AU2009200218B2 - Mounting bracket - Google Patents

Abstract

A mounting bracket for mounting a reversing camera to the s rear of a vehicle to provide a view at the rear of a vehicle when reversing. The mounting bracket has a mounting portion to which the reversing camera is attached and at least one securing portion for attaching the bracket to the rear of the vehicle using the existing 10 attachment points for the license plate, registration plate or similar vehicle identification element. The mounting portion is arranged to extend from the securing portion so that when the reversing camera is attached to the vehicle using the mounting portion, the camera does 15 not obscure the license plate and there is no need to form additional attachment points in the rear bodywork of the vehicle as the securing portion is attached to the license plate to use the existing attachment points. The advantages of the mounting bracket are ease of 20 installation, there is reduced risk of rust and corrosion and the camera is mounted over the edge of the license plate so as not to obscure it. N:\elboume\Cases\Patent\76000-76999\P76676.AU. 1\Specis\P76676 AU.1 Specification 2009-1-6.doc 20/01/09 FIGURE 1 18 20 10-2 ( 12 14 3234 10 58 52 56 5418 1 12 10) 2 5246 (16

Description

AUSTRALIA Patents Act 1990 COMPLETE SPECIFICATION Standard Patent Applicant(s): Eighty Eight Investments Pty Ltd Invention Title: MOUNTING BRACKET The following statement is a full description of this invention, including the best method for performing it known to me/us: P?6676.AU.1 PatSetFding Application 2009-1-20.doc (M) - 1 MOUNTING BRACKET FIELD OF THE INVENTION 5 The present invention relates to a connector in the form of a mounting bracket and a mounting system incorporating the mounting bracket for securely mounting a reversing camera to the rear of a vehicle to allow the reversing camera to provide a view of the space or area at the rear 10 of the vehicle, particularly when the vehicle is reversing or when reverse gear of the vehicle is selected or engaged so as to assist the driver or operator of the vehicle to reverse the vehicle along a desired pathway. 15 In one form, the present invention relates to a mounting bracket and mounting system incorporating the mounting bracket for securely mounting a reversing camera assembly to the rear of a vehicle for providing an electronic signal to a display unit for displaying the view at the 20 rear of the vehicle on the display unit wherein the reversing camera assembly is mounted using the mounting bracket in such a manner so as not to obscure part of the identification of the vehicle such as for example, identification in the form of the licence plate, 25 registration plate or other identifying element located at or towards the rear of the vehicle. In one form, the present invention relates to a mounting bracket and a mounting system incorporating the mounting 30 bracket for attaching a reversing camera assembly to the rear of the vehicle using the existing attachment elements of the vehicle identifying element, such as the existing attaching elements of the licence plate, registration 5535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.15535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.1 2/07/14 - 2 plate, number plate or the like which are already present for attaching the vehicle identifying element to the vehicle so that no new attachment points on the body of the vehicle are required. 5 Although the present invention will be described with particular reference to one or more forms of the mounting bracket and one or more forms of the mounting system including one form of the reversing camera assembly, it is 10 to be noted that the scope of the present invention is not restricted to the described embodiment but rather the scope of the present invention is more extensive so as to include other forms and arrangements of the mounting bracket, other forms and arrangements of the mounting 15 system, other forms and arrangements of the reversing camera assembly and the use of the various forms and arrangements of the components for other applications. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 20 Reversing camera assemblies include a reversing camera for providing a visual display of the field of view directly behind a motor vehicle, particularly when the vehicle is about to or is reversing. Such assemblies are 25 increasingly popular for attaching to the rear of vehicles, particularly private motor cars and the like, in the interests of safety, particularly with the increase in popularity of vehicles with poor rearward vision such as for example, Sports Utility Vehicles, 4 wheel drive 30 vehicles, people movers, delivery vans, trucks and the like. One way to overcome the poor rearward vision is to use a reversing camera or similar to provide a view directly behind the vehicle for display on a suitable 5535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.15535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.1 2/07/14 - 3 display unit mounted in the cabin of the vehicle in easy view of the driver or operator when seated in the vehicle, such as for example, on the display screen provided in many motor cars for providing information about operation 5 of the vehicle, and/or for entertainment purposes, including a GPS display unit. However, for the reversing camera to provide an appropriate field of view and transmit a signal to a visual display unit, such as a monitor, that is converted in a useful display for the 10 driver or operator of the vehicle to see behind the vehicle, the reversing camera must be mounted to the vehicle in the correct position or orientation to provide the desired view. Often the view produced by the camera is either too high, too low, off-centre or to one side, to 15 be completely useful for the driver or operator of the vehicle when seated, caused at least in part by the mounting arrangement of the camera. Many existing ways of mounting the camera are cumbersome and difficult to use as well as being inflexible, resulting in poor positioning or 20 poor adjustment of the camera which cannot be used to produce an appropriate view. One of the reasons for this is that the mounting of the camera is in front of the licence plate which reduces the options of mounting the camera assembly since the mounting arrangement tends to 25 obscure the licence plate since it is located in front of the licence plate. Not only is the field of view of the camera poor or misdirected because of the angle of the rear panel to which the camera assembly is attached, but the field of view does not show directly behind the 30 vehicle or the view could be distorted or could be a view to one side of the vehicle, or a view that is directed above or below the view that would provide the most helpful information or would be most helpful to the driver 5535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.15535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.1 2/07/14 -4 or operator. Therefore, there is a need to provide a mounting system that allows the camera to be able to be mounted so as to 5 provide a more directed field of view that is helpful for the driver/operator of the vehicle. Also, there is a need for a mounting system that allows greater flexibility and adjustability of the position and/or orientation of the rear view camera. 