US20180011068A1 - Interlock data collection and calibration system - Google Patents
Interlock data collection and calibration system Download PDFInfo
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- US20180011068A1 US20180011068A1 US15/713,512 US201715713512A US2018011068A1 US 20180011068 A1 US20180011068 A1 US 20180011068A1 US 201715713512 A US201715713512 A US 201715713512A US 2018011068 A1 US2018011068 A1 US 2018011068A1
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- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01N—INVESTIGATING OR ANALYSING MATERIALS BY DETERMINING THEIR CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
- G01N33/00—Investigating or analysing materials by specific methods not covered by groups G01N1/00 - G01N31/00
- G01N33/0004—Gaseous mixtures, e.g. polluted air
- G01N33/0006—Calibrating gas analysers
- G01N33/0008—Details concerning storage of calibration data, e.g. in EEPROM
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- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01F—MEASURING VOLUME, VOLUME FLOW, MASS FLOW OR LIQUID LEVEL; METERING BY VOLUME
- G01F1/00—Measuring the volume flow or mass flow of fluid or fluent solid material wherein the fluid passes through a meter in a continuous flow
- G01F1/05—Measuring the volume flow or mass flow of fluid or fluent solid material wherein the fluid passes through a meter in a continuous flow by using mechanical effects
- G01F1/10—Measuring the volume flow or mass flow of fluid or fluent solid material wherein the fluid passes through a meter in a continuous flow by using mechanical effects using rotating vanes with axial admission
- G01F1/12—Adjusting, correcting, or compensating means therefor
Definitions
- This invention relates generally to ignition interlock devices, and more particularly to a system for calibrating ignition interlock devices, and storing data related to the ignition interlock devices.
- BAC blood alcohol concentration
- IID breath alcohol ignition interlock devices
- IIDs typically include semiconductor sensors, commonly referred to as a Taguchi cell, and/or fuel cells to sense and quantify the amount of alcohol in a driver's breath. Most modern IIDs use an ethanol-specific fuel cell for a sensor. Examples of these sensors are shown in U.S. Pat. No. 4,487,055, U.S. Pat. No. 6,026,674, U.S. Pat. No. 6,167,746, and/or U.S. Pat. No. 7,204,335, which are hereby incorporated by reference.
- a fuel cell sensor is an electrochemical device in which alcohol undergoes a chemical oxidation reaction at a catalytic electrode surface (platinum) to generate an electric current. This current is then measured and converted to an alcohol equivalent reading.
- fuel cell technology is not as accurate or reliable as infrared spectroscopy technology used in evidentiary breathalyzers, they are less expensive and specifically tailored to quantify ethyl alcohol (drinking alcohol).
- manufacturers of IIDs are Smart Start Inc., LifeSafer Interlock, SOS, Ignition Interlock Systems, Intoxalock and Monitech. A list of federally-approved IID devices is maintained by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (“NHTSA”) in its NHTSA Conforming Products List.
- NHSA National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
- IID BAC readings on the alcohol content of gas present in the alveoli of the lungs by approximating, through the use of software algorithms, the alcohol content in the bloodstream. If the driver's BAC exceeds a preset limit, the vehicle's ignition is disabled and the vehicle is rendered inoperable. If the driver's BAC is below the preset limit, ignition is permitted and the vehicle may be started.
- Exemplary ignition interlock devices that utilize breath analyzers are described in, for example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,780,311, 3,824,537, 3,831,707, 4,592,443, and 4,697,666.
- the methods for detecting BAC and using ignition interlock systems to prevent automobiles and other machinery, from being operated by inebriated individuals are well known in the current art.
- the current invention does not rely on any particular ignition interlock device or method for testing BAC, but instead can be universally applied to any ignition interlock data retrieved from any ignition interlock device installed on any vehicle or equipment.
- the present invention teaches certain benefits in construction and use which give rise to the objectives described below.
- the present invention provides an interlock data collection and calibration system for use with an ignition interlock device.
