System and method for hazardous driving prevention

Abstract

To provide a system and method for preventing an improper driver from driving a vehicle.SOLUTION: A system 100 includes a first sensor, a driver recognition module in communication with the first sensor to determine the identity of a driver on the basis of a reading value of the first sensor, a second sensor, a driver condition determination module in communication with the second sensor to determine a condition of the driver on the basis of a reading value of the second sensor, and a hazardous driving prevention module in communication with the driver recognition module and the driver condition determination module to determine and execute one or more actions in a predetermined set of actions on the basis of the determined identity and determined condition of the driver.SELECTED DRAWING: None

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 258,457 (filed January 7, 2021), which is a national stage application of PCT International Patent Application No. PCT / IL2019 / 050752, entitled "System and Method for Hazardous Driving Prevention," published on January 16, 2020 as PCT International Publication No. 2020 / 012461, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 695,049 (filed July 8, 2018), all of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] Technical Field The present invention relates to the field of safe driving systems, and more particularly to systems that prevent unsuitable drivers from operating a vehicle. [Background technology]

[0003] Current safe driving systems are limited and typically only take into account a few parameters of the driver when considering whether the driver is ready to use the vehicle.

[0004] There is a long felt need for a system that uses multiple factors to deter unfit drivers from driving. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] One aspect of the present invention provides a system for preventing unauthorized and / or unsafe use of a vehicle, the system may include a first sensor, a driver recognition module in communication with the first sensor and configured to determine an identity of a driver based on a reading of the first sensor, a second sensor, a driver state determination module in communication with the second sensor and configured to determine a state of the driver based on a reading of the second sensor, and a unsafe driving prevention module in communication with the driver recognition module and the driver state determination and configured to determine and perform one or more actions of a predetermined set of actions based on the determined identity of the driver, the determined state of the driver, and a predetermined set of rules, the predetermined set of actions including at least one of allowing the driver to use the vehicle, allowing the driver to use the vehicle under certain restrictions, and issuing a warning to at least one of the driver, passengers, and third parties depending on the determined state of the driver.

[0006] In some embodiments, the first sensor is selected from the group consisting of a fingerprint recognition sensor, a facial recognition sensor, and a voice recognition sensor.

[0007] In some embodiments, the second sensor is selected from the group consisting of a sensor that measures levels of legal drugs, a sensor that measures levels of illegal drugs, and a sensor that measures levels of hormones.

[0008] In some embodiments, the first sensor and the second sensor are operatively coupled to determine the identity of the driver along with the driver's status to ensure that the identity and status are determined for the same driver.

[0009] In some embodiments, the reckless driving prevention module is configured to classify the driver based on the determined identity of the driver to obtain a driver classification, and to determine and perform one or more actions based on the determined state of the driver and the driver classification.

[0010] In some embodiments, the reckless driving prevention module is configured to re-identify the driver to ensure that the driver operating the vehicle is a driver who is authorized to operate the vehicle.

[0011] In some embodiments, the system includes a self-test module in communication with the driver state determination module and the dangerous driving prevention module, and the self-test module is configured to allow the driver to perform a self-test using the driver state determination module and the dangerous driving prevention module without storing the self-test results in the system's log.

[0012] Another aspect of the invention may provide a method for preventing unauthorized and / or unsafe use of a vehicle, the method may include determining an identity of a driver based on readings of a first sensor; determining a state of the driver based on readings of a second sensor; and determining and performing one or more actions of a predetermined set of actions based on the determined identity of the driver, the determined state of the driver, and a predetermined set of rules, the predetermined set of actions including at least one of permitting the driver to use the vehicle, permitting the driver to use the vehicle under certain limitations, and issuing a warning to at least one of the driver, passengers, and third parties depending on the determined state of the driver.

[0013] In some embodiments, the method may further include classifying the driver based on the determined identity of the driver to obtain a driver classification, and determining and performing one or more actions based on the determined state of the driver and the driver classification.

[0014] In some embodiments, the method may further include re-identifying the driver to ensure that the driver operating the vehicle is an authorized driver.

[0015] In some embodiments, the method may further include allowing the driver to run the self-test without saving the self-test results in the system's log.

[0016] According to one or more embodiments, there is also provided a system for restricting or preventing access, including a first sensor, a user recognition module in communication with the first sensor and configured to determine an identity of a user based on one or more readings of the first sensor, a second sensor, a status determination module in communication with the second sensor and configured to determine a status of the user based on the one or more readings of the second sensor, and an access module in communication with the user recognition module and the status determination module and configured to allow, restrict or prevent user access to at least one of a device or a building, and configured to allow, restrict or prevent access based on at least one of the determined identity of the user, the determined status of the user, and a predetermined rule set.

[0017] According to some embodiments, the second sensor and the state determination module are included in the wearable element.

[0018] According to some embodiments, the wearable element further comprises a first sensor and a user recognition module.

[0019] According to some embodiments, the first sensor is a sensor configured to perform at least one of facial recognition, voice recognition, and fingerprint recognition.

[0020] According to some embodiments, the one or more readings of the second sensor include one or more spectral measurements at one or more particular wavelengths.

[0021] According to some embodiments, the condition determination module is configured to determine at least one of a hormone level, an alcohol level, a legal drug level, and an illegal drug level of the user based on the one or more spectral measurements.

[0022] According to some embodiments, the device is at least one of a vehicle, heavy machinery, medical equipment, and / or a power tool.

[0023] According to some embodiments, the access module is configured to communicate with a start button of the device and to prevent access to the device by disabling operation of the start button.

[0024] According to some embodiments, the access module is configured to communicate with one or more operating systems of the device and restrict access to the device by limiting the maximum range of one or more operating modes of the device or restricting operation to only a predetermined set of one or more operating modes of the device.

[0025] According to some embodiments, the building is one of a factory, a school, a stadium, an airport, and / or an operating theatre.

[0026] According to some embodiments, the access module is configured to communicate with controllable access points of the building and prevent access to the building by disabling the access points from opening to users.

[0027] According to some embodiments, the system is configured to issue an alert to a third party depending on the determined user status.

[0028] In accordance with one or more embodiments, a method for limiting or preventing access includes determining, by a user recognition module, an identity of a user based on one or more readings of a first sensor; determining, by a status determination module, a status of the user based on one or more readings of a second sensor; and allowing, limiting, or preventing, by an access module, access of the user to at least one of a device or a building based on at least one of the determined user identity, the determined user status, and a predetermined rule set.

[0029] According to some embodiments, the one or more readings of the second sensor include one or more spectral measurements at one or more particular wavelengths.

[0030] According to some embodiments, determining the user's condition based on one or more readings of the second sensor includes determining at least one of the user's hormone level, alcohol level, legal drug level, or illegal drug level based on the one or more spectral measurements.

[0031] According to some embodiments, the device is at least one of a vehicle, heavy machinery, medical equipment, and / or a power tool.

[0032] Some embodiments include preventing access to the device by disabling operation of the start button.

[0033] Some embodiments include limiting the maximum range of one or more operational modes of the device, or restricting operation to only a predetermined set of one or more operational modes of the device.

[0034] Some embodiments include preventing access to the building by disabling the opening of controllable access points to users.

[0035] Some embodiments include issuing an alert to a third party in response to the determined user status.

