieces 35a to 35d are arranged in an "X" shape with the
fastening member 34 located at a center, and are bent into an "L"
shape toward a center line in a longitudinal direction such that
tip ends of the rotation locking pieces 35a and 35b oppose each
other and tip ends of the rotation locking pieces 35c and 35d
oppose each other.
[0075] As illustrated in FIG. 6C, on a ceiling frame 10 for the
squad car 2 of type D, a pair of front and rear convexes 36 and 37,
each formed into a rectangular shape, are formed with the screw
hole 9 located at a center. Each of the convexes 36 and 37
protrudes downward. When the hook member 5 is fastened to the
ceiling frame 10 with a screw 14, the front convex 36 is fitted
into a space between the tip ends of the front rotation locking
pieces 35a and 35b and the rear convex 37 is fitted into a space
between the tip ends of the rear rotation locking pieces 35c and
35d. Thus, the hook member 5 is secured to the ceiling frame
10.
[0076] (5) As illustrated in FIGS. 7A and 7B, a fitting part 13 of
a hook member 5 for a squad car 2 of type E includes a cylindrical
fastening portion 40 having a screw hole 15 for attachment formed
therein, and plural rotation locking pieces 41a to 41d each formed
on an outer periphery of the fastening portion 40. The rotation
locking pieces 41a to 41d are arranged in a cross shape with the
fastening portion 40 located at a center. Each of the rotation
locking pieces 41a, 41b and 41d is provided with a protrusion
protruding higher than the fastening portion 40 in an upward
direction at an outer end thereof, and a similar protrusion is
provided inward the rotation locking piece 41b relative to the
protrusion provided at the outer end of the rotation locking piece
41b.
[0077] As illustrated in FIG. 7C, a ceiling frame 10 for the squad
car 2 of type E is provided with a front hole 42a, a rear hole 42b
and a left hole 42d with the screw hole 9 located at a center. When
the hook member 5 is fastened to the ceiling frame 10 with a screw
14, the outer end protrusion of the front rotation locking piece
41a is fitted into the front hole 42a, the outer end protrusion of
the rear rotation locking piece 41b is fitted into the rear hole
42b, and the outer end protrusion of the right rotation locking
piece 41d is fitted into the left hole 42d. Thus, the hook member 5
is secured to the ceiling frame 10.
[0078] (6) As illustrated in FIGS. 8A and 8B, a fitting part 13 of
a hook member 5 for a squad car 2 of type F includes a cylindrical
fastening portion 45 having a screw hole 15 for attachment formed
therein, four outer peripheral protruding pieces each formed on an
outer periphery of the fastening portion 45 at an angle of
90.degree., and a pair of rotation locking pieces 46a and 46b
formed at front and rear sides of the outer peripheral protruding
pieces. The front rotation locking piece 46a is formed by a long
piece arranged in a lateral direction, and short pieces formed at
portions close to both outer ends of the long piece. The rear
rotation locking piece 46b is formed into a "T" shape by a long
piece arranged in the lateral direction and a piece arranged at the
center of the long piece in a longitudinal direction. The piece is
almost one-half of the long piece in length. Each of the rotation
locking pieces 46a and 46b has an upper end protruding higher than
the fastening portion 45 in an upward direction.
[0079] As illustrated in FIG. 8C, in a ceiling frame 10 for the
squad car 2 of type F, rectangular holes 47a and 47b are formed at
front and rear sides of the screw hole 9 as a center. When the hook
member 5 is fastened to the ceiling frame 10 with a screw 14, the
rotation locking piece 46a is fitted into the hole 47a and the
rotation locking piece 46b is fitted into the hole 47b.
[0080] Thus, the hook member 5 is secured to the ceiling frame
10.
[0081] Next, description will be given of a configuration of the
attachment unit 1.
[0082] As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, the attachment unit 1
includes the mount 51 secured to the hook member 5, an arm 52
attached to the mount 51, and an attachment table 53 attached to a
tip end of the arm 52.
[0083] The mount 51 includes a base end plate 51a having an
attachment hole 61 formed therein, and ah arm attaching plate 51b.
The base end plate 51a and the arm attaching plate 51b are
connected to each other with a step interposed therebetween.