- the system includes a device computer having a computer processor and a computer memory; a gas delivery system to provide a calibration reference to the ignition interlock device; a data port operably connected with the device computer for enabling sample data from the ignition interlock device to be transmitted to the device computer; a calibration program operably installed on the computer memory of the device computer for receiving the sample data, calibrating the ignition interlock device, and generating confirmation data that the ignition interlock device was calibrated; and a local database operably installed on the computer memory of the device computer for storing and encrypting the confirmation data.
- a primary objective of the present invention is to provide an integrated interlock data collection and calibration system having advantages not taught by the prior art.
- Another objective is to provide an interlock data collection and calibration system that is able to automatically calibrate an IID in a reliable manner.
- Another objective is to provide an interlock data collection and calibration system that is able to automatically gather, encrypt, and store data related to the calibration and use of the system for evidentiary purposes.
- a further objective is to provide an interlock data collection and calibration system that prevents use of the IID if the IID fails calibration, or otherwise requires maintenance or replacement.
- a further objective is to provide a calibration system that provides an accurate and manageable data delivery and reporting system for ignition interlock related data.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of an interlock data collection and calibration system
- FIG. 2 is a block diagram of the interlock data collection and calibration system of FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 3 is a flow diagram of a first part of the operation of the interlock data collection and calibration system of FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 4 is a flow diagram of a second part of the operation of the interlock data collection and calibration system.
- IDCCS interlock data collection and calibration system 10
- IID ignition interlock device 12
- the IDCCS 10 is used to calibrate the IID 12 , and to receive, upload to, and store data from the IID 12 in a local database 118 .
- the contents of the local database 118 may also be uploaded to a central database 138 , as discussed in greater detail below.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the IDCCS 10 .
- FIG. 2 is a block diagram of the IDCCS 10 of FIG. 1 .
- the IDCCS 10 includes a calibration unit 20 that is adapted to connected with the IID 12 for calibrating the IID 12 .
- the calibration unit 20 includes a calibration housing 30 and a device computer 110 . While the calibration housing 30 and the device computer 110 are illustrated as two separate units in this embodiment, they could also be integrated into a single unit, in an alternative embodiment, wherein operable components of the device computer 110 are incorporated into the calibration housing 30 .
- the calibration housing 30 is a generally rectangular housing that is built to contain and protect the various electronic components described below.
- the calibration housing 30 may include a top surface 32 , side walls 34 , and a rear chamber 36 that includes a cover 38 , attached with a hinge 40 and a latch element 42 (in this case, a lock), for covering the rear chamber 36 .
- the rear chamber 36 is shaped to contain one or more gas cylinders 44 . While one embodiment of the calibration housing 30 is illustrated, those skilled in the art may devise alternative structures, and such alternatives should be considered within the scope of the present invention.
- the gas cylinder 44 installed in the calibration housing 30 is for holding a prefilled gas for use in calibrating the calibration unit 20 .
- the gas contains a predetermined amount of alcohol, for the purposes of calibrating the IID 12 .
- the gas cylinder 44 is connected to a gas delivery system 70 that releases the gas through the gas delivery system 70 .
- the gas cylinder 44 in the present embodiment is shown contained within the calibration housing 30 , however in an alternate embodiment it may also be attached externally, or operably connected in some other manner. Also, it is possible for the calibration housing 30 to contain multiple gas cylinders 44 so that there is a spare gas cylinder 44 readily at hand. While the gas cylinder 44 is illustrated, in an alternate embodiment this may be replaced by a “wet media” or “wet bath” system.
- a container (not shown) contains water with ethanol or another alcohol solution dissolved at a known concentration within the water; and air is delivered at a specific flow rate through the solution to simulate the absorption of alcohol into the exhaled breath of a customer.
- the calibration housing 30 contains a motherboard 50 , a microcontroller 52 connected to the motherboard 50 , and a data port 54 also connected to the motherboard 50 .
- the motherboard 50 is used to seat the microcontroller 52 , and to also interconnected with the device computer 110 (or to seat the operably components thereof), as well as any integrated circuitry, computer chips, peripherals such as I/O ports and their associated devices, and any other components that may be desired.