10 Another problem of existing mounting systems for reversing cameras, is that in order for the reversing cameras to provide the most helpful view, the cameras need to be mounted centrally at the rear of the vehicle and in a 15 position providing a clear view, which position often obscures part of the rear identifying element, such as for example, the licence plate, number plate, or similar, which in some jurisdictions, is an offence. Merely moving the camera out of the way of the licence plate is often 20 not an option or appropriate because of the configuration of the mounting arrangement which requires the mounting arrangement to be in front of the licence plate to provide a helpful centralised field of view from the camera. Therefore, there is a need for a system of mounting a 25 reversing camera assembly to the rear of a vehicle in such a manner that the vehicle identification element, such as for example, the licence plate, is not obscured when viewed from outside the vehicle, such as for example, by authorities or by surveillance devices used by 30 authorities, including speed cameras, red light cameras, and other traffic monitoring devices. Another problem associated with attaching reversing 5535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.15535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.1 2/07/14 - 5 cameras to the rear of vehicles is that it is often necessary to drill holes in the body work of the vehicle to mount the reversing camera. Not only does the drilling of holes in exact locations require skill, experience and 5 patience, but also drilling holes increases the risk of damage and/or deterioration of the vehicle, such as for example, through rust occurring at the edges of the recently drilled holes by leaving bare metal exposed to the weather, thereby providing sites for initiation of 10 rust, corrosion or the like. Thus, there is a need to prevent damage and/or deterioration to the vehicle by providing a mounting system for a reversing camera which uses existing attachment points for the licence or registration number plate or the like. 15 Another problem associated with existing reversing camera assemblies is that the mounting arrangement is mostly located in front of the licence plate which presents an unsightly appearance and reduces the visual appeal and 20 market acceptance of such arrangements. Accordingly, it is one aim of the present invention to provide a mounting system for a reversing camera assembly in which the camera assembly, when mounted to the rear of 25 the vehicle, does not obscure at least a part of the vehicle identifying element of the vehicle. It is one aim of the present invention to provide a mounting system including a mounting bracket for use in 30 mounting a reversing camera to the rear of a motor vehicle wherein the camera is located with respect to the edge of the vehicle identification element so as not to obscure information contained on the vehicle identification 5535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.15535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.1 2/07/14 -6 element. It is one aim of the present invention to provide a mounting bracket for use in attaching a reversing camera 5 assembly to the rear of a vehicle, which mounting bracket does not require the formation of new attachment points in the body of the vehicle, but rather takes advantage of the existing fixing or attachment points in the vehicle to mount the camera. 10 It is one aim of the present invention to provide a mounting system which is more visually acceptable to consumers and/or users of such systems in which less of the mounting system is on view or exposed to view when 15 installed on the vehicle when viewed from or towards the rear of the vehicle. It is to be noted that not all embodiments of the present invention satisfy all of the aims of the invention. Some 20 embodiments will satisfy one aim, whilst other embodiments will satisfy another aim. Some embodiments may satisfy two or more aims. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 25 According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a connector for use in connecting a reversing camera assembly to the rear of a vehicle, said reversing camera assembly including a reversing camera for providing 30 a view at or from the rear of the vehicle, said connector comprising at least one elongate securing portion, and a elongate central mounting portion, said at least one securing portion for securing the connector to the vehicle 5535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.15535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.1 2/07/14 and having a first lengthwise extebding axis, and the central mounting portion for use in securely mounting the reversing camera to the connector and wherein the axis of the at least one securing portion and the central mounting 5 portion being co-planar with each other for facilitating attachment of the connector intermediate a vehicle identification element and the rear of the vehicle, the first and second axis extending substantially parallel to each other in the plane of the connector, and wherein the 10 second axis having lengthwise extending axis of the central mounting portion is displaced from the first axis of the at least one securing portion so that the reversing camera assembly can be mounted with respect to the vehicle identification element located on or at the rear of the 15 vehicle so as to be substantially clear of the vehicle identification element. In one embodiment one form of the connector of the present invention can be incorporated into a mounting system for 20 mounting a reversing camera assembly including a reversing camera to the rear of a vehicle so as to provide a view at or from the rear of the vehicle, particularly when the vehicle is reversing, comprising a mounting bracket and a camera assembly wherein the mounting bracket has at least 25 one securing portion for securing the mounting bracket to the vehicle and a central camera assembly mounting portion located with respect to the at least one securing portion for securely connecting the camera assembly to the mounting bracket so that when the camera assembly is 30 connected to the central mounting portion, the camera assembly is mounted with respect to a vehicle identification element provided on, at or towards the rear of the vehicle so as to not substantially obscure 5535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.15535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.1 2/07/14 - 8 information contained on the vehicle identification element attached to the rear of the vehicle. According to one aspect of the present invention, there is 5 provided a method of mounting a camera assembly to the rear of a vehicle so as to provide a view at or from the rear of the vehicle using a mounting bracket having at least one securing portion and a camera assembly mounting portion in which the camera mounting portion is displaced 10 from or off-set from, the securing portion comprising the steps of securing the at least one securing portion of the mounting bracket to the rear of the vehicle using an existing