Chemical impairment detection and propulsion control (CIDPC) system

Abstract

A system for a vehicle is provided. The system includes a chemical impairment testing device (CIDPC) and a speed control device. In response to receiving results of a chemical impairment test from the CIDPC or in response to not receiving the results of the chemical impairment test within a configured time period, the speed control device is configured to restrict propulsion of the vehicle. When restricting the propulsion of the vehicle, the speed control device intercepts one or more accelerator signals or a control message capable of causing the propulsion of the vehicle. The speed control device then prevents the ECM from receiving one or more accelerator signals or the control message, or modifies one or more accelerator signals or the control message and provides one or more modified accelerator signals or a modified control message to an engine control module (ECM) of the vehicle.

Description

CHEMICAL IMPAIRMENT DETECTION AND PROPULSION CONTROL (CIDPC) SYSTEMTECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to systems and methods for integrating breathalyzer technologies into vehicles, and more specifically, to systems and methods for integrating breathalyzer technologies into vehicles to restrict vehicle operation and / or propulsion when a driver fails, or fails to take, a chemical impairment test.BACKGROUND

[0002] Drinking and driving continues to be a significant public safety concern, with alcohol-impaired driving contributing to a substantial number of accidents and fatalities on roads worldwide. To mitigate the risks associated with drunk driving, various technological solutions have been developed, including vehicle-based alcohol monitoring systems.

[0003] One existing system involves integrating breathalyzer technology into a vehicle to prevent a driver under the influence of alcohol from operating the vehicle. This system typically requires the driver to pass a chemical impairment test, such as a breathalyzer test, before starting the vehicle's engine. Before the driver passes the breathalyzer test, an ignition of the vehicle is locked to prevent the driver from turning on the vehicle.

[0004] While this system effectively prevent the vehicle from starting when the driver is intoxicated, it does not provide a comprehensive solution for all scenarios involving alcohol- impaired driving. Existing systems lack the ability to allow the vehicle to start for non-driving purposes while still enforcing alcohol testing before the vehicle can be operated. Preventing thevehicle from starting until the driver passes a breathalyzer test may inconvenience users who need to start the vehicle for non-driving purposes, such as warming it up in cold weather conditions. This limitation may discourage drivers from using alcohol monitoring systems, as it restricts user flexibility and convenience.

[0005] Additionally, existing systems do not offer mechanisms to restrict the vehicle's acceleration and / or speed if the driver fails a breathalyzer test while the vehicle is in motion. In scenarios where a driver consumes alcohol after starting the vehicle, or where a driver’s BAC level rises after operation of the vehicle has begun, existing systems do not provide mechanisms to restrict the vehicle's acceleration and / or speed to mitigate the risks of alcohol-impaired driving. Furthermore, existing systems provide the operator of the vehicle with full control of vehicle speed so long as an initial sobriety test is passed. However, many of these systems can only flash headlights and / or honk the horn to draw attention to an impaired operator that has failed a randomized sobriety re-test. Consequently, these systems do not provide a mechanism for safely controlling the speed of a vehicle driven by an impaired operator.

[0006] The present invention aims to overcome the limitations of existing solutions by introducing a chemical impairment detection and propulsion control (CIDPC) system that enhances the effectiveness of vehicle-based alcohol monitoring. By allowing the vehicle to start for non-driving purposes, and by restricting the state of the vehicle to an idle state until a chemical impairment test has been passed, the CIDPC system strikes a balance between safety and convenience. Additionally, the CIDPC system 's ability to restrict propulsion of the vehicle (e.g., in response to a failed chemical impairment test while the vehicle is in motion) provides an added layer of protection against alcohol-impaired driving accidents. In this way, the CIDPCsystem addresses key limitations of existing solutions and enhances road safety by preventing alcohol-impaired individuals from operating vehicles, but in a controlled manner so as to eliminate the major risks of such vehicle operation.SUMMARY

[0007] In an aspect of the invention, a method for controlling operation of a vehicle using a chemical impairment test. The method includes configuring, in the vehicle, a chemical impairment detection and propulsion control (CIDPC) system that includes a chemical impairment testing device and a speed control device. The chemical impairment testing device is a handheld device. The method further includes prompting, using the chemical impairment testing device, a driver that is operating the vehicle to take the chemical impairment test. In response to results of the chemical impairment test or in response to not receiving the results of the chemical impairment test, the method further includes restricting the propulsion of the vehicle. The propulsion of the vehicle is restricted by intercepting, by the speed control device, one or more accelerator signals or a control message capable of causing propulsion of the vehicle, and modifying, by the speed control device, the one or more accelerator signals or the control message and providing one or more modified accelerator signals or a modified control message to an engine control module (ECM) of the vehicle, or preventing, by the speed control device, the ECM from receiving the one or more accelerator signals or the control message.

[0008] In an embodiment of the invention, the driver is prompted to take the chemical impairment test based on a trigger condition being satisfied. The trigger condition includes at least one of a configured time period expiring, a current speed of the vehicle exceeding a speed corresponding to a speed limit of a road on which the vehicle travels, a movement of the vehicleis determined to be an erratic movement, or a speed of the vehicle is determined to be a dangerous speed.

[0009] In another embodiment of the invention, the method further includes restricting the propulsion of the vehicle when the vehicle is turned on by restricting acceleration to a configured acceleration or maximum speed level that is indicative of a low acceleration or low maximum speed. The configured acceleration may include a lower acceleration value that in some cases is zero (e.g., no acceleration). Similarly, the low maximum speed may also be decreased down to and including a speed of zero. The method further includes performing an initial chemical impairment test after the driver has turned on the vehicle. The method further includes removing the restriction based on the driver passing the initial chemical impairment test.

[0010] In another embodiment of the invention, the driver fails to provide a chemical sample or provides a chemical sample where the chemical sample exceeds a configured acceptable chemical sample level. In this embodiment, restricting the propulsion of the vehicle includes determining that a current speed of the vehicle is greater than a configured maximum permissible speed and preventing the ECM from receiving the one or more accelerator signals or the control message.

[0011] In another embodiment of the invention, the driver fails to provide a chemical sample or provides a chemical sample where the chemical sample exceeds a configured acceptable chemical sample level. In this embodiment, the one or more accelerator signals are intercepted from an accelerator pedal and are indicative of a requested acceleration provided by the driver. In this embodiment, restricting the propulsion of the vehicle includes determining that the requested acceleration is greater than a maximum permissible acceleration and modifying theone or more accelerator signals or the control message such that the one or more modified accelerator signals or the modified control message is received by the ECM of the vehicle.

[0012] In another embodiment of the invention, the control message is a controller area network (CAN) control message. In this embodiment, restricting the propulsion of the vehicle includes intercepting the CAN control message and modifying one or more values of the CAN control message that influence the propulsion of the vehicle such that a modified CAN control message is received by the ECM of the vehicle. The ECM is adapted to use the modified CAN control message to restrict at least one of: engine torque output, throttle response, or acceleration.

[0013] In another embodiment of the invention, the control message is a LIN control message. In this embodiment, restricting the propulsion of the vehicle includes intercepting the LIN control message and modifying one or more values of the LIN control message that influence the propulsion of the vehicle such that a modified LIN control message is received by the ECM of the vehicle. The ECM is adapted to use the LIN control message to restrict at least one: engine torque output, throttle response, or acceleration.

[0014] In another embodiment of the invention, the driver fails to provide a chemical sample or provides a chemical sample where the chemical sample exceeds a configured acceptable chemical sample level. In this embodiment, restricting the propulsion of the vehicle includes reducing a configured maximum permissible speed of the vehicle. In this embodiment, over time, the driver is prompted to take one or more subsequent chemical impairment tests. The configured maximum permissible speed is reduced each time the driver fails to provide the chemical sample or each time the driver provides the chemical sample where the chemical sample exceeds the configured acceptable chemical sample level.

[0015] In another embodiment of the invention, the driver fails to provide a chemical sample or provides a chemical sample where the chemical sample exceeds a configured acceptable chemical sample level. In this embodiment, restricting the propulsion of the vehicle includes determining a speed limit of a road on which the vehicle is traveling, determining that a current speed of the vehicle is greater than the speed limit of the road on which the vehicle is traveling, and preventing the ECM from receiving the one or more accelerator signals or the control message at least until the current speed of the vehicle is less than the speed limit.

[0016] In another embodiment of the invention, the driver fails to provide a chemical sample or provides a chemical sample where the chemical sample exceeds a configured acceptable chemical sample level. In this embodiment, restricting the propulsion of the vehicle includes setting a current speed of the vehicle to a maximum permissible speed and restricting the propulsion of the vehicle such that each time the vehicle slows down the maximum permissible speed of the vehicle is decreased.