- the motherboard 50 is also connected to the gas delivery system 70 , described in greater detail below.
- the microcontroller 52 controls the interaction between other components of the calibration housing 30 , such as a display screen 55 , an initiation button 56 , the gas delivery system 70 , and the data port 54 .
- the term “microcontroller” is hereby defined to include any form of processor and memory, integrated or apart, that can function to enable the operation of the IDCCS.
- the microcontroller 52 may also be connected to interface with an external device such as a personal computer, or any other device capable of interfacing with the calibration unit 20 , via any form of wired or wireless connection known in the art.
- the data port 54 is shaped and adapted for connecting the IDCCS 10 to the BD 12 to receive sample data for analysis.
- the data port 54 is operatively positioned on the calibration housing 30 for connection with a data plug 14 of the IID 12 , either directly or via an adaptor (not shown) that enables the data port 54 to accept sample data from a wider range of IID 12 output connections.
- Some examples of the data port 54 types are USB, DVI, VGA, coaxial, and other equivalent ports.
- the display screen 55 is used for communicating information to the user, such as device status, instructions, error codes, and/or other similar information.
- the display screen 55 is operatively mounted on the calibration housing 30 , in this embodiment on the top surface 32 , to allow the user to read the display screen 55 during use of the IDCCS 10 .
- the display screen 55 may be any form of display known in the art (e.g., liquid crystal display, digital, or their equivalents).
- the initiation button 56 which is used to initiate a manual calibration procedure or when so directed by the device computer 110 .
- the initiation button 56 is hereby defined to include any form of button, switch, turnkey, touchscreen, or similar/equivalent device or method of actuation known in the art.
- the initiation button 56 is a normally OFF button which when pressed initiates the calibration procedure and then returns to an OFF state.
- Other embodiments could include a button that remains in the ON state until the end of the calibration procedure or include intermediate states, such as a three-way switch if a stand-by or warm-up mode is desired.
- the IDCCS 10 may also include a barometer 90 for the monitoring of the ambient air pressure. This plays a key role as the local air pressure must be taken into account when generating a prescribed concentration of alcohol vapor for use in the calibration procedure and generating blood alcohol content equivalents for calibration of the IID, as discussed in greater detail below.
- the IDCCS 10 may also include a thermometer 92 for measuring the local temperature, as the temperature is also a factor in getting a proper reading of the IID 12 . Another reason for acquiring an accurate temperature during the calibration is that the reading of the IID 12 is temperature dependent and therefore the calibration of the IID 12 must take this into account.
- the gas delivery system 70 is for delivering a gas sample to the IID 12 from the gas cylinder 44 stored in the calibration housing 30 .
- the gas delivery system 70 may include, in the present embodiment, an inline pressure transducer 72 , a gas regulator 74 , gas control valves 76 , and check valves 78 .
- the operation of the gas delivery system 70 is controlled by the microcontroller 52 .
- the microcontroller 52 is given the command to open the gas control valve 76
- the gas control valve 76 opens and releases gas from the gas cylinder 44 , through the gas control valve 76 , the gas regulator 74 , the check valve 78 , to the IID 12 via a sample flow tube 100 .
- the inline pressure transducer 72 monitors the pressure in the gas cylinder 44 . A low reading of the inline pressure transducer 72 could indicate a leak, faulty installation of the gas cylinder 44 , or a depleted gas cylinder 44 .
- the inline pressure transducer 72 can consist of any analog or digital gauge capable of measuring the pressure in the gas cylinder 44 and transmitting the data to the device computer 110 for monitoring and analysis.
- Types of inline pressure transducers 72 that could be used include piezoresistive strain gauges, electromagnetic, or potentiometric.
- the gas regulator 74 is used to reduce the gas pressure within the gas cylinder 44 to a desired pressure for use in the calibration.
- the gas regulator 74 may be of any type that is compatible with a step-down pressure adjustment. Also the gas regulator 74 is compatible with the gas being used, alcohol being a flammable and reactive compound in sufficiently high concentrations.