attachment point provided on the rear of the vehicle to secure the mounting bracket to the vehicle, and 15 mounting the reversing camera assembly to the central mounting portion so that the reversing camera assembly is located with respect to a vehicle identification element provided on, at or towards the rear of the vehicle so as to not substantially obscure selected information provided 20 on the vehicle identification element by the mounting bracket being located either partially or wholly behind the vehicle identification element. In one embodiment of one form of the connector of the 25 present invention, the connector can be used with a reversing camera assembly which is capable of being mounted to a vehicle in proximity to a vehicle identification element in which the camera assembly comprises a camera housing for housing a reversing camera 30 and a reversing camera for providing a view from the rear of the vehicle located within the housing, said camera housing being connectable to the vehicle identification element so as to overlie at least a part of an edge of the 5535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.15535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.1 2/07/14 - 9 vehicle identification element wherein when the camera assembly is located with respect to the edge of the vehicle identification element at or towards the edge of the vehicle identification element, the camera housing is 5 secured to the vehicle in a position so as to not substantially obscure preselected information on the vehicle identification element by being mounted in part behind the vehicle licence plate. 10 BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Typically, the connector is a bracket, more typically, a mounting bracket for use in connecting the rear view camera to the rear of the vehicle. 15 In one form, the mounting bracket of the present invention is a substantially planar bracket. More typically, the bracket is an elongate planar bracket having a width very much smaller than its overall length. Even more 20 typically, the bracket is a non-linear bracket, preferably a bent bracket, an inclined bracket, a stepped bracket, a sectionalised bracket, a segmented bracket, or a bracket having different parts for different functions, and more preferably a double stepped bracket, a double inclined 25 bracket, an off-set bracket, an out-of-alignment bracket, or similar. In one form, the bracket has one, two, three or more securing portions. Typically, the individual securing 30 portions are located at different locations, such as for example, spaced apart locations. More typically, the bracket has two securing portions. More typically, the two securing portions are located remote from each other, 5535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.15535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.1 2/07/14 - 10 preferably in spaced apart locations, and more preferably at either end of the elongate bracket such as for example, at or towards both of the left hand side of the bracket, and at or towards the right hand side of the bracket. 5 More typically, the two securing portions are end or side securing portions located at either end of the bracket. More typically, the two side securing portions are arranged in alignment with each other so as to have a common lengthwise extending axis or are arranged to be co 10 linear with each other or are arranged to form the plane of the bracket or to contain a common lengthwise extending axis passing through both portions. Typically, the two end or side securing portions are 15 provided with one or more apertures for attaching to the bodywork of the vehicle. Typically, the location of the respective apertures of the securing portions are in register with the apertures of a vehicle identification element, such as for example, the apertures on the licence 20 plate, registration plate or other vehicle identification element or the like. Typically, the position of the securing apertures on the securing portions of the mounting bracket, particularly the securing apertures of the securing portions of the bracket correspond to the 25 position of the attachment points of the identification element so that the existing attachment points for attaching the identification element can be used to mount the camera assembly to the rear of the vehicle, in combination with the vehicle identification element. 30 In one form, the bracket is a non planar bracket in which the mounting portion extends outwardly of the plane of the bracket. In one form, the mounting portion has two 5535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.15535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.1 2/07/14 - 11 sections or parts in which one part is in the plane of the bracket and the other part extends perpendicularly outwardly from the plane of the bracket. 5 In one form, the mounting bracket or mounting portion of the bracket is not planar but is provided with one or more support elements, preferably two tabs, ears, or other planar support elements, extending outwardly from the plane of the bracket, more typically extending 10 perpendicularly outwardly from the plane of the mounting portion of the mounting bracket. Typically, the tabs, ears or the like are located on, at or towards either side of the central mounting portion of the bracket. More typically, the support elements are formed into a yoke 15 arrangement. More typically, each support element, including the tabs, ears or the like, is provided with an aperture, typically a connection aperture, for use in connecting either directly or indirectly the mounting bracket to the camera assembly to attach the camera 20 assembly to the mounting bracket. Typically, the camera assembly is provided with, or has attached thereto or integral therewith, a second yoke arrangement, typically a connection yoke arrangement. Preferably the yoke arrangement of the camera assembly is similar to the yoke 25 assembly of the mounting portion of the mounting bracket, or is a complementary yoke assembly provided on the rear surface of the camera assembly, or connected or attached to the rear surface of the camera assembly, for cooperative interaction with the yoke arrangement of the 30 mounting bracket. Even more typically, the tabs on either side of the mounting portion extend substantially perpendicularly from the plane of the mounting portion. Even more typically, the tabs extend over the edge of the 5535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.15535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.1 2/07/14 - 12 vehicle identification element or are located beyond the edge of the vehicle identification element, or surrounding framework when the mounting bracket is attached to the licence plate enabling the reversing camera assembly to be 5 mounted substantially clear of the identification element, such as for example, above or below the edge of the licence plate so as not to obscure important, significant or critical information contained on the licence plate. 