[0017] In another aspect of the invention, a speed control device for a vehicle is provided. The speed control device includes one or more memories and one or more processors, operatively coupled to the one or more memories. The one or more memories store instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to receive, from a chemical impairment testing device, results of a chemical impairment test taken while a driver is operating the vehicle or data indicative of the results not being provided within a configured time period, and restrict propulsion of the vehicle. The one or more processors, when restricting the propulsion of the vehicle, are to intercept one or more accelerator signals or a control message capable of causing the propulsion of the vehicle, and modify the one or moreaccelerator signals or the control message and provide one or more modified accelerator signals or a modified control message to an engine control module (ECM) of the vehicle, or prevent the ECM from receiving the one or more accelerator signals or the control message.

[0018] In an embodiment of the invention, the driver fails to provide a chemical sample or provides a chemical sample where the chemical sample exceeds a configured acceptable chemical sample level. In this embodiment, the one or more processors, when restricting the propulsion of the vehicle, are to determine that a current speed of the vehicle is greater than a configured maximum permissible speed, and prevent the ECM from receiving the one or more accelerator signals or the control message.

[0019] In another embodiment of the invention, the driver fails to provide a chemical sample or provides a chemical sample where the chemical sample exceeds a configured acceptable chemical sample level. In this embodiment, the one or more accelerator signals are intercepted from an accelerator pedal and are indicative of a requested acceleration provided by the driver. In this embodiment, the one or more processors, when restricting the propulsion of the vehicle, are to determine that the requested acceleration is greater than a maximum permissible acceleration, and modify the one or more accelerator signals or the control message such that the one or more modified accelerator signals or the modified control message is received by the ECM of the vehicle.

[0020] In another embodiment of the invention, the control message is a CAN control message. In this embodiment, the one or more processors, when restricting the propulsion of the vehicle, are to intercept the CAN control message and modify one or more values of the CAN control message that influence the propulsion of the vehicle such that a modified CAN controlmessage is received by the ECM of the vehicle.

[0021] In another embodiment of the invention, the driver fails to provide a chemical sample or provides a chemical sample where the chemical sample exceeds a configured acceptable chemical sample level. In this embodiment, the one or more processors, when restricting the propulsion of the vehicle, are to reduce a configured maximum permissible speed of the vehicle. In this embodiment, over time, the driver is prompted to take one or more subsequent chemical impairment tests. In this embodiment, the configured maximum permissible speed is reduced each time the driver fails to provide the chemical sample or each time the driver provides the chemical sample where the chemical sample exceeds the configured acceptable chemical sample level.

[0022] In another embodiment of the invention, the driver provides a chemical sample where the chemical sample does not exceed a configured acceptable chemical sample level. In this embodiment, the one or more processors, when restricting the propulsion of the vehicle, are to restrict the propulsion of the vehicle by setting a maximum permissible speed at which the vehicle is permitted to travel, the maximum permissible speed being a speed corresponding to a speed limit of a road on which the vehicle is traveling.

[0023] In another embodiment of the invention, the one or more processors, prior to receiving the results of the chemical impairment test, are further to determine that a movement of the vehicle is an erratic movement and provide, to the chemical impairment testing device, instructions indicating to administer the chemical impairment test.

[0024] In another aspect of the invention, a system for a vehicle is provided. The systemincludes a chemical impairment testing device configured to prompt a driver to take a chemical impairment test while the driver is operating the vehicle. The system further includes a speed control device communicatively coupled to the chemical impairment testing device. The speed control device includes one or more memories and one or more processors, operatively coupled to the one or more memories. The one or more memories store instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to receive results of the chemical impairment test from the chemical impairment testing device or receive data indicating that the results have not been provided within a configured time period, and restrict propulsion of the vehicle. The one or more processors, when restricting the propulsion of the vehicle, are to intercept one or more accelerator signals or a control message capable of causing the propulsion of the vehicle, and modify the one or more accelerator signals or the control message and provide one or more modified accelerator signals or a modified control message to an engine control module (ECM) of the vehicle, or prevent the ECM from receiving the one or more accelerator signals or the control message.

[0025] In an embodiment of the invention, the driver fails to provide a chemical sample or provides a chemical sample where the chemical sample exceeds a configured acceptable chemical sample level. In this embodiment, the one or more processors, when restricting the propulsion of the vehicle, are to determine that a current speed of the vehicle is greater than a configured maximum permissible speed, and prevent the ECM from receiving the one or more accelerator signals or the control message.

[0026] In another embodiment of the invention, the driver fails to provide a chemical sample or provides a chemical sample where the chemical sample exceeds a configured acceptablechemical sample level. In this embodiment, the one or more processors, when restricting the propulsion of the vehicle, are to determine that the requested acceleration is greater than a maximum permissible acceleration, and modify the one or more accelerator signals or the control message such that the one or more modified accelerator signals or the modified control message is received by the ECM of the vehicle.

[0027] The above summary presents a simplified overview of some embodiments of the invention to provide a basic understanding of certain aspects of the invention discussed herein. The summary is not intended to provide an extensive overview of the invention, nor is it intended to identify any key or critical elements or delineate the scope of the invention. The sole purpose of the summary is merely to present some concepts in a simplified form as an introduction to the detailed description presented below.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0028] Fig. 1 is a perspective view of an inside of a vehicle equipped with a chemical impairment detection and propulsion control (CIDPC) system according to the principles of the present disclosure.

[0029] Fig. 2 is a perspective view of a chemical impairment testing device (referred to herein as a handset) that is part of the CIDPC system.

[0030] Fig. 3A is a block diagram where the CIDPC system includes the handset and a speed control device with an acceleration restriction module.

[0031] Fig. 3B is a block diagram where the CIDPC system includes the handset and the speed control device with controller area network (CAN) and / or link interconnect network (LIN)based propulsion restriction module.

[0032] Fig. 4 is a flow chart of an example process for restricting a vehicle to an idle state until a driver has passed a chemical impairment test.

[0033] Fig. 5 is a flow chart of an example process for restricting propulsion of the vehicle based on results of a chemical impairment test.

[0034] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with a general description of the invention given above, and the detailed description of the embodiments given below, serve to explain the principles of the invention.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0035] Fig. 1 is a perspective view of an inside of a vehicle 26 equipped with a chemical impairment detection and propulsion control (CIDPC) system 10 according to the principles of the present disclosure. The CIDPC system 10 may be used to restrict propulsion of the vehicle 26 based on results of a chemical impairment test.

[0036] As shown in Fig. 1, the CIDPC system 10 includes a chemical impairment testing device 12 (sometimes referred to herein as a handset 12). In some embodiments, the handset 12 may be configured to administer the chemical impairment test and / or to analyze chemical samples obtained during the test. The chemical samples may be breath-alcohol samples that are collected to determine a blood alcohol level (BAC) of a driver 22 of the vehicle 26.

[0037] In some embodiments, the CIDPC system 10 further includes an ignition interlock device (IID) 14. The IID 14 may be configured to lock an ignition of the vehicle 26 until adriver has passed a chemical impairment test and / or after the driver has failed a chemical impairment test. The IID 14 may be communicatively coupled to the handset 12 and to the speed control device. In some embodiments, a wired interface 16 (e.g., a coiled cord) may be used to connect the handset 12 and the IID 14. In other embodiments, the handset 12 may connect to the IID 14 via a wireless interface.

[0038] In some embodiments, the handset 12 may be a handheld device configured for sampling the breath of a driver through a mouthpiece 24 through which the driver 22 provides a breath sample. By using a handheld device, rather than a terminal with a fixed location, the driver 22 is able to use the handset 12 in any vehicle in which the driver is permitted to operate. Furthermore, use of a handheld device permits the driver 22 to place his or her mouth directly against the mouthpiece 24 of the handset 12. This improves the accuracy of the breath samples collected by the handset 12 relative to using a terminal breathalyzer with a fixed location. For example, a terminal in a vicinity of the driver 22 might sample the air around the driver 22 which would measure less accurate readings than a handheld device where the mouth of the driver 22 is placed directly onto the mouthpiece. Furthermore, different drivers arc different heights, have different arm spans or reaches, have different preferences on how close to position the seat to the steering wheel, and these variations would result in less accurate readings when a conventional terminal is used. Therefore, the use of a handheld device provides improved accuracy and eliminates the need for the driver 22 to perform retests that would be required if the breath samples collected were insufficient or inconclusive.