- the gas control valve 76 is a valve for the control of a specified amount of gas from the gas cylinder 44 to the sample flow tube 100 or equivalent component.
- the gas control valve 76 is connected to the gas regulator 74 .
- the gas control valve 76 may be of any type capable of enabling the controlled release of gas from the gas cylinder 44 for the period of time specified by the user and/or dictated by the calibration procedure. Examples of gas control valves 76 suitable for such a purpose include, but are not limited to, solenoidal valves, mechanical valves, pneumatic valves, etc.
- the operation of the gas control valve 76 is controlled by the microcontroller 52 mounted on the motherboard 50 , which receives commands from the device computer 110 during the calibration procedure.
- the check valve 78 is used to prevent the backflow of air or other gasses into the gas delivery system 70 which may cause contamination. Any form of check valve 78 or equivalent may be included, including but not limited to ball check valves, diaphragm check valves, stop-check valves, lift-check valves, in-line check valves, or other similar devices known in the art.
- the sample flow tube 100 may be any form of nonreactive tube for directing the flow of gas from the gas cylinder 44 to the IID 12 .
- the sample flow tube 100 may include a connector 102 that enables a connection to a breath receiving port 16 of the IID 12 .
- An adaptor 102 may be provided that facilitates connecting the sample flow tube 100 to the IID 12 .
- the sample flow tube 100 may be, for example, a flexible plastic, rubber, nylon or metal hose, or any other suitable device known in the art.
- the device computer 110 may be any form of computer components for executing the calibration procedures described herein.
- the device computer 110 is a separate laptop computer (or, alternatively, a desktop computer, tablet computer, etc.).
- the microcontroller 52 described above might be used, with or without other processing components, memory chips, etc. Any equivalent construction known in the art may be utilized.
- the device computer 110 has a computer processor 112 and a computer memory 114 with a calibration program 116 installed on the computer memory 114 of the device computer 110 for receiving the sample data, calibrating the IID 12 , and generating confirmation data that the IID 12 was calibrated. Additionally, the calibration program 116 is capable of transmitting a calibration date and or other unique identifier to the IID 12 .
- the calibration program 116 transmits a new calibration date to the IID 12 only after the confirmation data has been generated following a successful calibration of the IID 12 .
- the device computer 110 also includes a local database 118 operably installed on the computer memory 114 of the device computer 110 for storing the confirmation data.
- the information stored on the local database 118 includes, but is not limited to, the customer's (person being monitored by the IID 12 ) name, IID 12 unit serial number (both handset and vehicle blocking system), vehicle information such as year, make, model, and vehicle identification number (“VIN”), and prior test results. This information is cross-referenced with existing data in the local database for verifying the identity of the customer.
- the device computer 110 is a laptop computer with a monitor 120 , and input devices 122 (such as a keyboard and/or touchpad) and interfaced with the calibration unit 20 to control the functions of the elements within the calibration housing 30 and manage the calibration procedure.
- input devices 122 such as a keyboard and/or touchpad
- the device computer 110 could be a tablet, desktop computer, mobile device, or other computer of equivalent function.
- the IDCCS 10 may also include a central computer 130 having a computer processor 132 and a computer memory 134 .
- the central computer 130 has a central program 136 and a central database 138 operably installed on the computer memory 134 of the central computer 130 .
- the central program 136 of the central computer 130 receives data from the local database 118 (or, in typical embodiments, a large number of such device computers).
- the data may be updated in real time, or periodically, and may be transmitted in any manner known in the art (e.g., via a direct connection, LAN, Ethernet, USB line, or over a network, where the connection may either be physical or wireless).
- the data is stored in the central database 138 , where it can then be compiled, analyzed, or otherwise used according to the needs of one skilled in the field.
- One of the primary function of the central program 136 is to analyze the data received from the calibration unit 20 to determine the state of a fuel cell or any sensor of the IID 12 . For example, a systematic drift in the data received could indicate a degradation of the fuel cell sensor that could lead to erroneous readings when used by a customer.