10 In one form, the centrally located mounting portion is fixed in place intermediate the two securing portions on either side of the mounting portion. In one form, the centrally located mounting portion is movable, particularly adjustably movable to assist in the correct 15 location and/or orientation of the rear view camera or assembly or housing to provide the desired view when reversing the vehicle. If movable, the mounting portion can be moved sideways along the lengthwise extending axis in either direction and/or substantially perpendicularly 20 in either direction to the lengthwise extending axis of the elongate bracket. In one form, the connection or support apertures provided in the respective tabs of the yoke arrangement or 25 arrangements are circular apertures in the form of round holes or bores whereas in other forms, the apertures are elongate holes, such as slots allowing adjustment of the camera assembly with respect to the mounting portion. More typically, the apertures provided in the similar or 30 complementary yoke assembly are also circular holes or are elongate holes, such as adjusting slots so as to provide a further range of adjustments, including pivoting adjustment of the camera assembly with respect to the 5535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.15535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.1 2/07/14 - 13 bracket. Typically, the central mounting portion is located intermediate the two securing portions, preferably, 5 intermediate the end or side securing portions located at or towards the two ends of the elongate bracket. In one form, the central mounting portion is located in the plane of the mounting bracket common to the plane of the two securing portions or in the plane containing the two side 10 securing portions. Typically, the mounting portion is located centrally along one longitudinal side of the bracket. Typically, the lengthwise extending axis of the centrally 15 located mounting portion is displaced from the lengthwise extending axis of the securing portion or both securing portions. In one form, the central portion is aligned to extend in 20 the same direction as the direction of the lengthwise extending axis of one or both of the side securing portions, but is displaced from the longitudinal axis, such as for example, being arranged in substantially parallel relationship to the side or end securing 25 portions. In one form, the lengthwise extending axis of the elongate central mounting portion is displaced from the lengthwise extending axis containing both side securing portions. Typically, the side securing portions are connected to the central mounting portion by 30 transition portions, preferably, inclined transition portions. More typically, the inclined transition portions are located on either side of the central mounting portion. Even more typically, the inclined 5535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.15535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.1 2/07/14 - 14 transition portions are oppositely angularly inclined to each other. Alternatively, the mounting portion is a shoulder, head or neck portion extending from one longitudinal side edge of the bracket. 5 In one form, the camera assembly is connected to the central mounting portion using a spacer. In one form, the spacer is a rod, bar, shims, collars, washers, bushes, packing or the like. In one form, the tabs provided at 10 either side of the mounting portion act as a spacer to bring the camera assembly forward over the edge of the licence plate and/or to clear the rear panel of the vehicle or similar. 15 Typically, the reversing camera assembly includes a reversing camera. More typically, the reversing camera includes a light or device for illuminating the field or part of the field of view of the camera, particularly when the camera is operating such as when the vehicle is 20 reversing or when reverse gear of the vehicle is selected or engaged. In one form, the illuminating device is a multitude of lights, preferably in the form of multiple LED's directed so as to illuminate at least a part of the field of view of the camera, particularly the path taken 25 by the vehicle when reversing to assist the driver of the vehicle. In one form, the camera of the camera assembly is a fixed camera or is an adjustable camera so as to be adjustable 30 to provide an appropriate field of view when the camera is mounted with respect to the licence plate at the rear of the vehicle. The position of the camera assembly is adjustable with respect to the mounting portion of the 5535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.15535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.1 2/07/14 - 15 mounting bracket. In one form, the position of the camera is adjustable with respect to the camera housing. In one form, the camera assembly is provided with slots 5 for adjusting the position of the camera. Typically, the adjustment slots are provided to allow adjustment of the position of the camera assembly so as not to foul or obscure the licence plate or information being conveyed by the licence plate at the rear of the vehicle when 10 connected to the vehicle. The adjustment slots allow adjustment of the position of the camera assembly with respect to the mounting bracket, particularly with respect to the mounting portion of the mounting bracket. 15 In one form, the inboard edge of the camera or camera assembly is in line with or extends beyond the outer edge of the side securing portions of the bracket with respect to the identification element. 20 In one form, the bracket is mounted above the upper edge of the rear vehicle identification element whereas, in other forms, the camera assembly is mounted below the lower edge of the vehicle identification element depending upon which way the camera assembly is mounted or is 25 required for mounting. In one form, the camera assembly of the present invention can be mounted either right side up or upside down depending upon the configuration of the rear panel of the 30 vehicle and/or the licence plate. In one form, the mounting bracket is located behind the licence plate, typically between the rear of the vehicle 5535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.15535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.1 2/07/14 - 16 and the rear face of the licence plate. In one form, the camera housing can be located with respect to the licence plate, preferably to partially 5 overlie the licence plate, more preferably along the edge of the licence plate, and preferably in contact with the upper edge of the licence plate. Typically, the camera of the camera assembly is located forward of the licence plate. 