[0084] The arm 52 includes a pair of divided arm pieces 52a and
52b. The arm pieces 52a and 52b are fastened to each other with a
tightening tool 54 of a thumb screw type. The arm 52 is attached to
the arm attaching plate 51b of the mount 51 through a rotational
shaft 55, and is rotatable about a first vertical axis 56, passing
through the rotational shaft 55, with respect to the mount 51.
Herein, the rotational shaft 55 is provided inside the base end of
the arm 52. As illustrated in FIG. 9A, the first vertical axis 56
is shifted leftward relative to a center line 57 of the mount 51 in
a longitudinal direction.
[0085] As illustrated in FIG. 2, the attachment table 53 is
attached to the tip end of the arm 52 through a ball shaft 58 and,
therefore, is rotatable about a second vertical axis 59, passing
through the ball shaft 58, with respect to the arm 52. Herein, the
ball shaft 58 includes a shaft part and a sphere part, and is
provided inside the tip end of the arm 52. The video camera 3 is
fastened to the attachment table 53 with a screw or the like.
[0086] When the tightening tool 54 is loosened manually, the
attachment table 53 can be allowed to rotate with respect to the
arm 52 and the arm 52 can be allowed to rotate with respect to the
mount 51. On the other hand, when the tightening tool 54 is
tightened, the rotational shaft 55 and the ball shaft 58 are
securely nipped by the arm pieces 52a and 52b each taking a part of
the arm 52, so that the rotation of each of the attachment table 53
and the arm 52 is prevented.
[0087] The attachment hole 61 in the mount 51 is formed into a
shape into which each of the fitting portions 13 of the hook
members 5 for the squad cars 2 of types A to F illustrated in FIGS.
3A, 3B, 4A, 4B, 5A, 5B, 6A, 6B, 7A, 7B, 8A and 8B is fitted. More
specifically, as illustrated in FIG. 9C, the attachment hole 61
includes a square-shaped main hole 61a, plural concaves 61b to 61i
each formed around the main hole 61a, and plural convexes 61j and
61k. The concave 61b is formed at a front center end of the main
body 61a in a lateral direction. The concaves 61c and 61d are
formed at both sides of the front end of the main hole 61a. The
concaves 61g, 61h and 61i are formed at a rear end of the main hole
61a. The concaves 61e and 61f are formed at both sides of a middle
of the main hole 61a in a longitudinal direction. The convexes 61j
and 61k are formed at the rear ends of the main hole 61a.
[0088] The concaves 61b to 61i have inner wall faces serving as
abutment portions against which the rotation locking pieces of the
hook member 5 abut. The rotation locking pieces of the hook member
5 are fitted into the concaves 61b to 61i, and are prevented from
being disengaged from the concave abutment portions, respectively;
thus, the mount 51 can be prevented from rotating. The convexes 61j
and 61k have outer wall faces also serving as abutment portions
against which the rotation locking pieces abut. At least two
rotation locking pieces nip the convexes 61j and 61k, so that the
rotation locking pieces are prevented from being disengaged from
the abutment portions. Thus, the mount 51 can be prevented from
rotating.
[0089] Hereinafter, description will be given of functional effects
of the aforementioned configuration.
[0090] (1) In a case that the video camera 3 is installed in the
squad car 2 of type A by means of the attachment unit 1, the
fitting part 13 of the hook member 5 illustrated in FIGS. 3A and 3B
is fitted into the attachment hole 61 in the mount 51 from below.
Then, the screw 14 is inserted into the screw hole 15 of the
fastening portion 16, and is screwed into the screw hole 9 of the
ceiling frame 10. Thus, as illustrated in FIG. 9B, both the hook
member 5 and the mount 51 are fastened to the ceiling frame 10 with
the screw 14, that is, are secured to the ceiling 6.
[0091] Herein, as illustrated in FIG. 10A, the fastening portion 16
of the fitting part 13 of the hook member 5 is inserted into the
main hole 61a of the attachment hole 61, and the pair of left and
right rotation locking pieces 17b and 17c are fitted into the pair
of left and right concaves 61e and 61f of the attachment hole 61,
respectively.