- the central database 138 serves a number of functions, including backup storage of data in addition to the data stored on the local databases 118 of all connected calibration units 20 , allowing cross-referencing of customer data with other data which may not be stored in the local database 118 , or allowing cross-referencing of calibration data between other calibration units 20 to perform a diagnostic function or general reliability testing.
- FIGS. 3 and 4 are flow diagrams of the operation of the system of FIG. 1 .
- the calibration procedure is initiated by starting the calibration program 116 , typically either by the user pressing the initiation button 56 on the calibration housing 30 or an automatic startup when the system is powered on.
- This begins the startup phase, where the IDCCS 10 communicates with the network via wireless, landline, 4G internet, etc., and receives daily updates, such as software updates, database updates or other procedures. Any database updates are stored on the local database 118 .
- the IDCCS 10 may send data to and receive data from the central computer 130 such as test results, prior calibration data, or other data regarding the systems usage or status.
- the next step in the calibration procedure is to read the gas cylinder 44 pressure via the inline pressure transducer 72 . If the gas cylinder 44 pressure is below a minimum pressure then the user is instructed to remove the low pressure gas cylinder 44 , scan the bar code of a replacement gas cylinder 44 which is then stored in the local database 118 and the central database 138 , and finally connect a full gas cylinder 44 .
- the gas cylinder 44 is connected to the leak tight delivery system consisting of the inline pressure transducer 72 , an optional pressure relief valve (not shown), the gas regulator 76 , the gas control valve 76 , and the check valve 78 .
- the gas cylinder 44 pressure is once again determined via the inline pressure transducer 72 to confirm that the pressure is above the required minimum. Once this is satisfied, the calibration program 116 confirms that the IID 12 is connected to the data port 54 . If the IID 12 is not connected, the calibration program 116 waits until this condition is satisfied before continuing with the procedure.
- the calibration program 116 receives the IID 12 serial number, hardware information, etc. as well as getting customer information stored on the IID 12 .
- the calibration program 116 then verifies the client identity, for example, by cross-checking the IDCCS 10 identifiers with the IID 12 serial number, pass codes, or other identifiers. If the customers identification cannot be verified, the user is prompted to contact the central office for further instructions.
- device data which was recorded on the IID 12 is downloaded into the computer memory 114 of the device computer 110 . An internal check is performed to confirm that the download is complete and without errors, and if incomplete or if errors are present, the user is prompted to contact the central office for further instructions. After a complete and successful download of the device data, the device data is encrypted and saved to the local database 118 .
- the procedure from FIG. 3 continues by once again reading the gas cylinder 44 pressure via the inline pressure transducer 72 .
- This second pressure check is performed to ensure that there are no leaks in the system or that the gas cylinder 44 is properly connected. An unexpected pressure drop could indicate a leak as well as introduce the possibility of external contamination into the gas delivery system 70 or gas cylinder 44 .
- the second pressure check helps to avoid a faulty calibration and giving incorrect test results when the IID 12 is used. If the gas cylinder pressure is below a minimum pressure then the user is instructed to remove the low pressure gas cylinder 44 , scan the bar code of a replacement gas cylinder 44 which is stored in the local database 118 and the central database 138 , and finally connect a full gas cylinder 44 .
- the gas cylinder 44 pressure is once again read via the inline pressure transducer 72 to confirm that the pressure is above the required minimum.
- the calibration program 116 receives the local barometric pressure from the barometer 90 , and receives the temperature from the thermometer 92 , and adjusts the gas flow rates or concentrations, correcting for the local barometric pressure and the temperature, which may vary from location to location depending on the weather conditions and/or elevation. After correcting for the pressure and the temperature, the calibration program 116 checks to make sure that the temperature is within an acceptable range. If the temperature is not in an acceptable range, the calibration procedure will stop and the device will wait until the temperature is within the acceptable range before continuing.