[0036] These, additional and / or other aspects and / or advantages of the invention will be set forth in the following detailed description, and may be inferred from the detailed description and / or learned by practice of the invention. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0037] For a better understanding of embodiments of the invention and to show how they may be carried into effect, reference will now be made, simply by way of example, to the accompanying drawings in which like reference numerals represent corresponding elements or parts throughout, and in which:

[0038] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic block diagram of a system for preventing unauthorized and / or unsafe use of a vehicle, according to some embodiments of the present invention. [Diagram 2] 4 is a flow chart of a method for preventing unauthorized and / or unsafe use of a vehicle according to some embodiments of the present invention. [Diagram 3] 1 is a schematic diagram of a system for limiting or preventing access according to some embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 4A] 4 shows examples of spectral measurements according to some embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 4B] 4 shows examples of spectral measurements according to some embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 4C] 4 shows examples of spectral measurements according to some embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 4D] 4 shows examples of spectral measurements according to some embodiments of the present invention. [Diagram 5] Shows how skin pigment (melanin) and oxygenated blood (oxyhemoglobin) affect spectral measurements. [Figure 6] Show how a feature affects a spectral measurement. [Figure 7] 4 is a flowchart of a method for limiting or preventing access according to some embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 8] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a computing device that may be used with embodiments of the present invention.

[0039] It will be appreciated that for simplicity and clarity of illustration, elements illustrated in the figures have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some elements may be exaggerated relative to other elements for clarity. Further, where considered appropriate, reference numerals may be repeated among the figures to indicate corresponding or analogous elements. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0040] In the following description, various aspects of the present invention are described. For purposes of explanation, specific configurations and details are discussed to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. However, it will be further apparent to those skilled in the art that the present invention may be practiced without the specific details presented herein. Furthermore, well-known features may be omitted or simplified so as not to obscure the present invention. With specific reference to the drawings, it is emphasized that the details shown are merely by way of example and for the purpose of an illustrative discussion of the present invention, and are presented to provide what is believed to be the most useful and easily understood explanation of the principles and conceptual aspects of the present invention. In this regard, there is no intention to show the structural details of the present invention in more detail than is necessary for a fundamental understanding of the present invention, and the description together with the drawings will make clear to those skilled in the art how some forms of the present invention can be actually embodied.

[0041] Before describing at least one embodiment of the invention in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The invention is applicable to other embodiments, which can be practiced or carried out in various ways, and to combinations of the disclosed embodiments. It is also to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.

[0042] Unless otherwise specified, and as will be apparent from the discussion that follows, throughout this specification discussions utilizing terms such as "processing," "computing," "calculating," "determining," "enhancing," and the like refer to actions and / or processes of a computer or computing system, or similar electronic computing device, that manipulates data represented as physical quantities, such as electrical quantities in a register and / or memory of the computing system, and / or converts it into other data that is similarly represented as physical quantities in a memory, register, or other such information storage, transmission, or display device of the computing system. Any of the disclosed modules or units may be implemented, at least in part, by a computer processor.

[0043] Some aspects of the invention may provide a system that prevents unauthorized and / or unsafe use of a vehicle. In some embodiments, the system may use sensors and / or other information sources to identify the driver and / or determine the driver's condition before the vehicle is operated. In some embodiments, the system may allow for multiple levels and / or types of control of the driver's behavior. For example, the system may inhibit and / or prevent operation of the vehicle based on the risk level. In some embodiments, the system may consider possible errors in measurements, personal factors of the driver, external conditions (e.g., time, weather, and / or location), etc. For example, in some conditions, the system may take action to prevent use of the vehicle. In some embodiments, the system may alert a third party of the driver's condition. In some embodiments, the system may alert the driver and / or passengers of the condition and / or provide options and / or suggestions.

[0044] In various embodiments, the system may identify the driver of the vehicle before, during, and / or after operation of the vehicle. For example, the system may prevent an authorized driver from handing the vehicle over to an unauthorized driver after the driver has initiated a trip. For example, the system may prevent an unauthorized driver from parking the vehicle and / or shutting off the engine at the start of a trip.

[0045] In some embodiments, the system may enable personalized control and / or monitoring of a user of the vehicle. For example, the system may include multiple customizable options related to the vehicle driver's state, the driver's identity, and / or the impact of the driver's actions. The system may enable personalized control of the driver's access to the vehicle, taking into account, for example, the driver's identity, the driver's state, and external circumstances. For example, the system may facilitate control of the use of the vehicle by legal authorities, the driver's guardian, and / or the vehicle owner.

[0046] As shown in FIG. 1, FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram of a system 100 for preventing unauthorized and / or unsafe use of a vehicle, according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0047] According to some embodiments, the system 100 may include one or more sensors 110 , a driver identification module 120 , a driver state determination module 130 , a dangerous driving prevention module 140 , a user interface 150 , a storage module 160 , and a power source 170 .

[0048] According to some embodiments, the sensors 110 may be in communication with a driver identification module 120 and a driver state determination module 130 .

[0049] The driver identification module 120 may receive readings of the sensors 110 and determine the identity of a potential driver of the vehicle based on the readings. The driver state determination module 130 may include receiving readings of the sensors 110 and determining the state of the potential driver based on the readings.

[0050] In some embodiments, the system 100 may include different sensors for identifying the driver and different sensors for determining the driver's state. For example, the system 100 may include one or more first sensors 112 for identifying the driver and one or more sensors 114 for determining the driver's state. The first sensors 112 may be, for example, sensors for fingerprint recognition, face recognition, voice recognition, etc. The second sensors 114 may be, for example, sensors for measuring levels of legal drugs (e.g., alcohol and / or prescription drugs and / or painkillers) and / or illegal drugs (e.g., cannabis and / or cocaine), hormone levels (e.g., signs that the driver is angry or tired), and / or other signs that a person is not fit to drive.

[0051] The first sensor 112 may communicate with the driver identification module 120, and the second sensor 114 may communicate with the driver state determination module 130. The communication between the sensor 110 and the identification module 120 and the driver state determination module 130 may be wired or wireless. For example, the first sensor 112 for identifying the driver may need to be connected to the driver identification module 120 via a local connection and / or a hardwired connection (so that it is clear that there is actually a driver who identifies himself). In another example, the first sensor for identifying the driver may be connected to an equipment required for the operation of the vehicle (e.g., a key, an ignition switch / button, a steering wheel, a gear stick, etc.). The selection of the equipment may be based on the user's preferences.

[0052] In some embodiments, the first sensor 112 and the second sensor 114 may be operatively coupled. For example, a fingerprint sensor (e.g., the first sensor 112) for identifying the driver may be connected to a blood alcohol sensor (e.g., the second sensor 114) for determining the driver's blood alcohol concentration (e.g., driver status). In this manner, the driver's identity may be determined along with the driver's status to ensure that an approved driver is one who has tested negative for, for example, blood alcohol and / or drug content.

[0053] In various embodiments, the first sensor 112 and / or the second sensor 114 are non-invasive sensors. In various embodiments, the first sensor 112 and / or the second sensor 114 are not breathalyzers (e.g., are not sensors configured to analyze breath samples).

[0054] The risky driving prevention module 140 may communicate with the driver identification module 120 and the driver state determination module 130. The risky driving prevention module 140 may determine and execute one or more of a plurality of actions based on the determined protentional driver's identity, the determined protentional driver's state, and a predefined set of rules. For example, the rules may stipulate that for unauthorized drivers and / or drivers for whom there is reliable data that they are severely impaired, the risky driving prevention module 140 may activate a locking device to prevent access to the vehicle. For example, in cases of ambiguity, the risky driving prevention module 130 may send a message to inform a third party of the situation (e.g., send a message over the network). In other cases, for example, when the driver is authorized but may be borderline impaired, the risky driving prevention module 140 may issue a warning to the driver and / or passengers and / or may note (e.g., in an internal memory and / or via a message over the network) that the driver drove in a suspicious state, but allow the driver to continue traveling. The above operations may also be combined.