[0092] As illustrated in FIG. 11, when the tightening tool 54 is
loosened in order that the arm 52 is allowed to rotate about the
first vertical axis 56 with respect to the mount 51, the direction
of the video camera 3 can be changed. Herein, the attachment hole
61 is not formed into a circular shape. Further, as illustrated in
FIG. 10A, the rotation locking pieces 17b and 17c of the hook
member 5 are fitted into the concaves 61e and 61f of the attachment
hole 61, respectively. Therefore, both the mount 51 and the hook
member 5 are secured to the ceiling 6; thus, the mount 51 can be
prevented from rotating together with the arm 52. More
specifically, the rotation locking pieces 17b and 17c abut against
the abutment portions of the concaves 61e and 61f, respectively. In
addition, the concave 61f is almost equal in size to the rotation
locking piece 17c; therefore, the rotation locking piece 17c is
fitted into the concave 61f. As a result, the rotation locking
piece 17c is prevented from being disengaged from the corresponding
abutment portion; thus, the mount 51 can be prevented from
rotating. There is a clearance between the concave 61e and the
rotation locking piece 17b. This clearance exhibits the following
effect. That is, it is assumed herein that an operator forcibly
allows the video camera 3 to rotate beyond its limit. Even in such
a case, the operator becomes aware of excess of the limit of the
video camera 3 before destruction of the hook member 5 by a feeling
that the rotation locking piece 17b slightly moves within the
concave 61e. Thus, the operator can stop an excessive rotation of
the video camera 3.
[0093] (2) In a case that the video camera 3 is installed in the
squad car 2 of type B by means of the attachment unit 1, the
fitting part 13 of the hook member 5 illustrated in FIGS. 4A and 4B
is fitted into the attachment hole 61 in the mount 51 from below.
Then, the screw 14 is inserted into the screw hole 15 of the
fastening portion 21, and is screwed into the screw hole 9 of the
ceiling frame 10. Thus, as illustrated in FIG. 9B, both the hook
member 5 and the mount 51 are fastened to the ceiling frame 10 with
the screw 14, that is, are secured to the ceiling 6.
[0094] Herein, as illustrated in FIG. 10B, the fastening portion 21
of the fitting part 13 of the hook member 5 is inserted into the
main hole 61a of the attachment hole 61, the left and right ends of
the front rotation locking piece 22a are fitted into the pair of
left and right concaves 61c and 61d of the attachment hole 61, and
the rear rotation locking piece 22c is fitted into the rear concave
61h of the attachment hole 61.
[0095] As illustrated in FIG. 11, when the tightening tool 54 is
loosened in order that the arm 52 is allowed to rotate about the
first vertical axis 56 with respect to the mount 51, the direction
of the video camera 3 can be changed. Herein, the attachment hole
61 is not formed into a circular shape. Further, as illustrated in
FIG. 10B, the rotation locking pieces 22a of the hook member 5 is
fitted into the concaves 61c and 61d of the attachment hole 61 and
the rotation locking piece 22c of the hook member 5 is fitted into
the concave 61h of the attachment hole 61, so that both the mount
51 and the hook member 5 are secured to the ceiling 6. Thus, the
mount 51 can be prevented from rotating together with the arm 52.
More specifically, the rotation locking pieces 22a and 22c of the
hook member 5 abut against the abutment portions of the concaves
61c, 61d and 61h at three points, so that each rotation locking
piece is prevented from being disengaged from the abutment portion.
Thus, the mount 51 can be prevented from rotating.
[0096] (3) In a case that the video camera 3 is installed in the
squad car 2 of type C by means of the attachment unit 1, the
fitting part 13 of the hook member 5 illustrated in FIGS. 5A and 5B
is fitted into the attachment hole 61 in the mount 51 from below.
Then, the screw 14 is inserted into the screw hole 15 of the
fastening portion 26, and is screwed into the screw hole 9 of the
ceiling frame 10. Thus, as illustrated in FIG. 9B, both the hook
member 5 and the mount 51 are fastened to the ceiling frame 10 with
the screw 14, that is, are secured to the ceiling 6.
