A new Hyundai breathalyzer patent describes an in-car alcohol detection system built directly into the steering wheel, replacing aftermarket devices with a system designed to measure a driver’s breath alcohol level and prevent the vehicle from starting when the driver exceeds a set limit.
Hyundai Wants a Built-In Breathalyzer
In-car breathalyzers are becoming more common as a way to prevent repeat impaired drivers from re-offending. However, current aftermarket systems can detract from a vehicle’s appearance, become contaminated inside the car and be vulnerable to tampering.
Hyundai’s patent proposes integrating the alcohol detection technology into the vehicle rather than relying on an add-on device. The system would be incorporated into the steering wheel, where it could remain protected when not being used.
Patent drawings show a flap built into the lower spoke of the steering wheel. The flap would open and close to allow breath to enter the system when needed while protecting the components when they are not in use.
How Hyundai’s Digital Breathalyzer Would Work
A fan would pull air through the system and direct it toward an alcohol sensor, an air outlet and a drain. The drain would allow moisture from a driver’s breath to escape and help prevent buildup and mold.
The basic detection process would work in a familiar way. A sensor would measure the alcohol content in the driver’s breath, and if the reading exceeded the set limit, the vehicle would not start.
Hyundai Patent Could Monitor Driving Patterns
The system described in Hyundai’s patent goes beyond a single breath test. The vehicle could monitor what the patent calls “a driving pattern of the vehicle that is predetermined to be a careless driving pattern.”
If the vehicle detects that pattern, it could require the driver to provide another breath sample.
The system would also monitor the driver’s face. If it detects a change in the face behind the wheel, it could request another test or refuse to accept a test.
That facial monitoring is designed to prevent someone other than the driver from providing the breath sample. It would also help prevent a passenger from leaning over to complete the test instead of the person driving.
Built-In System Could Be More Tamper-Resistant
Because the breathalyzer would be integrated into the vehicle, the system should be more reliable than an add-on device, according to the patent’s concept. It should also be more resistant to tampering and easier for mechanics to service than current systems.
The design would also avoid requiring the driver to put their mouth on any part of the vehicle when providing a breath sample.
At the same time, the proposed system raises questions about privacy and personal freedoms because of its ability to monitor driving patterns and changes in the driver’s face.