[0039] In some embodiments, to determine a BAC level of the driver 22, the handset 12 may be configured to require a “deep lung” breath sample. The air blown into the mouthpiece 24generally must include alveolar air which occurs when an expiratory breath substantially exhausts the lungs. Since breath exhalations from upper portions of the respiratory tract do not necessarily have an alcohol level proportional to that of the bloodstream, the handset 12 is adapted to prevent the processing of shallow exhalations, e.g., when a driver 22 blows only short puffs of air expelled from the upper portions of his or her respiratory tract. For example, a pressure sensor may be included in the handset 12 and the pressure sensor may be used to determine when a deep-lung breath has been provided. In some embodiments, the handset 12 may be configured to require the driver 22 to blow into the mouthpiece 24 for a configured time period (e.g., three seconds, five seconds, etc.).

[0040] In some embodiments, the handset 12 may weigh approximately 177 grams (g) and is approximately 15.25x5x3.8 centimeters (cm) in size. The handset 12 will typically operate between -40° Celsius (C) to 85° C. and between 10% to 90% relative humidity. With regard to accuracy, the handset 12 will return a test result with a margin of error of ±0.005 g % between a BAC range of 0.010% to 0.10% and between a temperature of -40° C. to 70° C. Additionally, any embodiment which is adapted for use in a vehicle may also be configured to resist normal levels of vibration according to vibration standards known to those skilled in the industry.

[0041] In some embodiments, as is shown in Fig. 2, the handset 12 may include a series of lights and / or displays. For example, the handset 12 may include a blow light 28, a wait light 30, an abort light 32, a pass light 34, a warn light 36, a failure light 38, a run light 40, a user interface display screen 41, a service light 42, a power light 44, a lockout light 46, and / or the like.

[0042] In some embodiments, the handset 12 may further include a breathalyzer unit, one or more sensors, a control unit, a data logging and reporting module, a tamper detection module, auser interface, a power supply, and / or the like. Software units and / or modules may be implemented using one or more processors and / or one or more memories that are part of a printed circuit board (PCB), an integrated circuit (IC), or another similar type of electrical circuitry.

[0043] In some embodiments, the breathalyzer unit may include one or more sensors used to measure the alcohol content of a breath sample provided by a driver. The one or more sensors may include one or more electrochemical fuel cells, one or more sensors utilizing infrared spectroscopy technology, one or more pressure sensors, one or more flow sensors, one or more temperature sensors, and / or the like.

[0044] Fuel cells are electrochemical devices that convert chemical energy directly into electrical energy via redox reactions. In the breathalyzer unit, the alcohol oxidation reaction occurs at the anode of the fuel cell. The key reaction is the electrochemical oxidation of ethanol to acetaldehyde. An oxidation reaction generates electrons which flow through an external circuit to produce electrical current, thereby providing a measurable electrical signal. The fuel cell unit contains a sensing element, typically composed of a porous anode coated with a catalyst such as platinum or palladium. This catalyst facilitates the alcohol oxidation reaction, enhancing the efficiency and sensitivity of the fuel cell.

[0045] An electrolyte is used to facilitate the transport of ions between the anode and cathode of the fuel cell. In some cases, a proton exchange membrane (PEM) or acidic electrolyte solution may be employed. The electrolyte enables the migration of protons generated during the alcohol oxidation reaction from the anode to the cathode, completing the circuit and sustaining the electrochemical process. While alcohol oxidation at the anode occurs, an oxygenreduction reaction (ORR) occurs at the cathode of the fuel cell. This reaction maintains charge balance within the fuel cell and sustains the overall electrochemical process.

[0046] As alcohol molecules in the breath sample are oxidized at the anode, electrons are released and flow through an external circuit to the cathode. The flow of electrons constitute an electric current which can be measured by other electronic devices or components. The magnitude of the electric current is directly proportional to the concentration of alcohol present in the breath sample, allowing for the quantification of a BAC level. The use of one or more breath based fuel cell sensors improves the accuracy and reliability of the chemical impairment test (e.g., which may be a breathalyzer test), thereby promoting road safety and preventing alcohol impaired driving.

[0047] In some embodiments, the one or more sensors may be used to detect when the driver provides a breath sample and to ensure that the sample can be analyzed reliably. For example, the one or more sensors may include a flow sensor to verify the presence and volume of breath, a temperature sensor to monitor ambient conditions during testing, and a pressure sensor to determine when a deep-lung breath has been provided.

[0048] In some embodiments, the breathalyzer unit may determine whether the breath sample provided is a breath sample of the driver 22. For example, the breathalyzer unit may use a combination of air temperature, temperature differential, and microphone (hum) detection to confirm that a human provided the breath sample that was injected into the breathalyzer unit. Additionally, or alternatively, camera-based verification of the driver 22 may be implemented in the vehicle 26.

[0049] In some embodiments, the control unit may include a processor, such as a microprocessor, that executes instructions used to analyze the breath sample. For example, the processor may execute instructions that determine whether the blood alcohol content (BAC) of the driver 22 satisfies a threshold BAC level. In some embodiments, the control unit (e.g., using the processor) may provide test data indicating the results of the chemical impairment test to a speed control device. For example, the CIDPC system may further include a speed control device that receives the test data and uses the test data to restrict propulsion of the vehicle 26. Embodiments relating to the speed control device are shown and described in connection with Figs. 3 A and 3B.

[0050] In some embodiments, the analysis of the breath sample may be performed by the speed control device, rather than by the handset 12. In this embodiment, the control unit may provide the speed control device with breath data indicative of the breath sample of the driver 22 and a processor of the speed control device may analyze the breath data. The analysis of the breath data may then be used to restrict the propulsion of the vehicle 26.

[0051] The data logging and reporting module may include instructions that permit the control unit to perform data logging and reporting capabilities, such as recording information relating to breath test, attempts to operate the vehicle 26, device tampering, and / or the like. The tamper detection module may include seals or locks to secure the device’s components, and / or sensors to detect unauthorized attempts to tamper with or bypass a chemical impairment test. The user interface may be designed for driver interaction and may include a display screen to provide instructions and / or feedback during breath testing, LED indicators to signal test results (e.g., such as those shown in Fig. 2), buttons or touch controls for initiating tests, and / or the like.In some embodiments, the power supply may be independent of the power provided by the electrical system of the vehicle 26. In some embodiments, the handset 12 may be powered directly by the electrical system of the vehicle 26.

[0052] Fig. 3A is a block diagram where the CIDPC system 10 includes the handset 12, the IID 14, and a speed control device 18 with an acceleration restriction module 52. In some embodiments, the CIDPC system 10 may include only the handset 12 and the speed control device 18. The speed control device 18 may include a processor 48, a memory 50, and an acceleration restriction module 52.

[0053] Processor 48 is implemented in hardware, firmware, or a combination of hardware and software. For example, processor 48 may be implemented as part of a printed circuit board (PCB), an integrated circuit (IC), or another related type of circuitry. Processor 48 includes a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), an accelerated processing unit (APU), a microprocessor, a microcontroller, a digital signal processor (DSP), a field- programmable gate array (FPGA), an application- specific integrated circuit (ASIC), and / or another type of processing component. Processor 48 may refer to a single processor or to multiple processors, depending on the embodiment.

[0054] Memory 50 includes a random access memory (RAM), a read only memory (ROM), and / or another type of dynamic or static storage device (e.g., a flash memory, a magnetic memory, and / or an optical memory) that stores information and / or instructions for use by processor 48.

[0055] Acceleration restriction module 52 may include program code for a speed controlapplication that can be stored using the memory 50 and executed by the processor 48. The program code may include instructions that describe conditions that cause the speed control device 18 to restrict propulsion of the vehicle 26. For example, the program code may include instructions indicating to perform a speed check or acceleration check in response to the driver 22 failing a chemical impairment test or in response to the driver failing to initiate the chemical impairment test. The speed check may include determining whether a current speed of the vehicle is greater than a configured maximum permissible speed. The acceleration check may include determining whether the requested acceleration is greater than a maximum permissible acceleration. The program code may further include instructions indicating to restrict the propulsion of the vehicle 26 based on the result of the speed check or the acceleration check. For example, when the requested acceleration is greater than the maximum permissible acceleration, propulsion may be restricted by modulating accelerator signals or a control message and by providing the modulated accelerator signals or control message to an engine control module (ECM) 56 of the vehicle 26. As another example, when the current speed is greater than the maximum configured speed, propulsion may be restricted by preventing the ECM 56 from receiving one or more accelerator signals or the control message (e.g., by intercepting said signals or message and not relaying them to the ECM 56),

[0056] Accelerator pedal 54 may generate electrical signals (sometimes referred to herein as accelerator signals) indicative of a force applied by the driver 22 to the accelerator pedal 54. Conventionally, an accelerator pedal and wire harness are configured to provide the electrical signals directly to an engine control module (ECM) of a vehicle. As used herein, the phrase “one or more accelerator signals” is to be understood as referring to one or more accelerator pedal signals and / or one or more signals relating to a gear shifter. For example, in a shift-by-wiresystem, the shifter sends electrical signals to a transmission or powertrain controller, and these signals may include a gear position signal, a drive mode signal, shift request signal, an acceleration override mode signal, and / or the like. In the present application, it is to be understood that one or more accelerator signals may also include one or more of the above mentioned signals. In some embodiments of this disclosure, the speed control device 18 may be positioned between an the accelerator pedal 54 and an ECM 56. As such, the speed control device 18 intercepts the electrical signals and may modulate or alter the electrical signals before said signals are relayed to the ECM 56. As can be seen in Fig. 3A, the electrical signals may be provided from the accelerator pedal 54 to the speed control device 18 using connectors 58, 60 and interface 62. Interface 62 may be a wired interface or a wireless interface. In some embodiments, interface 62 may be an accelerator pedal wire harness.

