System for preventing drunk driving and control method thereof

Abstract

Disclosed is a drunk driving prevention system and a method of controlling the same, the system including a sensor module that measures alcohol content in exhaled breath of a driver during a breath inspection of the driver, and a control module configured to check a drunken state of the driver according to the alcohol content measured by the sensor module to determine whether the breath inspection is completed and to prevent an engine start when the breath inspection is failed, wherein the control module includes an inspection unit that displays breath inspection guide information through a display unit, and the inspection unit displays the breath inspection guide information based on an engine operation input of the driver.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2021-0103019, No. 10-2021-0103021, No. 10-2021-0103023, and No. 10-2021-0103030, all filed on August 5, 2021, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure relates to a system for preventing drunk driving and a method for controlling the system for preventing drunk driving, and more specifically, to a technique for providing guidance displays for a drunk driving prevention system. Background Technology

[0004] We are trying to implement alcohol prevention systems in vehicles to prevent drunk driving.

[0005] In this regard, Korean Patent No. 10-705968 discloses a technology for using biometric information obtained through physical contact between the driver and a breathalyzer to check whether the driver is intoxicated, and for unlocking the vehicle's gear shift lever only when the driver is not intoxicated, thereby preventing drunk driving.

[0006] In addition, Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2005-096663 discloses a technology for using the driver's exhaled breath to determine whether the driver is intoxicated, and cutting off the power used to start the vehicle when the driver is determined to be intoxicated, thereby preventing drunk driving.

[0007] Furthermore, Japanese Patent No. 5348457 discloses a driver monitoring device equipped with a camera for photographing the driver and an alcohol detection device, and includes an interlocking device that prevents the engine from starting when the alcohol detection device detects alcohol in the driver's breath. Specifically, Japanese Patent No. 5348457 discloses a device configured to allow engine starting only when the driver's identity is verified based on multiple photographs taken immediately before and after an alcohol detection test conducted by the camera on the alcohol detection device.

[0008] Each time a driver gets into the vehicle, they need to activate the drunk driving prevention system installed in the vehicle, which forces the driver to spend time waiting for a message from the system. In practice, the drunk driving prevention system is rarely used, which constitutes a major obstacle to the widespread application of drunk driving prevention systems. Summary of the Invention

[0009] This disclosure focuses on improving driver convenience by selectively providing guidance displays related to the drunk driving prevention system under certain conditions, thereby increasing the utilization rate of the drunk driving prevention system.

[0010] According to this disclosure, the drunk driving prevention system includes a sensor module and a control module. The sensor module measures the alcohol content in the driver's exhaled breath during a breathalyzer test. The control module is configured to check the driver's intoxication status based on the alcohol content measured by the sensor module to determine whether the breathalyzer test is completed and to prevent engine start if the breathalyzer test fails. The control module includes a check unit that displays alcohol test guidance information via a display unit, and the check unit displays the alcohol test guidance information based on the driver's engine operating input.

[0011] When the driver's engine operation input is an engine start input used to drive the vehicle, the checking unit determines that the driver intends to drive and displays alcohol test guidance information; when the driver's engine operation input is an electronic device turn-on input used to activate electronic devices, the unit determines that the driver does not intend to drive and does not display alcohol test guidance information.

[0012] When the vehicle is in motion, the testing unit may not display alcohol test guidance information.

[0013] According to this disclosure, the drunk driving prevention system further includes: a camera that captures an image of the driver's face, including the driver's face, while seated in the driver's seat; and a storage unit that stores the image information captured by the camera. The control module may include an image processing unit that processes the image information captured by the camera. When the current driver returns to the driver's seat within a preset reference time from the end of the previous driving session, the checking unit can compare the image information processed by the image processing unit with the driver's image information stored in the storage unit during the previous driving session to check if the driver is the same. If the driver is determined to be the same, then when the driver inputs the engine operating input, the alcohol test guidance information may not be displayed.

[0014] The control module may include: a determination unit that compares the alcohol content measured by the sensor module with a reference alcohol content to check the driver's intoxication status; and a vehicle control unit that, when the determination unit determines that the driver's measured alcohol content exceeds the reference alcohol content and the driver is intoxicated, sends a control command to activate the engine start-prevention device.

[0015] The display unit can display vehicle status information sent from the vehicle controller, and the vehicle status information is divided into safety feature information and convenience feature information. When a request is made to display safety feature information while displaying alcohol test guidance information, the display unit can stop displaying the alcohol test guidance information and display the safety feature information. Conversely, when a request is made to display convenience feature information while displaying alcohol test guidance information, the convenience feature information is displayed after the display of the alcohol test guidance information has ended.

[0016] According to this disclosure, the drunk driving prevention system may further include a camera that captures an image of the driver's face, including the driver's face while seated in the driver's seat. The control module may determine whether the driver is wearing a mask based on the image captured by the camera and check the driver's intoxication status to activate the vehicle's engine start-stop device. The control module may complete the breathalyzer test only if the driver's exhaled breath volume provided to the sensor module is equal to or greater than a preset first reference exhaled breath volume, and command the sensor module to measure the alcohol content in the driver's exhaled breath. When the control module determines that the driver is wearing a mask, it may reset the reference exhaled breath volume used to complete the breathalyzer test to a second reference exhaled breath volume.

[0017] The control module may include: a checking unit that determines whether the driver is wearing a mask based on images captured by a camera and determines whether a breathalyzer test has been completed based on the driver's exhalation volume provided to the sensor module; a determination unit that compares the alcohol content measured by the sensor module with a reference alcohol content to check the driver's intoxication status; and a vehicle control unit that sends a control command to activate an engine start-prevention device when the determination unit determines that the driver's measured alcohol content exceeds the reference alcohol content and the driver is intoxicated.

[0018] According to this disclosure, as the mask-wearing mode is entered, the display unit can display guidance information to the driver, and when the mask-wearing mode is entered, the display unit can output guidance information to position the driver near the inlet of the inhalation unit close to the sensor module.

[0019] The camera can send the captured image information to the image processing unit of the control module in real time. The image processing unit can generate a frame based on the driver's face position and send the image information matching the frame to the display unit. The display unit can output the image information matching the frame in real time. Furthermore, the image processing unit can provide the frame magnified according to a preset ratio when entering the mask wearing mode.

[0020] When entering mask-wearing mode, the control module can command the sensor module to increase the speed of the fan installed on the inlet side of the air intake port.

[0021] Once the breathalyzer test begins, the control module can close the vehicle's windows and switch the vehicle to interior air mode. It can also switch the vehicle status based on the vehicle information prior to the breathalyzer test after the test is completed.

[0022] According to this disclosure, the drunk driving prevention system may also include a camera that captures an image including the face of the driver sitting in the driver's seat, wherein when the camera is requested to capture an image during a breathalyzer test or while the vehicle is in motion, the inspection unit of the control module may command the notification device to provide a first image capture notification, and after the first image capture notification is provided, the control module may command the camera to capture an image.

[0023] The inspection unit can ignore the first image capture notification provided while the vehicle is in motion, based on the driver's settings. When the driver settings specify that the first image capture notification is not required while the vehicle is in motion, image capture by the camera can be performed without providing an image capture notification, even when requesting an image from the camera.

[0024] According to this disclosure, the drunk driving prevention system may further include a camera that captures an image including the face of a driver sitting in a driver's seat, wherein a control module may detect whether the exhalation in the captured image matches the exhalation inhaled into a sensor module based on a comparison between a first estimated exhalation cycle and a second estimated exhalation cycle to complete an exhalation check. The first estimated exhalation cycle is calculated based on changes in the driver's mouth during the exhalation check of the captured image, and the second estimated exhalation cycle is determined by changes in the amount of exhaled air inhaled into the sensor module.

[0025] The control module may include an image analysis unit configured to process and analyze captured images. The image analysis unit can check for the presence of any unauthorized object other than the driver in the captured images, and if an unauthorized object is detected, the control module may not perform a breathalyzer test.

[0026] The control module may include a seat sensing unit that senses the presence of a passenger and changes in the passenger's position based on seat sensors in the passenger seat and the rear seat. When a change in the passenger's position is detected, the control module may not perform a breath check.

[0027] According to this disclosure, a method for controlling a drunk driving prevention system includes: receiving engine operation input from a driver, and determining whether to display alcohol test guidance information based on the engine operation input from the driver.

[0028] When determining whether to display alcohol test guidance information, if the driver's engine operation input is an engine start input used to drive the vehicle, it can be determined that the driver intends to drive and alcohol test guidance information will be displayed. However, if the driver's engine operation input is an electronic device activation input used to activate electronic devices, it can be determined that the driver does not intend to drive and alcohol test guidance information will not be displayed.

[0029] When the vehicle is in motion, the testing unit may not display alcohol test guidance information.

[0030] According to this disclosure, the drunk driving prevention system and the display control method using the system minimize the occurrence of unnecessary pop-ups and help prevent unnecessary exposure to pop-ups, saving time and effort required to remove related inspection processes and pop-ups, thereby improving the convenience of vehicle occupants. Furthermore, by determining whether the driver is wearing a mask based on images captured by cameras installed in the vehicle, and applying different breathalyzer and intoxication determination logic depending on whether a mask is worn or not, the effective use of the drunk driving prevention system is ensured.

[0031] Furthermore, according to this disclosure, occupants can correctly identify the time when images are captured by the camera of the drunk driving prevention system in various situations, thereby preventing the storage and exposure of inappropriate image information.

[0032] Furthermore, according to this disclosure, the drunk driving prevention system and method provide an enhanced breathalyzer method that can counteract various attempts to circumvent breathalyzer tests by bypassing the drunk driving prevention system. Attached Figure Description

[0033] Figure 1 This is a block diagram of a drunk driving prevention system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] Figure 2 This is a flowchart of a display control method for using a drunk driving prevention system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] Figure 3 This is a flowchart of a display control method for using a drunk driving prevention system according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] Figure 4 This is a view showing wearing and not wearing masks, used to describe the standards used to determine whether a mask is being worn.

[0037] Figure 5 This is a view illustrating examples of different expiratory volumes required for a breathalyzer test depending on whether a mask is worn or not, according to embodiments of the present disclosure, in accordance with an embodiment of the method for preventing drunk driving with a mask-wearing mode.

[0038] Figure 6This is a view showing the frames provided for the captured image in each mode.

[0039] Figure 7 This is a flowchart of a method for preventing drunk driving with a mask-wearing mode according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0040] Figure 8 This is a flowchart of an image capture notification method using a drunk driving prevention system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0041] Figure 9 This is a flowchart of an image capture notification method using a drunk driving prevention system according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0042] Figure 10 This is a block diagram of a drunk driving prevention system with an enhanced breathalyzer test process according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0043] Figure 11 This is a flowchart of a method for preventing drunk driving with an enhanced breathalyzer test process according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0044] Figure 12 This is a graph illustrating an example of checking the effectiveness of exhalation by comparing the exhalation volume measured by the sensor module with the mouth shape in the image.