[0055] In some embodiments, the unsafe driving prevention module 140 may classify potential drivers based on the identity of the driver as determined by the driver identification module 110. For example, some drivers may not be permitted to drive under any conditions. Some drivers may only be permitted to drive under certain conditions (e.g., in the presence of a licensed companion, in an emergency situation, and / or if a special license is issued). Some drivers may be permitted to drive in certain areas and / or under certain conditions (e.g., at certain times, in good weather, etc.). Some drivers may be permitted to drive under more general conditions. Some drivers may not be given the benefit of the doubt (e.g., if there is a question of whether the driver is fit to drive, the driver may be prevented from driving, e.g., by locking the vehicle's ignition and / or fuel pumps). Some drivers may be given the benefit of the doubt (e.g., if there is a question of whether the driver is fit to drive, the driver may be free to drive and / or the system does not prevent the driver from driving). Some drivers may be given limited, tentative trusted treatment (e.g., if there is a question about the driver's fitness to drive, the driver may be dissuaded from driving, e.g., by issuing a warning to the driver and / or recording the driver's condition and / or sending a message to a third party, but the driver is not prevented from driving). In some circumstances, preferred users may be prevented from driving (e.g., if one and / or more sensors indicate a high level of impairment and / or a high confidence level of impairment and / or illegality, e.g., illegally high blood alcohol). Also, the above actions may be combined.For example, a driver may be tentatively trusted at some locations and / or times and not tentatively trusted at other locations and / or times, and / or may be tentatively trusted for some sensor results and / or not tentatively trusted for other sensor results, and / or some users may be required to perform more tests than other users and / or may be required to perform tests more frequently than other users.

[0056] According to some embodiments, the unsafe driving prevention module 140 may include one or more actuators 142 and / or one or more output devices 144. The actuators 142 and / or output devices 144 may be in communication with the unsafe driving prevention module 140, which may be configured to control the actuators 142 and / or output devices 144. For example, the actuators 142 may be in communication with a vehicle system (e.g., a vehicle processor) and may be used by the unsafe driving prevention module 140 to prevent unauthorized use of the vehicle (e.g., preventing use entirely and / or limiting use by not allowing acceleration above a certain speed). In other examples, the output devices 144 may be used by the unsafe driving prevention module 140 to warn the driver, passengers, and / or third parties of various unsafe conditions and / or behaviors.

[0057] According to some embodiments, the system 100 may include a user interface 150. The unsafe driving prevention module 140 may be connected to the user interface 150, which allows a user (e.g., a fleet manager and / or a parent and / or a vehicle owner) to tune the system 100, for example, by changing how a driver is characterized by the driver identification module 120 and / or the driver state determination module 130 (e.g., based on the readings of the sensors 110).

[0058] According to some embodiments, the system 100 may include a storage module 160 (e.g., a computer-readable memory). The storage module 160 may be in communication with the driver identification module 120, the driver state determination module 130, and the dangerous driving prevention module 140.

[0059] In some embodiments, storage module 160 may store readings from sensors 110 (e.g., sensor outputs). In some embodiments, storage module 160 may store data regarding the identity of users of system 100 (e.g., fingerprint and / or facial data of authorized drivers).

[0060] In some embodiments, the storage module 160 may include policies. The policies may include, for example, sensor level thresholds for when a driver is allowed to drive, restricted, warned, etc. In some embodiments, the policies may be updated. For example, an administrator may be able to change the policies permanently and / or temporarily (e.g., if the authorized driver tests impaired, an unauthorized driver may be given temporary approval to drive (e.g., to drive the authorized driver home)). The temporary approval may be conditional (e.g., the approval may be for only one trip to the authorized driver's home). For example, some administrators may adhere to strict policies and avoid risky situations even if the condition (e.g., alcohol level) is borderline and / or within the legal limit. In other examples, some administrators may adhere to less strict policies and not intervene unless there is a high probability of illegal behavior (e.g., driving above the legal alcohol limit).

[0061] In some embodiments, the storage module 160 may store movement information. The movement information may include, for example, speed, location, time, and the like.

[0062] In various embodiments, the storage module 160 may store logs with movement and / or driver details. For example, the logs may include vehicle identification, time and / or location of the vehicle, speed, driver identity, driver status (e.g., sensor output). For example, insurance may use the logs to determine risk and / or insurance rates. For example, the logs may be used to derive driving statistics and / or improve policies to reduce accidents. In some embodiments, the logs may be collected by law enforcement agencies, especially for, for example, public vehicles (e.g., buses) and / or commercial vehicles (e.g., trucks and / or taxis) and / or vehicles carrying hazardous cargo. For example, the logs may be used to determine compensation in case of an accident. For example, the logs may be stored in a local memory and / or a remote memory.

[0063] In various embodiments, at least some of the data / information stored in storage module 160 may be protected. For example, the driver may not have access to modify the contents of the memory.

[0064] According to some embodiments, the reckless driving prevention module 140 may communicate with the external network 90. ​​The reckless driving prevention module 140 may receive data / information (e.g., road information, geolocation data, etc.) from the external network.

[0065] According to various embodiments, the reckless driving prevention module 140 may use sensors and / or network connections of the driver's mobile phone and / or a processor and / or battery and / or memory of the driver's mobile phone. For example, the mobile phone may include an application that coordinates the connection with the system 100.

[0066] According to some embodiments, the unsafe driving prevention module 140 may include, for example, a dedicated radio transceiver for a cellular network. The unsafe driving prevention module 140 may be connected to the network via an external device. For example, the unsafe driving prevention module 140 may use a personal computing device (e.g., a mobile phone for external communication). For example, an authorized driver may be required to connect the driver's mobile phone to the system before and / or while driving. For example, the system 100 may include a hardwired mobile phone dock. The unsafe driving prevention module 140 may be connected to the mobile phone via a wireless connection (e.g., Bluetooth). In other examples, additional optional safety features of the system 100 may include requiring the driver's mobile phone to be docked (put away) and / or have its screen turned off and / or be insensitive to touch when the user is driving. For example, the system may use various effects (e.g., prevention of driving, notification to third parties, warning buzzer, etc.) unless the mobile phone is docked and / or reports that its screen is turned off. In some embodiments, at least some modules of the system 100 may receive software updates and / or user support via a network connection.

[0067] According to some embodiments, the unsafe driving prevention module 140 may transmit information, receive information, transmit action requests, and / or receive commands from a third party. For example, the third party may include a vehicle owner and / or manager. For example, in the case of a company vehicle and / or a rental vehicle, the manager may include the vehicle owner. For example, in the case of a private vehicle, the third party may include the head of the household, a parent, and / or a spouse. In some embodiments, the third party may include an agency, such as police and / or emergency personnel. Optionally, the third party may include an insurance carrier. For example, an insurance carrier may agree to lower insurance premiums for customers who agree to install the system and / or for the insurance carrier to receive data. For example, the information transmitted to the third party may include the time and location of the vehicle, speed, driver identity, driver status (e.g., sensor output and / or debilitation level).

[0068] According to some embodiments, the unsafe driving prevention module 140 may be connected to the vehicle's driver information system. For example, if the driver appears impaired, vehicle warning lights and / or the vehicle's audio system may be used to inform the driver and / or passengers that the current driving behavior is not recommended. For example, seat belt warning lights and / or buzzers and / or the like may be used to discourage (prevent) driving under the influence of drugs and / or alcohol.