10 In one form, the camera assembly is wholly or partially supported by the licence plate, preferably by being clipped, more preferably, directly clipped, onto the edge of the licence plate, optionally, together with a suitable 15 fastening element, such as for example, a clamp, preferably a locking clamp, to lock the clip in a locked condition to prevent the clip undergoing unwanted movement when the vehicle is being driven. In this form of the invention, the camera assembly can be clipped onto the 20 edge of the licence plate and clamped into position without having to remove the licence plate. However, this form of the invention is less preferred. Typically, the reversing camera assembly, in accordance 25 with the present invention, is used for attachment to motorised vehicles such as automobiles, motor cars, SUV's, 4 wheel drives, passenger cars, sedans, vans, trucks and the like as well as being able to be connected to vehicles being towed, such as for example, trailers, articulated 30 vehicles, caravans and similar. Also, the mounting bracket and mounting system is applicable to other commercial vehicles and the like. 5535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.15535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.1 2/07/14 - 17 In one form, the license plate or number plate is provided with a framework surround, frame or similar, around part or all of the plate. In this form, the mounting bracket of the present invention is incorporated into the licence 5 plate or number plate frame or surround positioned around all or part of the outer edges of the licence plate, such as for example the mounting portion for the camera assembly is arranged integral with the number plate surround or frame so that the tabs extend outwardly from 10 the number plate surround or frame for attachment of the camera assembly. In this embodiment, the mounting assembly extends all or part way around the edge of the licence plate or number plate and the camera assembly extends partially or wholly forward of the licence plate 15 on the mounting portion. In one form, a packing element or packing material is located intermediate the bracket and the rear panel of the vehicle. Typically, the packing element or packing 20 material is, or is made from or incorporates, any suitable packing material including resilient or deformable material or the like preventing movement of the licence plate with respect to the body of the vehicle. In one form, the packing material is a gasket, preferably made 25 from or incorporating an adhesive tape, preferably a double sided adhesive tape, or two strips of adhesive tape on either side of the bracket to counteract the effects of vibration on mounting of the licence plate to the mounting bracket of the present invention which could manifest 30 itself as vibration to the camera assembly or the like. In one preferred form, the double sided adhesive tape is integral with the mounting bracket by being adhered to the rear face of the mounting bracket. 5535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.15535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.1 2/07/14 - 18 BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS One example of the present invention will now be described 5 by way of illustrating the present invention by way of non limiting example with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: Figure 1 is a top side perspective view of one form of the 10 mounting assembly of the present invention, Figure 2 is a side elevation view of the assembly of Figure 1, 15 Figure 3 is a top plan view of the assembly of Figure 1, Figure 4 is a top perspective view of one form of the double sided adhesive tape gasket, for use with the mounting bracket of Figure 1. 20 Figure 5 is a perspective view of one form of the mounting bracket in accordance with the present invention, Figure 6 is a top perspective view of one form of the 25 camera assembly, Figure 7 is a top front perspective view of another form of the mounting bracket in accordance with the present invention. 30 Figure 8 is a top perspective view of one form of the connection of the camera assembly to the mounting bracket as shown in Figure 7. 5535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.15535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.1 2/07/14 - 19 DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION One form of the mounting system of the present invention 5 will now be described in detail. One form of a mounting assembly in accordance with the present invention, generally denoted as 2, is shown in Figures 1 to 6, and includes a mounting bracket 10 and a 10 camera assembly 50 for attachment to the rear panel (not shown) of a motor vehicle to provide a view from the rear of the vehicle to assist the driver or operator of the vehicle when reversing the vehicle along the desired pathway. 15 In one form, bracket 10 has a first securing portion 12 for securing one end of bracket 10 to the rear of a motor vehicle (not shown). Securing portion 12 is located at or towards one end or side of elongate bracket 10. Portion 20 12 is provided with one, two, three or more securing apertures 14 for receiving therethrough suitable fasteners for attaching bracket 10 to the vehicle. In one form, the spacing of apertures 14 in end portion 12 corresponds to the spacing of apertures of a licence plate (not shown) 25 which is one form of a vehicle identification element located at the rear of the vehicle. Apertures 14 can take any desirable or suitable form including being circular holes or bores or being elongate slots or a combination of differently shaped holes, such as for example a keyhole 30 slot or the like. In one form of bracket 10 there is a multitude of preformed holes in outline only located at spaced apart locations along securing portion 12 having a weakly attached centre which may be punched out as desired 5535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.15535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.1 2/07/14 - 20 to form a securing aperture in accordance with the exact spacing required to attach the bracket to the vehicle. In this form, the weakly attached centre of the preformed hole is a centrally located disc weakly held in place by 5 nibs, lands, or similar frangible connections which can be easily punched out, severed, or broken as required to form the aperture. Alternatively, mounting bracket 10 is provided with one or more slots (not shown) extending lengthwise along the longitudinal axis rather than being 10 provided with some spaced apart apertures, so that suitable fasteners can be inserted into the slot at desired locations. It is to be noted that the shape, spacing and size of 15 apertures 14 or slots if provided, correspond to the existing fastening points or attachment points provided at the rear of the vehicle for attaching the licence plate or similar identification element such as for example, attachment apertures, studs, or similar depressions or 20 projections provided on the body work of the motor vehicle, so that no additional holes need be formed in the bodywork of the vehicle, such as for example by drilling or the like, but rather the existing points of attachment, be they apertures or projections, may be used to mount the 25 bracket thereby providing a saving in time and providing a reduced risk of introducing damage or deterioration to the vehicle, such as for example, through rust or corrosion occurring at the edges of the recently drilled hole which leaves bare metal exposed, thus leaving a site for 30 initiation of rust. It is to be noted the spacing and location of the attachment points provided on the motor vehicle 5535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.15535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.1 2/07/14 - 21 corresponds to the spacing and location of the attachment points of the vehicle identification element. Bracket 10 has a second side or end securing portion 16 5 located at or towards the other end of elongate bracket 10. Securing apertures 18 are provided at spaced apart locations along the length of securing portion 16. Again, the location of securing apertures 18 is in correspondence with the location of apertures in the licence plate and/or 10 the attachment or fastening points of the rear panel of the motor vehicle so that no new holes or apertures need to be formed to attach bracket 10 to the vehicle using securing portion 16. Alternatively, bracket 10 is provided with one or more slots instead of apertures. 