- the next step is to open the gas control valve 76 , deliver the gas from the gas cylinder 44 to the IID 12 via the sample flow tube 100 , perform the IID 12 calibration and finally close the gas control valve 76 .
- a diagnostic is run to determine if the calibration was successful. If not, then the calibration is repeated up to three times, re-running the diagnostic after each attempt. In the event that there are three failures in a row, the user is prompted to contact the central office for instructions.
- the gas control valve 76 is opened, gas is delivered to the IID 12 , the sensor in the IID 12 is checked, and the gas control valve 76 is closed. All of the readings taken by the calibration program 116 are then saved to the local database 118 and a final procedure ending the calibration process is performed. At this point the calibration of the IDCCS 10 is complete and the IID 12 is ready to be used by the customer.
- computer processor, memory, and other computer related components
- processors processors
- memory any arrangement of computer(s), processor(s), memory device or devices, and/or computer components, either as a single unit or operably connected and/or networked across multiple computers (or distributed computer components), to perform the functions described herein.
- the words “a,” “an,” and “one” are defined to include one or more of the referenced item unless specifically stated otherwise.
- the terms “have,” “include,” “contain,” and similar terms are defined to mean “comprising” unless specifically stated otherwise.
- the terminology used in the specification provided above is hereby defined to include similar and/or equivalent terms, and/or alternative embodiments that would be considered obvious to one skilled in the art given the teachings of the present patent application.
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Abstract
Description
- This application for a utility patent is a continuation of a previously filed utility patent, currently pending, having the application Ser. No. 13/955,260, filed Jul. 31, 2013.
- This invention relates generally to ignition interlock devices, and more particularly to a system for calibrating ignition interlock devices, and storing data related to the ignition interlock devices.
- Driving under the influence of alcohol is a well known safety hazard, which causes thousands of deaths per year in the United States alone. To address this problem, states have established laws that criminalize operation of a vehicle and other machinery with a blood alcohol concentration (“BAC”) greater than a preset value (e.g., 0.08% BAC).
- To reduce the rate of recidivism of driving under the influence, many states require the installation of devices in the vehicles and other machinery of individuals convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol. Such devices, which are commonly referred to as breath alcohol ignition interlock devices (“IID”). These IIDs have been developed to be directly connected to a vehicle's ignition system and are designed to prevent automobiles and other machinery from being operated by inebriated individuals.
- IIDs typically include semiconductor sensors, commonly referred to as a Taguchi cell, and/or fuel cells to sense and quantify the amount of alcohol in a driver's breath. Most modern IIDs use an ethanol-specific fuel cell for a sensor. Examples of these sensors are shown in U.S. Pat. No. 4,487,055, U.S. Pat. No. 6,026,674, U.S. Pat. No. 6,167,746, and/or U.S. Pat. No. 7,204,335, which are hereby incorporated by reference.
- As described in the noted patents, a fuel cell sensor is an electrochemical device in which alcohol undergoes a chemical oxidation reaction at a catalytic electrode surface (platinum) to generate an electric current. This current is then measured and converted to an alcohol equivalent reading. Although fuel cell technology is not as accurate or reliable as infrared spectroscopy technology used in evidentiary breathalyzers, they are less expensive and specifically tailored to quantify ethyl alcohol (drinking alcohol). Among manufacturers of IIDs are Smart Start Inc., LifeSafer Interlock, SOS, Ignition Interlock Systems, Intoxalock and Monitech. A list of federally-approved IID devices is maintained by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (“NHTSA”) in its NHTSA Conforming Products List.
- Typically, in order to start a vehicle equipped with an IID, the driver must first blow into the breath analyzer installed in the vehicle or machinery. Conventional IIDs measure the alcohol content of the breath and calculate BAC readings on the alcohol content of gas present in the alveoli of the lungs by approximating, through the use of software algorithms, the alcohol content in the bloodstream. If the driver's BAC exceeds a preset limit, the vehicle's ignition is disabled and the vehicle is rendered inoperable. If the driver's BAC is below the preset limit, ignition is permitted and the vehicle may be started. Exemplary ignition interlock devices that utilize breath analyzers are described in, for example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,780,311, 3,824,537, 3,831,707, 4,592,443, and 4,697,666.
