Drunk Driving Prevention Device, Drunk Driving Prevention Method, and Drunk Driving Prevention Program

Abstract

To prevent drunken driving effectively in simple configuration.SOLUTION: A drunken driving prevention device comprises: a sensor group 10 which measures a state of a driver of a vehicle, a drunkenness degree estimation part 33 which evaluates a degree of drunkenness of the driver in multi-stages on the basis of a measurement result on the sensor group; and a vehicle control part 35 which prohibits engine operation of the vehicle when the degree of the drunkenness is at a prescribed stage or higher.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a drunk driving prevention device, a drunk driving prevention method, and a drunk driving prevention program.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a device for detecting drunk driving has been known (see, for example, Patent Document 1). Patent Document 1 discloses a device that uses a plurality of vital sensors and a plurality of cameras to estimate the degree of intoxication of a driver based on biological data and camera imaging images, thereby detecting drunk driving.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] Since it is dangerous to drive a vehicle when the driver is drunk, there is a need for a device that can effectively prevent drunk driving.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and an object thereof is to effectively prevent drunk driving with a simple configuration.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] In order to solve the above problems, a drunk driving prevention device according to the present invention includes, for example, a sensor group that measures the state of a driver of a vehicle, and a degree-of-intoxication estimation unit that estimates the degree of intoxication of the driver in multiple stages based on the measurement results of the sensor group, and a vehicle control unit that prohibits the engine operation of the vehicle when the degree of intoxication is equal to or higher than a predetermined stage.

[0007] The method for preventing drunk driving according to another aspect of the present invention includes, for example, a measurement step of measuring the state of a driver of a vehicle by a group of sensors that measure the state of the driver, a step of estimating the degree of drunkenness of the driver in multiple stages based on the measurement results by the group of sensors, and a vehicle control step of prohibiting the engine operation of the vehicle when the degree of drunkenness is at a predetermined stage or higher.

[0008] The program for preventing drunk driving according to another aspect of the present invention causes a computer to function as, for example, a drunkenness degree estimation unit that estimates the degree of drunkenness of the driver in multiple stages based on the measurement results by a group of sensors that measure the state of the driver of the vehicle, and a vehicle control unit that prohibits the engine operation of the vehicle when the degree of drunkenness is at a predetermined stage or higher. Note that the computer program can be provided by downloading via a network such as the Internet, or can be recorded on various computer-readable recording media such as a CD-ROM and provided.

[0009] In any of the above aspects of the present invention, by estimating the degree of drunkenness in multiple stages, it is possible to perform detailed notification or vehicle control according to the degree of drunkenness, and effectively prevent drunk driving. Also, if the engine operation is uniformly stopped when the degree of drunkenness is mild, it would be inconvenient and dangerous, such as the engine having to stop during driving. Therefore, by prohibiting the engine operation only when the degree of drunkenness is at a predetermined stage or higher, drunk driving can be safely prevented. Furthermore, by prohibiting the engine operation when the degree of drunkenness is at a predetermined stage or higher, even in the case where the degree of drunkenness gradually increases while driving after drinking, a safe stop can be promoted.

[0010] The drunkenness degree estimation unit may estimate the degree of drunkenness in the order from the stage with a large degree of drunkenness to the stage with a small degree of drunkenness. Thereby, a severe drunken state can be determined quickly and accurately. Also, it is possible to prevent an incorrect determination that underestimates the degree of drunkenness, and more reliably detect a large, that is, dangerous state of the degree of drunkenness.

[0011] The drunkenness level estimation unit may estimate whether or not it belongs to the level of drunkenness based on a combination of measurement results of different sensors among the sensors included in the sensor group according to the stage of the level of drunkenness. Thereby, by selectively using a plurality of types of sensors to capture characteristics peculiar to each level of drunkenness, it is possible to accurately estimate the level of drunkenness while using a simple measurement method.

[0012] It may further include a notification control unit that performs notification in different manners according to the level of drunkenness. Thereby, the importance of a high level of drunkenness can be surely conveyed to the driver. Also, for example, even when driving while drinking, since the notification mode changes, it is possible to continuously draw attention.

[0013] It may further include a storage unit that associates and stores the level of drunkenness with the punishment imposed on the driver, and the notification control unit may refer to the storage unit and notify the driver of the punishment corresponding to the level of drunkenness. Thereby, the driver can realistically understand that drunk driving is an act that will be punished, which can serve as a deterrent to drunk driving.