15 Bracket 10 is provided with a centrally located mounting portion 20 located intermediate side securing portions 12, 16. Mounting portion 20 is located within the plane of the two side securing portions 12, 16 as shown more 20 particularly in Figure 3 which is a top plan view of this form of bracket 10. However, it is to be noted that while the lengthwise extending axis of mounting portion 20 is substantially parallel to the lengthwise extending axis common to and passing through the two side securing 25 portions 12, 16, it is displaced to one side of the common axis, as shown more particularly in Figure 5. A first inclined transition section 32 is provided between the inboard end of end securing section 12 and one end of 30 mounting portion 20 to provide a transition from in-line side securing portion 12 to the displaced but parallel mounting portion 20. In one form, transition portion 32 is angularly inclined to both the side securing portion 12 5535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.15535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.1 2/07/14 - 22 and the mounting portion 20 but in the same plane as the plane containing side securing portion 12 and mounting portion 20. 5 Similarly, a second transition portion 34 is provided intermediate the other end of mounting portion 20 and the inboard end of side securing portion 16 at the other side of mounting portion 20 to the first transition portion 32. Transition portion 34 is angularly inclined to both in 10 line side securing portion 16 and displaced mounting portion 20. It is to be noted that transition portions 32. 34 are oppositely angularly inclined to each other. The effect of the displacement of mounting portion 20 with respect to the side securing portions 12, 16 is that the 15 mounting portion 20 is spaced apart, i.e. located further away from the edge of the licence plate so as to be aligned with or beyond one of the outer edges of the licence plate to accommodate mounting of camera assembly 50. 20 With particular reference to Figure 5, a pair of internally threaded bores in the form of internally threaded cylindrical collars or tubes 38 are located at or towards both ends of mounting portion 20 to assist in 25 receiving suitable fasteners therethrough, such as for example, the fasteners formerly used to attach the licence plate to the vehicle, to enable camera assembly 50 to be secured to the mounting portion 20 as will be described in more detail later in this specification. 30 A gasket 40, or similar, is provided for mounting between bracket 10 and the rear bodywork of the vehicle. In one form, gasket 40 is in the form of a double sided adhesive 5535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.15535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.1 2/07/14 - 23 tape. Gasket 40 conforms exactly to the shape of bracket 10 and is provided with one or more apertures 42 on or towards one end of gasket 40 and one or more apertures 44 on or towards the other end of gasket 40 in register with 5 the location of apertures 14, 18 of bracket 10. Gasket 40 may be made from any suitable material including resilient material, elastically deformable or other suitable elastic or plastic material, such as foam rubber or other foamed materials to fill the gap or void between one surface of 10 bracket 10 and the rear panel of the vehicle so as to dampen or prevent any vibration being transmitted to camera assembly 50. With particular reference to Figure 1, a generally 15 elongate spacer bar 46, is provided to span between collars 38 to not only assist in accurately locating camera assembly 50 but also to assist in fastening camera assembly 50 to bracket 10. 20 Spacer 46 may take any suitable or desirable form or arrangement. Additionally, spacer 46 may have any suitable thickness, such as for example, to extend the camera assembly 50 outwardly from the licence plate in the event that the licence plate is provided with a cover, 25 frame, or protective or decorative cover or the like. One particularly preferred form is a generally elongate shape having curved ends to form generally rounded ends to the elongate spacer. A pair of fastening apertures (not shown), are provided in either end of spacer bar 46 for 30 receiving suitable fasteners therethrough to attach camera assembly 50 to mounting bracket 10. Camera assembly 50 will now be described. In one form, 5535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.15535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.1 2/07/14 - 24 camera assembly 50 includes a housing 52 and a camera 54 together with camera lens 56. Housing 52 is generally symmetrical about a centre line passing through the centre of camera 54. A mounting slot (not shown) is located at 5 either side of housing 52 for receiving therethrough a suitable fastener to fasten camera assembly 50 to mounting bracket 10, by being received through the apertures of spacer 46 to engage with internally threaded bore 38 to secure camera assembly 50 in place on mounting bracket 10. 10 The slots allow adjustment of the position of camera assembly 50 with respect to the licence plate and the body work at the rear of the vehicle. The slots provide for vertical adjustment. The slots are covered by removable caps 58 fitted into cavities associated with the slots. 15 Caps 58 seal the cavities against dirt and the like as well as holding the fasteners captive so that the fasteners cannot release or unscrew due to vibration and the like during operation of the vehicle. 20 In operation of the mounting system of the present invention, firstly, the existing licence plate is removed from the rear of the vehicle so as to expose the rear panel at the rear of the vehicle, particularly to expose the mounting apertures or projections for attaching the 25 licence plate. Gasket 40 is accurately positioned on the rear panel of the vehicle so that apertures 42, 44 are in register with the apertures on the rear of the vehicle that were formerly used for mounting the licence plate and adhered to the rear of the vehicle. Bracket 10 is then 30 placed against gasket 40 with apertures 14, 18 in register with apertures 42, 44 of gasket 40 respectively. The adhesive on both surfaces of gasket 40 allows the gasket to adhere to the body work and for bracket 10 to adhere to 5535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.15535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.1 2/07/14 - 25 the gasket at least temporarily to retain bracket 10 in position. Alternatively, if gasket 40 is integral with bracket 10 so 5 that the rear face of bracket 10 is provided with the double sided adhesive tape, combined bracket 10 and gasket 40 can be located against the rear of the vehicle in a single operation with gasket 40 sandwiched between bracket 10 and the rear of the vehicle. 