Abstract: The present invention is a method and apparatus for providing a vehicle entertainment control system that controls a plurality of display units. The vehicle entertainment control system includes a remote override control circuit capable of activating a remote signal for moving at least one of the plurality of display units between a first position and a second position. In addition, the vehicle entertainment control system includes a local display unit movement control circuit coupled to one of the plurality of display units.

Abstract: A latch is disclosed for securing a television monitor for an aircraft video system in a horizontal position, wherein the monitor is rotatable between the horizontal position and a downward position suitable for passenger viewing. The latch includes a solenoid having a hinged element. The hinged element may be rotated to a closed position wherein the hinged element is in a vertical orientation. The hinged element may also be rotated to an open position wherein the hinged element is rotated away from the vertical orientation. Further, the hinged element includes a cutout having a reverse L-shaped configuration and a first mating surface. In addition, a notch is formed in a bezel for the monitor. The notch includes a second mating surface wherein when the hinged element is in the open position and the monitor is in the horizontal position, the second mating surface rests upon the first mating surface thereby securing the monitor in the horizontal position.

Abstract: A connector module for terminating a video signal for a monitor in an aircraft entertainment system is disclosed. The module includes a switch having a post that is movable between an extended position for terminating the video signal and a retracted position for enabling transmittance of the video signal through an output connector for the monitor. In addition, the module includes a lever rotatably attached adjacent to the output connector. The lever is rotatable to a terminating position wherein the lever is adjacent to the post to enable positioning of the post in the extended position. Further, upon attachment of the video cable to the output connector, the video cable contacts the lever to cause rotation of the lever against the post to move the post to the retracted position.

Abstract: A screen for an aircraft video projection system. The screen includes a frame for attachment to an aircraft cabin surface and cylindrically shaped first and second pulleys rotatably mounted to the frame. In addition, the first and second pulleys are oriented substantially parallel relative to each other and the first pulley includes an interior hollow. The screen further includes a belt having a viewing surface and an indexing hole adjacent to the viewing surface. The belt is positioned in contact around the first and second pulleys and is moveable between a viewing position in which the viewing surface is exposed for display of the projected image and a stored position in which the viewing surface is hidden. The belt also serves as a heat absorbing layer. A light sensor is positioned opposite the belt. The light sensor serves to detect the presence of the indexing hole. In particular, if the indexing hole is positioned opposite the sensor, the sensor indicates that the viewing surface is exposed.

Abstract: A display unit that rotates a video monitor between a stowing cavity and an exposed position so that viewers can see the monitor. The monitor is attached to a frame which is typically mounted into the ceiling of the passenger cabin of an airplane. Also attached to the frame is an electric motor that rotates the monitor into the stowed and exposed positions. Attached to the output shaft of the electric motor is a slip clutch that allows the monitor to rotate up from the exposed position when a predetermined force is applied to the viewing device. A spring is operatively connected to the monitor and electric motor, that pulls the monitor up into the stowed position if the electric motor becomes disabled. An electric brake is also attached to the output shaft of the electric motor to hold the monitor in the exposed position.