[0014] It may further include an alcohol concentration measurement unit different from the sensor group, and when the engine operation is prohibited, the vehicle control unit may permit the engine operation if the measurement result by the alcohol concentration measurement unit satisfies the conditions. Thereby, by more precisely determining the presence or absence of drinking, drunk driving can be more surely prevented.

Effects of the Invention

[0015] According to the present invention, drunk driving can be effectively prevented with a simple configuration.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0016]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0017] Hereinafter, embodiments of the drunk driving prevention device according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. The drunk driving prevention device is a device that estimates the presence or absence of a driver's drinking and the degree of drunkenness before and during driving, and varies the control according to the presence or absence of drinking or the degree of drunkenness.

[0018] (First Embodiment) FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an outline of the electrical functional blocks of the drunk driving prevention device 1 according to the first embodiment and a notification device 2 connected to the drunk driving prevention device 1. The drunk driving prevention device 1 is connected to the notification device 2 by wire or wirelessly, and notifies an alarm related to drunk driving via the notification device 2. The drunk driving prevention device 1 and the notification device 2 may be connected via a network.

[0019] The notification device 2 includes an appropriate device for warning the driver of drunk driving, such as a display device such as a display, a speaker, and a lamp that notifies by sounding. When the notification device 2 has a display device, the display device is disposed, for example, on the meter panel of the driver's seat of the vehicle. Further, the notification device 2 may be connected to the Internet and be capable of transmitting a notification reaching an external device via the Internet line.

[0020] In addition, the drunk driving prevention device 1 may be connected to a device provided outside the vehicle (not shown) via a network, and notify a manager outside the vehicle of the risk of drunk driving via the device.

[0021] The drunk driving prevention device 1 mainly includes a sensor group 10, an alcohol concentration measurement unit 20, and a control unit 30.

[0022] The sensor group 10 is a sensor that measures information regarding the presence or absence of the driver's drinking and the degree of intoxication. The sensor group 10 includes a plurality of sensors, for example, a vital sensor 11, an imaging unit 12, a sound collection unit 13, an in-air alcohol concentration measurement unit 14, and a body temperature measurement unit 15. The sensors included in the sensor group 10 can be appropriately adopted in addition to those described above, but it is desirable that they are measurement methods that do not restrict the driver's movements, that is, do not come into contact with the driver.

[0023] The vital sensor 11 is a sensor that measures the driver's biological signal. The vital sensor 11 measures, for example, the speed of the pulse, that is, the heart rate, or the speed or depth of breathing.

[0024] The method for measuring the heart rate, or the speed or depth of breathing, is arbitrary. As a method for measuring the heart rate, for example, the vital sensor 11 may include electrodes embedded in the driver's seat or steering wheel, etc., and measure the heart rate with the electrodes. Also, instead of the electrodes, the heart rate may be measured by irradiating infrared rays or red light from the body surface and measuring the change in blood flow volume. Also, as a method for measuring the speed and depth of breathing, for example, the vital sensor 11 irradiates ultrasonic waves onto the driver's body and then detects the weak vibration due to breathing from the reflected wave, and measures the speed and depth of breathing from the frequency and magnitude of the vibration.

[0025] The imaging unit 12 is, for example, a camera. The imaging unit 12 is arranged such that at least the vicinity of the headrest of the driver's seat is within the imaging range, and captures a still image or a moving image of the driver. The imaging unit 12 captures the face of the driver sitting in the driver's seat. Also, the imaging unit 12 captures the driver's posture and movement. The data captured by the imaging unit 12 may be stored in the storage unit 32 of the control unit 30.

[0026] The sound collection unit 13 is, for example, a microphone. The sound collection unit 13 collects the sound emitted by the driver. The sound collection unit 13 may collect, for example, not only the driver's speech but also snores and the like.

[0027] The in-air alcohol concentration measurement unit 14 is, for example, a gas sensor, and is a device that measures the alcohol concentration contained in the air. The in-air alcohol concentration measurement unit 14 measures the alcohol concentration inside the vehicle.

[0028] The body temperature measurement unit 15 is a device that measures the driver's body temperature, and measures the driver's body temperature using, for example, an infrared sensor. In this case, the body temperature measurement unit 15 may be realized by, for example, a thermographic camera. Also, the body temperature measurement unit 15 may measure the body temperature by an appropriate mechanism (for example, a temperature sensor) built into the seat or the steering wheel or the like.