[0045] Figure 13 This is a flowchart of a method for preventing drunk driving with an enhanced breathalyzer test process according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0046] Figure 14 This is a view showing images captured by a camera during a breath test, where (a) shows an image of a normal test attempt and (b) shows an image of an abnormal test attempt. Specific Implementation

[0047] The following description, with reference to the accompanying drawings, describes a drunk driving prevention system according to various embodiments of the present disclosure and a display control method using the system.

[0048] Figure 1 This is a block diagram of a drunk driving prevention system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0049] like Figure 1 As shown, according to a preferred embodiment of the present disclosure, the present disclosure may include: a camera 300 for capturing an image including the face of a driver sitting in a driver's seat; a sensor module 100 for measuring the alcohol content in the driver's breath; and a control module 200 for checking the driver's identity based on the image captured by the camera 300, and for checking the driver's intoxication state based on the alcohol content measured by the sensor module 100 to activate the vehicle's engine start-stop device 630.

[0050] Camera 300 can be mounted near the driver's seat inside the vehicle and photograph the driver sitting in the driver's seat. Camera 300 can send the captured image information to control module 200, and control module 200 can perform subsequent processes such as verifying the driver's identity based on the captured image of the driver.

[0051] Furthermore, according to a preferred embodiment of this disclosure, the drunk driving prevention system may include: a storage unit 500 configured to store various information, such as image information captured by camera 300 and alcohol content information measured by sensor module 100; and a display device 400 configured to display various information related to the breathalyzer test process to the driver. The display device may be a display device in a vehicle, and preferably a navigation device having a display unit such as an AVN (audio, video, navigation) device or an instrument panel.

[0052] Specifically, according to preferred embodiments of this disclosure, the drunk driving prevention system can be a system in a narrow sense that includes a control module and a sensor module to achieve a bypass mode, or a system in a broad sense that includes configurations such as cameras, storage units, and display devices. However, even in a system in the narrow sense, configurations such as cameras and storage units are not excluded, and the system can be implemented by interlocking the cameras, storage units, and display units disposed in the vehicle system with the control module and sensor module.

[0053] According to a preferred embodiment of this disclosure, the sensor module 100 can inhale the driver's exhaled breath and measure the alcohol content in the driver's exhaled breath. For this purpose, the sensor module 100 may include: an inhalation unit 110 for inhaling the driver's exhaled breath; and a sensor unit 120 equipped with an alcohol content measuring sensor for measuring the alcohol content in the driver's exhaled breath.

[0054] The intake unit 110 can be installed in a location where the driver's exhaled air can be easily inhaled, and can preferably be installed near the instrument panel, steering wheel or central instrument panel.

[0055] Specifically, the intake unit 110 of the sensor module 100 is equipped with a fan driven by a motor, and the intake air can be increased or decreased by controlling the fan speed. The fan is installed at the inlet of the intake unit 110, and the motor driving the fan can be controlled by the control unit of the sensor module 100 or the sensor control unit 240 of the control module 200.

[0056] Furthermore, the sensor unit 120 can measure the volume of exhaled air inhaled into the inhalation unit 110 and the alcohol content in the inhaled air. In this regard, the sensor may include a carbon dioxide sensor for measuring the volume of exhaled air and an ethanol sensor for measuring the alcohol content in the driver's exhaled air. Additionally, the sensor module may include an optical sensor configured to optically measure the alcohol content in exhaled air.

[0057] A carbon dioxide sensor measures the amount of carbon dioxide in a target's exhaled breath. The driver's exhaled breath volume, measured by the carbon dioxide sensor, is used to check whether the driver is providing sufficient breath volume to ensure the reliability of the measured alcohol content.

[0058] The measured breath volume and alcohol content information can be sent to the control module 200. Therefore, the control module 200 can compare the measured breath volume and alcohol content information with a preset reference alcohol content to determine whether the driver is intoxicated and whether driving is permitted.

[0059] According to a preferred embodiment of this disclosure, the drunk driving prevention system may include a display unit for displaying various information. The display unit 400 may be a vehicle display device located within the driver's field of vision, such as a display on the vehicle's dashboard or a display of an audio, video, and navigation (AVN) system, or a separate display may be provided.

[0060] For example, when the display unit is a large-screen dashboard, the dashboard screen can be divided into the middle, right, and left parts, and exhalation check information can be output in the preset areas within the divided screen.

[0061] Furthermore, when the display unit is an AVN system, the screen can be divided into a left and a right section, allowing the exhalation check information to be displayed on the left section closest to the driver, or the information to be displayed on the entire screen.

[0062] The display unit 400 can display various information that the driver needs to be informed during the operation of the drunk driving prevention system. Specifically, it can display information about the breathalyzer test process.

[0063] For example, at the start of a breath test, the display unit 400 may display a message related to specific information such as whether the breath test is complete, a request to repeat the breath test, or the reason why the breath test failed.

[0064] According to this disclosure, a drunk driving prevention system may include a storage unit 500. Various types of information, including image information captured by the camera 300 during a breathalyzer test, alcohol content measurement information measured by the sensor module 100, etc., may be stored in the storage unit 500. The image information may include the time of image capture, the driver's face, etc.

[0065] Furthermore, image information captured when an anomaly is detected inside the vehicle after the driver has exited can be stored in storage unit 500. The information stored in storage unit can be sent to a server via the vehicle's communication module.

[0066] In addition, the storage unit 500 can store vehicle information, including the open / closed status of the windows and the operating status of the air conditioning before the breathalyzer test begins. When checking the driver's intoxication status, it is preferable to perform the breathalyzer test in an interior air mode where all windows / sunroof 620 are closed for accurate measurement, so that once the breathalyzer test begins, the control module 200 closes the windows / sunroof 620 and switches the vehicle to interior air mode. For this purpose, the vehicle control unit 280 of the control module 200 can send control commands to open / close the windows / sunroof 620 or switch between the interior air mode and the exterior air mode of the air circulation system. Furthermore, the vehicle control unit 280 can close the doors to perform the breathalyzer test.

[0067] At this time, the information pre-stored before the breathalyzer test refers to information about the surrounding environment set by the driver before the intoxication check. Therefore, after the breathalyzer test is completed, the control module 200 switches the vehicle state according to the vehicle information stored in the storage unit 500 before the breathalyzer test, so that the on-board device 600 can return to the previous state set by the driver. However, since the car door cannot be opened, it is preferable not to store the door state in the storage unit 500.

[0068] According to a preferred embodiment of this disclosure, the drunk driving prevention system may further include a biometric verification device 700 for verifying the driver's identity. The biometric verification device 700 is used to verify driver information and may include a biometric identification device configured to verify the driver's fingerprint or iris information.

[0069] The storage unit 500 can store the biometric information of a specific driver, and the inspection unit 210 can compare the stored biometric information with the current driver's biometric information obtained through the biometric inspection device 700 to process the identification.

[0070] In addition, the control module 200 can be connected to other configurations in the system, such as the sensor module 100, camera 300, display device 400 and storage unit 500, via a communication interface, and control the entire system based on information sent from these configurations.

[0071] Control module 200 may include an inspection unit 210, a determination unit 220, an image processing unit 230, a sensor control unit 240, and a vehicle control unit 250. The various configurations included in control module 200 are categorized according to the functions performed by control module 200, and the various configurations constituting control module 200 are not necessarily physically separated. The configurations other than inspection unit 210, namely determination unit 220, image processing unit 230, sensor control unit 240, and vehicle control unit 250, are provided as illustrative examples to describe the general functions of a drunk driving prevention system. Any form of drunk driving prevention system that can be implemented even with some of these configurations missing can be used as the control module of this disclosure. Furthermore, the various configurations in the control module can communicate with each other.

[0072] According to a preferred embodiment of this disclosure, the control module 200 is a controller configured to perform various functions (e.g., breathalyzer test, intoxication determination, and vehicle control), and may include a processor performing calculations and a memory storing algorithms for executing the functions of the processor to perform these functions. Furthermore, the control module 200 may modularly include a testing unit 210, a determination unit 220, a sensor control unit 240, and a vehicle control unit 250. The sub-configurations of the control module 200 are illustrative examples. The control module 200 may perform the same or equivalent functions when communicating with other vehicle controllers, in which case some sub-configurations may be removed or replaced.

[0073] In the basic configuration of the control module, the inspection unit 210 can supervise the breathalyzer test process, and the determination unit 220 can compare the alcohol content measured by the sensor module 100 with a reference alcohol content to check the driver's intoxication status.

[0074] The inspection unit can check whether the driver is seated based on information provided by devices such as a weight sensor in the driver's seat or a camera 300 that captures images of the driver's seat, and can check the driver's identity based on images captured by the camera 300. Furthermore, the inspection unit 120 can provide guidance information related to the breath test process via the display unit 400, and determine whether the breath test is complete based on the amount of breath exhaled by the driver provided to the sensor module 100.

[0075] Here, a breathalyzer test refers to a process in which the driver inhales their breath, and the sensor module 100 measures the alcohol content in the driver's exhaled breath. Based on the alcohol content measured by the sensor module, it is determined whether the driver is intoxicated. Furthermore, the completion of the breathalyzer test signifies that the control module has determined that the driver's exhaled alcohol content is within the reference range and that the driver is fit to drive.

[0076] For example, once the inspection unit 210 begins the breathalyzer test, the sensor module 100 measures the alcohol content in the driver's breath, sends information about the measured alcohol content to the control module 200, and the determination unit 220 of the control module 200 can compare the alcohol content measured by the sensor module 100 with a reference alcohol content to check the driver's state of intoxication.

[0077] When the comparison result shows that the driver's measured blood alcohol content exceeds the reference blood alcohol content and the driver is determined to be intoxicated, the determination unit 220 can determine that the driver is unfit to drive due to intoxication (breathalyzer test failed), and the vehicle control unit 250 of the control module 200 can activate the engine start-prevention device 630. In this respect, the engine start-prevention device 630 refers to a device that prevents the vehicle from starting, thereby disabling the vehicle. For example, the engine start-prevention device may be a device that cuts off the ignition power. Conversely, when the driver's measured blood alcohol content is within the reference blood alcohol content, it can be determined that the driver is fit to drive and the breathalyzer test has been completed.

[0078] In addition, when performing a breathalyzer test related to the alcohol testing process conducted by the drunk driving prevention system, the testing unit displays guidance information based on the current status of the system and the measurement results through the display unit.