[0057] In some embodiments, the speed control device 18 may be configured to receive the results of a chemical impairment test from the handset 12. In the example shown in Fig. 3 A, the results may be provided to the speed control device 18 using wired interface 16, IID 14, connectors 66, 68, and interface 70. Interface 70 may be a wired interface or a wireless interface. In some embodiments, such as when the IID 14 is not part of the CIDPC system 10, the results of the chemical impairment test may be provided to the speed control device 18 using connectors 66, 68 and interface 70 (e.g., without using wired interface 16, connector 64, and IID 14). In some embodiments, the speed control device 18 may be configured with time data indicating a time during which the driver 22 is to take the chemical impairment test. If, for example, the driver 22 does not take the chemical impairment test in the designated time period, then the speed control device 18 may restrict the propulsion of the vehicle 26 in a manner described according to the principles of the present disclosure.

[0058] In some embodiments, the speed control device 18 may be configured to modulate electrical signals received from the accelerator pedal 54. For example, the accelerator pedal 54 may include a position sensor (e.g., a potentiometer, a Hall-effect sensor, etc.) that generates a voltage proportional to a downward force created the driver presses the accelerator pedal 54. The voltage generated by the position sensor can be referred to as an analog electrical signal representing pedal position. In this case, the speed control device 18 may include an analog-to- digital converter (ADC) to digitize analog electrical signals received from the accelerator pedal 54. To provide an example, the ADC may convert an analog electrical signals to a digital value, such as a 10-bit number between 0 and 1023. Next, the speed control device 18 may be configured to analyze the digital value, along with the results of the chemical impairment test, according to a set of propulsion restriction rules (e.g., the speed check, the acceleration check, etc.) associated with the acceleration restriction module 52. Example embodiments pertaining to the analysis performed are described in connection with Figs. 4 and 5.

[0059] Based on the analysis performed, the speed control device 18 may determine whether to restrict propulsion of the vehicle 26 and / or determine a degree to which to restrict the propulsion of the vehicle 26. In some embodiments, to restrict the propulsion of the vehicle 26, the speed control device 18 may intercept electrical signals received from the accelerator pedal 54, may modulate the electrical signals, and may provide or relay those modulated electrical signals to the ECM 56. In some embodiments, to restrict the propulsion of the vehicle 26, the speed control device 18 may intercept electrical signals and may prevent the ECM 56 from receiving the one or more accelerator signals. In some embodiments, the speed control device 18 may include a digital-to-analog converter (DAC) that may be used to produce new analog electrical signals. In some embodiments, the speed control device 18 may generate a pulse widthmodulation (PWM) output and use one or more filtering or smoothing techniques to emulate analog electrical signals.

[0060] In some embodiments, the speed control device 18 may be configured to provide the modulated electrical signals of the accelerator pedal 54 to the ECM 56. In some embodiments, the speed control device 18 may be configured to provide unmodulated electrical signals of the accelerator pedal 54 to the ECM 56. The modulated or unmodulated electrical signals may be provided to the ECM 56 using connectors 72, 74 and interface 76. Interface 76 may be a wired interface or a wireless interface.

[0061] Vehicle 26 may include original vehicle equipment, including the accelerator pedal 54 and the ECM 56. The ECM 56 may be adapted to receive modulated or unmodulated electrical signals from the speed control device 18. The ECM 56 includes processor 78, memory 80, and one or more other components typically included as part a vehicle ECM. The ECM 56 may be adapted to use the modulated or unmodulated electrical signals to restrict the propulsion of the vehicle 26.

[0062] The ECM 56 may be positioned between the accelerator pedal 54 and a component of the vehicle 26 that causes vehicle acceleration (e.g., a fuel injection system). In some embodiments, when an acceleration request is sent (e.g., by the driver 22 pressing down on the accelerator pedal 54), the ECM 56 compares a current speed of the vehicle 26 to a programmed, maximum speed of the vehicle 26 according to settings configured to the ECM 56. The current speed of the vehicle 26 is calculated using information provided by the vehicle 26, such as rotations per minute (RPM) of a tire, CAN signals, LIN signals, a GPS, and / or the like. If the speed of the vehicle 26 is at or above the programmed maximum speed, then the accelerationrequest can be intercepted, thus preventing the vehicle 26 from receiving that signal, thereby preventing actual acceleration. In addition, the ECM 56 can provide acceleration control of the vehicle 26 such that instead of intercepting all of the acceleration request from the acceleration pedal 54, the ECM 56 can allow a portion of that request to be passed through the acceleration mechanism of the vehicle 26. This allows the vehicle 26 to accelerate, but at a lower rate of speed increase than requested by the driver 22 of the vehicle 26. In other embodiments, as is described herein, speed and acceleration comparisons can be performed by the speed control device 18.

[0063] Programmable options and a vehicle conditions input 82 enable the speed control device 18 to monitor conditions of the vehicle 26, such as a tachometer reading, a voltage reading, an alternator reading to determine whether the vehicle 26 is started, idling, or moving, and / or the like. The vehicle conditions input 82 may be provided to the speed control device 18 using connector 84. The speed control device 18 also monitors and records whether the handset 12 is connected during these various vehicle conditions. For example, the speed control device 18 may record a “No Blow” event when the vehicle 26 is determined to be running and the handset 12 is disconnected.

[0064] In some embodiments, the CIDPC system 10 may further include a wireless communication transceiver. In some embodiments, the wireless communication transceiver may be used by a monitoring facility to dynamically request random alcohol tests. In some embodiments, the wireless communication transceiver may be used for reporting and / or resolving maintenance issues relating to one or more components of the CIDPC system 10.

[0065] Fig. 3B is a block diagram where the CIDPC system 10 includes the handset 12 and aspeed control device 20 with a with controller area network (CAN) and / or link interconnect network (LIN) based propulsion restriction module 86. In this embodiment, the speed control device 20 may include the processor 48, the memory 50, a CAN and / or LIN based propulsion restriction module 86, a CAN transceiver 88, and / or a LIN transceiver 90.

[0066] The propulsion restriction module 86 may include program code for the speed control application that can be stored using the memory 50 and executed by the processor 48. In some embodiments, the program code may include instructions that allow the speed control device 20 to restrict propulsion of the vehicle 26 by modifying CAN or LIN control messages and by providing modified the CAN or LIN control messages to the ECM 56 (and / or to one or more other ECUs 92) to permit the ECM 56 (and / or the one or more ECUs 92) to reduce or limit at least one of: engine torque output, throttle response, or acceleration. Additionally, or alternatively, the program code may include instructions that allow the speed control device 20 to restrict propulsion of the vehicle 26 by preventing the ECM 56 from receiving one or more accelerator signals or the control message.

[0067] In some embodiments, the speed control device 20 may be adapted to modify a CAN control message with a data frame that includes a CAN identifier, a data length code (DLC), a payload, and / or a cyclical redundancy check (CRC) / end of frame (EOF). The CAN identifier may be a unique ID that instructs the ECM or other ECU how to interpret the CAN control message. The DLC specifies how many bytes are in the message. The payload may include values capable of influencing (e.g., restricting relative to an unmodified CAN control message) the propulsion of the vehicle 26. The CRC + EOF includes error-checking bits handled by the protocol.

[0068] To provide CAN control messages to the ECM 56 (and / or to one or more other ECUs 92), the speed control device 20 may include a CAN transceiver 88. The CAN transceiver 88 may include a chip or device adapted to translate digital logic from the processor 48 into analog voltage capable of being transmitted over a CAN bus 98. For example, the speed control device 20 may modify a CAN control message and may transmit the CAN control message over the CAN bus 98 and to the ECM 56 (and / or to another ECU 92).

[0069] The CAN bus 98 is a differential signaling network serving as a distributed, multinode communication circuit. Speed control device 18 and engine control units 90-1, 90-2, ..., 90-N may be nodes on the network. Each node shares a common twisted pair wiring. In the example shown in Fig. 3B, the CAN bus 98 includes an interface 98 (e.g., the twisted pair wiring) that extends from a connector 94 of the speed control device 20 to each of ECU 91-2, ECU 92-2, ..., ECU-92-N.