[0097] Herein, as illustrated in FIG. 10C, the fastening portion 26
of the fitting part 13 of the hook member 5 is inserted into the
main hole 61a of the attachment hole 61, the pair of left and right
rotation locking pieces 27c and 27d formed at the front side of the
fastening portion 26 are fitted into the rear concaves 61e and 61f
of the attachment hole 61, the pair of left and right rotation
locking pieces 27g and 27h formed at the rear side of the fastening
portion 26 are fitted into the rear concaves 61g and 61i of the
attachment hole 61, and the rear convexes 61j and 61k of the
attachment hole 61 are fitted into a space between the rotation
locking pieces 27g and 27h.
[0098] As illustrated in FIG. 11, when the tightening tool 54 is
loosened in order that the arm 52 is allowed to rotate about the
first vertical axis 56 with respect to the mount 51, the direction
of the video camera 3 can be changed. Herein, the attachment hole
61 is not formed into a circular shape. Further, as illustrated in
FIG. 10C, the rotation locking pieces 27c, 27d, 27g and 27h of the
hook member 5 are fitted into the concaves 61e, 61f, 61g and 61i of
the attachment hole 61, respectively, and the convexes 61j and 61k
are fitted into the space between the rotation locking pieces 27g
and 27h. Further, the tip ends of the rotation locking pieces 27a
and 27b abut against the inner wall at the tip end of the main hole
61a, and the middle rotation locking pieces 27e and 27f abut
against inner walls at the both sides of the main hole 61a,
respectively; therefore, both the mount 51 and the hook member 5
are secured to the ceiling 6. Thus, the mount 51 can be prevented
from rotating together with the arm 52.
[0099] (4) In a case that the video camera 3 is installed in the
squad car 2 of type D by means of the attachment unit 1, the
fitting part 13 of the hook member 5 illustrated in FIGS. 6A and 6B
is fitted into the attachment hole 61 in the mount 51 from below.
Then, the screw 14 is inserted into the screw hole 15 of the
fastening portion 34, and is screwed into the screw hole 9 of the
ceiling frame 10. Thus, as illustrated in FIG. 9B, both the hook
member 5 and the mount 51 are fastened to the ceiling frame 10 with
the screw 14, that is, are secured to the ceiling 6.
[0100] Herein, as illustrated in FIG. 10D, the fastening portion 34
of the fitting part 13 of the hook member 5 is inserted into main
hole 61a of the attachment hole 61, and the respective rotation
locking pieces 35a to 35d are fitted into the main hole 61a.
[0101] As illustrated in FIG. 11, when the tightening tool 54 is
loosened in order that the arm 52 is allowed to rotate about the
first vertical axis 56 with respect to the mount 51, the direction
of the video camera 3 can be changed. Herein, the attachment hole
61 is not formed into a circular shape. Further, as illustrated in
FIG. 10D, the rotation locking pieces 35a and 35b of the hook
member 5 are fitted into the inner wall of the main hole 61a of the
attachment hole 61; therefore, both the mount 51 and the hook
member 5 are secured to the ceiling 6. Thus, the mount 51 can be
prevented from rotating together with the arm 52.
[0102] (5) In a case that the video camera 3 is installed in the
squad car 2 of type E by means of the attachment unit 1, the
fitting part 13 of the hook member 5 illustrated in FIGS. 7A and 7B
is fitted into the attachment hole 61 in the mount 51 from below.
Then, the screw 14 is inserted into the screw hole 15 of the
fastening portion 40, and is screwed into the screw hole 9 of the
ceiling frame 10. Thus, as illustrated in FIG. 9B, both the hook
member 5 and the mount 51 are fastened to the ceiling frame 10 with
the screw 14, that is, are secured to the ceiling 6.
[0103] Herein, as illustrated in FIG. 10E, the fastening portion 40
of the fitting part 13 of the hook member 5 is inserted into the
main hole 61a of the attachment hole 61, and the rear end of the
rear rotation locking piece 41b is fitted into the rear concave 61h
of the attachment hole 61.
[0104] As illustrated in FIG. 11, when the tightening tool 54 is
loosened in order that the arm 52 is allowed to rotate about the
first vertical axis 56 with respect to the mount 51, the direction
of the video camera 3 can be changed. Herein, the attachment hole
61 is not formed into a circular shape. Further, the rotation
locking pieces 41a to 41d of the hook member 5 are fitted into the
main hole 61a, and the rotation locking pieces 41c and 41d abut
against the both side walls of the main hole 61a, respectively.
