Breath analyzer for use in automobile ignition locking systems
US5426415A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 21, 1993 |
| Grant date | Jun 20, 1995 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 21, 2013 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01N33/4972
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An improved breath analyzing apparatus for use in an automobile ignition locking system. A breath sample tube receives a breath sample from a user. The breath sample tube is divided into a high pressure section and a low pressure section by an air flow restrictor. A pressure sensor is connected to the high pressure section to determine when a user is blowing into the breath analyzing apparatus. A temperature sensor measures the temperature of the breath sample to insure that it is the same temperature as human breath. A micropump propels a specified volume of the breath sample into a fuel cell which is used to determine the alcohol content. Control means converts the output of the fuel cell into a reading which represents the breath alcohol content of the breath sample. Heating elements warm the fuel cell when the ambient temperature drops below a specified level. The output of the fuel cell is adjusted based on the time it takes the fuel cell to reach its maximum output. A housing holds all the major components of the breath analyzing apparatus and contains a tamper switch therein which detects when the case is opened. A display on the housing shows the alcohol content of the brea…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.