[0070] In some embodiments, the ECM 56 (and / or the one or more ECUs 92) may restrict propulsion of the vehicle 56 by restricting engine torque output. For example, the speed control device 20 may provide a modified CAN control message to the ECM 56 that represents a torque limiting request. The payload of the CAN control message may include a set of bytes (e.g., typically eight bytes in a CAN protocol) that are indicative of torque limiting request values. For example, one or more bytes may be reserved for a value (e.g., 0x00C8) indicative of a requested engine torque (e.g., 200 Newton meters (Nm’s)), one or more bytes may be reserved for a value (e.g., 0x0064) indicative of a maximum allowed torque, and one or more bytes may be reserved for a value (e.g., 0x01 ) indicative of a flag (e.g., override active). The ECM 56 may compare the incoming torque request with a current torque map and may cap torque output to the specifiedlimit and / or may adjust fuel delivery and / or ignition timing accordingly. This restricts how much torque the engine of the vehicle 26 is allowed to produce, even if the driver 22 requests more via the accelerator pedal 54.

[0071] In some embodiments, the ECM 56 (and / or the one or more ECUs 92) may restrict propulsion of the vehicle 56 by restricting a throttle response. For example, the speed control device 20 may provide a modified a CAN control message to the ECM 56 that represents a throttle limiting request. Instead of limiting engine torque directly, the CAN control message may limit how quickly the throttle responds to inputs from the driver 22. The payload of the CAN control message may include a set of bytes that are indicative of throttle limiting request values. For example, one or more bytes may be reserved for a value (e.g., 0x50) indicative of a target throttle position (e.g., 80%), one or more bytes may be reserved for a value (e.g., 0x10) indicative of a throttle slew rate or damping factor (e.g., causing a slow ramp-up), and one or more bytes may be reserved for a value (e.g., 0x02) indicative of a response curve mode corresponding to a slow mapping. The ECM 56 may compare the throttle override or modulation profile and apply a throttle limit or response delay or may map input pedal signals to reduced or smoothed throttle angles.

[0072] In some embodiments, the ECM 56 (and / or the one or more ECUs 92) may restrict propulsion of the vehicle 56 by restricting acceleration. For example, the speed control device 20 may provide a modified CAN control message to the ECM 56 that represents an acceleration limiting request. This controls how quickly the vehicle 26 can increase speed, such as by limiting torque rise rate or gear response. The payload of the CAN control message may include a set of bytes that are indicative of acceleration limiting request values. For example, one ormore bytes may be reserved for a value (e.g., OxOA) indicative of a maximum acceleration rate (e.g., 1.0 m / s squared), one or more bytes may be reserved for a value (e.g., 0x012C) indicative of an acceleration ramp duration (e.g., five seconds), and one or more bytes reserved for a value (e.g., 0x01) indicative of a control flag (e.g., enable flag, priority code, etc.). The ECM 56 may limit how fast torque or throttle increases over time, may delay downshifts to avoid high engine output, and / or may integrate with traction or powertrain control modules to soften launch. This slows how fast the vehicle 26 speeds up, even if torque and throttle limits remain unchanged.

[0073] Notably, example byte values described above are provided by way of example. As would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the ail, any number of different configurations of byte values may be implemented. To provide a specific example, two bytes may be reserved for values indicative of the acceleration ramp duration, where the first byte may be reserved for a value (e.g., 0x2C) corresponding to a first eight bits indicative of an acceleration ramp duration (e.g., 30 seconds), while a second byte may be reserved for a value (e.g., 0x01) corresponding to a second eight bits indicative of the acceleration ramp duration (e.g., 30 seconds).

[0074] In some embodiments, the speed control device 20 may modify a LIN control message. The LIN control message has a data frame that includes a LIN identifier, a data length code (DLC), a pay load, and a cyclical redundancy check (CRC) / end of frame (EOF). The LIN identifier may be a unique ID that instructs the ECM 56 or other ECU 92 how to interpret the LIN control message. The DLC specifies how many bytes are in the message. The payload may include values that influence (e.g., restrict relative to an unmodified LIN control message) the propulsion of the vehicle 26. Values included in the payload of the LIN control message may correspond to the example values described in connection with the CAN control message (e.g.,value relating to restricting engine torque output, throttle, and / or acceleration). The CRC + EOF includes error-checking bits handled by the protocol.

[0075] To provide LIN control messages to the ECM 56 (and / or to one or more other ECUs 92), the speed control device 20 may include a LIN transceiver 90. The LIN transceiver 90 may include a chip or device adapted to translate digital logic from the processor 48 into analog voltage capable of being transmitted over a LIN bus 98. The speed control device 20 may modify a LIN control message and transmit a modified LIN control message over the LIN bus 100 to the ECM 56 (and / or to another ECU 92).

[0076] The LIN bus 100 is a single- wire, parent-child communication network serving as a low-speed, distributed signaling circuit. The speed control device 20 may serve as a LIN parent node, and one or more engine or subsystem control units (e.g., other ECUs 92) may function as LIN child nodes. Each node is electrically connected to a shared communication line that includes a single signal wire and a common ground reference. In the example shown in Fig. 3B, the LIN bus 100 is an interface (e.g., the single signal wire) that extends from a connector 96 of the speed control device 20 to each of the child nodes.

[0077] Some embodiments described herein involve the use of the IID 14 to lock an ignition of the vehicle 26 until the driver 22 has passed the chemical impairment test. In other embodiments, such as those shown in Fig. 4, the vehicle 26 may have acceleration restricted or blocked, until the driver 22 has passed the chemical impairment test. Specifically, Fig. 4 is a flow chart of an example process 102 for restricting the propulsion of the vehicle 26 until the driver 22 has passed the chemical impairment test. As shown by reference number 104, the process 102 includes determining whether the handset 12 is connected to the vehicle 26. Forexample, after vehicle 26 has been turned on, the speed control device (e.g., speed control device 18 or speed control device 20) may determine whether the handset 12 is connected to the vehicle 26.

[0078] If the speed control device determines that the handset 12 is not connected to the vehicle 26, then no further action is taken. If the speed control device determines that the handset 12 is connected to the vehicle 26, then, as shown by reference number 106, process 102 includes restricting propulsion of the vehicle 26 until a chemical impairment test has been passed. For example, the speed control device may restrict propulsion by restricting acceleration to a configured acceleration level that is indicative of a low acceleration or no acceleration. In other embodiments, the speed control device may restrict operation of the vehicle 26 to an idle state by implementing a gear lock to prevent the driver 22 from changing gears (e.g., from a parked gear to a drive gear). The restriction may be imposed until the driver 22 passes the chemical impairment test.

[0079] As shown by reference number 108, process 102 includes obtaining chemical impairment test results. For example, the driver 22 may interact with the handset 12 to take a chemical impairment test. The handset 12 may collect the breath sample and may determine whether the driver 22 passed the chemical impairment test. In this case, the handset 12 may provide data indicative of the chemical impairment test results to the speed control device.

[0080] As shown by reference number 110, process 102 may include determining whether to remove the restriction on vehicle propulsion based on the chemical impairment test results. For example, the speed control device may process the chemical impairment test results and may, based on the chemical impairment test results, determine whether to remove the restriction onvehicle propulsion.

[0081] For example, if the speed control device determines that the driver 22 has passed the chemical impairment test results, the speed control device may determine to remove the restriction on vehicle propulsion. Additionally, or alternatively, if the speed control device determines that the driver 22 has passed the chemical impairment test results, the speed control device may determine to allow any speed desired by the driver. In some embodiments, if the speed control device determines that the driver 22 has passed the chemical impairment test results, the speed control device may determine to remove the initial acceleration restriction but may restrict propulsion of the vehicle 26 by setting a configurable maximum speed. The configurable maximum speed may, for example, be an administrator-determined speed or a posted speed of any roads driven on by the vehicle 26.

[0082] If the speed control device determines that the driver has failed the chemical impairment test, the speed control device may determine to maintain the restriction on vehicle propulsion. In some embodiments, the processing performed by the speed control device may be performed by the handset 12. In this case, the handset 12 may provide the speed control device 18 with instructions indicating whether to remove the restriction on vehicle operation.

[0083] As shown by reference number 112, process 102 includes performing one or more actions based on determining whether to remove the restriction on vehicle propulsion. For example, if the driver 22 passes the chemical impairment test, the speed control device may remove the restriction on vehicle propulsion, such that the vehicle 26 operates in a normal manner. To remove the restriction, the speed control device may remove the gear lock to permit the driver 22 to change the gear from a parked gear to a drive gear. Specifically, the speedcontrol device may communicate with the IID 14 to request to remove the gear lock, thereby causing the IID 14 to remove the gear lock.