[0069] According to some embodiments, the reckless driving prevention module 140 may present the user with options to avoid driving. For example, the options may be presented verbally (via the vehicle's speaker and / or mobile phone) and / or as a message (e.g., a message sent via a cellular network messenger service (e.g., SMS, Whatsapp, etc.)) and / or as a notification (e.g., presented on the vehicle's screen and / or PCD). For example, the alternative transportation sources may include commercial transportation options such as taxi and bus recommendations for the desired location and time. In some embodiments, the reckless driving prevention module 140 may post the location on a network to request transportation and / or help from other drivers nearby. For example, the network may include a closed network and may include, for example, members of the driver's peers and / or those associated with the vehicle owner. In some embodiments, the request may be sent over a public network, for example, a ride-sharing network and / or a road safety network that arranges rides for stranded and / or impaired drivers. In some embodiments, the reckless driving prevention module 140 may call for assistance from public or private services, such as a towing service, police, an ambulance, and the like.

[0070] According to some embodiments, the reckless driving prevention module 140 can ensure that the driver driving the vehicle is, in fact, the driver approved at the start of the trip. For example, after approving the user's driving, the reckless driving prevention module 140 may request the user to verify his / her identity using the sensors 110 (e.g., using the first sensor 112) and the driver identification module 120. For example, during and / or after the trip, the reckless driving prevention module 140 may request that the authorized driver verify his / her identity. If the authorized driver is not near the vehicle and / or has not identified himself / herself to the local sensors, the system can take action.

[0071] In some embodiments, if an authorized driver fails to identify himself / herself during a trip, the reckless driving prevention module 140 may issue a warning and / or provide a limited time to park and close the vehicle. In some embodiments, the reckless driving prevention module 140 may prevent the user from storing the vehicle (e.g., by preventing the vehicle from being closed and / or turning on the emergency flashers) until the authorized driver identifies himself / herself, and / or the system may notify a third party when the authorized driver fails to re-identify himself / herself before closing the vehicle. In some embodiments, certain functions of the vehicle may require the authorized driver to be re-identified. For example, if the authorized driver is not present and / or is not present when the vehicle is closed, the fuel filler cover may be locked to prevent refueling until corrective action is taken. In some embodiments, if the vehicle is closed without the authorized driver re-identifying himself / herself, the authorized driver may be prevented from using the vehicle again and / or from using any vehicle in the fleet until corrective action is taken. In some embodiments, if a vehicle is closed without an authorized driver re-identifying themselves, the vehicle may be locked to prevent one or more drivers from using the vehicle until corrective action is taken. For example, a requirement for the driver to identify themselves may be set at a time when it is not dangerous for them to re-identify, such as while the vehicle is stopped.

[0072] In various embodiments, the reckless driving prevention module 140 may require the driver to identify themselves via a password and / or the first sensor 112. For example, the first sensor 112 may include a fingerprint detector and / or may be identified by facial recognition and / or voice recognition. The first sensor 112 may be on an external device and / or the reckless driving prevention module 140 may wait for confirmation that the driver has been identified via a local network (e.g., Bluetooth from the driver's mobile phone). In some embodiments, the first sensor 112 may be mounted within the vehicle. In some embodiments, other sensors may be used to identify the driver and / or determine changes in the driver's behavior that may indicate impairment. For example, the reckless driving prevention module 140 may receive data from and / or be attached to vehicle sensors (e.g., airbag speedometer and / or accelerometer) and / or external sensors such as driver assistance sensors (e.g., MobileEye) and / or mobile phone sensors (e.g., fingerprint reader, camera and / or facial recognition software, IR detector, microphone and / or voice recognition software, etc.). In some embodiments, any of the above sensors may be dedicated sensors mounted within the vehicle or mounted on other devices.

[0073] According to some embodiments, the reckless driving prevention module 140 can monitor the driver's behavior and / or the vehicle and use the data to determine changes that mean the driver is not an approved person and / or the driver is impaired. Optionally, the reckless driving prevention module 140 can use artificial intelligence to interpret the data. In this way, by requiring the driver to re-identify themselves, unauthorized users can be prevented from driving based on their approval of other drivers. Optionally, the data is used to determine other factors, such as factors related to vehicle performance.

[0074] According to some embodiments, system 100 may include a self-test module 170. In some embodiments, a user may be able to use at least some modules of system 100 in a "private" manner. For example, a user may test themselves to determine, for example, their alcohol level. Self-test module 170 may be configured to use user sensors 110 and / or reckless driving prevention module 140 without notifying third parties and / or without storing the results in storage module 160.

[0075] Optionally, the self-test module 170 may provide useful information such as "how much can I drink before I exceed the acceptable alcohol level" and "how long must I wait to bring my blood alcohol back to an acceptable level". In some embodiments, the self-test module 170 may allow the user to make such determinations (which may have low accuracy or reliability) using a mobile phone sensor (e.g., an infrared detector). In some embodiments, the user makes non-recorded measurements using a sensor attached to the vehicle. In some embodiments, the sensor 110 of the system 100 may be portable. For example, a blood level sensor and / or a wireless data transmitter may be attached to a vehicle key. For example, a user may be able to carry the key and receive the results of his / her and / or a colleague's blood alcohol test on his / her mobile phone. Optionally, the self-test module 180 requires that the key and / or the sensor be close to the vehicle if a potential driver is to be identified and / or tested for impairment.

[0076] According to some embodiments, the system 100 may include a power source 180. In some embodiments, the power source 180 may be adapted to be connected to and provide power to the sensors 110, the driver identification module 120, the driver state determination module 130, the dangerous driving prevention module 140, the user interface 150, the storage module 160, and the self-test module 170. In other embodiments, at least some modules of the system 100 may receive power from a vehicle battery and / or have a dedicated battery.

[0077] According to various embodiments, each of the modules of system 100 (e.g., driver identification module 120, driver state determination module 130, dangerous driving prevention module 140, storage module 160, self-test module 170) may be implemented on its own computing device, on a single (e.g., shared) computing device, on the driver's personal computing device (e.g., a mobile phone), in the cloud, or on a combination of computing devices.

[0078] According to some embodiments, the system 100 may be retrofitted and used with existing vehicles. The flexible rules of the system 100 may make it suitable for use with a set of simple and / or available sensors. For example, the flexible decision-making process may allow for an effective system to be achieved with less reliable sensors. Optionally, this makes it easier to adapt the system 100 to existing and / or low-value vehicles without the need for expensive installation and / or expensive high-precision sensors. For example, by testing the driver at various stages and / or at the end of the trip, it may be possible to avoid drivers cheating the system (one person passing the test and then letting another person drive) without the need for expensive and / or conspicuous sensors that are difficult to install on the car and that identify the driver during the trip.

[0079] As shown in FIG. 2, FIG. 2 is a flow chart of a method 200 for preventing unauthorized and / or unsafe use of a vehicle, according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0080] Method 200 may be performed by system 100, which may be configured to perform method 200. It should be noted that method 200 is not limited to the flowchart depicted in Figure 2 and the corresponding description. For example, in various embodiments, method 200 need not proceed through each illustrated block or stage or in the exact same order as illustrated and described.

[0081] According to some embodiments, method 200 may include determining an identity of the driver based on a reading of a first sensor (stage 210). For example, the first sensor may be similar to first sensor 112 described above in connection with FIGURE 1. The identity of the driver may be determined using, for example, driver identity determination module 120 as described above in connection with FIGURE 1.

