Vehicle entertainment system including a detachable functional module housed within a detachable video system
An automobile entertainment system includes a video system having a video monitor, a video source and an expansion slot, as well as a cradle secured within an automobile. The cradle is shaped and dimensioned for selectively receiving and securely holding the video system.
1 . A vehicle entertainment system, comprising:
a video system including a video monitor, a video source and an expansion slot shaped and dimensioned for receiving functional modules designed to enhance the functionality of the present video system;
a cradle secured within an automobile, the cradle being shaped and dimensioned for selectively receiving and securely holding the video system.
2 . The entertainment system according to claim 1 , wherein the functional modules are chosen from the group consisting of satellite radio, satellite television, GPS guidance systems, quick release battery packs, memory cards, wireless internet access, Bluetooth, digital video recorders, digital video reception and recording, digital video inputs, video conferencing, cellular digital cellular digital with a camera, USB capabilities, Blue sphere, hot swap hard drive, satellite video import card and wireless video import card.
3 . The entertainment system according to claim 1 , wherein the video source is a DVD player or hard drive.
4 . The entertainment system according to claim 1 , wherein the video system includes electrical connectors shaped and dimensioned for selective engagement with electrical connectors formed within the cradle.
5 . The entertainment system according to claim 1 , wherein the cradle is mounted within a headrest.
6 . The entertainment system according to claim 1 , wherein the cradle is secured to a ceiling of the vehicle.
7 . The entertainment system according to claim 1 , further including at least one docking station to which the video system may be selectively secured when not coupled to the cradle.
8 . The entertainment system according to claim 7 , wherein the video system includes electrical connectors shaped and dimensioned for selective engagement with electrical connectors formed within the docking station.
9 . The entertainment system according to claim 1 , wherein the cradle includes a connecting mechanism for selective attachment of the video system thereto.
10 . The entertainment system according to claim 9 , wherein the connecting mechanism includes a release button for selective release of the video system from the cradle.
11 . The entertainment system according to claim 10 , wherein the connecting mechanism includes a latch member for selective coupling of the video system to the cradle.