APPARATUS, SYSTEM, AND METHOD FOR DETECTING THE PRESENCE OF AN INTOXICATED DRIVER AND CONTROLLING THE OPERATION OF A VEHICLE

摘要

A system is disclosed to control operation of a vehicle based on a blood alcohol content of a driver. A detector includes a sensor configured to measure an alcohol content of air in a predetermined three-dimensional zone within a vehicle. The three-dimensional zone is proximal to a driver seat side of the vehicle. The sensor is configured to measure the alcohol content of the air independent of interaction of a driver with the detector. The sensor is configured to produce an electrical signal representative of a blood alcohol content of the driver. A controller is electrically coupled to the detector. The controller is configured to determine a tamper event. Optionally, the controller is configured to detect a presence of the driver within the vehicle. A method for preventing operation of a vehicle by an intoxicated person also is disclosed.

主权项

1. A system for controlling operation of a vehicle based on a blood alcohol content of a driver, the system comprising:
a detector comprising a sensor configured to measure an alcohol content of air in a predetermined three-dimensional zone within a vehicle, wherein the three-dimensional zone is proximal to a driver seat side of the vehicle, wherein the sensor is configured to measure the alcohol content of the air independent of interaction of a driver with the detector, and wherein the sensor is configured to produce an electrical signal representative of a blood alcohol content of the driver; and a controller electrically coupled to the detector, wherein the controller is configured to determine a tamper event.