[0082] According to some embodiments, the method 200 may include determining a driver state based on a reading of a second sensor (stage 220). For example, the second sensor may be similar to the second sensor 114 described above in connection with FIGURE 1. The driver state may be determined using, for example, a driver state determination module 130 as described above in connection with FIGURE 1.

[0083] According to some embodiments, method 200 may include determining and executing one or more actions from a set of predefined actions based on the determined identity of the driver, the determined state of the driver, and a predefined set of rules (stage 230). For example, the determination and execution of one or more actions may be utilized using reckless driving prevention module 140, such as described above in connection with FIG.

[0084] In some embodiments, the predetermined set of actions may include at least one of permitting the driver to use the vehicle (e.g., as described above with respect to FIG. 1), permitting the driver to use the vehicle under certain restrictions, and alerting the driver, passengers, and / or third parties of the driver's determined condition.

[0085] In some embodiments, the method 200 may include classifying the driver based on the driver's determined identity (e.g., by the unsafe driving prevention module 140 as described above with respect to FIG. 1) to obtain a driver classification, and determining and performing one or more actions based on the driver's determined state and the driver classification.

[0086] In some embodiments, the method 200 may include a step of re-identifying the driver (e.g., using the first sensor 112 by the reckless driving prevention module 140 and the driver identity determination module 120 as described above with respect to FIG. 1) to ensure that the driver operating the vehicle is a driver authorized to operate the vehicle.

[0087] In some embodiments, the method 200 may include a step of allowing the driver to run a self-test (e.g., using the self-test module 180 as described above with respect to FIG. 1 ) without saving the self-test results in the system's log.

[0088] Advantageously, the disclosed systems and methods can provide an objective, real-time determination of the driver's condition by measuring various physiological parameters of the driver (e.g., alcohol level, drug levels, hormones, etc.) and provide an objective, real-time determination of whether the driver is able to safely operate the vehicle.

[0089] The disclosed systems and methods may be implemented in a variety of additional fields, such as medicine (e.g., determining a physician's status), the construction industry, the legal industry, etc. Optionally, the systems and methods may be implemented in a hospital emergency department, for example, to determine a patient's status, etc.

[0090] Some embodiments include an access limiting or preventing system. According to some embodiments of the present invention, the access limiting or preventing system may be used in situations other than driving. For example, the access limiting or preventing system may be used to allow, limit or prevent access to equipment and / or buildings.

[0091] An embodiment may prevent inappropriate users (e.g., users under the influence of drugs and / or alcohol or in an inappropriate emotional state, such as high stress) from operating other types of vehicles than those mentioned above. For example, a system according to an embodiment of the present invention may prevent or restrict inappropriate users from operating, for example, aircraft (e.g., airplanes, helicopters, unmanned aerial vehicles "UAVs" such as drones, etc.), surface vessels (e.g., boats, ships, jet skis, submarines, etc.), amphibious aircraft, hovercraft, rail vehicles (e.g., trains, trams, monorails, maglev trains, etc.), and / or spacecraft.

[0092] Systems according to embodiments of the present invention may prevent or restrict users, such as unsuitable users, from operating heavy equipment, such as, but not limited to, scissor lifts, forklifts, bulldozers, cranes (tower cranes, mobile cranes, crawlers, etc.), excavators, wheel loaders, compactors, concrete mixers, tunnel boring machines, shredders, tree harvesting equipment (skidders, feller bunchers, delimbers, etc.) Operation of other types of machinery that are generally considered heavy equipment and not listed in the examples herein may also be restricted or prevented by embodiments of the present invention.

[0093] Systems according to embodiments of the present invention can prevent or restrict users, such as unsuitable users, from operating power tools, such as, but not limited to, chainsaws, electric drills, circular saws, nail guns, belt sanders, and the like.

[0094] Systems according to embodiments of the present invention can prevent or restrict users, such as inappropriate users, from operating medical equipment, such as, but not limited to, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanners, computed tomography (CT) scanners (also known as CAT scanners), positron emission tomography (PET) scanners, x-ray machines, electrocardiogram (ECG) machines, and electroencephalogram (EEG) machines.

[0095] Systems according to embodiments of the present invention may prevent or limit users, such as inappropriate users, from accessing buildings, such as, for example, but not limited to, airports, stadiums (e.g., arenas, concert halls, etc.), factories, schools (e.g., high schools, colleges, universities, etc.) Systems according to embodiments of the present invention may prevent or limit users, such as inappropriate users, from accessing other environments, such as, for example, but not limited to, mines, quarries, construction sites, operating rooms (e.g., where surgery is performed), etc.

[0096] 3 shows a block diagram of a system 300 for restricting or preventing access. The system 300 may include a first sensor 310. The first sensor 310 may be a sensor configured for at least one of facial recognition, voice recognition, and / or fingerprint recognition. For example, the first sensor 310 may be an imaging sensor, such as a camera configured to image a user's face or fingerprint. In some embodiments, the first sensor 310 may be an audio sensor, such as a microphone configured to record a user's voice or spoken phrases.

[0097] The system 300 may also include a user recognition module 320. The user recognition module may be a hardware element, such as an integrated circuit (IC), chip, or computer processor. In some embodiments, the user recognition module 320 may be a processor (e.g., processor 805 in FIG. 8) executing a software element, such as a piece of code or script. The user recognition module 320 may be in communication with the first sensor 310. The user recognition module 320 may be configured to determine the identity of the user based on one or more readings of the first sensor 310. For example, the user recognition module 320 may be configured to remotely access a database of user identities (e.g., a database of faces, fingerprints, and / or voiceprints) and look up the identity of the user based on a match in the database with the one or more readings of the first sensor 310.

[0098] The system 300 may also include a second sensor 330. The second sensor 330 may be integrated with the first sensor 310 or may be separate. The second sensor 330 may be configured to obtain one or more spectral measurements at one or more particular wavelengths. For example, the second sensor 330 may emit one or more incident wavelengths of electromagnetic radiation onto a sample area of ​​the user (e.g., wrist, fingertip, etc.) and measure the reflected signal.

[0099] The system 300 may include a state determination module 340. The state determination module 340 may be in communication with the second sensor 330. The state determination module 340 may be configured to determine a state of the user based on one or more readings of the second sensor 330. For example, the state determination module 340 may be configured to determine at least one of a hormone level, an alcohol level, a legal drug level, and / or an illegal drug level of the user based on one or more spectral measurements by the second sensor 330. For example, the state determination module 340 may determine whether the user is over the legal limit for blood alcohol level.

[0100] Embodiments of the invention may detect specific chemicals using one or more specific or set wavelengths. For example, for detection of ethanol (e.g., alcohol), embodiments of the invention may use or detect electromagnetic radiation specified as or having wavelengths between 1250 nm and 1500 nm and / or 2000 nm and 2500 nm. If electromagnetic radiation within a specified wavelength range is present or is above or below a threshold, action may be taken, such as preventing user access. For example, a subject's finger may be illuminated with a specified wavelength, the return signal measured, and the difference in expected signal (e.g., different compared to a baseline such as water or blood) measured, where the difference in expected signal may indicate the presence of alcohol in the blood.

[0101] Figures 4A-4D show examples of spectral measurements according to some embodiments of the present invention, in which the X-axis represents the wavelength of light (nm) and the Y-axis represents the relative absorbance.

[0102] 4A shows a 100% water solution (line 420), a 95% ethanol solution (line 430), a mixture of 200 drops of water and 1 drop of 95% ethanol (line 410), and a mixture of 200 drops of water and 2 drops of 95% ethanol (line 401). Thus, it can be seen that there are slight differences in the spectral signatures of 200 drops of water mixed with 1 drop of 95% ethanol, 200 drops of water mixed with 2 drops of 95% ethanol, and 100% water.