[0029] The alcohol concentration measurement unit 20 is a means for measuring the alcohol emitted by the driver, and is a device not included in the sensor group 10. The alcohol concentration measurement unit 20 can measure the alcohol concentration with higher accuracy than the sensor group 10. The alcohol concentration measurement unit 20 may be, for example, a breath-injection type measurement device, or may be a device that estimates ethyl alcohol dissolved in the blood due to drinking based on the infrared rays radiated from the human body. The alcohol concentration measurement unit 20 is used to measure the driver's alcohol concentration when canceling the control performed by the drinking driving prevention device 1 when drinking is estimated, that is, the control during drinking.

[0030] The control unit 30 includes, as software resources, at least an analysis unit 31, a storage unit 32, a drunkenness degree estimation unit 33, a notification control unit 34, and a vehicle control unit 35, by an arithmetic device such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) for executing information processing, and a storage device such as a RAM (Random Access Memory) and a ROM (Read Only Memory).

[0031] The analysis unit 31 is a functional unit that analyzes the data measured by the sensor group 10. The analysis unit 31 refers to the threshold values for the measurement results of each sensor in the sensor group 10 from the storage unit 32, and determines the presence or absence of drinking and the degree of drunkenness from the measurement results of each sensor.

[0032] The analysis unit 31 determines whether the breathing speed measured by the vital sensor 11, for example, the number of breaths per unit time, is below the threshold value. In addition, the analysis unit 31 estimates the depth of breathing from the measurement result of the vital sensor 11, and also determines whether the ventilation volume is equal to or greater than the threshold value. The processing of the analysis unit 31 can be performed using various known techniques.

[0033] The analysis unit 31 analyzes the color of the driver's face (for example, redness or blueness) imaged by the imaging unit 12. In the present embodiment, the analysis unit 31 determines whether the redness of the driver's face is equal to or greater than the threshold value. The analysis unit 31 may refer to the storage unit 32 and compare it with the face image of the driver taken in the past to determine whether the face color is red. The face image stored in the storage unit 32 may be a separately taken photo of a person who may drive in a state of not drinking alcohol, that is, a photo in the normal period, and registered in advance. Thereby, accurate color analysis taking into account the normal skin color of the driver is possible.

[0034] In addition, the analysis unit 31 may determine whether an image of the driver is registered in the storage unit 32, and if not, perform a registration process of registering the image without performing color analysis. In this case, when the imaging of the driver is the second time or later, the analysis unit 31 performs color analysis by comparing it with the image registered in the past. Therefore, it is not necessary to perform photo registration in advance, which is simple.

[0035] In addition, the analysis unit 31 determines whether the driver is sleeping by analyzing, for example, the eye opening and closing state in the imaging result of the imaging unit 12. Further, the analysis unit 31 determines whether the driver has bad breath by performing image recognition on the imaging result. The presence or absence of bad breath is determined by analyzing, for example, the expression and the shape of the mouth. The eye opening and closing, expression, and mouth shape can be recognized and determined using various known pattern recognition techniques.

[0036] Furthermore, the analysis unit 31 may determine the driver's emotion based on the expression of the driver's face imaged by the imaging unit 12. In particular, the analysis unit 31 may determine that the driver is angry. This is because it is known that people tend to get angry especially in the initial stage of drunkenness when drinking alcohol. Furthermore, the analysis unit 31 may analyze the driver's movement and posture to determine whether the driver is drunk. The analysis of movement and posture, and other respective analyses can be performed by using various known pattern recognition techniques and analyses using AI.

[0037] The analysis unit 31 analyzes the measurement result picked up by the sound collection unit 13 to determine the accuracy of the content being spoken. Also, the analysis unit 31 analyzes the measurement result picked up by the sound collection unit 13, calculates the duplication degree of the content being spoken, and determines whether the duplication degree is equal to or higher than a threshold value. This is because it is known that people repeat the same thing when speaking especially in the drunken stage when drinking alcohol. Also, the analysis unit 31 may determine whether the loudness of the driver's voice picked up is equal to or higher than a threshold value. This is because the voice becomes louder when drinking alcohol. Also, the analysis unit 31 analyzes the measurement result picked up by the sound collection unit 13 to determine whether the sound contains snoring. The analysis of the sound collection result can be performed by using various known techniques.

[0038] In addition, the analysis unit 31 determines whether the alcohol concentration measured by the airborne alcohol concentration measurement unit 14 and the alcohol concentration measurement unit 20 is equal to or higher than a threshold value.