- Generally, the methods for detecting BAC and using ignition interlock systems to prevent automobiles and other machinery, from being operated by inebriated individuals are well known in the current art. Moreover, the current invention does not rely on any particular ignition interlock device or method for testing BAC, but instead can be universally applied to any ignition interlock data retrieved from any ignition interlock device installed on any vehicle or equipment.
- Roth, U.S. Pat. No. 8,059,003, teaches a system and method for collecting data from IID, and uploading the data to a central server. This reference teaches the use of encryption and date stamping to provide reliable evidence regarding the use of the IID, for use in courts. The above-described references are hereby incorporated by reference in full.
- The present invention teaches certain benefits in construction and use which give rise to the objectives described below.
- The present invention provides an interlock data collection and calibration system for use with an ignition interlock device. The system includes a device computer having a computer processor and a computer memory; a gas delivery system to provide a calibration reference to the ignition interlock device; a data port operably connected with the device computer for enabling sample data from the ignition interlock device to be transmitted to the device computer; a calibration program operably installed on the computer memory of the device computer for receiving the sample data, calibrating the ignition interlock device, and generating confirmation data that the ignition interlock device was calibrated; and a local database operably installed on the computer memory of the device computer for storing and encrypting the confirmation data.
- A primary objective of the present invention is to provide an integrated interlock data collection and calibration system having advantages not taught by the prior art.
- Another objective is to provide an interlock data collection and calibration system that is able to automatically calibrate an IID in a reliable manner.
- Another objective is to provide an interlock data collection and calibration system that is able to automatically gather, encrypt, and store data related to the calibration and use of the system for evidentiary purposes.
- A further objective is to provide an interlock data collection and calibration system that prevents use of the IID if the IID fails calibration, or otherwise requires maintenance or replacement.
- A further objective is to provide a calibration system that provides an accurate and manageable data delivery and reporting system for ignition interlock related data.
- Other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following more detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which illustrate, by way of example, the principles of the invention.
- The accompanying drawings illustrate the present invention. In such drawings:
-
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of an interlock data collection and calibration system; -
FIG. 2 is a block diagram of the interlock data collection and calibration system ofFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 3 is a flow diagram of a first part of the operation of the interlock data collection and calibration system ofFIG. 1 ; and -
FIG. 4 is a flow diagram of a second part of the operation of the interlock data collection and calibration system. - The above-described drawing figures illustrate the invention, a interlock data collection and calibration system 10 (“IDCCS”) for use with an ignition interlock device 12 (“IID”). The IDCCS 10 is used to calibrate the
IID 12, and to receive, upload to, and store data from theIID 12 in alocal database 118. The contents of thelocal database 118 may also be uploaded to acentral database 138, as discussed in greater detail below. -
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the IDCCS 10.FIG. 2 is a block diagram of the IDCCS 10 ofFIG. 1 . As illustrated inFIGS. 1-2 , the IDCCS 10 includes acalibration unit 20 that is adapted to connected with theIID 12 for calibrating theIID 12. Thecalibration unit 20 includes acalibration housing 30 and adevice computer 110. While the calibration housing 30 and thedevice computer 110 are illustrated as two separate units in this embodiment, they could also be integrated into a single unit, in an alternative embodiment, wherein operable components of thedevice computer 110 are incorporated into thecalibration housing 30. - In the embodiment of
FIG. 1 , thecalibration housing 30 is a generally rectangular housing that is built to contain and protect the various electronic components described below. Thecalibration housing 30 may include atop surface 32,side walls 34, and arear chamber 36 that includes acover 38, attached with ahinge 40 and a latch element 42 (in this case, a lock), for covering therear chamber 36. Therear chamber 36 is shaped to contain one ormore gas cylinders 44. While one embodiment of thecalibration housing 30 is illustrated, those skilled in the art may devise alternative structures, and such alternatives should be considered within the scope of the present invention. - The