[0103] These differences are shown in magnification in FIG. 4B, where the adjusted scale for the 95% ethanol solution (line 430) is used and shown on the right side of the figure.

[0104] In an embodiment of the present invention, the alcohol level may be determined based on an integration method that actually compares the area under the correlation measurement line with the area under a water line (eg, water line 410 is used as a control).

[0105] Figure 4C shows a 100% water solution (line 420), a 75% ethanol solution (line 440), and a 95% ethanol solution (line 430). Figure 4D shows an expanded view of Figure 4C. Thus, ethanol (e.g., alcohol) has a spectral signature that is different from that of water and differs by percentage concentration. In embodiments of the invention, such a spectral signature can be detected (e.g., by the second sensor 330) and the alcohol level can be determined based on one or more detected spectral readings (e.g., using the state determination module 340).

[0106] 5 illustrates how skin pigment (melanin) and oxygenated blood (oxyhemoglobin) affect spectral measurements. The second sensor 330 may be configured or calibrated to remove the effects of melanin and / or oxygenated hemoglobin on one or more spectral readings.

[0107] 6 illustrates how certain features affect spectral measurements, for example comparing water (600) with melanosomes (610), deoxygenated blood (620), skin (630), oxygenated blood (640), and fat (650). The second sensor 330 may be configured or calibrated to remove the effect of such features on one or more of the spectral readings.

[0108] The condition determination module 340 may be configured to determine levels of cannabis (marijuana) or opiates (e.g., heroin).

[0109] The state determination module 340 may be configured to determine hormone levels, such as cortisol, melatonin, and / or adrenaline. Some hormones (e.g., cortisol) may be indicative of stress in a user, and it may be desirable to prevent (or restrict) a stressed user from operating certain types of equipment (e.g., vehicles, heavy machinery, medical equipment, power tools, etc.) or entering certain buildings (e.g., schools, operating rooms, airports, stadiums, factories, etc.).

[0110] The system 300 may include an access module 350. The access module 350 may be in communication with the user recognition module 320 and / or the state determination module 340. The access module 350 may be configured to allow, limit, or prevent a user's access to at least one of a device and / or a building (or other environment, such as a particular room within a building, e.g., an operating room in a hospital, or an environment such as a mine or construction site). The access module 350 may be configured to allow, limit, or prevent access based on at least one of a determined user identity, a determined user state, and / or a predefined set of rules.

[0111] For example, a user may be prevented from access based on their identity, where the user's identity can be determined and whether the user appears on an approved list (e.g., a list maintained in a database on a remote server, e.g., a cloud server, in communication with the access module 350), e.g., if the user is a doctor registered with Hospital A, the user is permitted to access an operating room in Hospital A, but a user who is a receptionist registered with Hospital A is not permitted (e.g., prevented from accessing) an operating room in Hospital A. However, due to liability and patient safety issues, a registered doctor of Hospital A who is determined to have high hormone levels such as cortisol (e.g., indicative of stress) may be prevented from accessing an operating room because the user may not be suited to perform surgery under stress.

[0112] Similarly, the access module 350 may permit only users registered as forklift drivers with company B to operate the forklift and may prevent unregistered users from operating the forklift. However, a registered forklift driver determined by the condition determination module 340 to be under the influence of illegal drugs may be prevented by the access module 350 from operating a forklift.

[0113] In some embodiments, access module 350 may be configured to communicate with a start button on the device and prevent access to the device by disabling operation of the start button. For example, access module 350 may be part of an electronic control board integrated into the device (e.g., by an original equipment manufacturer (“OEM”)) or mounted externally to the device, and may be configured to send a control signal to prevent operation of the device (e.g., by disabling an “on” function).

[0114] Some embodiments may allow for limited user access (e.g., not completely prevent) to a device or a building. For example, the access module 350 may be in communication with one or more operating systems of the device and may be configured to restrict access to the device by limiting the maximum range of one or more operating modes of the device or limiting operation to only a predetermined set of one or more operating modes of the device. The operating system may include a telematics system, for example, a vehicle's telematics system.

[0115] As an example equipment-related example, a chainsaw may have one or more different speeds (in addition to a zero speed when off), such as high, medium, low, etc. A predetermined set of rules may dictate that a user with a blood alcohol level of 0.0% has access to all speeds, that a user with a blood alcohol level of 0.05% has access only to medium and low speeds (e.g., limiting the full range of available speeds), and that a user with a blood alcohol level of 0.08% (e.g., the legal intoxication threshold) is prevented from operating the chainsaw at all, e.g., the access module is configured to communicate with a start button on the chainsaw and prevent operation of the chainsaw by disabling operation of the start button (e.g., via control circuitry, electronic board, jamming signal, etc.).

[0116] As another equipment-related example, a predefined rule set may restrict different modes of operation of a scissor lift based on the level of a legal drug that may have a common side effect of dizziness. For example, if a user's level of a drug that causes dizziness is above a predefined threshold predefined in the predefined rule set, the maximum extension height of the scissor lift may be limited.

[0117] As a building-related example, the access module 350 may communicate with and control controllable access points of the building and may be configured to prevent access to the building by preventing or disabling users from opening the access points (e.g., preventing users from opening doors, preventing movable barriers from moving, etc.). For example, due to health and safety concerns, users who are determined (e.g., by the condition determination module 340) to be above a certain threshold of illegal drugs (the threshold may be predefined as a minimum value corresponding to a zero tolerance policy) may be prevented from entering the factory. The controllable access points may be, but are not limited to, doors, locks, latches, lifts (e.g., elevators), turnstiles, turnstiles, etc. A system for preventing access, according to embodiments of the present invention, may be integrated with such controllable access points at the time of installation or retrofitted after the installation of the access points. As an example, the system may be embodied as a combined finger-based system having a fingerprint scanner (e.g., the first sensor 310) and a spectral measurement device (e.g., the second sensor) configured to obtain spectral measurements of one or more wavelengths reflected from the blood flow of the user's fingertip. Such systems may be provided at locations where fingerprints might normally be taken, such as airports, etc. Embodiments of the present invention may provide the additional advantage of determining a user's state, such as whether a passenger is drunk or otherwise intoxicated, before being allowed to board an aircraft.

[0118] According to some embodiments of the present invention, system 300 may be configured to alert a third party regarding the determined user's status. For example, system 300 may alert an employer, manager, law enforcement agency, security agency, insurance company, etc. regarding the determined user's status. System 300 may also transmit the determined user's identity (e.g., as determined by user recognition module 320) to a third party along with the determined user's status.

[0119] System 300 may alert a third party via, for example, an email notification, a Short Message Service (SMS) message, an alert sound, an alarm, a buzzer, a flashing light, etc. System 300 may include one or more additional processors for other functions, for example, time stamping, network communications, etc.

[0120] In some embodiments, system 300 may include a wearable element. For example, one or more elements of system 300 may be included as part of a smart watch, a patch, a sticker, etc.

[0121] For example, in some embodiments, the second sensor and the status determination module are included in the wearable element. For example, a smartwatch worn near the user's wrist can obtain one or more readings (which may be continuous readings) including one or more spectral measurements at one or more specific wavelengths. The status determination module may communicate with the second sensor and determine the user's status based on the one or more readings of the second sensor. The fixed portion of the system may include the first sensor, a user recognition module, and an access module and may communicate with the wearable element (e.g., via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, etc.). For example, a user may initiate an attempt to access the fixed portion of the system (e.g., to enter a building or to operate equipment such as heavy machinery) by having an identity determined by the first sensor and the user recognition module. The access module may request data from the wearable element (e.g., from the status determination module) to allow, limit, or prevent the user's access.