[0039] The analysis unit 31 determines whether the body temperature measured by the body temperature measurement unit 15 is equal to or higher than a threshold value. Since the body temperature tends to rise during drinking, if it is equal to or higher than the threshold value, there is a possibility of a drinking state.

[0040] The drunkenness level estimation unit 33 is a functional unit that estimates the presence or absence of drinking and the level of drunkenness of the driver in multiple stages. The analysis result in the analysis unit 31 is input to the drunkenness level estimation unit 33.

[0041] FIG. 2 is an example of a table showing the correspondence relationship between the drunkenness level estimated by the drunk driving prevention device 1, the sensors to be referred to, the analysis contents, and the control contents. The drunkenness level estimation unit 33 estimates the level of drunkenness in, for example, six stages: the refreshing stage, the light drunkenness stage, the initial stage of intoxication, the stage of intoxication, the stage of heavy drunkenness, and the stage of unconsciousness. In the present embodiment, the level of drunkenness is the stage with the smallest refreshing stage, and it increases in the order of the light drunkenness stage, the initial stage of intoxication, the stage of intoxication, the stage of heavy drunkenness, and the stage of unconsciousness, with the stage of unconsciousness being the largest. That is, the drunkenness level estimation unit 33 classifies the state of the driver into seven types together with the normal period when not drinking.

[0042] The drunkenness level estimation unit 33 estimates the level of drunkenness based on the measurement results of a plurality of sensors among the sensor group 10. Therefore, by combining simple methods that do not interfere with the driver's operation, the level of drunkenness can be accurately estimated.

[0043] In addition, the drunkenness level estimation unit 33 estimates whether it belongs to the level of drunkenness based on a combination of measurement results of different sensors among the sensors included in the sensor group 10 according to the stage of the level of drunkenness. The drunkenness level estimation unit 33 also estimates whether it belongs to the level of drunkenness based on different analysis data. In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2, by selectively using a plurality of types of sensors to capture the characteristics unique to each level of drunkenness, the level of drunkenness can be accurately estimated while using a simple measurement method.

[0044] The drunkenness level estimation unit 33 estimates the level of drunkenness in the order from a large level to a small level of drunkenness. That is, the drunkenness level estimation unit 33 first determines whether the driver is in the most drunken coma stage, and if not in the coma stage, then determines whether the driver is in the highly drunken stupor stage. Thereby, a severe drunken state can be determined quickly and accurately. Also, it is possible to prevent misjudgment that underestimates the level of drunkenness, and it is possible to more reliably detect a large level of drunkenness, that is, a dangerous state.

[0045] Note that the drunkenness level estimation unit 33 may determine that the driver is drunk to the extent of the relevant stage only when all of the plurality of analysis data to be referred to satisfy the conditions, or may determine that the driver is drunk to the extent of the relevant stage when some of the data satisfy the conditions. The drunkenness level estimation unit 33 will be described in detail later.

[0046] The storage unit 32 is a functional unit that stores thresholds for the measurement results of the sensor group 10, which are referred to by the analysis unit 31. Also, the storage unit 32 stores photos or videos of the driver taken by the imaging unit 12.

[0047] In addition, the storage unit 32 stores the level of drunkenness in association with the dispositions imposed on the driver. The dispositions may include penalties and administrative sanctions, and are information regarding imprisonment, fines, suspension periods of licenses, revocation, etc. Information on the correspondence between the level of drunkenness and penalties is stored in a rewritable non-volatile memory, and can be rewritten, for example, in accordance with amendments to systems such as laws or regulations. Also, by inputting the country or region in which the vehicle is being driven, the system associated with that country or region may be selected. Furthermore, based on the information of the GNSS mounted on the vehicle, the region in which the vehicle is being driven may be estimated and automatically selected in accordance with the system of that country or region.

[0048] The notification control unit 34 is a functional unit that notifies the driver or others based on the level of drunkenness estimated by the drunkenness level estimation unit 33. The estimation result in the drunkenness level estimation unit 33 is input to the notification control unit 34.

[0049] The notification control unit 34 notifies in different manners according to the degree of intoxication. For example, the notification control unit 34 may turn on lamps with different arrangements or colors, or display different messages according to the degree of intoxication. Also, it may issue buzzer sounds or messages of different types or volumes. The notification control unit 34 may notify in multiple manners to a greater extent as the degree of intoxication increases. It is desirable to notify in a manner that attracts attention to a greater extent as the degree of intoxication increases. In this way, the importance of a high degree of intoxication can be surely conveyed to the driver. Also, for example, even when driving while drinking, since the notification manner changes, continuous attention can be drawn.

