Abstract: A real time vehicle camera system is provided that can video image, record and display an area around a vehicle in response to activation of turn signals or backup lights to assist in preventing accidents with other vehicles or pedestrians. The vehicle camera system includes an array of video cameras positioned at various locations around the vehicle and a video input/output system that receives and records video images generated by the array of video cameras and displays them on a monitor for observation by a driver of the vehicle or at a remote location. The vehicle camera system also includes a control system which supplies power and a timed activation signal to the array of cameras and the video input/output system. The control system may additionally include a wireless communications terminal and a remote disabling device connected to the wireless communications terminal.

Abstract: An activation method and system is provided that, in response to an external signal, initiates a timed activation of a vehicle camera system, including for instance a series of cameras and a digital video recorder. The disclosed activation system generally includes a system control module having a timer and a series of relays connected to external devices such as, for example, an alarm system, an ignition system, etc. The relays receive signals from an external source and trigger the system control module to send a timed signal to the vehicle camera system. The activation system may also include a beeper control module including a beeper and connected to the timer such that the timer is activated in response to an external signal transmitted to the beeper by an external device such as a smartphone or home alarm system.