GB236011A - An optical device for extending the field of view of the driver of an automobile vehicle - Google Patents

Abstract

236,011. Gaadell, W. R. K. May 16, 1924. Observation devices. - In order to allow the driver of a motor-vehicle to view those portions of the roadway or side pavement which would otherwise he invisible or be obscured by the windscreen standard or body pillar A, a diverging lens B or a portion of a lens is mounted in front of the driver, e.g. adjacent to the body pillar, so as to form in the field of view of the driver a virtual image x of an object or objects X which cannot be viewed directly. An opaque screen C is preferably fitted to the rear of the pillar to prevent light from falling on the lens B from the rear and blurring the image, the screens being formed with a projecting arm d, Fig. 3, which, with a spring E, supports the lens B. Preferably the lens is rectangular in shape, and in one construction a plane-concave lens is employed with the plane face secured to the windscreen H. An auxiliary lens G adjustable in grooves in the opaque screen C may be arranged behind the lens B, and its position varied to suit the eyes of the driver. In a modification, Fig. 6. designed to enable the driver to see round a corner which he is approaching, two lenses J<1>, J<2> combined with reflecting prisms or mirrors K<1>, K<2> are arranged on opposite sides of an opaque partition L in a box Z mounted on the radiator or bonnet of the vehicle.