10 Using the fasteners previously removed from the licence plate, the licence plate is reattached to the rear of the vehicle by the fasteners being received through aligned apertures 14, 42 on one side of bracket 10 and gasket 40 15 and apertures 18, 44 on the other side of bracket 10 and gasket 40. Thus now, both the mounting bracket 10 and licence plate are firmly secured to the rear of the vehicle with central mounting portion 20 extending beyond the edge of the licence plate, usually being located above 20 the top edge of the licence plate. However, in some circumstances, the mounting bracket may be located along and/or beyond the lower edge of the licence plate in which case, central mounting portion 20 extends below the lower edge of the licence plate. 25 Spacer bar 46 is placed against mounting portion 20 so that the apertures provided at either end of space bar 46 are in register with internally threaded tubes 38 provided on bracket 10, so that the internal threads of tubes 38 30 are accessible for receiving therein suitable fasteners. Camera assembly 50 is located against spacer bar 46 with the adjustment slots at either end aligned to register 5535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.15535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.1 2/07/14 - 26 with tubes 38 extending through the adjustment slots at either end to mount camera assembly 50 to bracket 10. The final position of camera assembly 50 can be adjusted by moving the camera assembly to the correct position using 5 the adjustment slots to move with respect to tubes 38. The fasteners are then tightened to secure the assembly to the bracket. Covers or caps 58 are then clipped into place to cover the ends of the fasteners to protect them against weather and also to prevent the fasteners from 10 undoing due to vibration. The camera assembly can then be connected to the remainder of the reversing system to provide a field of view in the display unit located within the cabin of the vehicle, such as in or on top of the dashboard, when the vehicle reverses or when reverse gear 15 is engaged. Another embodiment of the mounting system of the present invention will now be described with particular reference to Figures 7 and 8. In this form, the mounting bracket is 20 a modified bracket by being modified slightly by having a modified centrally located mounting portion. It is to be noted that the same reference numerals are used to denote similar features in the modified bracket as in the originally described bracket which are substantially 25 unchanged. Modified mounting bracket, now denoted as 60 in Figures 7 and 8, is provided with a modified centrally located mounting portion 62 having a generally outwardly extending flange 64 provided with a pair of spaced apart tabs 66 located at or towards either side of flange 64 in 30 the form of a yoke arrangement 68 for connecting or supporting camera assembly 50 to bracket 60. Tabs 66 each have an aperture 70. 5535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.15535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.1 2/07/14 - 27 A complementary yoke arrangement 80 is provided on the rear of camera assembly 50 to cooperate with the yoke arrangement 68 of bracket 60. Yoke arrangement 80 is either integrally formed with the rear of camera assembly 5 50 or is connected thereto by suitable fasteners, such as screws 81 or the like. Yoke arrangement 80 comprises web portion 82 and two spaced apart ears 84 located at either end of web portion 82. Each ear 84 is provided with an elongate slot 86. It is to be noted that the spacing of 10 ears 84 is greater than the spacing of tabs 68 so that respective tabs 68 can be located abutting against respective ears 84 so that the respective apertures 70 and elongate slots 86 can be aligned to receive a suitable fastener such as screw 88, therethrough to connect the two 15 yoke arrangements 68, 80 together as shown more particularly in Figure 8. Gasket 40 can be attached to one side of bracket 60, typically the inner side in use of bracket 60 gasket 40 can be a separate component or integral with bracket 60. 20 Operation of this form of the mounting system of the present invention is similar to the operation of the previously described embodiment, apart form the method of attachment of the camera assembly 50 to the bracket 60. 25 ADVANTAGES OF THE PRESENT INVENTION INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING: The present invention provides a mounting system, mounting 30 bracket and method of mounting reversing cameras which do not obscure relevant information on the licence plate since the camera and camera assembly are located along the outboard edge of the licence plate. 5535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.15535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.1 2/07/14 - 28 The position of the camera can be adjusted so as to provide the most helpful field of view when reversing the vehicle. 5 The mounting system of the present invention uses the existing attachment points, either projections or apertures to mount the reversing camera since the existing mounting points of the licence plate are used to mount a 10 bracket for mounting the camera assembly so that no new holes or attachment points need be formed in the rear of the vehicle. Another advantage of the present invention is that the 15 bracket, or at least most of the bracket, depending upon the actual form of the bracket being used, is located behind the rear face of the licence plate so as to be hidden from view which adds to the visual appeal and market acceptability of the mounting system and mounting 20 bracket. By the bracket being located intermediate the licence plate and the rear of the body of the vehicle, there is less of the mounting system available to the front of the licence plate to obscure relevant information on the licence plate. Additionally, only the camera 25 assembly will be visible resulting in a more pleasing appearance. The described arrangement has been advanced by explanation and many modifications may be made without departing from 30 the spirit and scope of the invention which includes every novel feature and novel combination of features herein disclosed. 5535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.15535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.1 2/07/14 - 29 In the claims which follow and in the preceding description of the invention, except where the context requires otherwise due to express language or necessary implication, the word "comprise" or variations such as 5 "comprises" or "comprising" is used in an inclusive sense, i.e. to specify the presence of the stated features but not to preclude the presence or addition of further features in various embodiments of the invention. 10 Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the invention described herein is susceptible to variations and modifications other than those specifically described. It is understood that the invention includes all such variations and modifications which fall within the spirit 15 and scope. 5535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.15535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.1 2/07/14