[0079] For example, during a breathalyzer test, the testing unit can display guidance messages such as "Wait," "Ready," "Approved," and "Disapproved." Here, "Wait" refers to the standby state of the sensor module for hardware initialization, sensor warm-up, etc. "Ready" indicates that the driver can perform the breathalyzer test and displays the sensor module's position to guide the test. "Approved" means the measured alcohol content is equal to or less than the threshold and the driver passes the breathalyzer test, while "Disapproved" means the measured alcohol content in the driver's breath exceeds the threshold and the driver fails the test. On the other hand, if the driver's breath volume input during the breathalyzer test is insufficient, guidance messages to adjust the driver's breath position, such as a "Retry" instruction, can be displayed. All information provided by the alcohol prevention system, including guidance related to the breathalyzer test process, is collectively referred to as alcohol test guidance information.

[0080] Furthermore, when displaying alcohol test guidance information, the inspection unit can variably display the alcohol test guidance information based on the vehicle's engine operating status.

[0081] Essentially, an alcohol test is performed every time the driver attempts to start the engine. However, it is preferable not to display an alcohol test on the monitor when the same driver is back in the driver's seat within a certain period of time or when the driver does not intend to drive. Furthermore, alcohol test guidance information provided by the alcohol prevention system is not required when a normal breathalyzer test is completed and the vehicle is in motion.

[0082] Therefore, according to a preferred embodiment of this disclosure, the drunk driving prevention system checks whether the driver is a recently verified driver or whether the person sitting in the driver's seat does not intend to drive, and in these exceptional cases, does not display guidance for the breathalyzer test process, thereby improving passenger convenience. Furthermore, according to a preferred embodiment of this disclosure, the display unit does not display alcohol test guidance information when the vehicle is in motion. For example, if the breathalyzer test is fraudulently completed to avoid an alcohol test and the vehicle has already started moving, the drunk driving prevention system will not display alcohol test guidance information even if the fraudulent breathalyzer test is detected, thereby prioritizing safe driving. Additionally, in this embodiment, even if the drunk driving prevention system continues to operate while the vehicle is in motion, it will not display relevant guidance information while the vehicle is in motion.

[0083] In this regard, we will refer to... Figure 2 and Figure 3 Describe a specific example of how the inspection unit selectively provides guidance information for alcohol testing.

[0084] In addition, the drunk driving prevention system may include an image processing unit 230, a sensor control unit 240, and a vehicle control unit 250.

[0085] Image processing unit 230 processes image information captured and received from camera 300 into image information required by control module 200. Sensor control unit 240 controls sensor module 100 and can control the fan speed, sensitivity, etc. of sensor module 100. Vehicle control unit 250 can send control commands to other vehicle equipment 600 regarding doors, windows / sunroof 620, air conditioning 610, engine start-stop device 630, etc.

[0086] Reference Figure 2 and Figure 3 A specific example describing the display control method for alcohol test guidance information in a drunk driving prevention system.

[0087] first, Figure 2 This is a flowchart of a display control method for using a drunk driving prevention system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0088] According to embodiments of this disclosure, a display control method for a drunk driving prevention system includes: receiving engine operation input from a driver, and determining whether to display alcohol test guidance information based on the driver's engine operation input.

[0089] Specifically, such as Figure 2 As shown, when the driver gets into the vehicle (S201), it is checked which type of engine operation input is received from the driver (S202, S208). For example, as in steps S202 and S208, it can be determined whether the input is an engine start input for starting the engine or an electronic device activation input for activating electronic devices.

[0090] In this regard, when the driver's engine operation input is an engine start input, steps S203 to S207 are executed, and when the engine operation input is an electronic device switching to a ready-to-use state without starting the engine, step S209 is executed.

[0091] Specifically, according to this disclosure, when determining whether to display alcohol test guidance information, the decision is based on the driver's engine operating input state. Therefore, when the driver's engine operating input is as follows... Figure 2 When the engine start input for driving the vehicle is shown, it is determined that the driver intends to drive (driving status after breathalyzer test) and alcohol test guidance information is displayed (S203, S204). Conversely, when the driver's engine start input is an electronic device activation input for activating electronic devices, it can be determined that the driver does not intend to drive (electronic devices are ready to be used) and alcohol test guidance information is not displayed (S209).

[0092] When the driver inputs the engine start signal, the display unit shows alcohol test guidance information (S204). Then, when the alcohol prevention system confirms that the driver is not intoxicated and the breathalyzer test is completed, the vehicle is switched to a drivable state (S206). On the other hand, when the vehicle is in motion, even if it is necessary to display alcohol test guidance information, the testing unit may not display alcohol test guidance information (S207).

[0093] On the other hand, when the driver inputs the signal to activate the electronic device, the alcohol test guidance information is not displayed, and the system checks again whether the driver has input the engine start signal (S210). When the engine start signal is input, the vehicle switches to a drivable state after the breathalyzer test, and the alcohol test guidance information can be displayed.

[0094] On the other hand, when the alcohol check guidance information is displayed in step S204, in some cases, it is necessary to display other information about the vehicle above the alcohol check guidance information, such as low tire pressure, power check, etc.

[0095] For example, when displaying alcohol test guidance information during a breathalyzer test, the vehicle controller can instruct the display of vehicle status guidance information related to the internal equipment. In this regard, according to a preferred embodiment of this disclosure, the vehicle status guidance information can be categorized into safety feature information and convenience feature information, and the output of the display unit can be prioritized by pre-prioritizing the safety feature information and convenience feature information relative to the alcohol test guidance information.

[0096] For example, guidance information regarding the drivetrain, wheels, and power-related equipment (e.g., low tire pressure, engine system malfunction, power supply checks, brake system checks, hybrid system checks, etc.) is directly related to vehicle safety and is therefore classified as safety feature information, and can take precedence over alcohol test guidance information. In contrast, guidance information related to user input states (e.g., system calls for fuel consumption and driving distance, display of a list of items the user must select through the operating system, etc.) is not directly related to vehicle safety and is therefore classified as convenience feature information, and is subordinate to alcohol test guidance information.

[0097] Therefore, when displaying vehicle status guidance information sent from the vehicle controller, if a request is made to display safety feature information while simultaneously displaying alcohol test guidance information, the display unit stops displaying the alcohol test guidance information and displays the safety feature information. On the other hand, if a request is made to display convenience feature information while simultaneously displaying alcohol test guidance information, the display unit can display the convenience feature information after the alcohol test guidance information has been terminated.

[0098] Figure 3 This is a flowchart of a display control method for using a drunk driving prevention system according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0099] and Figure 2 different, Figure 3 It also includes a step to check whether the same driver is eligible for exemption from the breath test. That is, according to... Figure 3 In one embodiment, when the same driver returns to the vehicle within a reference time (e.g., within a few minutes), no alcohol test guidance information is displayed for a repeated breath test, thus exempting the driver from the breath test and immediately switching the vehicle to a drivable state.

[0100] Specifically, when the driver gets into the vehicle (S301), it is determined whether the driver has returned to the vehicle within a reference time after the previous driving ended (S302), and if the driver has returned to the vehicle within the reference time, it is determined whether the driver is the same driver (S303). When checking the return of the same driver, the order of steps S302 and S303 can be reversed.

[0101] Repeat if the same driver does not return or if the same driver returns after the reference time. Figure 2 The same control process described in the text follows the engine operating input.

[0102] In other words, when it is determined in step S304 that the driver's engine operation input is an engine start input for driving the vehicle, it can be determined that the driver intends to drive (driving status after breathalyzer test) and alcohol test guidance information is displayed (S305, S306). Conversely, when it is determined that the driver's engine operation input is an electronic device activation input for activating electronic devices, it can be determined that the driver does not intend to drive (electronic devices are ready to be used) and alcohol test guidance information may not be displayed (S311).

[0103] When the driver inputs the engine start signal, the alcohol test guidance information is displayed on the display unit (S306). Then, when the alcohol prevention system confirms that the driver is not intoxicated and the breathalyzer test is completed, the vehicle is switched to a drivable state (S308). On the other hand, when the vehicle is in motion, even if it is necessary to display the alcohol test guidance information, the testing unit may not display the alcohol test guidance information (S309).

[0104] On the other hand, when the driver inputs the electronic device activation signal alone (S310), the alcohol test guidance information is not displayed (S311), and the system checks again whether the driver inputs the engine start signal (S312). When the engine start signal is input, the vehicle switches to a drivable state after the breathalyzer test, and the alcohol test guidance information can be displayed.

[0105] On the other hand, the information captured by the camera can be used in step S303 to determine whether the returning driver is the same driver. For example, image information captured by the camera during a breath check during a previous drive can be stored in a storage unit. Furthermore, when the driver returns to the vehicle, the camera again captures the driver sitting in the driver's seat, and the image processing unit processes the captured image and then compares it with the image information stored in the storage unit during the previous drive, allowing the checking unit to check whether the driver is the same.

[0106] When the driver is confirmed to be the same in step S303, the inspection unit can exempt the driver from the breath test (S313), and when the driver inputs the engine start input (S314), the alcohol test guidance information can be not displayed (S309).

[0107] Drunk driving prevention systems and methods for controlling the display of alcohol test guidance information can prevent the display of unwanted guidance information, thereby reducing inconvenience to drivers.

[0108] Figure 4 This is a view showing wearing and not wearing masks, used to describe the standards used to determine whether a mask is being worn.

[0109] like Figure 4 As shown, the system determines whether a mask is being worn based on images captured by a camera 300 installed in the vehicle, and can determine whether the driver's mouth is covered by a mask. Therefore, when... Figure 4 As shown in (a), when the mouth is covered during a breathalyzer test, it can be determined that a mask is being worn, while when... Figure 4 (b) If the driver's mouth is not covered, it can be determined that he is not wearing a mask.

[0110] The control module 200 may include an image processing unit 230 for processing images captured by the camera 300. The image processing unit 230 can process the captured image data and directly provide the inspection unit 210 with information that allows for differentiation between wearing and not wearing a mask. In this case, the inspection unit 210 determines whether a mask is being worn based on the information provided by the image processing unit 230, and maintains or changes the reference exhalation volume based on the result.

[0111] Figure 5 Examples of a method for preventing drunk driving with a mask-wearing mode according to embodiments of the present disclosure are shown, illustrating different exhalation volumes required for breath checks depending on whether a mask is worn or not.

[0112] As described above, even if the driver exhales the same amount of air, the amount of exhaled air inhaled into the sensor module 100 will be reduced when wearing a mask. Therefore, when the reference exhalation volume set in the sensor module 100 and the control module 200 is kept at the same value, the drunk driving prevention system may not be able to identify the inhaled exhalation as the driver's normal exhalation.

[0113] Therefore, in this disclosure, when Figure 5 As shown, when a mask is worn, the breathalyzer system resets the reference expiratory volume required for the breathalyzer test downwards to facilitate the test.

[0114] Therefore, the second reference expiratory volume is set to a lower value than the first reference expiratory volume that can be applied when no mask is worn, and when it is confirmed that the driver is wearing a mask, the exhalation check is performed based on the second reference expiratory volume.