[0084] If the driver 22 fails the chemical impairment test, the speed control device may continue to restrict the propulsion of the vehicle 26. Additionally, or alternatively, if the driver 22 fails the chemical impairment test, the handset 12 may prompt the driver to re-take the chemical impairment test. Additionally, or alternatively, if the driver 22 fails the chemical impairment test, a device of the CIDPC system 10 (e.g., the handset 12, the speed control device, etc.), or a component of the vehicle 26 (e.g., the vehicle ECM 56, etc.), may report the failed test to a device associated with an interested third party, such as law enforcement, a family member, a judge, and / or the like.

[0085] By allowing the driver 22 to start the engine while restricting vehicle motion, the CIDPC system 10 preserves driver safety while still allowing the driver 22 to stall the vehicle 26 for non-driving purposes. For example, allowing the driver 22 to start the engine permits the driver 22 to heat up the vehicle 26 during periods of cold weather, while preserving driver safety by restricting propulsion of the vehicle 26 until the chemical impairment test has been passed. Furthermore, this solution caters to all types of vehicles, including those with remote start features, push starts, hybrid and electric vehicles, and / or the like.

[0086] Fig. 5 is a flow chart of an example process 114 for restricting propulsion of the vehicle 26 while the driver 22 is operating the vehicle 26. As shown by reference number 116, process 114 includes configuring, in the vehicle 26, the CIDPC system 10 that includes the chemical impairment testing device 12 and the speed control device (e.g., speed control device 18 or speed control device 20). The chemical impairment testing device 12 may be a handhelddevice (referred to hereafter as handset 12).

[0087] As shown by reference number 118, process 114 includes prompting a driver of the vehicle to perform a chemical impairment test with the handset 12 while the driver 22 is operating the vehicle 26. In some embodiments, the handset 12 may prompt the driver 22 to perform the chemical impairment test while the vehicle 26 is in motion. In some embodiments, the handset 12 may periodically prompt the driver to perform a chemical impairment test after a configurable time period. The configurable time period may be a fixed time period or a randomized time interval. Once prompted, the driver 22 may use the handset 12 to take the chemical impairment test.

[0088] In some embodiments, the CIDPC system 10 may require safe driving conditions before the driver 22 is prompted to take the chemical impairment test. For example, the speed control device may determine whether the vehicle 26 is in a rest position If the vehicle 26 is in a rest position, the speed control device may instruct the handset 12 to prompt the driver 22 to take the chemical impairment test. In some embodiments, the handset 12 may cause verbal instructions to be provided through a speaker of the vehicle 26 to instruct the driver 22 to stop the vehicle 26 before taking the chemical impairment test. Additionally, or alternatively, the instructions may be provided for display on a user interface of the handset 12 and / or a dashboard of the vehicle 26. In these embodiments, the handset 12 may be configured to refrain from processing breath samples until the vehicle 26 is in a stop position.

[0089] In some embodiments, the speed control device may permit the driver 22 to take the chemical impairment test based on determining that the vehicle 26 is in one of a set of configured locations that are marked as safe. The speed control device may have access to GPSdata indicating a position of the vehicle 26 and / or map data indicating a route the vehicle 26 is taking to a destination. The speed control device may then determine whether the vehicle 26 is in a safe location or may identify one or more safe locations along (or near) the route taken by the vehicle 26. For example, the speed control device may be configured with data identifying a set of safe locations marked as safe places to perform the chemical impairment test, such as locations that have a stop sign, traffic light, nearby parking lots, and / or the like. The speed control device may then use the position of the vehicle 26 to determine that the location of the vehicle 26 is a safe location, or, alternatively, may identify a recommended safe location along (or near) the route taken by the vehicle 26. The speed control device is able to make this determination because the map data includes marker data identifying specific landmarks or locations such as stop signs, traffic lights, parking lots, etc., along (or in a vicinity of) the route of the vehicle 26. If the vehicle 26 is not in a safe location, but a safe location is identified along (or near) the route of the vehicle 26, the speed control device 26 may communicate with the handset 12, or a dashboard of the vehicle 26, to cause a display screen or voice to notify the driver 22 of the identified safe location. In some embodiments, the speed control device may communicate with the GPS system of the vehicle 26 to cause the route of the vehicle 26 to be updated to include the identified safe location as an intermediary stop along the route.

[0090] In some embodiments, the handset 12 may prompt the driver to take the chemical impairment test based on one or more other trigger conditions being satisfied. For example, the handset 12 may prompt the driver to take the chemical impairment test based on the speed control device determining that movement of the vehicle 26 is erratic movement. In this case, a relative position of the vehicle 26 may be monitored over time and the speed control device may determine whether movement of the vehicle 26 is an erratic movement. The speed controldevice may determine that movement is erratic if, for example, a sudden movement is made by the vehicle 26, if the vehicle 26 swerves by a threshold amount, and / or the like. Erratic movement may cause the speed control device to instruct the handset 12 to beep or notify the driver 22 that a new breath sample is required. Additionally, or alternatively, the speed control device may instruct the handset 12 to require a new breath sample if a speed of the vehicle 22 exceeds a speed posted by a speed limit on a road on which the vehicle 26 travels.

[0091] In some embodiments, the CIDPC system 10 may determine that the driver 22 has not provided a breath sample within a configured time period. For example, the handset 12 may prompt the driver 22 to provide a breath sample within a configured time period. If the driver 22 does not provide the breath sample within the configured time period, the handset 12 may provide, to the speed control device, data indicating that the driver has not provided the breath sample within the required time period. This may cause the speed control device to restrict propulsion of the vehicle 26 in a manner described according to the principles of the present disclosure.

[0092] As shown by reference number 120, process 114 includes restricting propulsion of the vehicle 26 in response to results of the chemical impairment test or in response to not receiving the results of the chemical impairment test. For example, the speed control device may restrict propulsion of the vehicle 26 in response to results of the chemical impairment test or in response to not receiving the results of the chemical impairment test. The chemical impairment test may, for example, be a breathalyzer test that determines whether the driver 22 has a blood alcohol content (BAC) level that is above the legally imposed limit.

[0093] In some situations, the driver 22 may pass the chemical impairment test. In someembodiments, even though the driver 22 passed the chemical impairment test, the speed control device may restrict propulsion of the vehicle 26. For example, the speed control device may restrict the propulsion of the vehicle 26 by setting a configurable maximum speed. The configurable maximum speed may, for example, be an administrator-determined speed or a speed of a road on which the vehicle 26 is traveling. In other embodiments, passing the chemical impairment test may cause the speed control device to refrain from restricting the propulsion of the vehicle 26.

[0094] In other situations, the driver 22 may fail the chemical impairment test. In this situation, the driver 22 may have a BAC level that is above the legally enforced limit. This may cause the speed control device to restrict the propulsion of the vehicle 26.

[0095] In other situations, the driver 22 may not perform the chemical impairment test within the designated time period. In this situation, the speed control device may restrict the propulsion of the vehicle 26. The embodiments below describe example ways in which the propulsion of the vehicle 26 is restricted.

[0096] In some embodiments, the speed control device 18 may restrict propulsion of the vehicle 26 using acceleration restriction module 52. For example, the speed control device 18 may intercept one or more electrical signals received from the accelerator pedal 54. The speed control device 18 may then modify (e.g., modulate) the one or more electrical signals such that the modulated electrical signals are indicative of a reduced acceleration or speed of the vehicle 26. Next, the speed control device 18 may provide, to ECM 56, the one or more modulated electrical signals to cause the ECM 56 to restrict the propulsion of the vehicle. The manner in which ECM 56 uses the one or more modulated electrical signals to restrict propulsion isdescribed in connection with Fig. 3A.

[0097] In some embodiments, the speed control device 18 may intercept the one or more electrical signals received from the accelerator pedal 54 based on the driver 22 failing, or failing to perform, the chemical impairment test. In other embodiments, the speed control device 18 may always intercept the one or more electrical signals received from the accelerator pedal 54 but may only modulate these signals in response to the driver 22 failing, or failing to perform, the chemical impairment test.

[0098] In some embodiments, before modulating the one or more electrical signals received from the accelerator pedal 54, the speed control device 18 may use an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) to convert the one or more electrical signals to one or more digital signal values. Next, the speed control device 18 may determine a manner in which to restrict the propulsion of the vehicle by analyzing the one or more electrical signal values using a set of propulsion restriction rules (e.g., a speed check, an acceleration check, etc.). For example, assume the driver 22 fails the chemical impairment test or fails to take the chemical impairment test within the designated time period. In this case, the speed control device 18 may determine whether a current speed of the vehicle 26 is greater than a configured maximum permissible speed. If the current speed is greater than the configured maximum permissible speed, the speed control device 18 may prevent the ECM 56 from receiving the one or more accelerator signals or the control message. If the current speed is less than the configured maximum permissible speed, the speed control device 18 may refrain from restricting vehicle speed.