[0050] Furthermore, for example, the notification control unit 34 refers to the storage unit 32 and notifies the driver of the disposition according to the degree of intoxication. As shown in FIG. 2, when it is estimated that the driver is in the coma stage or the stage of being dead drunk, the notification control unit 34 notifies the disposition in drunk driving. The disposition in drunk driving is, for example, imprisonment with work for not more than five years or a fine of not more than one million yen, as well as a 35-point deduction, license revocation, and a three-year disqualification period. Also, when it is estimated that the driver is in the stage of being drunk, the notification control unit 34 notifies the driver of the disposition in severe drunk driving. The said disposition is, for example, imprisonment with work for not more than three years or a fine of not more than 500,000 yen, as well as a 25-point deduction, license revocation, and a two-year disqualification period. When it is estimated that the driver is in the refreshed stage, the stage of being slightly drunk, or the initial stage of being drunk, the notification control unit 34 notifies the driver of the disposition in mild drunk driving. The said disposition is, for example, imprisonment with work for not more than three years or a fine of not more than 500,000 yen, as well as a 13-point deduction and a 90-day license suspension.

[0051] Thereby, the driver can be informed of the disposition in accordance with the estimated degree of intoxication. By notifying the exact content of the disposition, the driver can realistically understand that drunk driving is an act subject to disposition, which can serve as a deterrent to drunk driving.

[0052] The vehicle control unit 35 is a functional unit that performs vehicle control during drinking, that is, drinking-time control, according to the degree of intoxication. The analysis result in the analysis unit 31 and the estimation result in the intoxication degree estimation unit 33 are input to the vehicle control unit 35.

[0053] When the degree of drunkenness is at the first stage (here, the stage of being dead drunk or in a coma), and the engine is running, the vehicle control unit 35 stops the engine. When the engine is not running, the vehicle control unit 35 prohibits the engine from starting, thereby prohibiting engine operation. Prohibiting engine operation is an example of control during drinking. When the degree of drunkenness is mild, there is a risk of misjudgment. If the engine operation is uniformly stopped, it will be inconvenient and dangerous, such as the engine having to stop during driving. Therefore, by prohibiting engine operation only when the degree of drunkenness is at a predetermined stage or above, drunk driving can be safely prevented.

[0054] In addition, when the degree of drunkenness is at the second stage (here, the stage of intoxication) or above, the vehicle control unit 35 turns on the hazard lamp. Furthermore, when the degree of drunkenness is at the third stage (here, the stage of intoxication) or above, the vehicle control unit 35 sends an email to a predetermined recipient. Turning on the hazard lamp and sending the email are examples of control during drinking. In this embodiment, both the second stage and the third stage are the stage of intoxication, but the second stage and the third stage may be different.

[0055] When the engine operation is prohibited, the vehicle control unit 35 obtains the analysis result from the analysis unit 31 based on the measurement result by the alcohol concentration measurement unit 20. When the measurement result by the alcohol concentration measurement unit 20 satisfies the conditions, the vehicle control unit 35 releases the control during drinking. That is, the vehicle control unit 35 releases the control during drinking based on the result measured by a sensor different from the sensor group 10 used for the determination of the start of the control during drinking. Thereby, the presence or absence of drinking can be determined by more accurate measurement, and as a result, drunk driving can be more reliably prevented.

[0056] When the alcohol concentration measured by, for example, the alcohol concentration measurement unit 20 is equal to or less than a predetermined value, for example, 0%, the vehicle control unit 35 releases the control during drinking. In particular, the vehicle control unit 35 releases the prohibition of engine operation and permits the operation of the engine. Further, when the measurement result by the alcohol concentration measurement unit 20 satisfies the condition, the vehicle control unit 35 may turn off the alarm and the hazard lamp. Furthermore, when the measurement result by the alcohol concentration measurement unit 20 satisfies the condition, the vehicle control unit 35 may perform a predetermined operation. For example, the vehicle control unit 35 may send an email indicating that the drinking state has been resolved to the transmission destination that was notified of the drinking state.

[0057] FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing the flow of processing in which the drunk driving prevention device 1 estimates the presence or absence of drinking and the degree of drunkenness and starts control during drinking. The processing shown in FIG. 3 is mainly performed by the control unit 30.

