Vehicle vision system

Abstract

The present vehicle vision system enhances visibility internally and externally with respect to the vehicle. A vision system is provided which is configured to switch between a plurality of modes. The system further includes a far-field effect which alters the focal length of the display in the vision system so as to reduce driver eye strain during operation. The vision system may be incorporated into various locations throughout the vehicle (e.g., the vehicle overhead console).

1 - 15 . (canceled) 
     
     
         16 . An overhead console for use in a motor vehicle at least partially housing a vision system having a camera mounted on the vehicle, comprising:
 a display source configured to receive video signals from the camera, wherein the display source is coupled to the overhead console; and   a display assembly comprising a screen configured to reflect images when the vision system is operating in a first mode and to display video images from the display source when the vision system is operating in a second mode.   
     
     
         17 . The overhead console of Claim I, further comprising:
 a lens configured to alter a focal length of the image displayed on the display assembly.   
     
     
         18 . The display of claim  2 , wherein the lens is mounted between the display assembly and a vehicle occupant. 
     
     
         19 . The display of claim  2 , wherein the lens is mounted between the display source and the display assembly. 
     
     
         20 . The display of claim  2 , wherein the display assembly comprises a screen configured to reflect images when the vision system is operating in a first mode and to display video images from the display source when the vision system is operating in a second mode. 
     
     
         21 . A method of displaying an image to an operator of a motor vehicle at an adjusted focal length, comprising:
 providing a display assembly configured to display an image, wherein the image defines a focal length with respect to any location in the motor vehicle;   providing a lens configured to alter a perception of the focal length of the image with respect to an occupant location in the motor vehicle.   
     
     
         22 . The method of claim  6 , further comprising:
 interposing the lens between the display assembly and the operator in a manner to effectuate the perception of a distorted focal length.   
     
     
         23 . The method of claim  6 , further comprising:
 interposing the lens between the display assembly and a display source spaced apart from the display assembly.   
     
     
         24 . A vision system for a vehicle, comprising:
 a camera mounted on the vehicle;   a display source connected to the camera and configured to receive video signals from the camera, wherein the display source is mounted on the vehicle; and   a display assembly comprising a screen configured to reflect images when the vision system is operating in a first mode and to display video images from the display source when the vision system is operating in a second mode;   wherein the rear viewing system is deformable, configured to have a flat surface or a concave surface and wherein the concave surface may be curved with respect to a lateral, horizontal and/or vertical axis.