[0099] Continuing with the example, assume the driver 22 presses on the accelerator pedal 54, creating an acceleration request. In this case, the speed control device 18 may determinewhether the requested acceleration is greater than a maximum permissible acceleration. If the requested acceleration is greater than the maximum permissible acceleration, the speed control device 18 may modify the one or more accelerator signals (e.g., by modulating said signals to a value indicative of a reduced acceleration) and may provide one or more modified accelerator signals to the ECM 56. An accelerator pedal signal may be modified by modulating the signal such that the modulated signal is indicative of a reduced acceleration (e.g., an acceleration level that is less than an acceleration level provided in the acceleration request provided by the driver 22).

[0100] In some embodiments, the speed control device 18 may restrict propulsion by reducing a frequency at which electrical signals or modulated electrical signals are provided to the ECM 56. To prevent further acceleration of the vehicle 56, the speed control device 18 may refrain from providing electrical signals to the ECM 56.

[0101] In some embodiments, the speed control device 20 may restrict the propulsion of the vehicle 26 using the propulsion restriction module 86, the CAN transceiver 88, and / or the CAN bus 98. For example, assume the driver 22 fails the chemical impairment test or fails to take the chemical impairment test within the designated time period. In this case, the speed control device 20 may intercept and modify a CAN control message. The payload of the modified CAN control message may include one or more values that influence (e.g., restrict) the propulsion of the vehicle 26. Next, the speed control device 20 may use the CAN transceiver 88 to convert the modified CAN control message to one or more analog electrical signals capable of being transmitted over the CAN bus 98. Next, the speed control device 20 may use the CAN transceiver 88 to provide the one or more analog electrical signals to the ECM 56. This willcause the ECM 56 to use the one or more analog electrical signals to restrict at least one of: engine torque output, throttle response, or acceleration, in a manner consistent with that described in connection with Fig. 3B.

[0102] In some embodiments, the speed control device 20 may restrict the propulsion of the vehicle 26 using the propulsion restriction module 86, the LIN transceiver 90, and the LIN bus 100. For example, assume the driver 22 fails the chemical impairment test or fails to take the chemical impairment test within the designated time period. In this case, the speed control device 20 may intercept and modify a LIN control message. The payload of the modified LIN control message may include one or more values that influence (e.g., restrict) the propulsion of the vehicle 26. Next, the speed control device 20 may use the LIN transceiver 90 to convert the modified LIN control message to one or more analog electrical signals capable of being transmitted over the LIN bus 100. Next, the speed control device 20 may use the LIN transceiver 90 to provide the one or more analog electrical signals to the ECM 56. This will cause the ECM 56 to use the one or more analog electrical signals to restrict at least one of: engine torque output, throttle response, or acceleration, in a manner consistent with that described in connection with Fig. 3B.

[0103] In some embodiments, the speed control device (e.g., the speed control device 18 or the speed control device 20) may restrict the propulsion of the vehicle 26 by reducing a speed or acceleration of the vehicle 22 gradually over time. For example, assume the driver 22 fails the chemical impairment test or fails to take the chemical impairment test within the designated time period. In this case, the speed control device may reduce a configured maximum permissible speed of the vehicle 26. This prevents the driver 22 from exceeding the configured maximumpermissible speed. As the driver 22 continues to operate the vehicle 26, the driver 22 may be prompted to take an additional chemical impairment test. If the driver fails the additional chemical impairment test, or fails to take the additional chemical impairment test, the speed control device may further reduce the configured maximum permissible speed of the vehicle 26. In this way, the speed of the vehicle 26 can be incrementally decreased over time until the driver 22 passes a chemical impairment test.

[0104] In some embodiments, the speed control device (e.g., the speed control device 18 or the speed control device 20) may restrict the propulsion of the vehicle 26 by reducing a configured maximum permissible speed of the vehicle 26 to a speed corresponding to a speed limit of a road on which the vehicle 26 travels. In one embodiment, one or more sensors of the vehicle 26 may capture image data of an area in front of the vehicle 26. The speed control device may process the image data to identify a speed limit as indicated on a road sign. Next, the speed control device may set the maximum permissible speed of the vehicle 26 to the speed corresponding to the speed limit as indicated by the road sign. In another embodiment, the speed control device may obtain the speed limit of the road on which the vehicle 26 is traveling from a GPS of the vehicle 26. This allows the speed control device to set the maximum permissible speed of the vehicle 26 to a speed corresponding to the speed limit of the road on which the vehicle 26 is traveling. If a current speed exceeds the maximum permissible speed, the speed control device may prevent the ECM 56 from receiving one or more accelerator signals (or a control message) at least until the current speed is less than the maximum permissible speed.

[0105] In some embodiments, the speed control device (e.g., the speed control device 18 or the speed control device 20) may restrict the propulsion of the vehicle 26 by setting a configuredmaximum permissible speed of the vehicle 26 to a configured fixed speed (e.g. 25 miles per hour (MPH), 35 MPH, etc.). If a current speed exceeds the configured fixed speed, the speed control device may prevent the ECM 56 from receiving one or more accelerator signals (or a control message) at least until the current speed is less than the maximum permissible speed.

[0106] In some embodiments, the speed control device (e.g., the speed control device 18 or the speed control device 20) may restrict the propulsion of the vehicle 26 by preventing the vehicle 26 from increasing vehicle speed after slowing down. For example, if the vehicle is traveling 50 MPH at a first time the speed control device may restrict the propulsion of the vehicle 26 such that the vehicle 26 cannot accelerate to reach a speed above 50 MPH. Now assume the vehicle 26 slows down to 45 MPH at a second time. In this case, the speed control device may restrict the propulsion of the vehicle 26 such that the vehicle 26 cannot accelerate to reach a speed above 45 MPH.

[0107] In some embodiments, the speed control device may determine to restrict propulsion of the vehicle 26 based on not receiving results of the chemical impairment test within a configured time period. In this case, the speed control device 18 may restrict the propulsion of the vehicle 26 in a manner consistent with one or more of the embodiments described above.

[0108] In some embodiments, the CIDPC system 10 may perform one or more actions based on restricting the propulsion of the vehicle 26. For example, the vehicle control device (or another device on board the vehicle 26) may provide data indicating that the driver 22 has failed the chemical impairment test to a device associated with an interested third party, such as law enforcement, a family member, a judge, and / or the like. Additionally, or alternatively, the vehicle control device (or another device on board the vehicle 26) may provide an alert to one ormore nearby vehicles that the driver 22 has failed the chemical impairment test. The alert may be a digitally transmitted message or a physical action such as flashing headlights of the vehicle 26, honking the horn of the vehicle 26, and / or the like. This alerts nearby drivers or individuals that the driver 22 has failed the chemical impairment test.

[0109] In this way, the CIDPC system 10 (e.g., using the handset 12 and the speed control device) improves driver safety by restricting a propulsion of the vehicle 26 when the driver 22 fails the chemical impairment test, when erratic driving is detected, etc. This improves driver safety by reducing the amount of time during which the driver 22 is able to operate the vehicle 26 while intoxicated.

[0110] As used herein, the terms “component” and “module” are intended to be broadly construed as hardware, firmware, or a combination of hardware and software.

[0111] Some embodiments are described herein in connection with thresholds. As used herein, satisfying a threshold may, depending on the context, refer to a value being greater than the threshold, more than the threshold, higher than the threshold, greater than or equal to the threshold, less than the threshold, fewer than the threshold, lower than the threshold, less than or equal to the threshold, equal to the threshold, etc., depending on the context.

[0112] While the present invention has been illustrated by a description of various embodiments and while these embodiments have been described in considerable detail, it is not the intention of the applicants to restrict or in any way limit the scope of the appended claims to such detail. Additional advantages and modifications will readily appear to those skilled in the art. The invention in its broader aspects is therefore not limited to the specific details,representative apparatus and method, and illustrative example shown and described.Accordingly, departures may be made from such details without departing from the spirit or scope of applicant's general inventive concept.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A method for controlling operation of a vehicle using a chemical impairment test, comprising: configuring, in the vehicle, a chemical impairment detection and propulsion control (CIDPC) system that includes a chemical impairment testing device and a speed control device, the chemical impairment testing device being a handheld device; prompting, using the chemical impairment testing device, a driver that is operating the vehicle to take the chemical impairment test; and in response to results of the chemical impairment test or in response to not receiving the results of the chemical impairment test, restricting the propulsion of the vehicle by: intercepting, by the speed control device, one or more accelerator signals or a control message capable of causing propulsion of the vehicle, and modifying, by the speed control device, the one or more accelerator signals or the control message and providing one or more modified accelerator signals or a modified control message to an engine control module (ECM) of the vehicle, or preventing, by the speed control device, the ECM from receiving the one or more accelerator signals or the control message.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein prompting the driver to take the chemical impairment test comprises: prompting the driver to take the chemical impairment test based on a trigger condition being satisfied, the trigger condition including at least one of: a configured time period expiring, a current speed of the vehicle exceeding a speed corresponding to a speed limit of a road on which the vehicle travels, a movement of the vehicle is determined to be an erratic movement, or a speed of the vehicle is determined to be a dangerous speed.