Therefore, when the mount 51 slides forward with respect to the
hook member 5, the rotation locking piece 41b of the hook member 5
is fitted into the concave 61h of the attachment hole 61 as
illustrated in FIG. 10E. Hence, both the mount 51 and the hook
member 5 are secured to the ceiling 6; thus, the mount 51 can be
prevented from rotating together with the arm 52.
[0105] (6) In a case that the video camera 3 is installed in the
squad car 2 of type F by means of the attachment unit 1, the
fitting part 13 of the hook member 5 illustrated in FIGS. 8A and 8B
is fitted into the attachment hole 61 in the mount 51 from below.
Then, the screw 14 is inserted into the screw hole 15 of the
fastening portion 45, and is screwed into the screw hole 9 of the
ceiling frame 10. Thus, as illustrated in FIG. 9B, both the hook
member 5 and the mount 51 are fastened to the ceiling frame 10 with
the screw 14, that is, are secured to the ceiling 6.
[0106] Herein, as illustrated in FIG. 10F, the fastening portion 45
of the fitting part 13 of the hook member 5 is inserted into the
main hole 61a of the attachment hole 61, and the rear end of the
"T"-shaped rear rotation locking piece 46b is fitted into the rear
concave 61h of the attachment hole 61. Further, the tip ends of the
shorter pieces formed at the portions close to the both sides of
the longer piece of the front rotation locking piece 46a abut
against the inner wall of the main hole 61a.
[0107] As illustrated in FIG. 11, when the tightening tool 54 is
loosened in order that the arm 52 is allowed to rotate about the
first vertical axis 56 with respect to the mount 51, the direction
of the video camera 3 can be changed. Herein, the attachment hole
61 is not formed into a circular shape. Further, as illustrated in
FIG. 10F, the rotation locking piece 46b of the hook member 5 is
fitted into the concave 61h of the attachment hole 61, and the tip
ends of the shorter pieces formed at the portions close to the both
sides of the longer piece of the rotation locking piece 46a abut
against the inner wall of the main hole 61a. Therefore, both the
mount 51 and the hook member 5 are secured to the ceiling 6; thus,
the mount 51 can be prevented from rotating together with the arm
52.
[0108] As described in the aforementioned (1) to (6) with reference
to FIGS. 10A to 10F, the attachment hole 61 in the mount 51 is
formed so as to be applied to plural (six) types of the fitting
parts 13 of the hook members 5. Therefore, the attachment unit 1
can be used for all of the squad cars 2 of types A to F.
Accordingly, the video camera 3 can be installed in all of the
squad cars 2 of types A to F by means of the attachment unit 1.
This leads to effects of cost reduction and the like.
[0109] In a case that the attachment unit 1 is attached by means of
the hook member 5 of the right sun visor, as shown by a solid line
in FIG. 11, a room mirror 63 is located at an immediately left
position of the video camera 3. A distance between the first
vertical axis 56 serving as a center of rotation and the
installation position of the video camera 3 is equal to the length
of the arm 52. Therefore, if the arm 52 is allowed to rotate about
the first vertical axis 56 so as to oppose the room mirror 63, that
is, rotate in a clockwise direction, the video camera 3 moves about
the first vertical axis 56. Thus, even when the room mirror 63
adjoins to the left side of the video camera 3, the video camera 3
never interferes with the room mirror 63.
[0110] In addition, a connector 3a of the video camera 3 is
positioned rearward with respect to the arm attaching plate 51b of
the mount 51. Further, the first vertical axis 56 is shifted
leftward with respect to the center line 57 of the mount 51.
Accordingly, as shown by an imaginary line in FIG. 11, in a case
that the arm 52 is allowed to rotate about the first vertical axis
56 by 180.degree. so as to change the direction of the video camera
3, the connector 3a rotates by 180.degree. at a position rearward
the arm attaching plate 51b. Thus, a cable 3b connected to the
connector 3a never interferes with the arm attaching plate 51b.
[0111] In the first embodiment, the attachment hole 61 in the mount
51 is formed in accordance with the fitting parts 13 of the hook
members 5 for the squad cars 2 of six types A to F; however, the
present invention is not limited thereto.
Second Embodiment
[0112] Next, description will be given of a second embodiment with
reference to FIGS. 12A to 14.