Claims (22)

1. A connector for use in connecting a reversing camera assembly to the rear of a vehicle, said reversing 5 camera assembly including a reversing camera for providing a view at or from the rear of the vehicle, said connector comprising at least one elongate securing portion, and an elongate central mounting portion, said at least one securing portion for securing the connector to the vehicle 10 and having a first lengthwise extending axis, and the central mounting portion for use in securely mounting the reversing camera to the connector and wherein the axes of the at least one securing portion and the central mounting portion being co-planar with each other for facilitating 15 attachment of the connector intermediate a vehicle identification element and the rear of the vehicle, the first and second axes extending substantially parallel to each other in the plane of the connector, and wherein the second lengthwise extending axis of the central mounting 20 portion is displaced from the first lengthwise extending axis of the at least one securing portion so that the reversing camera assembly can be mounted with respect to the vehicle identification element located on or at the rear of the vehicle so as to be substantially clear of the 25 vehicle identification element.

2. A connector according to claim 1 in which the connector is a mounting bracket. 30

3. A connector according to claim 2 in which the mounting bracket is provided with a first securing portion located at one side or end of the mounting bracket to one side of the central mounting portion and a second securing 5535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.15535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.1 2/07/14 - 31 portion located at the other side or end of the mounting bracket to the other side of the central mounting portion.

4. A connector according to any preceding claim in 5 which the connector is provided with a transition portion located between the securing portion and the mounting portion in which the transition portion is co-planar with the mounting portion and the securing portion and is angularly inclined to the securing portion and to the 10 mounting portion.

5. A connector according to claim 4 in which there is a first transition portion between one of the securing portions and the mounting portion and a second transition 15 portion located between the other securing portion and the mounting portion such that the two transition portions extend in oppositely angularly inclined directions to one another. 20

6. A connector according to any previous claim in which each of the securing portions are provided with at least one aperture such that the spacing apart of the two apertures corresponds to the spacing apart of exisiting attachment parts of the vehicle identification element. 25

7. A connector according to any preceding claim in which the two side or end securing portions are arranged in alignment with each other so as to have a common lengthwise extending axis or are arranged to extend co 30 linearly with each other or are arranged to extend in the lengthwise extending direction of the plane of the bracket or containing the lengthwise extending axis passing through both portions wherein the plane of the mounting 5535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.15535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.1 2/07/14 - 32 portion or the axis of the mounting portion is displaced from the axis of the securing portions but is substantially parallel to the axis of the securing portions. 5

8. A connector according to any preceding claim in which the connector further comprises at least one support element arranged so that the support element extends substantially perpendicularly outwards from the plane of 10 the central mounting portion of the connector.

9. A connector according to any preceding claim in which the mounting portion isa yoke arrangement for co operatively interacting with, the camera assembly. 15

10. A connector according to claim 9 in which the camera assembly is provided with a camera yoke assembly which is complementary to the yoke assembly of the mounting portion, the camera yoke assembly for cooperative 20 engagement with the mounting yoke assembly to facilitate attachment of the camera assembly to the connector.

11. A connector according to one of claims 8 to 10 in which the support elements are two spaced apart tabs 25 located at or towards either end of the mounting portion to extend outwardly therefrom.

12. A connector according to claim 10 or 11 in which the camera yoke arrangement includes a pair of tabs 30 located spaced apart from each other to a distance greater than the spacing apart of the tabs of the mounting yoke arrangement. 5535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.15535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.1 2/07/14 - 33

13. A connector according to any preceding claim in which the camera assembly is located at or beyond the edge of the vehicle identification element so as not to obscure the information contained on the vehicle identification 5 element.

14. A connector according to any preceding claim in which at least a part of the camera assembly is located outboard of the vehicle identification element. 10

15. A connector according to any preceding claim in which the camera assembly is at least partially supported by the vehicle identification element 15

16. A connector according to claim 15 in which the camera assembly is retained or supported by an edge of the vehicle identification element.

17. A connector according to any preceding claim in 20 which the connector is incorporated into a frame surrounding the vehicle identification element.

18. A connector according to any preceding claim further comprising packing material located intermediate 25 the connector and the rear panel of the vehicle wherein the packing material is made from a resilient material or a resiliently deformable material.

19. A connector according to claim 18 in which the 30 packing material is a gasket, optionally having one or more adhesive surfaces for counteracting the effects of vibration of the mounting of the vehicle identification element to the connector. 5535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.15535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.1 2/07/14 - 34

20. A method of mounting a camera assembly to the rear of a vehicle so as to provide a view at or from the rear of the vehicle using a connector according to any one of 5 claims 1 to 19 comprising the steps of securing the at least one securing portion of the connector to the rear of the vehicle using an existing attachment point provided on the rear of the vehicle to secure the connector to the vehicle, and mounting the reversing camera assembly to the 10 central mounting portion of the connector so that the reversing camera assembly is located with respect to the vehicle identification element provided on, at or towards the rear of the vehicle so as to not substantially obscure selected information provided on the vehicle 15 identification element by the mounting bracket being located either partially or wholly behind the vehicle identification element.

21. A connector for and/or a method of mounting a 20 reversing camera assembly to the rear of a motor vehicle substantially as herein described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

22. A method of mounting a camera assembly to the 25 rear of a vehicle so as to provide a view at or from the rear of the vehicle substantially as herein described with reference to the accompanying drawings. 5535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.15535809_1 (GHMatters) P76676.AU.1 2/07/14