Solid-State Breath Alcohol Vehicle Interlock System

Most modern breath alcohol analyzers are based on wet chemical colorimetry techniques. This paper describes work based on solid-state sensor technology, which accepts alveolar breath samples only. A device that prevents legally intoxicated persons from interlocking the ignition system and operating a motor vehicle when a breath alcohol level exceeds the preset level is described. The device automatically analyzes the candidate operator's breath without requiring him to perform any operation other than normal breathing.