[0122] In some embodiments, the wearable element may further include a first sensor and a user recognition module, for example, the wearable element may include a first sensor, a second sensor, a user recognition module, and a state determination module. The fixed portion of the system may include an access module that may request data from the wearable element (e.g., from the state determination module and / or the user recognition module) to allow, limit, or prevent user access.

[0123] In some embodiments, the user recognition module 320 may use one or more sensors and / or network connections of the user's mobile phone, and / or the processor and / or battery and / or memory of the user's mobile phone. For example, the first sensor 310 may be a fingerprint sensor of the user's mobile phone, a camera of the user's mobile phone, and / or a microphone of the user's mobile phone. The user recognition module 320 may be part of the user's mobile phone. The mobile phone may include an application or app that coordinates a connection with the system 300, such as an application that determines the user's identity and sends it to the access module 350.

[0124] In some embodiments, the user's mobile phone may include a first sensor 310 and a user recognition module 320, and the user's wearable element (e.g., a smart watch in communication with the user's mobile phone) may include a second sensor 330 and a state determination module 340. Both the mobile phone and the wearable element may be in communication with an access module 350 (e.g., via wireless communication such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, etc.).

[0125] Alternatively, the wearable element may include the second sensor 330, and the user's mobile phone may include the first sensor 310, the user recognition module 320, and the state determination module 340, such that greater computing power may be available from the mobile phone's processor compared to any processor of the wearable element. The user's mobile phone and the wearable element may be in communication with each other (e.g., so that the second sensor 330 in the wearable element can send one or more readings to the state determination module 340 in the mobile phone), and the mobile phone may be in communication with the access module 350 (e.g., wireless communication such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, etc.).

[0126] Aspects of the present invention may also be embodied as a method. Figure 7 shows a flowchart of a method 700 for restricting or preventing access according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0127] Method 700 may include determining (step 710) by a user recognition module (e.g., user recognition module 320 shown in FIG. 3) an identity of the user based on one or more readings of a first sensor. The first sensor may be similar to first sensor 310 shown in FIG. 3 and may be configured for at least one of facial recognition, voice recognition, and / or fingerprint recognition.

[0128] Method 700 may include determining 720, by a status determination module (e.g., status determination module 340 shown in FIG. 3 ), a status of the user based on one or more readings of the second sensor. The second sensor may be similar to second sensor 320 shown in FIG. 3 . Determining the status of the user may include determining, by the second sensor, at least one of a hormone level, an alcohol level, a legal drug level, and / or an illegal drug level of the user based on one or more spectral measurements at one or more particular wavelengths.

[0129] Method 700 may include allowing, restricting, or preventing user access to at least one of the device or the building (step 730) by an access module (e.g., access module 350 shown in FIG. 3) based on at least one of the determined user identity, the determined user status, and a predefined set of rules. The device may be, but is not limited to, one of the devices or vehicles disclosed herein, and the building may be, but is not limited to, one of the buildings or environments described herein.

[0130] In some embodiments, the method 700 includes limiting the maximum range of one or more operating modes of the device or restricting operation to only a predetermined set of one or more operating modes of the device. For example, as described herein, the maximum height of a scissor lift may be limited (e.g., via an access module) if it is determined that the user has above threshold levels of a legal drug that causes the side effect of dizziness.

[0131] In some embodiments, the method 700 includes preventing access to the building by disabling the opening of a controllable access point to a user, the disabling being performed or triggered by a control signal of the access module.

[0132] In some embodiments, the method 700 includes issuing an alert to a third party regarding the determined user status. The nature of the alert and the third party may be as previously described herein.

[0133] An embodiment of the present invention may be connected to a telematics system of an equipment, for example a telematics system of a vehicle, and may potentially communicate with a fleet management system via the telematics system.

[0134] Embodiments of the system may communicate with devices and / or building cloud management systems (e.g., a building management system BMS).

[0135] Some embodiments of the present invention may be connected to a communication system within a building or site management system. For example, embodiments of the present invention may send a communication via the building communication system (e.g., public address system) when a user is prevented from accessing a building or an area within a building.

[0136] 8 illustrates a block diagram of an exemplary computing device that may be used with embodiments of the present invention. Computing device 800 may include a controller or computer processor 805, which may be, for example, a central processing unit processor (CPU), a chip, or any suitable computing device, an operating system 815, memory 820, storage 830, input devices 835, and output devices 840, such as a computer display or monitor for displaying, for example, on a computer desktop system.

[0137] As disclosed herein, any of the user recognition module 320, the state determination module 340 and / or the access module 350 may be embodied as a processor, such as the processor 805.

[0138] The operating system 815 may be or include code for performing tasks related to coordinating, scheduling, arbitrating, or managing operations of the computing device 800, such as scheduling the execution of programs. The memory 820 may be or include, for example, a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), a flash memory, a volatile or non-volatile memory, or other suitable memory or storage unit. At least a portion of the memory 820 may include data storage stored online on a cloud. The memory 820 may be or include multiple different memory units. The memory 820 may store, for example, instructions (e.g., code 825) for performing the methods disclosed herein. The memory 820 may use a data store, such as a database.

[0139] The executable code 825 may be any application, program, process, task, or script. The executable code 825 may be executed by the controller 805, perhaps under the control of the operating system 815. For example, the executable code 825 may be or may execute one or more applications that perform the methods disclosed herein, e.g., to prevent or restrict user access. The method 700 may be performed by a computing device 800 or a combination of computing devices 800, as disclosed herein. In some embodiments, more than one computing device 800 or device 800 components may be used. Two or more processors 805 may be configured to implement embodiments of the present invention, e.g., by executing software or code.

[0140] Storage 830 may be or may include, for example, a hard disk drive, a floppy disk drive, a compact disk (CD) drive, a universal serial bus (USB) device, or other suitable removable and / or fixed storage unit. Data described herein may be stored in storage 830 and loaded from storage 830 into memory 820 where it may be processed by controller 805. Storage 830 may include cloud storage. Storage 830 may be configured to store data in a database.

[0141] Input device(s) 835 may be or include a mouse, keyboard, touch screen or pad, or any suitable input device or combination of devices. Input devices may also include a fingerprint reader, a microphone (e.g., for voice recognition), and / or a camera (e.g., for facial recognition). Output device(s) 840 may include one or more displays, speakers, and / or any other suitable output device or combination of output devices. Output devices may include actuators for disabling or preventing operation of locks, latches, doors, movable barriers, etc. Any suitable input / output (I / O) devices, such as wired or wireless network interface cards (NICs), modems, printers, universal serial bus (USB) devices, may be connected to computing device 800, or external hard drives may be included in input device(s) 835 and / or output device(s) 840.

[0142] Embodiments of the invention may include one or more articles (e.g., memory 820 or storage 830), such as a computer or processor non-transitory readable medium, or a computer or processor non-transitory storage medium (e.g., memory, disk drive, or USB flash memory), that encode, contain, or store instructions, such as computer-executable instructions, that, when executed by a processor or controller, perform the methods disclosed herein.

