Flat thin screen TV/monitor automotive roof mount

Abstract

A vehicle roof mounted video display is disclosed. The display is rotatable 180° about a first axis, between a stored position within a housing and a second position in which the display lies flat against the vehicle roof. The display is also rotatable at least 60°, and preferably 90°, about a second axis that intersects and is substantially perpendicular to the first axis. Each axis includes self-tensioning hinges to hold the display in any position. The display self aligns as it reaches either of the first and second positions so that the display is substantially parallel to the roof. When the display is in the storage position, the display screen faces, and is safely enclosed by, the housing. The invention also includes a number of built-in features to provide passengers with a wide range of entertainment options.

What is claimed is:  
     
         1 . An assembly mountable on an inside surface of a vehicle roof, the assembly comprising: 
 a housing having a first side defining a mounting surface and a second side opposite the first side defining a storage location, the housing defining a first hinge portion;    a video display having a first face defining a video screen, the video display defining a second hinge portion, the first hinge portion and the second hinge portion cooperating to pivotably connect the housing and the video display, such that the video display is movable between a storage position and a viewing position; and    a microswitch selectively blocking power to the video screen; wherein    when the video display is in the storage position the video display is at least partially disposed within the storage location, and the microswitch is in an off position in which no power may be channeled to the video screen.    
     
     
         2 . The assembly of  claim 1 , wherein as the video display is moved toward the viewing position the microswitch is moved to an on position in which power may be channeled to the video screen.  
     
     
         3 . An assembly mountable on an inside surface of a vehicle roof, the assembly comprising: 
 a housing;    a video display secured to the housing, the video display having a first face defining a video screen; and    a wireless earphone transmitter; wherein    the transmitter is configured to transmit an audio signal to earphones.    
     
     
         4 . The assembly of  claim 3 , wherein the housing defines a first hinge portion.  
     
     
         5 . The assembly of  claim 4 , wherein the video display defines a second hinge portion, the first hinge portion and the second hinge portion cooperating to pivotably connect the housing and the video display.