[0115] Therefore, the control module 200 is configured to complete the exhalation check in the default mode only when the exhalation volume provided to the sensor module 100 by the driver is equal to or greater than the preset first reference exhalation volume, and in the mask-wearing mode where the driver is wearing a mask, the reference exhalation volume required to complete the exhalation check is reset to the second reference exhalation volume.

[0116] The reason for not setting the expiratory volume used for the breath test to the minimum value from the beginning is that when the reference expiratory volume is set to the minimum value of the second reference expiratory volume in the default mode, a third party can easily perform an alternative breath test; and when the third party is intoxicated, the alcohol and small amount of carbon dioxide floating in the air can affect the breath test and produce incorrect results.

[0117] On the other hand, when the control module 200 resets the reference expiratory volume downwards, the checking unit 210 of the control module 200 can directly reset the reference expiratory volume to a lower value, or can directly reduce the reference expiratory volume related to the sensitivity of the sensor module 100.

[0118] For example, when the check unit 210 of the control module 200 resets the reference expiratory volume downwards, the check unit 210 can verify the validity of the expiratory volume information sent from the sensor module 100 to the control module 200 and the measured alcohol content, provided that the sensitivity of the sensor module 100 is set low enough. Conversely, when the reference expiratory volume, which is directly related to the sensitivity of the sensor module 100, is directly reduced, the sensor module 100 can measure the alcohol content in default mode only if the driver's expiratory volume inhaled into the sensor module 100 is equal to or greater than the first reference expiratory volume, and the sensor module can measure the alcohol content in mask-wearing mode even when the inhaled expiratory volume is equal to or greater than the second reference expiratory volume but less than the first reference expiratory volume.

[0119] According to embodiments of this disclosure, a drunk driving prevention system with a mask-wearing mode may include a display unit 400 for displaying various information from the system. The display unit 400 may be a display on a vehicle dashboard or may include a separate display or notification device.

[0120] Furthermore, according to a preferred embodiment of this disclosure, the drunk driving prevention system may include a notification device in the display unit 400, which is configured to issue an alarm to relay information related to the operation of the drunk driving prevention system to the interior of the vehicle.

[0121] Specifically, according to preferred embodiments of this disclosure, the drunk driving prevention system can be a system in a narrow sense that includes a control module and a sensor module to achieve a bypass mode, or a system in a broad sense that includes configurations such as cameras, storage units, display units, and notification devices. However, even in a system in the narrow sense, configurations such as cameras and storage units are not excluded, and the system can be implemented by interlocking the cameras, storage units, and display units disposed in the vehicle system with the control module and sensor modules.

[0122] The display unit 400 can display various information that the driver needs to be informed during the operation of the drunk driving prevention system. Specifically, when the drunk driving prevention system enters the mask-wearing mode, relevant information can be displayed.

[0123] When indicating whether to enter mask-wearing mode, the display unit 400 can directly display the current mode (default mode or mask-wearing mode) information, or only display guidance information when entering mask-wearing mode.

[0124] For example, when entering mask-wearing mode, the display unit 400 can output guidance information to position the driver near the inlet of the inhalation unit 110 close to the sensor module 100.

[0125] In this case, the display unit 400 can display on the screen an instruction phrase for the inlet of the intake unit 110 of the proximity sensor module 100 and image information about the inlet position of the intake unit 110.

[0126] Furthermore, according to this disclosure, when it is determined that the driver is wearing a mask, the driver can be guided to a seated position so that when entering the mask-wearing mode, the driver can effectively exhale into the inlet of the inhalation unit of the sensor module 100.

[0127] in this regard, Figure 6 The frames (dashed lines) shown are provided for the captured images in the default mode and the mask-wearing mode, respectively.

[0128] like Figure 6 As shown in (a), considering the driver's typical seating position, a frame (dashed line portion) of the upper body including the driver's facial contours is provided in the default mode. That is, the camera 300 sends the captured image information to the image processing unit 230 of the control module in real time, and the image processing unit generates a frame for the driver's facial position and processes the image to match the captured image with that frame. The image information including that frame is sent to the display unit 400, and the display unit 400 can output the image information matching that frame in real time.

[0129] Conversely, considering the reduced exhalation volume due to wearing a mask in mask-wearing mode, the driver can be guided to a position closer to the inlet of the inhalation port of the sensor module 100. Therefore, according to a preferred embodiment of this disclosure, such as... Figure 6 As shown in (b), when entering mask-wearing mode, the image processing unit 230 provides the display unit 400 with a frame magnified to a preset ratio (dashed line portion) so that the driver can position themselves to match their facial contours with the magnified frame. The air intake ports of the camera and sensor modules are preferably aligned, and the position of the magnified frame can be adjusted appropriately based on the position of the camera and sensor modules. The magnification ratio and position of the frame can be pre-stored in the control module or storage unit.

[0130] Therefore, drivers are encouraged to get as close as possible to the sensor module's inlet to alleviate the problem of reduced exhalation volume when wearing a mask.

[0131] According to another embodiment of this disclosure, the sensor control unit 240 of the control module 200 can command or control the sensor module 100 to increase the speed of the fan installed on the inlet side of the air intake port, so that when entering the mask wearing mode, a sufficient amount of the driver's exhaled air can be inhaled into the sensor module 100.

[0132] When the driver's exhalation is confirmed to be normal according to the standards of each mode through these processes, the inspection unit 210 completes the exhalation check.

[0133] On the other hand, when the inspection unit 210 completes the breathalyzer test, the sensor module 100 measures the alcohol content in the driver's exhaled breath. The measured alcohol content information is sent to the control module 200, and the determination unit 220 of the control module 200 can compare the alcohol content measured by the sensor module 100 with a reference alcohol content to check the driver's state of intoxication.

[0134] If the comparison results indicate that the driver's measured blood alcohol content exceeds the reference blood alcohol content and the driver is intoxicated, the determination unit 220 determines that the driver is unable to drive due to intoxication and causes the vehicle control unit 250 of the control module 200 to activate the engine start-prevention device 630. In this respect, the engine start-prevention device 630 refers to a device that disables the vehicle by preventing the engine from starting.

[0135] Furthermore, the control module 200 may include a storage unit 500, which can store various information, such as image information captured by the camera 300 and alcohol content information measured by the sensor module 100. In the future, the stored information can be provided to relevant agencies.

[0136] In addition, the storage unit 500 can store vehicle information, including the open / closed status of the windows and the operating status of the air conditioning before the breathalyzer test. For accurate measurement, the driver's intoxication status needs to be checked in an interior air mode where all windows 620 are closed. Once the breathalyzer test begins, the control module 200 can close the windows 620 and switch the vehicle to interior air mode. To this end, the vehicle control unit 250 of the control module 200 can send control commands to control the opening / closing of the windows 620 and the interior / outdoor air mode of the air conditioning 610. Furthermore, the vehicle control unit 250 can close the doors to perform the breathalyzer test.

[0137] Here, the information stored before the breathalyzer test refers to information about the surrounding environment set by the driver before the test. Therefore, the control module 200 can switch the vehicle state based on the vehicle information stored in the storage unit 500 before the breathalyzer test, so that the on-board device 600 returns to the previous settings after the breathalyzer test is completed. However, since the doors cannot be opened, the storage unit 500 preferably does not store the door state.

[0138] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the drunk driving prevention system may further include a biometric verification unit 700 for identifying the driver. The biometric verification unit 700 is used to check information about the current driver and may include a biometric verification device configured to check the driver's fingerprint or iris information.

[0139] The storage unit 500 can pre-store the biometric information of a specific driver, and the inspection unit 210 can compare the stored biometric information with the current driver's biometric information obtained by the biometric inspection unit 700 to process driver identification.

[0140] Regarding the driver identification process, when a driver who has completed a breathalyzer test and a test for intoxication returns to the vehicle within a short period of time, the engine may be started without a breathalyzer test if certain conditions are met (e.g., brief stop or brief departure from the driver's seat).

[0141] The specific steps for using a drunk driving prevention system with these configurations and mask-wearing modes are as follows: Figure 7 As shown.

[0142] According to this disclosure, a method for preventing drunk driving with a mask-wearing mode includes: initiating a breathalyzer test at the driver's request; determining whether the driver is wearing a mask based on an image captured by a camera; determining whether the driver is intoxicated by measuring the alcohol content in the driver's exhaled breath through a control module when the amount of exhaled air inhaled into the sensor module is equal to or greater than a reference exhaled air volume; and determining whether to prevent intoxication based on the determination of the driver's intoxication status. Specifically, the control module can apply the reference exhaled air volume from the sensor module based on whether a mask is worn or not.

[0143] like Figure 7 As shown, when the driver enters the vehicle (S501), the inspection unit begins a breath check (S502). At this time, the vehicle control unit of the control module can switch the air conditioning to interior air mode and close the windows (including the sunroof) (S503).

[0144] The inspection unit can check whether the driver is wearing a mask while the vehicle is sealed (S504). When it is confirmed that the driver is not wearing a mask, the breath test is performed in the default mode. Therefore, when the amount of exhaled air inhaled into the sensor module is equal to or greater than a preset first reference exhaled air volume, the breath test is completed, and the alcohol content and intoxication status of the driver's exhaled air are checked (S506).

[0145] On the other hand, when it is determined in step S504 that the driver is wearing a mask, the mask wearing mode is entered, and the exhalation check is started in the default mode.

[0146] Therefore, the switch to the mask wearing mode is performed in this step (S505), and the switch to the mask wearing mode (S505) may include: outputting exhalation test guidance (S5051), increasing the fan speed of the sensor module (S5052), and changing the reference exhalation volume required for the exhalation test to a second reference exhalation volume (S5053).

[0147] In this regard, the output of the breath check guidance can be achieved by outputting a command for the driver to approach the entrance via the display unit. Furthermore, when outputting the breath check guidance (S5051), a frame of a real-time image captured by a camera and output by the display unit, magnified to a preset scale, can be provided.

[0148] Figure 7 An example of switching to mask-wearing mode is shown, comprising all steps S5051, S5052, and S5053. However, this is merely an illustrative embodiment of this disclosure, and switching to mask-wearing mode may include one or more of steps S5051, S5052, and S5053.

[0149] However, preferably, it is essential to include a change in the reference expiratory volume required for the expiratory test (S503) to facilitate the expiratory test.

[0150] also, Figure 7 The sequential execution of steps S5051, S5052, and S5053 is shown. However, this is merely an illustrative example, and S5051, S5052, and S5053 may be executed in a different order.

[0151] When the driver enters the mask-wearing mode and the amount of exhaled air inhaled into the sensor module is equal to or greater than the preset second reference exhaled air volume, the exhalation check is completed, and the determination unit of the control module checks the state of intoxication based on the alcohol content in the driver's exhaled air measured by the sensor module (S506).