[0113] A mount 51 includes a mount main body 66, and one of mount
replacement parts 67a to 67f each attached to/detached from the
mount main body 66 and formed into a square flat plate shape.
Herein, there are prepared plural (six) mount replacement parts in
correspondence with the fitting parts 13 of the hook members 5 for
the squad cars 2 of plural (six) types A to F illustrated in FIGS.
3A, 3B, 4A, 4B, 5A, 5B, 6A, 6B, 7A, 7B, 8A and 8B.
[0114] As illustrated in FIG. 12B, screw holes 68 are formed at
four corners of each of the mount replacement parts 67a to 67f. As
illustrated in FIG. 12A, a square opening 69 is formed in the mount
main body 66, and each of the mount replacement parts 67a to 67f is
fittable into/removable from the opening 69. At four corners of the
opening 69, catching pieces 70 are provided for catching one of the
mount replacement parts 67a to 67f fitted into the opening 69 from
below. A screw hole 71 is formed in each catching piece 70. Four
countersunk screws 73 are inserted into the screw holes 68 of one
of the mount replacement parts 67a to 67f and, then, are screwed
into the screw holes 71 of the catching pieces 70, respectively.
Thus, as illustrated in FIG. 14, each of the mount replacement
parts 67a to 67f is secured to the mount main body 66.
[0115] As illustrated in FIG. 12B, an attachment hole 72a is formed
in the mount replacement part 67a for the squad car 2 of type A.
The attachment hole 72a is formed in correspondence with the
fitting part 13 of the hook member 5 (see FIGS. 3A and 3B) for the
squad car 2 of type A.
[0116] An attachment hole 72b is formed in the mount replacement
part 67b for the squad car 2 of type B. The attachment hole 72b is
formed in correspondence with the fitting part 13 of the hook
member 5 (see FIGS. 4A and 4B) for the squad car 2 of type B.
[0117] An attachment hole 72c is formed in the mount replacement
part 67c for the squad car 2 of type C. The attachment hole 72c is
formed in correspondence with the fitting part 13 of the hook
member 5 (see FIGS. 5A and 5B) for the squad car 2 of type C.
[0118] An attachment hole 72d is formed in the mount replacement
part 67d for the squad car 2 of type D. The attachment hole 72d is
formed in correspondence with the fitting part 13 of the hook
member 5 (see FIGS. 6A and 6B) for the squad car 2 of type D.
[0119] An attachment hole 72e is formed in the mount replacement
part 67e for the squad car 2 of type E. The attachment hole 72e is
formed in correspondence with the fitting part 13 of the hook
member 5 (see FIGS. 7A and 7B) for the squad car 2 of type E.
[0120] An attachment hole 72f is formed in the mount replacement
part 67f for the squad car 2 of type F. The attachment hole 72f is
formed in correspondence with the fitting part 13 of the hook
member 5 (see FIGS. 8A and 8B) for the squad car 2 of type F.
[0121] Hereinafter, description will be given of functional effects
in the aforementioned configuration.
[0122] (1) In a case that the video camera 3 is installed in the
squad car 2 of type A by means of the attachment unit 1, as
illustrated in FIG. 13, the mount replacement part 67a for the
squad car 2 of type A is fitted into the opening 69 and, then, is
fastened to the mount main body 66 with the countersunk screws 73.
Thus, as illustrated in FIG. 14, the mount replacement part 67a for
the squad car 2 of type A is caught by the catching pieces 70, and
is secured to the mount main body 66.
[0123] Thereafter, the fitting part 13 of the hook member 5 (see
FIGS. 3A and 3B) for the squad car 2 of type A is fitted into the
attachment hole 72a in the mount 51 from below. Then, the screw 14
is inserted into the screw hole 15 of the fastening portion 16, and
is screwed into the screw hole 9 of the ceiling frame 10. Thus, as
illustrated in FIG. 1, both the hook member 5 and the mount 51 are
fastened to the ceiling frame 10 with the screw 14, that is, are
secured to the ceiling 6.
[0124] (2) In a case that the video camera 3 is installed in the
squad car 2 of type B by means of the attachment unit 1, as in a
similar manner to that in the aforementioned (1), the mount
replacement part 67b for the squad car 2 of type B (see FIG. 12B)
is fitted into the opening 69 and, then, is fastened to the mount
main body 66 with the countersunk screws 73.
