The project centers around two low cost core components. The Targus ACP70USZ docking station handles almost all of the interface aspects of this project while the LILLIPUT 7" HD Camera Monitor is used to project the mirror image onto a mildly tinted transparent film, set at a 45 degree angle to monitor and directly in the driver's the field of view. Both of these components are discontinued and cost less than $60 combined from EBAY.

(I suppose I could try applying the tint film directly to the windshield, but I wonder at the legality and the distortion the curve of the windshield will cause.)

The Targus ACP70USZ docking station is still supported by Targus with up to Windows 10 software drivers, user manual, etc., so this hack doesn't have to be driven by your mobile phone. A Windows laptop or tablet will work just fine. 

The Dock can be mounted under the dashboard or in the glove box in most cars, vans or trucks, with only cables to route for power, accessories ( including wireless mouse and keyboard, GPS Dongle, WiFi Dongle for hotspots, digital storage for offline maps, music, etc.) and a single USB connector to the phone for charging and mirror display. 

I presume call and media audio will be routed by Bluetooth, but there are other hardwire options for that. There are also Gigabit ethernet to consider too. Envision a family van with a HUD, Gigabit LAN, intercom and individual entertainment options. I'm wide open to suggestions and I could use the help. 

Targus ACP70USZ docking station Specs:

• Dual video ports (1 x DVI-I, 1 x HDMI)
• 2 x USB 3.0 ports (support battery charging specification version 1.1)
• 4 x USB 2.0 ports
• Gigabit Ethernet
• Audio In/Out ports
• Security lock slot
• 6A AC adapter
• 3ft USB 3.0 cable

The power delivered to the 4 pin connector by the brick is 6A max @ 5v and 12v.

LILLIPUT 668_7 inch on camera top monitor

Short Description:

Lilliput 668 is a 7 inch 16:9 LED field monitor with built-in battery, HDMI, component video and sun hood. Optimised for pro video applications.

  • Model :668
  • Physical Resolution:800×480, support up to 1920×1080
  • Input:HDMI,YPbPr,Video,Audio
  • Brightness:450nits
  • Display
    Size7″ LED backlit
    Resolution800*480, support up to 1920×1080
    Brightness400cd/m²
    Aspect Ratio16:9
    Contrast500:1
    Viewing Angle140°/120°(H/V)
    Input
    HDMI 1
    VIDEO 2
    YPbPr 3(BNC)
    AUDIO 1
    Audio
    Speaker 1(bulit-in)
    Power
    Current Current: 650mA (1.2A when charging)
    Input Voltage DC6-20V
    Power Consumption ≤8W
    Battery Plate 2200mAh/7.4V (built-in)
    Environment
    Operating Temperature -20℃ ~ 60℃
    Storage Temperature -30℃ ~ 70℃
    Dimension
    Dimension(LWD) 188×125×33mm
    194.4×134.1×63.2mm (with sun shade)
    Weight 542g / 582g (with sun shade)