[0152] When detecting intoxication, the system determines whether the blood alcohol content measured by the sensor module exceeds a preset reference blood alcohol content (S507), and if the intoxicated driver is unable to drive the vehicle due to intoxication, the engine start prevention device can prevent the engine from starting (S508). When the control module determines that the driver's measured blood alcohol content exceeds the reference blood alcohol content and the driver is intoxicated, it determines that the driver is unable to drive the vehicle and the control module issues a command to activate the engine start prevention device.

[0153] Conversely, when no alcohol is detected in the driver's breath, or when the alcohol content measured by the sensor module is equal to or less than the reference alcohol content, driving is deemed permissible and the vehicle is kept in a state where it can be started (S509).

[0154] Furthermore, according to a preferred embodiment of this disclosure, it may also include storing image information captured by the camera before engine startup and alcohol content information measured by the sensor module in a storage unit.

[0155] On the other hand, when the breath check begins (S502), vehicle information can be stored in the storage unit 500, including the open / closed status of the windows and the operating status of the air conditioner before the breath check.

[0156] Therefore, in step S503, vehicle state information is stored before the control module closes the windows and switches the vehicle to interior air mode, and the stored information can be used after determining whether to start the engine. In this case, after determining whether to start the engine, that is, after the breathalyzer and alcohol test are completed and driving is permitted, the control module can switch the vehicle state based on the vehicle information stored in the memory before the breathalyzer test was completed (S510).

[0157] Figure 7This includes control logic for situations where a driver returns to the vehicle shortly after initially entering it. For example, if a driver who has completed a breathalyzer test and a drunk driving check leaves the vehicle briefly and then returns, a second breathalyzer test may not be necessary. Therefore, according to embodiments of this disclosure, when the same driver returns (S511), it can be checked whether a repeat breathalyzer test is required (S512). The requirement to repeat the breathalyzer test can be determined based on a comparison between the time the vehicle stopped or the time the driver left the driver's seat and a reference value. When the reference value is exceeded, it can be determined that a repeat breathalyzer test is required.

[0158] In contrast, a comparison of the inspection information from the inspection unit or biometric inspection device shows that the driver is the same driver as the driver in the previous inspection return, and meets the time requirements related to the time when the vehicle stops or the driver leaves the driver's seat, and the vehicle can be driven immediately without repeating the breathalyzer test.

[0159] According to this disclosure, when the camera 300 of the drunk driving prevention system attempts to capture an image, the inspection unit 210 can notify the driver of the image captured by the camera 300. In this regard, when the camera 300 is activated to capture an image during a breathalyzer test process in progress or while the vehicle is in motion, the inspection unit 210 can command a notification device, which is part of the display unit 400 in the vehicle, to provide various types of prior notification to the driver.

[0160] Notifications provided by the notification device can take various forms that are recognizable to humans through sight, hearing, and smell. For example, notifications can be provided visually, such as illuminating a status indicator located in a camera 300 or internal light, or displaying a pop-up message on the dashboard, AVN, or HUD. Additionally, notifications can be auditory, such as a specific sound, or olfactory, such as the spraying of air freshener. Furthermore, notifications can take the form of tactile notifications, such as seat vibrations felt by the driver. Moreover, the notifications from the alarm device are not limited to one form categorized as visual, auditory, olfactory, or tactile. Notifications can be changed from one form to another according to driver settings, or the driver can configure the system to provide two or more notifications simultaneously.

[0161] On the other hand, notifications can be compared based on the level of occupant recognition, and this disclosure describes the level as "recognition strength." "Recognition strength" can be used as a measure of how well a person recognizes a particular notification. In this respect, "recognition strength" can be a numerical value calculated based on a quantification value for each notification type, and does not refer to an extension to cover different types of numerical concepts for comparison, but rather can refer to the strength of a notification compared in terms of superiority over different types of notifications. For example, in the case of auditory notifications, the loudness of the sound can be considered "recognition strength." For example, a sound with a higher decibel level can be considered a notification with a greater "recognition strength." Therefore, according to this disclosure, having "higher recognition strength" may mean having greater intensity among notifications of the same type. On the other hand, even when including different types of notifications, a level of "recognition strength" can be determined, and in this case, notifications with higher "recognition strength" can include all types of notifications with lower "recognition strength." However, even in this case, when it comes to comparing the intensity of types with relatively low "recognition strength," notifications with high recognition strength preferably have higher intensity relative to notifications of the same type.

[0162] Regarding "identification strength", according to a preferred embodiment of this disclosure, the "identification strength" of the notification provided depending on the situation can be set according to different importance.

[0163] Furthermore, according to a preferred embodiment of this disclosure, a distinction is made between the breathalyzer test process prior to driving and the breathalyzer test process during driving. When the vehicle is in motion, an image capture notification is issued immediately following the completion of the preceding breathalyzer test, making the output of the image capture notification less critical when the vehicle is in motion than when the breathalyzer test is in progress. Therefore, according to a preferred embodiment of this disclosure, whether an image capture notification is essential may depend on whether the driver's breathalyzer test is in progress or whether the vehicle is in motion. In this respect, according to a preferred embodiment of this disclosure, an image capture notification is essential when the breathalyzer test is in progress, while it is optional when the vehicle is in motion. The provision of an image capture notification during the breathalyzer test can be configured differently depending on whether a prior notification is issued.

[0164] In this regard, it is generally preferable to notify the driver before image capture begins, so that the driver can recognize the start of image capture. However, according to a preferred embodiment of this disclosure, the driver settings can specify whether prior image capture notification is required in the inspection unit. In this case, the inspection unit can check the settings to determine in advance whether image capture notification is required and to determine whether to provide notification each time an image is captured or to ignore notification during image capture.

[0165] For example, a drunk driving prevention system may offer a settings menu regarding whether to provide image capture notifications, and drivers can choose to ignore these notifications. In this setting, the drunk driving prevention system can ignore image capture notifications while the system is running.

[0166] On the other hand, according to embodiments of this disclosure, the system can be configured such that, upon first starting the vehicle, the driver is notified in advance of image capture during the breathalyzer test before the test begins. When the driver is notified of image capture before the breathalyzer test begins, it is considered equivalent to a pre-capture notification, making the image capture notification seem unnecessary. In this example, image capture by the camera can be announced in advance by outputting a message on the display unit that the camera will capture an image, or by providing an audio message with the same effect, before the breathalyzer test begins. Therefore, the image capture notification of the test unit can be set to ignore the image capture notification when the camera is capturing an image.

[0167] Furthermore, according to this disclosure, unless the driver pre-selects to ignore the notification, an image capture notification is preferably provided for each image capture.

[0168] However, when the driver returns to the driver's seat after completing the immediate breath check, it is assumed that the driver has already received the notification, and therefore the image capture notification can be ignored.

[0169] On the other hand, according to another embodiment of this disclosure, even when the same driver returns, whether the driver returns within a certain period of time after leaving the vehicle can determine whether a repeat breath check is required. In this case, when a repeat breath check is not required, i.e., when the driver returns within a reference time (e.g., within a few minutes), the image capture notification can be ignored, and the image information captured by the camera can be stored without notification.

[0170] Conversely, when the driver returns after the reference time, it is deemed necessary to repeat the breath check, and an image capture notification can be sent to the driver according to the image capture notification settings, as in the normal breath check process.

[0171] Furthermore, even when a normal breath check is completed and the vehicle is in motion, image capture notifications can be selectively provided based on the image capture notification settings. In this case, if the driver specifies that capture notifications are not required, they can be ignored when the camera captures an image.

[0172] On the other hand, another feature of the preferred embodiments of this disclosure is that it determines whether the image capture attempt is normal or abnormal, and can provide different image capture notifications based on the determination result.

[0173] In this regard, according to a preferred embodiment of this disclosure, when the vehicle is stopped, i.e., when a breathalyzer test by the driver is not required due to the vehicle's stop, the image capture attempt can be considered illegal, and an image capture notification can be provided to the occupant. The image capture notification in this situation can be provided in a different form than the notification for an image capture attempt during a normal breathalyzer test. For example, a higher level of notification, i.e., a notification with relatively high recognition strength, can preferably be provided to the occupant, allowing the occupant to immediately recognize camera movement. Therefore, an image capture notification (a second alarm) with a stronger recognition strength than the image capture notification (first alarm) in a normal image capture attempt (such as during a breathalyzer test) can be provided. For example, when both the first and second alarms are provided as sounds, the second alarm can be a rapidly repeating, loud warning sound.

[0174] Once it is determined that the camera's image capture was conducted on an abnormal route and a second alert has been issued, the inspection unit can provide a message via the display unit for the driver to choose whether to agree or disagree with the camera's continued image capture. At this point, if the driver disagrees, the camera can be immediately shut down. However, even if the driver disagrees, the camera can be checked for proper operation via a system restart instead of being immediately shut down. Conversely, if the driver agrees, the camera will not be shut down, and the captured image data can be stored in the storage unit.

[0175] In this regard, refer to Figure 8 and Figure 9 A specific example of selectively providing image capture notifications through an inspection unit is described.

[0176] On the other hand, according to this disclosure, the drunk driving prevention system may include an image processing unit 230, a sensor control unit 240, and a vehicle control unit 250.

[0177] Image processing unit 230 receives image information captured by camera 300 and processes it into image information required by control module 200. Sensor control unit 240 is used to control sensor module 100 and can control the fan speed, sensitivity, etc. of sensor module 100. Vehicle control unit 250 can send control commands to other vehicle equipment 600 regarding doors, windows / sunroof 620, air conditioning 610, engine start-stop device 630, etc.

[0178] exist Figure 8 and Figure 9 The document illustrates a specific example of a method for providing image capture notifications for a drunk driving prevention system.

[0179] first, Figure 8 This is a flowchart of a display control method for using a drunk driving prevention system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0180] According to a preferred embodiment of the present disclosure, a method for controlling an image capture notification of a drunk driving prevention system includes: initiating a breathalyzer test, providing a first image capture notification by a notification device before the camera captures an image, and capturing an image by the camera to determine whether the breathalyzer test is complete by a control module based on the image captured by the camera and the alcohol content measured by a sensor module.

[0181] Specifically, such as Figure 8 As shown, when the driver enters the vehicle (S201), it can be checked whether the driver's breath check has started or whether the vehicle is moving (S211), and whether an image capture notification is required (S212). When a pre-image capture notification is issued or the driver specifies that an image capture notification is not required, the camera immediately captures an image and performs a breath check, and if the breath check is completed (S214), the captured image data is stored in the storage unit (S231). Conversely, if an image capture notification is required as usual, the device is notified to issue a first image capture notification (first alarm) (S213), and after the camera captures an image and the breath check is completed (S214), the captured image data is stored in the storage unit (S231).