[0125] Thereafter, the fitting part 13 of the hook member 5 (see
FIGS. 4A and 4B) for the squad car 2 of type B is fitted into the
attachment hole 72b in the mount 51 from below. Then, the screw 14
is inserted into the screw hole 15 of the fastening portion 16, and
is screwed into the screw hole 9 of the ceiling frame 10. Thus, as
illustrated in FIG. 1, both the hook member 5 and the mount 51 are
fastened to the ceiling frame 10 with the screw 14, that is, are
secured to the ceiling 6.
[0126] (3) In a case that the video camera 3 is installed in the
squad car 2 of type C, as in a similar manner to that in the
aforementioned (1), the mount replacement part 67c for the squad
car 2 of type C (see FIG. 12B) is attached to the mount main body
66. Thereafter, the fitting part 13 of the hook member 5 (see FIGS.
5A and 5B) for the squad car 2 of type C is fitted into the
attachment hole 72c in the mount 51 from below. Thus, both the hook
member 5 and the mount 51 are fastened to the ceiling frame 10 with
the screw 14.
[0127] (4) In a case that the video camera 3 is installed in the
squad car 2 of type D, as in a similar manner to that in the
aforementioned (1), the mount replacement part 67d for the squad
car 2 of type D (see FIG. 12B) is attached to the mount main body
66. Thereafter, the fitting part 13 of the hook member 5 (see FIGS.
6A and 6B) for the squad car 2 of type D is fitted into the
attachment hole 72d in the mount 51 from below. Thus, both the hook
member 5 and the mount 51 are fastened to the ceiling frame 10 with
the screw 14.
[0128] (5) In a case that the video camera 3 is installed in the
squad car 2 of type E, as in a similar manner to that in the
aforementioned (1), the mount replacement part 67e for the squad
car 2 of type E (see FIG. 12B) is attached to the mount main body
66. Thereafter, the fitting part 13 of the hook member 5 (see FIGS.
7A and 7B) for the squad car 2 of type E is fitted into the
attachment hole 72e in the mount 51 from below. Thus, both the hook
member 5 and the mount 51 are fastened to the ceiling frame 10 with
the screw 14.
[0129] (6) In a case that the video camera 3 is installed in the
squad car 2 of type F, as in a similar manner to that in the
aforementioned (1), the mount replacement part 67f for the squad
car 2 of type F (see FIG. 12B) is attached to the mount main body
66. Thereafter, the fitting part 13 of the hook member 5 (see FIGS.
8A and 8B) for the squad car 2 of type F is fitted into the
attachment hole 72f in the mount 51 from below. Thus, both the hook
member 5 and the mount 51 are fastened to the ceiling frame 10 with
the screw 14.
[0130] As described in the aforementioned (1) to (6), one of the
mount replacement parts 67a to 67f is detached from the mount main
body 66 and, then, another one of the mount replacement parts 67a
to 67f is attached to the mount main body 66. Thus, a shape of an
attachment hole can be changed in accordance with a type of a squad
car. Accordingly, the attachment unit 1 can be used for all of the
squad cars 2 of types A to F. The mount main body 66 taking a part
of the mount 51 (see FIG. 12A) to be used herein is one type. This
leads to effects of cost reduction and the like.
[0131] In the second embodiment, the six mount replacement parts
67a to 67f having the attachment holes 72a to 72f different in
shape from each other are used; however, the present invention is
not limited thereto.
[0132] In the first and second embodiments, the video camera 3 is
installed in the squad car 2. However, the video camera 3 may be
installed in a vehicle other than the squad car 2, such as a
passenger car or a truck. Further, it is assumed in the first and
second embodiments that the vehicle such as the squad car 2 is of a
left-hand drive type. Therefore, the attachment unit 1 is attached
by means of the hook member 5 for the right sun visor. If the
present invention is applied to a vehicle of a right-hand drive
type, the attachment unit 1 is attached by means of a hook member 5
for the left sun visor.