[0058] First, the analysis unit 31 acquires the measured values of the sensor group 10 (step SP11) and analyzes the measurement results of each sensor (step SP12). Next, the drunkenness degree estimation unit 33 determines whether it is the lethargic stage based on the measurement results of the vital sensor 11 and the imaging unit 12 among the analysis results in step SP12 (step SP13). Specifically, the drunkenness degree estimation unit 33 determines based on the breathing speed analyzed from the measurement result of the vital sensor 11 (here, the breathing speed is 12 times / minute or less) and the ventilation volume (here, 500 mL or more), and the opening and closing of the eyes recognized based on the image captured by the imaging unit 12 (here, the eyes are always closed, that is, sleeping) whether it is the lethargic stage. Note that the lethargic stage is characterized by slow and deep breathing. Therefore, when the breathing is slow (the breathing speed is 12 times / minute or less) and the ventilation volume is 500 mL or more, which is more than the normal ventilation volume of 400 mL to 500 mL, it can be determined that there is a high possibility of being in the lethargic stage.

[0059] When it is the drowsy period (YES in step SP13), the vehicle control unit 35 stops the operation of the engine (step SP14), and the notification control unit 34 sounds an alarm, turns on the hazard lamp, and sends an email (step SP15). Steps SP14 and SP15 may be in any order and may be performed simultaneously.

[0060] When it is determined in step SP13 that it is not the drowsy period (NO in step SP13), the drunkenness level estimation unit 33 determines whether the driver is in the drunk period based on the analysis data different from that in step SP13 (here, the measurement results of the imaging unit 12 and the sound collection unit 13) among the analysis results in step SP12 (step SP16). Specifically, the drunkenness level estimation unit 33 determines whether it is the drunk period based on the opening and closing of the eyes recognized based on the image captured by the imaging unit 12 (here, the eyes are closed for a predetermined time or more) and the accuracy of the speech content picked up by the sound collection unit 13.

[0061] When it is determined that it is the drunk period (YES in step SP16), the process proceeds to step SP14. When it is not determined that it is the drunk period (NO in step SP16), the drunkenness level estimation unit 33 determines whether the driver is in the tipsy period based on the analysis data different from the analysis data of the measurement results of the vital sensor 11, the imaging unit 12, and the sound collection unit 13 (here) among the analysis results in step SP12 (step SP17). Specifically, the drunkenness level estimation unit 33 determines whether it is the drunk period based on the breathing speed analyzed from the measurement results of the vital sensor 11 (here, the breathing speed is 25 times per minute or less), the expression recognized from the image captured by the imaging unit 12 (here, having nausea), and the degree of duplication of the speech content picked up by the sound collection unit 13 (here, repeating the same speech). For example, the drunkenness level estimation unit 33 determines that it is the tipsy period when the above three conditions are satisfied.

[0062] When it is determined that the driver is in the state of intoxication (YES in step SP17), the notification control unit 34 notifies an alarm with content different from that in step SP15, and turns on the hazard lamp and sends an email (step SP18).

[0063] When it is determined that the driver is not in the state of intoxication (NO in step SP17), the degree of drunkenness estimation unit 33 determines whether the driver is in the initial stage of intoxication based on analysis data different from that in steps SP13, SP16, and SP17 among the analysis results in step SP12 (here, the measurement results of the imaging unit 12 and the sound collection unit 13) (step SP19). Specifically, the degree of drunkenness estimation unit 33 detects anger based on the presence or absence of an angry expression according to the measurement result of the imaging unit 12 (here, having an angry expression) and the volume of the speech collected by the sound collection unit 13 (here, loud voice), and determines that it is in the initial stage of intoxication when anger is detected.

[0064] When it is determined that the driver is in the initial stage of intoxication (YES in step SP19), the notification control unit 34 notifies an alarm with content different from that in steps SP15 and SP18 (step SP20).

[0065] When it is determined that the driver is not in the initial stage of intoxication (NO in step SP19), the degree of drunkenness estimation unit 33 determines whether the driver is in the stage of mild intoxication based on analysis data different from that in steps SP13, SP16, SP17, and SP19 among the analysis results in step SP12 (here, the measurement results of the vital sensor 11, the imaging unit 12, and the body temperature measurement unit 15) (step SP21). Specifically, the degree of drunkenness estimation unit 33 determines whether it is in the stage of mild intoxication based on the pulse analyzed from the measurement result of the vital sensor 11 (here, the pulse is 135 beats per minute or more), the movement of the driver detected from the image captured by the imaging unit 12 (here, hyperactivity), and the body temperature analyzed from the measurement result of the body temperature measurement unit 15 (here, the body temperature is 37.5 °C or more). For example, the degree of drunkenness estimation unit 33 determines that it is in the stage of mild intoxication when the above three conditions are satisfied.