[0182] On the other hand, when the vehicle is stopped and the driver is in the stopped vehicle, and a breath check is not performed (S221) and an image capture attempt by the camera is confirmed (S222), the checking unit determines that the image capture attempt was made through an abnormal path and issues a second image capture notification (second alarm) (S223). At this point, it is important that the image capture notification allows the driver to immediately recognize it and respond, such that the second image capture notification preferably has a higher recognition strength than the first image capture notification.

[0183] After issuing the second image capture notification, it checks whether the driver consents to being photographed (S224). If the driver consents, the captured image data is allowed to be stored (S231). Conversely, if the driver does not consent, the captured image is not stored and the camera is turned off (S225). However, if the camera is turned off and the breathalyzer test remains incomplete due to the camera being turned off, the display unit preferably issues a message stating that the driver is responsible for drunk driving. Alternatively, the camera's shooting function can be temporarily disabled in a setting mode instead of turning off the camera in step S225. Another example is that the system can be restarted or a message encouraging the user to visit a nearby service center can be issued instead of turning off the camera in step S225.

[0184] Figure 9 This is a flowchart of an image capture notification method using a drunk driving prevention system according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0185] exist Figure 9 middle, Figure 8 The steps in the process are separated by initial events and described in more detail. Specifically, Figure 9 The flowchart in the document describes four types of initial states after the driver gets into the vehicle: (i) the driver gets into the vehicle and the breath check begins, (ii) the vehicle is moving, (iii) the vehicle stops, and (iv) the same driver returns.

[0186] First, (i) when the driver's breath check is confirmed to have started (S311), it is checked whether a pre-image capture notification has been issued (S312). If no pre-image capture notification has been issued, the notification device issues a first image capture notification (first alarm) (S313), and after the camera captures an image and the breath check is completed (S314), the captured image data is stored in the storage unit (S351). Conversely, when a pre-image capture notification is issued, the camera captures an image and performs a breath check immediately. If the breath check (S314) is completed, the captured image data is stored in the storage unit (S351).

[0187] (ii) When the vehicle is in motion (S401), check whether the driver settings specify that an image capture notification is required (S402). If a notification is required, execute step S313 and subsequent steps; otherwise, immediately perform image capture (S314) and store the captured image data (S351).

[0188] (iii) When the vehicle stops (S331), if the camera's image capture attempt is confirmed (S332), the inspection unit determines that the image capture was attempted via an abnormal route and sends a second image capture notification (second alarm) (S333). Preferably, the second capture notification is set to have a higher recognition strength than the first capture notification.

[0189] After issuing the second image capture notification, the system checks whether the driver consents to being photographed (S334), and if the driver consents, allows the captured image data to be stored (S351). Conversely, if the driver does not consent to being photographed, the captured image is not stored and the camera is turned off (S335). Figure 8 The example already describes the replacement for turning off the camera.

[0190] (iv) When the same driver returns, the system also includes determining whether the driver is the same driver to exempt the breathalyzer test and ignore the image capture notification. In this regard, the image information captured by the camera can be used to determine whether the driver is the same. For example, image information captured by the camera during the immediate preceding breathalyzer test can be stored. Additionally, when the driver returns, the camera can photograph the driver in the driver's seat, and the captured image can be processed by the image processing unit and compared with the image information stored in the storage unit during the immediate preceding breathalyzer test to check whether the driver is the same.

[0191] Specifically, according to Figure 9 In one embodiment, when the same driver returns within a reference time (e.g., within a few minutes), the captured data can be taken and stored without requiring a repeated breath check process. The same driver's return within the reference time means that an image capture notification has already been received, making it safe to ignore the notification.

[0192] Therefore, when the control module determines that the driver will return to the vehicle immediately following the exhalation check (S341), it determines whether a breath check is required based on whether the return time is within a reference time after the exit time (S342). If the return time is determined to be within the reference time and a breath check is not required, the check unit exempts the driver from the breath check and immediately begins recording (S314). Conversely, if the return time exceeds the reference time, it is considered that a repeat breath check is required, and the breath check in step S311 and subsequent steps are executed sequentially. At this time, the display unit can display a guidance message related to the start of the breath check.

[0193] Figure 10 This is a block diagram of a drunk driving prevention system with an enhanced breathalyzer test process according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0194] In this configuration, the control module 200 can be connected to other configurations in the system, such as the sensor module 100, camera 300, display unit 400, and storage unit 500, via a communication interface, and can control the entire system by sending information from these configurations.

[0195] The control module 200 may include an inspection unit 210, a determination unit 220, a seat sensing unit 230, a door sensing unit 240, an image analysis unit 250, a breath verification unit 260, a sensor control unit 270, and a vehicle control unit 280. The various configurations included in the control module 200 are categorized according to the functions performed by the control module 200. The various configurations constituting the control module 200 are not necessarily physically separated, and the various configurations of the control module can communicate with each other.

[0196] exist Figure 10 In the various configurations of the control module 200 shown, the inspection unit 210 monitors the driver's breath check process, which is a prerequisite for determining whether the driver is intoxicated.

[0197] Basically, the inspection unit 210 can check whether the driver is seated based on information provided by a device such as a weight sensor in the driver's seat or a camera 300 that captures images of the driver's seat.

[0198] In addition, the inspection unit 210 can integrate information provided by other configurations in the control module (e.g., seat sensing unit 240, image analysis unit, exhalation verification unit 260, etc.) and check whether the requirements for completing the exhalation check are met.

[0199] Here, the breath check refers to the process of examining the driver's exhalation to check for intoxication while the driver inhales into the inhalation port of the sensor module. Furthermore, the completion of the breath check means that the driver's exhalation is inhaled into the sensor module 100, the inhaled exhalation is examined, and the driver's suitability for driving is determined. According to a preferred embodiment of this disclosure, the driver's suitability can be determined based on the effectiveness of the exhalation. For example, whether the cycle of the driver's exhalation inhaled into the sensor module 100 matches the exhalation cycle distinguishable from the captured image can be used as a criterion for determining the effectiveness of the exhalation.

[0200] On the other hand, in another example, movement that might be considered an inappropriate alcohol test attempt (e.g., the presence of unauthorized objects in the image or a change in the passenger's position) could be used as a criterion for determining the validity of a driver's breathalyzer test.

[0201] Furthermore, according to a preferred embodiment of this disclosure, a completed breathalyzer test may simply mean that the driver's exhaled breath volume is suitable for assessing the driver's intoxication status. However, unlike this embodiment, a completed breathalyzer test may encompass the concept that the alcohol content in the tested breath is equal to or less than a reference alcohol content to be within the normal range. In this case, even if the validity of the driver's breath is identified, the breathalyzer test will be determined to be incomplete if the measured alcohol content exceeds the reference alcohol content.

[0202] As described above, according to this disclosure, the inspection unit 210 monitors the breath test process. The inspection unit 210 checks whether the driver has boarded the vehicle to begin the breath test process based on the image captured by the camera 300, and ultimately determines whether the breath test has been completed normally through various configurations in the control module.

[0203] On the other hand, the determining unit 220 compares the alcohol content measured by the sensor module 100 with a reference alcohol content to check the driver's state of intoxication.

[0204] The determining unit can obtain information about the alcohol content in the driver's breath as measured by the sensor module 100, and compare the measured alcohol content with a reference alcohol content to check the driver's state of intoxication.

[0205] When the comparison result shows that the driver's measured blood alcohol content exceeds the reference blood alcohol content, the determination unit 220 determines that the driver may be intoxicated and unable to drive, and the vehicle control unit 250 of the control module 200 can activate the engine start-prevention device 630. In this respect, the engine start-prevention device 630 refers to a device that disables the vehicle by preventing the engine from starting, and may be a device that cuts off the engine starting power. On the other hand, when it is verified that the driver's measured blood alcohol content does not exceed the reference blood alcohol content or that the driver has no alcohol, the determination unit 220 can determine that the driver is capable of driving and allow the engine to be started after the driver's engine start input.

[0206] exist Figure 10 In the control module configuration, the seat sensing unit 261 and the door sensing unit 262 check the information obtained from the vehicle sensors (specifically, the seat sensor 650 and the door sensor 640).

[0207] The seat sensing unit 230 can detect the seating status of the driver and passengers, as well as changes in occupant position, based on sensors configured to determine the presence of occupants in the front and rear seats (driver's seat, passenger seat, and rear seat) of the vehicle. Typically, the vehicle seat sensors 650 may include weight sensors or capacitive sensors, and the presence and position changes of occupants can be detected based on the sensing values ​​from these seat sensors. Furthermore, the seat sensing unit 230 can receive information regarding the driver's departure from the vehicle.

[0208] When the seat sensing unit 230 detects a change in the occupant's position or detects that at least one occupant is not wearing a seatbelt, the inspection unit of the control module can determine that the detection indicates the breath test is being performed via an abnormal route and determine that the breath test is not completed.

[0209] The door sensing unit 240 can detect the opening / closing of all doors based on the opening / closing status of the doors detected by the door sensors that detect the opening / closing of the doors 610. In this respect, the door sensors in this disclosure refer to sensors configured to check the opening / closing of windows and doors; therefore, the door sensing unit 262 can check the opening / closing of each individual door and all doors 610. When the opening status of a door or window is confirmed, the vehicle control unit can send a control command to close the open door or window. In this case, such as Figure 10As shown, the vehicle control unit can close the door 610 or window directly before the breath check begins. Instead of sending a direct control command, the vehicle control unit can send a door / window closing message through the display unit.

[0210] The image analysis unit 250 receives image information captured by the camera 300 and processes it into image information required by the control module 200, or analyzes the captured image information to provide information required by the control module. Specifically, the image analysis unit can track changes in the driver's mouth in the image information captured by the camera and calculate a first estimated expiratory cycle by accurately locating the opening and closing time of the driver's mouth.

[0211] In addition, the image analysis unit checks for the presence of unauthorized objects other than the driver in the captured images, and the control module may not perform the breath check if an unauthorized object is detected.

[0212] Based on a comparison between a first estimated expiratory cycle calculated by the image analysis unit and a second estimated expiratory cycle determined based on changes in the amount of expiratory air inhaled into the sensor module, the expiratory verification unit 260 checks whether the expiratory air in the captured image matches the expiratory air inhaled into the sensor module. The expiratory verification unit 260 compares the period distribution in the captured image with the period distribution of the air inhaled into the sensor module and checks for a match. Therefore, attempts to bypass the system and pass the expiratory check by cheating, such as blowing someone else's exhalation into a balloon or having a third party exhale into the sensor module, are possible.

[0213] The sensor control unit 270 can control the fan speed in the sensor module 100, the sensitivity of the sensor module 100, etc., and the vehicle control unit 280 sends control commands to other vehicle devices 600 such as doors 610, windows, engine start-stop devices 630, etc.