[0143] For example, in some embodiments, a system for preventing or restricting access may include one or more computing devices 800. The computing devices may include devices such as mobile phones or wearable elements such as smart watches and patches. An exemplary embodiment includes: A separate, integrated system including a computing device 800 that may identify the user, measure alcohol, drug, hormone, etc. levels, and control access, and may be installed aftermarket; A separate, integrated system including a computing device 800 that may identify the user, measure alcohol, drug, hormone, etc. levels, control access, and may be integrated into a device or building by an OEM; A system including an external user identification device (e.g., a mobile phone) connected to a computing device 800 of the system, the computing device being configured to measure levels of alcohol, drugs, hormones, etc. and to control access; A separate, integrated system integrated within a mobile phone (e.g., the computing device is a mobile phone) configured to identify a user (e.g., wirelessly via an application or app), measure levels of alcohol, drugs, hormones, etc., and control access; and A separate, integrated system integrated within a wearable element (e.g., the computing device is a smart watch or a body patch) configured to identify the user (e.g., wirelessly via an application or app), measure levels of alcohol, drugs, hormones, etc., and control access; and A system including an external user identification device (e.g., a mobile phone) connected to a wearable element configured to measure levels of alcohol, drugs, hormones, etc., where access may be controlled by one of the mobile phone, the wearable element, or a third computing device installed on the device or premises; may include: Thus, a system according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a computing device 800 and / or a mobile phone and / or a wearable element.

[0144] Aspects of the present invention are described above with reference to flowchart illustrations and / or sub-illustrations of methods, apparatus (systems) and computer program products according to embodiments of the present invention. It will be understood that each part of the flowchart illustrations and / or sub-illustrations, and combinations of parts within the flowchart illustrations and / or sub-illustrations, may be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions may be provided to a processor of a general purpose computer, special purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus to generate a machine, such that the instructions, executing via the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus, create means for performing the functions / acts (acts) specified in the flowchart illustrations and / or sub-illustrations or portions thereof.

[0145] These computer program instructions can also be stored in a computer readable medium that can instruct a computer, other programmable data processing device, or other device to function in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer readable medium create a product that includes instructions to perform the functions / acts specified in the flowcharts and / or sub-diagrams, or portions thereof. The computer program instructions can also be loaded onto a computer, other programmable data processing device, or other device to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer, other programmable device, or other device to create a computer-implemented process, such that the instructions executing on the computer or other programmable device provide a process for performing the functions / acts specified in the flowcharts and / or sub-diagrams, or portions thereof.

[0146] The foregoing flow charts and figures illustrate the structure, functionality, and operation of possible implementations of systems, methods, and computer program products according to various embodiments of the present invention. In this regard, each part in a flow chart or sub-diagram may represent a module, segment, or part of code that includes one or more executable instructions for implementing a specified logical function. It should also be noted that in some alternative implementations, the functions noted in the parts may occur out of the order noted in the figures. For example, two parts shown in succession may in fact be executed substantially simultaneously, or the parts may sometimes be executed in reverse order depending on the functionality involved. It should also be noted that each part of the sub-diagrams and / or flow chart diagrams, as well as combinations of parts in the sub-diagrams and / or flow chart diagrams, may be implemented by a dedicated hardware-based system that performs the specified functions or functions, or a combination of dedicated hardware and computer instructions.

[0147] In the above description, the embodiments are examples or implementations of the invention. The various expressions "one embodiment", "embodiment", "particular embodiment", or "some embodiments" do not necessarily all refer to the same embodiment. Although various features of the invention may be described in the context of a single embodiment, the features may also be provided separately or in any suitable combination. Conversely, although the invention may be described within this specification in the context of separate embodiments for clarity, the invention may also be implemented in a single embodiment. A specific embodiment of the invention may include features from different embodiments disclosed above, and a specific embodiment may incorporate elements from other embodiments disclosed above. The disclosure of elements of the invention in the context of a specific embodiment should not be considered as limiting their use to only the specific embodiment. Furthermore, it is understood that the invention may be implemented or practiced in various ways, and that the invention may be implemented in specific embodiments other than those outlined in the above description.

[0148] The present invention is not limited to those figures or the corresponding description. For example, the flow does not have to proceed through each illustrated box or state, or in exactly the same order as illustrated or described. The meanings of technical and scientific terms used in this specification are to be commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention belongs, unless otherwise defined. Although the present invention has been described with respect to a limited number of embodiments, these should not be interpreted as limitations on the scope of the present invention, but rather as illustrations of some of the preferred embodiments. Other possible modifications, variations and applications are also within the scope of the present invention. Therefore, the scope of the present invention should not be limited by the above description, but by the appended claims and their legal equivalents.

Claims

1. A system for restricting or preventing access, comprising: A first sensor; a user recognition module in communication with the first sensor and configured to determine an identity of a user based on one or more readings of the first sensor; A second sensor; a state determination module in communication with the second sensor and configured to determine a state of the user based on one or more readings of the second sensor; an access module in communication with the user recognition module and the state determination module and configured to allow, limit or prevent access of the user to at least one of a device or a building, the access module being configured to allow, limit or prevent access based on at least one of the determined identity of the user, the determined state of the user, and a predefined set of rules; Including, the system.

2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the second sensor and the state determination module are included within a wearable element.

3. The system of claim 2 , wherein the wearable element further comprises the first sensor and the user recognition module.

4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the first sensor is a sensor configured to perform at least one of facial recognition, voice recognition, and fingerprint recognition.

5. The system of claim 1 , wherein the one or more readings of the second sensor include one or more spectral measurements at one or more particular wavelengths.

6. The system of claim 5 , wherein the condition determination module is configured to determine at least one of the user's hormone level, alcohol level, legal drug level, or illegal drug level based on the one or more spectral measurements.

7. The system of claim 1 , wherein the device is at least one of a vehicle, heavy machinery, medical equipment, or a power tool.

8. The system of claim 1 , wherein the access module is configured to communicate with a start button of the device and to prevent access to the device by disabling operation of the start button.

9. 10. The system of claim 1, wherein the access module is configured to communicate with one or more operating systems of the device and restrict access to the device by limiting a maximum range of one or more operating modes of the device or limiting operation to only a predetermined set of one or more operating modes of the device.

10. The system of claim 1 , wherein the building is one of a factory, a school, a stadium, an airport, or an operating room.

11. The system of claim 1 , wherein the access module is configured to communicate with controllable access points of the building and prevent access to the building by disabling opening of the access points to the user.

12. The system of claim 1 , configured to alert a third party regarding the determined condition of the user.

13. 1. A method for limiting or preventing access, comprising: determining, by a user recognition module, an identity of the user based on the one or more readings of the first sensor; determining, by a state determination module, a state of the user based on one or more readings of a second sensor; allowing, restricting or preventing, by an access module, access of the user to at least one of a device or a building based on at least one of the determined identity of the user, the determined status of the user, and a predefined set of rules; A method comprising:

14. The method of claim 13 , wherein the one or more readings of the second sensor include one or more spectral measurements at one or more particular wavelengths.

15. 15. The method of claim 14, wherein determining the user's condition based on one or more readings of the second sensor comprises determining at least one of the user's hormone level, alcohol level, legal drug level, or illegal drug level based on the one or more spectral measurements.

16. The method of claim 13 , wherein the device is at least one of a vehicle, heavy machinery, medical equipment, or a power tool.

17. The method of claim 13, comprising the step of preventing access to the device by disabling operation of a start button.

18. 14. The method of claim 13, comprising limiting a maximum range of one or more operational modes of the device or restricting operation to only a predetermined set of one or more operational modes of the device.

19. 14. The method of claim 13, comprising the step of preventing access to the premises by disabling opening of a controllable access point to the user.

20. The method of claim 13 , comprising issuing an alert to a third party regarding the determined condition of the user.

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