[0066] When it is determined that the driver is in the state of being slightly drunk (YES in step SP21), the process proceeds to step SP20. When it is determined that the driver is not in the state of being slightly drunk (NO in step SP21), the degree of drunkenness estimation unit 33 determines whether the driver is in the refreshed period based on analysis data different from that in steps SP13, SP16, SP17, SP19, and SP21 among the analysis results in step SP12 (here, the measurement results of the imaging unit 12 and the airborne alcohol concentration measurement unit 14) (step SP22). Specifically, the degree of drunkenness estimation unit 33 determines that the driver is in the refreshed period when either the color recognized from the image captured by the imaging unit 12 (for example, the face color is red) or the airborne alcohol concentration analyzed from the measurement result of the airborne alcohol concentration measurement unit 14 (here, the airborne alcohol concentration is equal to or lower than the threshold) satisfies the condition.

[0067] When it is determined that the driver is in the refreshed period (YES in step SP22), the process proceeds to step SP20. When it is determined that the driver is not in the refreshed period (NO in step SP22), since the driver has not been drinking and is in the normal period, the process ends. Note that there may be a step of notifying that drinking has not been detected.

[0068] Note that the process shown in FIG. 3 is preferably performed before the driver performs an operation to start the engine. For example, a seating sensor (not shown) may be provided in the driver's seat, and the control unit 30 may perform the process shown in FIG. 3 when it is measured by the seating sensor that the driver has seated in the driver's seat. Also, the process shown in FIG. 3 may be repeatedly performed continuously or at regular intervals. In this case, it is possible to prevent the driver from driving while drinking.

[0069] FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing the flow of a process in which the drunk driving prevention device 1 releases the drinking-time control. The process shown in FIG. 4 is mainly performed by the control unit 30.

[0070] First, the analysis unit 31 acquires the measurement result by the alcohol concentration measurement unit 20, detects the alcohol concentration of the driver, and inputs it to the vehicle control unit 35 (step SP31). Next, the vehicle control unit 35 determines whether the alcohol concentration measured by the alcohol concentration measurement unit 20 is equal to or less than a predetermined value (step SP32). When the alcohol concentration is equal to or less than the predetermined value (YES in step SP32), the vehicle control unit 35 releases the control during drinking (step SP33). When the alcohol concentration of the driver is not equal to or less than the predetermined value (NO in step SP32), the vehicle control unit 35 returns the process to step SP31.

[0071] According to the present embodiment, it is possible to confirm the presence or absence of the driver's drinking and the degree of drunkenness with a simple configuration. Since the sensor group 10 can always measure without the driver actively performing the measurement, it is possible to confirm the degree of drunkenness not only at the start of driving but also during driving. Further, according to the configuration in which the determination is made in the order from the state where the degree of drunkenness is large to the state where it is small, it is possible to quickly and accurately determine a severe drunken state.

[0072] Further, according to the present embodiment, since different dispositions are notified according to the degree of drunkenness, it is possible to appropriately notify the contents of different dispositions according to the degree of drunkenness. Furthermore, according to the configuration in which the engine is stopped only when the degree of drunkenness is severe, even in the case where the degree of drunkenness gradually increases by driving while drinking, a safe stop can be promoted.

[0073] Further, according to the present embodiment, since measurement is performed by a sensor (alcohol concentration measurement unit 20) different from the sensor group 10 when releasing the control after drinking is determined, it is possible to more reliably estimate that the driver is no longer drunk.

[0074] In addition, in this embodiment, the sensor group 10 includes the vital sensor 11, the imaging unit 12, the sound collection unit 13, the airborne alcohol concentration measurement unit 14, and the body temperature measurement unit 15. However, the sensors included in the sensor group 10 are not limited to these. Also, the sensors, analysis content, and control content (the processes in steps SP13, SP16, SP17, SP19, SP21, and SP22 in FIG. 3) used for estimating each degree of intoxication shown in FIG. 2 are not limited to these. Further, in FIG. 3, when YES in steps SP19, SP21, and SP22 respectively, the process of step SP20 is performed. However, when YES in step SP19, when YES in step SP21, and when YES in step SP22, the content of the alarm may be changed.