[0214] According to a preferred embodiment of this disclosure, the control module 200 is a controller configured to perform various functions such as breathalyzer checks, determination of intoxication status, and vehicle control, and may include a processor that performs calculations to perform these functions, and a memory that stores algorithms for performing the functions of the processor. Furthermore, the control module 200 may modularly include a check unit 210, a determination unit 220, a seat sensing unit 230, a door sensing unit 240, an image analysis unit 250, a breathalyzer verification unit 260, a sensor control unit 270, and a vehicle control unit 280. Moreover, the sub-configurations of the control module 200 are illustrative examples. The control module 200 may perform the same or equivalent functions when communicating with other vehicle controllers, in which case some sub-configurations of the control module may be removed or replaced.

[0215] Furthermore, according to preferred embodiments of this disclosure, a drunk driving prevention system with an enhanced detection method can be a system in a narrow sense that includes a control module and a sensor module to implement the enhanced detection method, or a system in a broad sense that includes configurations such as cameras, storage units, and display devices. However, even in a system in the narrow sense, configurations such as cameras and storage units are not excluded, and the system can be implemented by interlocking the cameras, storage units, and display units disposed in the vehicle system with the control module and sensor modules.

[0216] You can refer to this. Figure 11 Examples of drunk driving prevention methods using a drunk driving prevention system with an enhanced inspection method according to embodiments of the present disclosure are described.

[0217] like Figure 11 As shown, the inspection unit can begin the breath check (S704) when the driver gets into the vehicle (S701).

[0218] At this time, the control module can check whether all doors and windows of the vehicle are closed before the breath test begins (S702). Checking whether all doors and windows are closed is to maintain a sufficient seal of the vehicle during the breath test. Therefore, the control module can provide instructions to close any open doors / windows via the display unit (S703). On the other hand, when the on-board equipment can close the doors and windows, the vehicle control unit of the control module can directly close the doors and windows instead of providing a closing instruction.

[0219] The breath test begins with all doors and windows closed (S704).

[0220] Once the breath check begins, the sensor module inhales the driver's exhaled air and performs the step of receiving the driver's exhaled air (S705).

[0221] Then, an exhalation verification step (S706) is performed to check whether the exhalation cycle in the captured image matches the exhalation cycle of the sensor module based on the driver's input exhalation.

[0222] The exhalation verification steps are as follows: Figure 10 The exhalation verification unit 260 performs the steps of checking and determining whether the driver's exhalation information measured by the sensor module substantially matches the actual exhalation of the driver.

[0223] in this regard, Figure 12 The specific determination method in the breath verification step is described. Figure 12 The graph illustrates an example of verifying exhalation effectiveness by comparing the exhalation volume information measured by the sensor module with the mouth shape in an image.

[0224] Figure 12 In this context, A represents the first estimated expiratory cycle derived by analyzing the captured images, and Figure 12 In this context, B represents the second estimated expiratory cycle derived from the expiratory volume information measured by the sensor module.

[0225] Considering the driver's exhalation check time, the driver opens their mouth and begins exhaling during the normal exhalation period. Furthermore, the driver closes their mouth at the end of exhalation, allowing the start and end points of the driver's exhalation to be determined based on the changes in the driver's mouth shape in the image captured by the camera. After all, the first estimated exhalation cycle in the image captured by the camera refers to the exhalation cycle consisting of the driver's exhalation start and end points estimated from the camera image. The first estimated exhalation cycle A is the period between the start point t1 and the end point t2 obtained by the image analysis unit based on the captured image, where the start point t1 is the time the mouth is open in the captured image, and the end point t2 is the time the mouth is closed in the captured image.

[0226] on the other hand, Figure 12 In this context, B represents the second estimated expiratory cycle, which is the expiratory cycle determined based on the expiratory volume measured by the sensor module. Curve B is determined by the curve of expiratory volume measured by the sensor module. The expiratory cycle between the starting point t3 and the ending point t4 during the period when breathing air is inhaled into the sensor module during rapid changes in expiratory volume is set as the second estimated expiratory cycle.

[0227] The use of can be shown in the following two ways. Figure 12 The method of verifying expiratory effectiveness is based on the first estimated expiratory cycle A and the second estimated expiratory cycle B determined in the study.

[0228] The first method involves comparing the total time of each cycle and determining that the two cycles are substantially matched when the ratio of the total time tc of the first estimated expiratory cycle to the total time ts of the second estimated expiratory cycle is within a predetermined range.

[0229] When calculating the ratio between the two, it is assumed that actual exhalation occurs with the mouth open. Therefore, the second estimated expiratory cycle relative to the amount of exhalation entering the sensor module will not be longer than the first estimated expiratory cycle. Conversely, there are invalid cycles in which exhalation occurs not only with the mouth open, such as cycles in which exhalation follows inhalation with the mouth open or in which no exhalation occurs with the mouth open. Therefore, a margin ratio that takes into account such invalid cycles is applied. The margin ratio can be set from 5% to 50%, and is preferably set from 5% to 20%. An excessively high margin ratio may impair the reliability of the exhalation verification, while a low margin ratio of 5% or lower may require additional checks, while in other cases, no additional checks are required. It is preferable to set the margin ratio appropriately by taking into account the accuracy of the sensor module and the image analysis accuracy of the image analysis unit.

[0230] For example, according to a preferred embodiment of this disclosure, when the total time tc of the first estimated expiratory cycle is equal to or greater than 100% of the total time ts of the second estimated expiratory cycle and less than 105% (5% margin) of ts, it can be determined that the exhalation in the captured image matches the exhalation inhaled into the sensor module. Furthermore, according to another embodiment of this disclosure, when the total time tc of the first estimated expiratory cycle is equal to or greater than 100% of the second estimated expiratory cycle and less than 120% (20% margin) of the second estimated expiratory cycle, it can be determined that the exhalation in the captured image matches the exhalation inhaled into the sensor module.

[0231] On the other hand, another way to verify the effectiveness of exhalation is to check whether the difference between the start time and the end time in each cycle is less than the reference value.

[0232] In this scenario, the second estimated expiratory cycle is included in the first estimated expiratory cycle. When the difference between the start time t3 of the second estimated expiratory cycle and the start time t1 of the first estimated expiratory cycle is less than a reference value, and the difference between the end time t2 of the first estimated expiratory cycle and the end time t4 of the second estimated expiratory cycle is less than a reference value, it can be determined that the exhalation in the captured image matches the exhalation inhaled into the sensor module. Here, the reference value can be set to 0.5 seconds, 1 second, etc., and this method is largely based on the same expiratory verification principle as the first method.

[0233] When the expiratory cycle does not match during the expiratory verification step (S706), the expiratory check is considered invalid, and a step to request a repeat expiratory check can be performed without completing the expiratory check (S713). In the step of requesting a repeat expiratory check, a request message for a repeat expiratory check can be sent through the display unit, or a request message for a repeat expiratory check can be issued by voice.

[0234] Conversely, when the exhalation cycle matching is determined in the exhalation verification step (S706), the exhalation check is completed by the checking unit of the control module, and the step of checking the state of intoxication is executed by the determining unit (S707). According to a preferred embodiment of this disclosure, when the exhalation check is completed, the image information captured by the camera before the vehicle was started and the alcohol content information measured by the sensor module can be stored in the storage unit. The image information and alcohol content information stored in the storage unit are information recorded during the exhalation check and can be used to present specific check information when an accident occurs later.

[0235] When detecting intoxication, the control module determines whether the blood alcohol content measured by the sensor module exceeds a preset reference blood alcohol content (S708), and if the intoxicated driver is unable to drive the vehicle, it can activate the engine start prevention device to prevent the engine from starting (S709). When the control module determines in this step that the driver's measured blood alcohol content exceeds the reference blood alcohol content, it determines that the driver is unable to drive due to intoxication, and the control module can send a control command to activate the engine start prevention device.

[0236] When no alcohol is detected in the driver's breath or the alcohol content measured by the sensor module is equal to or less than the reference alcohol content, driving is permitted and the engine is started by opening the starter (S710).

[0237] On the other hand, when the engine is running after the control module has completed the breath check, sometimes a verified driver leaves the vehicle and another driver gets in and fraudulently bypasses the breath check process. According to a preferred embodiment of this disclosure, to prevent such fraudulent breath checks, driver departure is detected (S711), and when it is determined that the driver has left the vehicle after it has started, a step to prevent engine starting and gear shifting can be performed (S712). The vehicle control unit can send control commands to another controller to control the engine and transmission, thereby preventing engine starting and gear shifting. Since the driver is only allowed to resume driving after a repeat breath check is completed when preventing engine starting and gear shifting, the system can notify the driver that a repeat breath check is required during the repeat breath check request step (S713). Thereafter, the breath check process in step S704 and subsequent steps described above can be performed in the same manner.

[0238] Figure 13 This is a flowchart of a method for preventing drunk driving with an enhanced breathalyzer test according to another preferred embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0239] Figure 13 Implementation examples and Figure 11The difference in the embodiment is that it includes logic for determining the presence of a passenger and logic for determining the presence of an unauthorized object in the captured image. Other steps are the same as... Figure 11 The examples described are largely the same.

[0240] like Figure 13 As shown, when the driver gets into the vehicle (S401), the inspection unit can begin the breath check (S404).

[0241] At this point, the control module can check whether all doors and windows of the vehicle are closed before the exhalation check begins (S402). If some doors or windows are open, a command to close the open doors / windows can be issued through the display unit (S403).

[0242] If all doors / windows are closed, the breath check begins (S404).

[0243] Once the breath check begins, the sensor module inhales the driver's exhaled air and performs the step of receiving the driver's exhaled air (S405).

[0244] On the other hand, according to this embodiment, the step of determining the presence of an unauthorized object in the captured image can also be performed before the breath verification step (S410). Furthermore, the following steps (S406 to S408) can be performed before determining whether the breath check is normal: determining whether a passenger is present, whether the passenger is wearing a seatbelt, and whether the seat sensor detects a change in position.

[0245] Figure 13 It is presumed that all steps S406 to S408 and S410 are executed, but steps S406 to S407 can be ignored, and in embodiments of this disclosure, only step S410 may be executed. Step S410 is a step of checking whether there are any unauthorized objects other than the driver in the image captured by the camera before the breath verification step. When an unauthorized object is confirmed to exist, the control module can execute the step of requesting a repeat breath check (S418) without proceeding to the breath verification step.

[0246] Checking for the presence of unauthorized objects in this step means checking for the presence of unauthorized objects (balloons or third parties) other than the driver only if: (i) the driver boards the vehicle alone with a balloon containing the exhalation of a third party and attempts to perform a breath check using the balloon, or (ii) a third party boards the vehicle near the driver and attempts to perform a breath check using the balloon.