Third Embodiment
[0133] FIG. 15 is a perspective view illustrating a mount 51 in a
third embodiment of the present invention. In the third embodiment,
there is no necessity that the attachment hole 61 having a special
shape (see FIG. 2) is not formed in a base end plate 51a of the
mount 51. In the third embodiment, an oval-shaped attachment hole
61 larger in size than the fitting part 13 of the hook member 5 is
formed. Further, at both sides of the base end plate 51a of the
mount 51, four screw holes 62 opened at the attachment hole 61 side
are formed while being opened in a width direction of the base end
plate 51a. However, positions where the screw holes 62 are formed
are not limited to the aforementioned positions. The screw holes 62
may be formed from the rear end side of the mount 51 to the
attachment hole 61 side. Alternatively, the screw holes 62 may be
formed radially from the attachment hole 61. In addition, a count
of the screw holes 62 is not limited to four. It is desirable that
the count of the screw holes 62 to be formed is large as much as
possible. A set screw 64 is screwed into each screw hole 62. The
set screw 64 protrudes from the attachment hole 61 to serve as an
abutment portion. A length of the set screw 64 protruding from the
attachment hole 61 is adjusted, so that the fitting part 13 or any
one of the rotation locking pieces 17a to 17d of the hook member 5
is prevented from being disengaged from the abutment portion.
[0134] Upon attachment of the mount 51, the fitting part 13 of the
hook member 5 is inserted into the attachment hole 61. Then, the
set screws 64 are allowed to protrude from the attachment hole 61
by means of a wrench 50. Thus, the set screws 64 are engaged with
the rotation locking pieces 17a to 17d of the hook member 5.
Alternatively, the fitting part 13 is secured by a tip ends of the
set screws 64. Then, the hook member 5 is fastened to the ceiling 6
with the screw 14 such that the mount 51 is secured to the ceiling
6.
[0135] In the third embodiment, there is no necessity that an
attachment hole 61 having a special shape is formed in the base end
plate 51a of the mount 51. Therefore, the mount 51 in the third
embodiment can be used for various hook members 5. In the second
embodiment, the six mount replacement parts 67a to 67f are prepared
for the six fitting parts 13 of the hook members 5 illustrated in
FIGS. 3A, 3B, 4A, 4B, 5A, 5B, 6A, 6B, 7A, 7B, 8A and 8B. However,
the mount 51 in the third embodiment requires no mount replacement
part.
Fourth Embodiment
[0136] FIG. 16 is a perspective view illustrating a mount 51 in a
fourth embodiment of the present invention. In the fourth
embodiment, a square attachment hole 61 larger in size than the
fitting part 13 of the hook member 5 is formed. A support edge 65
is formed at an outer peripheral edge of the attachment hole 61. A
pair of engagement members 80 and 80 each formed into an almost "U"
shape are supported by the support edge 65. The pair of engagement
members 80 and 80 can slide in a longitudinal direction of the
mount 51. Irregularities 81 are formed at an inner face of each
engagement member 80 so as to be engaged with the rotation locking
pieces 17a to 17d of the hook member 5. Each of the irregularities
81 serves as an abutment portion. Herein, the pair of engagement
members 80 and 80 may be arranged so as to slide on the mount 51 in
a lateral direction of the attachment hole 61.
[0137] In order to secure the engagement member 80 to the mount 51,
a countersunk screw 83 is inserted into a long hole (not
illustrated) formed in the support edge 65 through a screw hole 82
formed in the engagement member 80, and is tightened with a nut
(not illustrated) at a rear face of the mount 51.
[0138] Upon attachment of the mount 51, the countersunk screw 83 of
the engagement member 80 is loosened, the engagement member 80 is
slid such that the irregularities 81 are engaged with the rotation
locking pieces 17a to 17d of the hook member 5. Then, the
irregularities 81 are prevented from being disengaged from the
rotation locking pieces 17a to 17d of the hook member 5.
[0139] In the fourth embodiment, there is also no necessity that an
attachment hole 61 having a special shape is formed in the base end
plate 51a of the mount 51. Therefore, the mount 51 in the fourth
embodiment can be used for various hook members 5. Further, the
mount 51 in the fourth embodiment requires no mount replacement
part unlike the second embodiment.
[0140] The attachment unit according to the present invention is
useful in a case that a video camera is installed in a squad car.
Further, the attachment unit according to the present invention is
also useful in a case that a video camera is installed in a
passenger car or the like.
* * * * *