[0075] As described above, the embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, the specific configuration is not limited to this embodiment, and design changes and the like within the scope not departing from the gist of the present invention are also included.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0076] 1: Drunk Driving Prevention Device 2: Notification Device 10: Sensor Group 11: Vital Sensor 12: Imaging Unit 13: Sound Collection Unit 14: Airborne Alcohol Concentration Measurement Unit 15: Body Temperature Measurement Unit 20: Alcohol Concentration Measurement Unit 30: Control Unit 31: Analysis Unit 32: Memory Unit 33: Degree Estimation Unit 34: Notification Control Unit 35: Vehicle Control Unit

Claims

1. A group of sensors for measuring the state of a vehicle driver, the group of sensors including a vital sensor, an imaging unit, a sound collection unit, an in-air alcohol concentration measurement unit, and a body temperature measurement unit, a degree-of-intoxication estimation unit that estimates the degree of intoxication of the driver in multiple stages in the order from a higher stage to a lower stage based on the measurement results from the group of sensors, a vehicle control unit that prohibits the engine operation of the vehicle when the degree of intoxication is at a predetermined stage or higher, comprising, the degree-of-intoxication estimation unit estimates whether it belongs to the degree of intoxication based on a combination of measurement results of different sensors among the sensors included in the group of sensors according to the stage of the degree of intoxication A drinking-driving prevention device characterized by the above.

2. An analysis unit that analyzes the data measured by the group of sensors, the analysis unit including an analysis unit that analyzes the complexion of the driver based on the image captured by the imaging unit and analyzes the opening and closing of the eyes in the imaging result of the imaging unit, the degree-of-intoxication estimation unit determines whether it is in a coma stage based on the breathing speed and ventilation volume analyzed from the vital sensor and the opening and closing of the eyes, and determines whether it is in a refreshed stage based on the complexion or the in-air alcohol concentration analyzed from the measurement result of the in-air alcohol concentration measurement unit The drinking-driving prevention device according to claim 1, characterized by the above.

3. the analysis unit determines the accuracy, duplication degree, and loudness of the speech content based on the measurement result collected by the sound collection unit, and analyzes the expression of the driver based on the image captured by the imaging unit, the degree-of-intoxication estimation unit determines whether it is in a stage of extreme intoxication based on the opening and closing of the eyes and the accuracy of the speech content, and determines whether it is in the initial stage of intoxication based on the presence or absence of an angry expression of the driver and the volume of the driver's voice The drinking-driving prevention device according to claim 2, characterized by the above.

4. further comprising a notification control unit that performs notification in different manners according to the degree of intoxication The drinking-driving prevention device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized by the above.

5. further comprising a storage unit that stores the correspondence between the degree of intoxication and the penalty imposed on the driver, the notification control unit refers to the storage unit and notifies the driver of the penalty corresponding to the degree of intoxication The drinking-driving prevention device according to claim 4, characterized by the above.

6. further comprising an alcohol concentration measurement unit different from the group of sensors When the engine operation is prohibited, the vehicle control unit permits the engine operation if the measurement result by the alcohol concentration measurement unit satisfies the condition. The drunk driving prevention device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that.

7. A measurement step of measuring the state of the driver of the vehicle by a group of sensors including a vital sensor, an imaging unit, a sound collection unit, an air alcohol concentration measurement unit, and a body temperature measurement unit, A drunkenness level estimation step of estimating the level of drunkenness of the driver in multiple stages in the order from a higher level of drunkenness to a lower level based on the measurement results of the group of sensors. In this step, depending on the stage of the level of drunkenness, it is estimated whether or not it belongs to the level of drunkenness based on a combination of measurement results of different sensors among the sensors included in the group of sensors. A vehicle control step of prohibiting the engine operation of the vehicle when the level of drunkenness is at a predetermined stage or higher. A method for preventing drunk driving, characterized by including the above steps.

8. A computer, A drunkenness level estimation unit that estimates the level of drunkenness of the driver in multiple stages in the order from a higher level of drunkenness to a lower level based on the measurement results of a group of sensors including a vital sensor, an imaging unit, a sound collection unit, an air alcohol concentration measurement unit, and a body temperature measurement unit. Depending on the stage of the level of drunkenness, it is estimated whether or not it belongs to the level of drunkenness based on a combination of measurement results of different sensors among the sensors included in the group of sensors. A vehicle control unit that prohibits the engine operation of the vehicle when the level of drunkenness is at a predetermined stage or higher. A drunk driving prevention program, characterized by causing the computer to function as the above units.

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