3. The method of claim 1, further comprising: restricting the propulsion of the vehicle when the vehicle is turned on by restrictingacceleration to a configured acceleration or maximum speed level that is indicative of a low acceleration or low maximum speed; performing an initial chemical impairment test after the driver has turned on the vehicle; and removing the restriction based on the driver passing the initial chemical impairment test.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein the driver fails to provide a chemical sample or provides a chemical sample where the chemical sample exceeds a configured acceptable chemical sample level, and wherein restricting the propulsion of the vehicle comprises: determining that a current speed of the vehicle is greater than a configured maximum permissible speed, and preventing the ECM from receiving the one or more accelerator signals or the control message.5 The method of claim 1, wherein the driver fails to provide a chemical sample or provides a chemical sample where the chemical sample exceeds a configured acceptable chemical sample level, wherein the one or more accelerator signals are intercepted from an accelerator pedal and are indicative of a requested acceleration provided by the driver, and wherein restricting the propulsion of the vehicle comprises: determining that the requested acceleration is greater than a maximum permissible acceleration, and modifying the one or more accelerator signals or the control message such that the one or more modified accelerator signals or the modified control message is received by the ECM of the vehicle.

6. The method of claim 1, wherein the control message is a controller area network (CAN) control message, and wherein restricting the propulsion of the vehicle comprises: intercepting the CAN control message, and modifying one or more values of the CAN control message that influence the propulsion of the vehicle such that a modified CAN control message is received by the ECM of the vehicle, wherein the ECM is adapted to use the modified CAN control message to restrict at least one of:engine torque output, throttle response, or acceleration.

7. The method of claim 1, wherein the control message is a LIN control message, and wherein restricting the propulsion of the vehicle comprises: intercepting the LIN control message, and modifying one or more values of the LIN control message that influence the propulsion of the vehicle such that a modified LIN control message is received by the ECM of the vehicle, wherein the ECM is adapted to use the LIN control message to restrict at least one: engine torque output, throttle response, or acceleration.

8. The method of claim 1, wherein the driver fails to provide a chemical sample or provides a chemical sample where the chemical sample exceeds a configured acceptable chemical sample level, wherein restricting the propulsion of the vehicle comprises: reducing a configured maximum permissible speed of the vehicle, wherein over time, the driver is prompted to take one or more subsequent chemical impairment tests, and wherein the configured maximum permissible speed is reduced each time the driver fails to provide the chemical sample or each time the driver provides the chemical sample where the chemical sample exceeds the configured acceptable chemical sample level.

9. The method of claim 1, wherein the driver fails to provide a chemical sample or provides a chemical sample where the chemical sample exceeds a configured acceptable chemical sample level, and wherein restricting the propulsion of the vehicle comprises: determining a speed limit of a road on which the vehicle is traveling; and determining that a current speed of the vehicle is greater than the speed limit of the road on which the vehicle is traveling, and preventing the ECM from receiving the one or more accelerator signals or the control message at least until the current speed of the vehicle is less than the speed limit.

10. The method of claim 1, wherein the driver fails to provide a chemical sample or provides a chemical sample where the chemical sample exceeds a configured acceptable chemical samplelevel, and wherein restricting the propulsion of the vehicle comprises: setting a current speed of the vehicle to a maximum permissible speed, and restricting the propulsion of the vehicle such that each time the vehicle slows down the maximum permissible speed of the vehicle is decreased.

11. A speed control device for a vehicle comprising: one or more memories; and one or more processors, operatively coupled to the one or more memories, the one or more memories storing instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to: receive, from a chemical impairment testing device, results of a chemical impairment test taken while a driver is operating the vehicle or data indicative of the results not being provided within a configured time period; and restrict propulsion of the vehicle, wherein the one or more processors, when restricting the propulsion, are to: intercept one or more accelerator signals or a control message capable of causing the propulsion of the vehicle, and modify the one or more accelerator signals or the control message and provide one or more modified accelerator signals or a modified control message to an engine control module (ECM) of the vehicle, or prevent the ECM from receiving the one or more accelerator signals or the control message.

12. The speed control device of claim 11, wherein the driver fails to provide a chemical sample or provides a chemical sample where the chemical sample exceeds a configured acceptable chemical sample level, and wherein the one or more processors, when restricting the propulsion of the vehicle, are to: determine that a current speed of the vehicle is greater than a configured maximum permissible speed, and prevent the ECM from receiving the one or more accelerator signals or the controlmessage.

13. The speed control device of claim 11, wherein the driver fails to provide a chemical sample or provides a chemical sample where the chemical sample exceeds a configured acceptable chemical sample level, wherein the one or more accelerator signals are intercepted from an accelerator pedal and are indicative of a requested acceleration provided by the driver, and wherein the one or more processors, when restricting the propulsion of the vehicle, are to: determine that the requested acceleration is greater than a maximum permissible acceleration, and modify the one or more accelerator signals or the control message such that the one or more modified accelerator signals or the modified control message is received by the ECM of the vehicle.

14. The speed control device of claim 11, wherein the control message is a CAN control message, and wherein the one or more processors, when restricting the propulsion of the vehicle, are to: intercept the CAN control message, and modify one or more values of the CAN control message that influence the propulsion of the vehicle such that a modified CAN control message is received by the ECM of the vehicle.

15. The speed control device of claim 11, wherein the driver fails to provide a chemical sample or provides a chemical sample where the chemical sample exceeds a configured acceptable chemical sample level, and wherein the one or more processors, when restricting the propulsion of the vehicle, are to: reduce a configured maximum permissible speed of the vehicle, wherein over time, the driver is prompted to take one or more subsequent chemical impairment tests, and wherein the configured maximum permissible speed is reduced each time the driver fails to provide the chemical sample or each time the driver provides the chemical sample where the chemical sample exceeds the configured acceptable chemical sample level.

16. The speed control device of claim 11, wherein the driver provides a chemical samplewhere the chemical sample does not exceed a configured acceptable chemical sample level, and wherein the one or more processors, when restricting the propulsion of the vehicle, are to: restrict the propulsion of the vehicle by setting a maximum permissible speed at which the vehicle is permitted to travel, the maximum permissible speed being a speed corresponding to a speed limit of a road on which the vehicle is traveling.

17. The speed control device of claim 11, wherein the one or more processors, prior to receiving the results of the chemical impairment test, are further to: determine that a movement of the vehicle is an erratic movement; and provide, to the chemical impairment testing device, instructions indicating to administer the chemical impairment test.

18. A system for a vehicle comprising: a chemical impairment testing device configured to prompt a driver to take a chemical impairment test while the driver is operating the vehicle; and a speed control device communicatively coupled to the chemical impairment testing device, the speed control device including one or more memories and one or more processors, operatively coupled to the one or more memories, the one or more memories storing instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to: receive results of the chemical impairment test from the chemical impairment testing device or receive data indicating that the results have not been provided within a configured time period; and restrict propulsion of the vehicle, wherein the one or more processors, when restricting the propulsion of the vehicle, are to: intercept one or more accelerator signals or a control message capable of causing the propulsion of the vehicle, and modify the one or more accelerator signals or the control message and provide one or more modified accelerator signals or a modified control message to an engine control module (ECM) of the vehicle, or prevent the ECM from receiving the one or more accelerator signals or the control message.

19. The system of claim 18, wherein the driver fails to provide a chemical sample or provides a chemical sample where the chemical sample exceeds a configured acceptable chemical sample level, and wherein the one or more processors, when restricting the propulsion of the vehicle, are to: determine that a current speed of the vehicle is greater than a configured maximum permissible speed, and prevent the ECM from receiving the one or more accelerator signals or the control message.

20. The system of claim 18, wherein the driver fails to provide a chemical sample or provides a chemical sample where the chemical sample exceeds a configured acceptable chemical sample level, and wherein the one or more processors, when restricting the propulsion of the vehicle, are to: determine that the requested acceleration is greater than a maximum permissible acceleration, and modify the one or more accelerator signals or the control message such that the one or more modified accelerator signals or the modified control message is received by the ECM of the vehicle.

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