[0247] Therefore, unauthorized objects refer to unauthorized objects other than the driver and onboard components near the driver.

[0248] Figure 14 An example of an unauthorized object is shown compared to a normal image. Figure 14 Image (a) shows an image of a normal expiratory breath test attempt, and Figure 14 (b) shows an image of an abnormal breath test attempt (with an unauthorized object present).

[0249] Figure 14 Image (a) shows a normal breath test attempt in an image captured by a camera during a normal breath test, with the driver's face uncovered. Figure 14 (b) shows the state of an abnormal breath check attempt in an image captured during an abnormal breath check where a balloon covers the driver's face. In the case of an abnormal breath check, the image analysis unit confirms the presence of an unauthorized object and the check unit can refuse to complete the breath check.

[0250] On the other hand, in the example where steps S406 to S408 and S410 are all executed, the step of checking the presence of passengers (S406) can be additionally executed before checking the presence of unauthorized objects.

[0251] When a passenger is identified in step S406, it is checked whether all passengers in the passenger seat or rear seat are wearing seat belts (S407). If any passenger is not wearing a seat belt, it is determined that there is a risk of a deceptive breath check attempt, thus the completion of the breath check is refused and a repeat breath check is requested (S409). Conversely, when all passengers are wearing seat belts, the step of detecting changes in passenger position is performed (S408). When it is confirmed that no passenger has changed position, it is determined that no deceptive breath check attempt has been made, and subsequent processes can be performed sequentially, preferably, the step of checking for the presence of unauthorized objects (S410) and the breath verification step (S411) are performed sequentially. Conversely, when it is confirmed that any passenger has changed position, it is determined that a deceptive breath check attempt has been made, in which case the completion of the breath check is refused and a repeat breath check is requested (S409).

[0252] Furthermore, according to another embodiment of this disclosure, steps S406, S408, and S410 can be performed, excluding only the step of checking seatbelt wearing (S407). In this case, when it is confirmed that a passenger is present (S408), the step of detecting a change in the passenger's position can be performed instead of step S407.

[0253] After step S410 is completed normally, exhalation verification step S411 can be performed to check the match between the exhalation cycle in the captured image and the exhalation cycle of the sensor module based on the received exhalation of the driver.

[0254] If an exhalation cycle mismatch is determined in the exhalation verification step S411, the exhalation check is considered invalid, and the step of requesting a repeat exhalation check can be performed without completing the exhalation check (S418).

[0255] Conversely, when the exhalation cycle matching is determined in the exhalation verification step S411, the checking unit of the control module completes the exhalation check and executes the step (S412) where the determining unit checks the state of intoxication. According to a preferred embodiment of this disclosure, when the exhalation check is completed, the image information captured by the camera before engine start and the alcohol measurement information measured by the sensor module can be stored in the storage unit.

[0256] When checking for intoxication, the system determines whether the blood alcohol content measured by the sensor module exceeds a preset reference blood alcohol content (S413), and can activate the engine start prevention device to prevent the engine from starting if an intoxicated driver is not permitted to drive the vehicle. When the control module determines that the driver's measured blood alcohol content exceeds the reference blood alcohol content and the driver is intoxicated, it determines that the driver is too intoxicated to drive, and the control module can send a control command to activate the engine start prevention device.

[0257] When no alcohol is detected in the driver's breath or the alcohol content measured by the sensor module is equal to or less than the reference alcohol content, driving is deemed permissible and the engine is started by turning on the ignition device (S415).

[0258] On the other hand, after the control module completes the breath check, it checks whether the verified driver left the vehicle while the engine was running (S416), and if it is determined that the driver left the vehicle after it was started, the step of preventing engine starting and gear shifting can be executed (S417). Since the driver is only allowed to resume driving after a repeat breath check is completed when engine starting and gear shifting are prevented, the driver can be notified in the repeat breath check request step S418 that a repeat breath check is required. The breath check process in step S404 and subsequent steps described above can be executed in the same manner after the repeat breath check request in step S409 or S418.

[0259] Specific embodiments of the present disclosure have been shown and described, but it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that improvements and modifications may be made to the present disclosure in various ways without departing from the technical spirit of the present disclosure as set forth in the following claims.

Claims

1. A drunk driving prevention system, comprising: The sensor module is configured to measure the alcohol content in the driver's exhaled breath during a breathalyzer test of the vehicle's driver. as well as The control module is configured as follows: The driver's intoxication is determined by the measured blood alcohol content. Determine whether the exhalation test has been completed; as well as Prevent the vehicle's engine from starting if the driver fails the breath test; as well as A camera, configured to capture an image of the face of the driver sitting in the driver's seat of the vehicle. The control module includes a testing unit configured to display alcohol test guidance information via the vehicle's display unit in response to receiving engine operating input from the driver. The control module is further controlled to: Based on the images captured by the camera, it is determined whether the driver is wearing a mask, and based on the alcohol content measured by the sensor module, it is checked whether the driver is intoxicated, thereby activating the vehicle's engine start-prevention device. When the driver's expiratory volume provided to the sensor module is equal to or greater than the first reference expiratory volume, the expiratory check is determined to be complete. When it is determined that the driver is wearing a mask, the first reference expiratory volume is replaced with a second reference expiratory volume, wherein the second reference expiratory volume is lower than the first reference expiratory volume.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The inspection unit is configured as follows: When the engine working input is an engine start input for driving the vehicle, it is determined that the driver intends to drive the vehicle and the alcohol test guidance information is displayed on the display unit; as well as When the engine operating input is an electronic device activation input for activating the vehicle's electronic devices, it is determined that the driver does not intend to drive the vehicle and the alcohol test guidance information is not displayed on the display unit.

3. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The inspection unit is configured to prevent the alcohol test guidance information from being displayed on the display unit when the vehicle is in motion.

4. The system according to claim 1, further comprising: The storage unit is configured to store image information captured by the camera. The control module includes an image processing unit configured to process image information captured by the camera. Specifically, when the driver returns to the driver's seat within a preset reference time after the completion of the previous driving, the inspection unit is configured to compare the image information processed by the image processing unit with the image information stored in the storage unit during the previous driving to check whether the driver has changed. In response to determining that the driver has not changed, the inspection unit is configured to prevent the alcohol test guidance information from being displayed on the display unit when the engine operating input is received.

5. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The control module includes: A determining unit is configured to compare the blood alcohol content measured by the sensor module with a reference blood alcohol content to check whether the driver is intoxicated; and The vehicle control unit is configured to send a control command to activate the vehicle's engine start-prevention device when the determining unit determines that the driver's measured blood alcohol content exceeds the reference blood alcohol content and the driver is intoxicated.

6. The system according to claim 1, wherein: The display unit is configured to display vehicle status guidance information sent from the control module, the vehicle status guidance information including safety feature information and convenience feature information, and The display unit is configured as follows: When the driver requests the display of the safety feature information while the alcohol test guidance information is being displayed on the display unit, the display of the alcohol test guidance information is stopped and the safety feature information is displayed on the display unit. as well as When the driver requests the display of the convenience features information while the alcohol test guidance information is being displayed on the display unit, the convenience features information is displayed on the display unit after the display of the alcohol test guidance information has ended.

7. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The control module includes: The inspection unit is configured to determine whether the driver is wearing a mask based on the image captured by the camera, and to determine whether the breath check is complete based on the driver's exhalation volume provided to the sensor module. The determining unit is configured to compare the alcohol content measured by the sensor module with a reference alcohol content to check whether the driver is intoxicated. The vehicle control unit is configured to send a control command to activate the engine start-prevention device when the determining unit determines that the driver's measured blood alcohol content exceeds the reference blood alcohol content and the driver is intoxicated.

8. The system according to claim 1, wherein: The display unit is configured to display guidance information when the system enters mask-wearing mode, and The display unit is configured to position the guidance information at the portion of the display unit closer to the inlet of the inhalation unit of the sensor module when the system is in the mask-wearing mode.

9. The system according to claim 8, wherein: The camera is configured to send image information of the captured images to the image processing unit of the control module in real time. The image processing unit is configured to generate frames for the driver's facial position and send image information matching the frames to the display unit. The display unit is configured to output image information matching the frame in real time. The image processing unit is configured to provide the frame magnified by a preset ratio when the system is in the mask-wearing mode.

10. The system according to claim 8, wherein, The control module is configured to control the sensor module to increase the fan speed when the system is in the mask wearing mode, the fan being installed at the air intake port of the sensor module.

11. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The control module is configured as follows: Once the breath test begins, close the vehicle windows and switch the vehicle to interior air mode; as well as After the breath test is completed, the vehicle status is switched back to the previous vehicle status before the breath test began.

12. The system according to claim 1, in, The inspection unit is configured to control the notification device to provide a first image capture notification when an image capture is requested during the breath test or while the vehicle is in motion, and The control module is configured to control the camera to capture an image after providing the first image capture notification.

13. The system according to claim 12, wherein: The inspection unit is configured to ignore the first image capture notification when the vehicle is in motion, based on driver settings. When the driver settings specify that the first image capture notification is not required while the vehicle is in motion, images are captured by the camera without providing an image capture notification, even when an image capture request is made.

14. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The control module is also configured to: A first estimated expiratory cycle is calculated based on changes in the driver's mouth shape in images captured during the expiratory test; and The exhalation check is completed by comparing the first estimated expiratory cycle with the second estimated expiratory cycle determined based on the change in the amount of exhaled air inhaled into the sensor module.

15. The system according to claim 14, wherein: The control module includes an image analysis unit, which is configured to: Process and analyze the captured images; and Check the captured images for any unauthorized objects other than the driver. The control module is configured to determine that the breath check has not been completed when the presence of the unauthorized object is detected.

16. The system according to claim 14, wherein: The control module includes a seat sensing unit configured to use multiple seat sensors in the passenger seats and rear seats of the vehicle to sense the presence of passengers in the vehicle and changes in the position of the passengers. The control module is configured to determine that the exhalation check has not been completed when the presence of the passenger is sensed and a change in the passenger's position is detected.

17. A method for controlling the drunk driving prevention system of claim 1, comprising: Receive engine operating input from the driver; as well as In response to receiving the engine operating input, the inspection unit determines whether to display alcohol test guidance information on the display unit.

18. The method according to claim 17, wherein, The process by which the inspection unit determines whether to display alcohol test guidance information includes: When the engine operating input is an engine start input for driving the vehicle, the inspection unit determines that the driver intends to drive the vehicle and needs to display the alcohol test guidance information. When the engine operating input is an electronic device activation input for activating the vehicle's electronic devices, the inspection unit determines that the driver does not intend to drive the vehicle and that the alcohol test guidance information does not need to be displayed.

19. The method of claim 17, wherein, The inspection unit is configured not to display the alcohol test guidance information when the vehicle is in motion.

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