gas cylinder 44 installed in thecalibration housing 30 is for holding a prefilled gas for use in calibrating thecalibration unit 20. The gas contains a predetermined amount of alcohol, for the purposes of calibrating theIID 12. Thegas cylinder 44 is connected to agas delivery system 70 that releases the gas through thegas delivery system 70. Thegas cylinder 44 in the present embodiment is shown contained within thecalibration housing 30, however in an alternate embodiment it may also be attached externally, or operably connected in some other manner. Also, it is possible for thecalibration housing 30 to containmultiple gas cylinders 44 so that there is aspare gas cylinder 44 readily at hand. While thegas cylinder 44 is illustrated, in an alternate embodiment this may be replaced by a “wet media” or “wet bath” system. In that embodiment, a container (not shown) contains water with ethanol or another alcohol solution dissolved at a known concentration within the water; and air is delivered at a specific flow rate through the solution to simulate the absorption of alcohol into the exhaled breath of a customer. - In the embodiment of
FIGS. 1-2 , thecalibration housing 30 contains amotherboard 50, amicrocontroller 52 connected to themotherboard 50, and adata port 54 also connected to themotherboard 50. Themotherboard 50 is used to seat themicrocontroller 52, and to also interconnected with the device computer 110 (or to seat the operably components thereof), as well as any integrated circuitry, computer chips, peripherals such as I/O ports and their associated devices, and any other components that may be desired. In the present embodiment themotherboard 50 is also connected to thegas delivery system 70, described in greater detail below. - The
microcontroller 52 controls the interaction between other components of thecalibration housing 30, such as adisplay screen 55, aninitiation button 56, thegas delivery system 70, and thedata port 54. As used in this application, the term “microcontroller” is hereby defined to include any form of processor and memory, integrated or apart, that can function to enable the operation of the IDCCS. Themicrocontroller 52 may also be connected to interface with an external device such as a personal computer, or any other device capable of interfacing with thecalibration unit 20, via any form of wired or wireless connection known in the art. - The
data port 54 is shaped and adapted for connecting theIDCCS 10 to theBD 12 to receive sample data for analysis. Thedata port 54 is operatively positioned on thecalibration housing 30 for connection with adata plug 14 of theIID 12, either directly or via an adaptor (not shown) that enables thedata port 54 to accept sample data from a wider range ofIID 12 output connections. Some examples of thedata port 54 types are USB, DVI, VGA, coaxial, and other equivalent ports. - The
display screen 55 is used for communicating information to the user, such as device status, instructions, error codes, and/or other similar information. Thedisplay screen 55 is operatively mounted on thecalibration housing 30, in this embodiment on thetop surface 32, to allow the user to read thedisplay screen 55 during use of theIDCCS 10. Thedisplay screen 55 may be any form of display known in the art (e.g., liquid crystal display, digital, or their equivalents). - Also located operatively on the
calibration housing 30 is theinitiation button 56 which is used to initiate a manual calibration procedure or when so directed by thedevice computer 110. Theinitiation button 56 is hereby defined to include any form of button, switch, turnkey, touchscreen, or similar/equivalent device or method of actuation known in the art. In the present embodiment, theinitiation button 56 is a normally OFF button which when pressed initiates the calibration procedure and then returns to an OFF state. Other embodiments could include a button that remains in the ON state until the end of the calibration procedure or include intermediate states, such as a three-way switch if a stand-by or warm-up mode is desired. - The
IDCCS 10 may also include abarometer 90 for the monitoring of the ambient air pressure. This plays a key role as the local air pressure must be taken into account when generating a prescribed concentration of alcohol vapor for use in the calibration procedure and generating blood alcohol content equivalents for calibration of the IID, as discussed in greater detail below. - In this embodiment, the
IDCCS 10 may also include athermometer 92 for measuring the local temperature, as the temperature is also a factor in getting a proper reading of theIID 12. Another reason for acquiring an accurate temperature during the calibration is that the reading of theIID 12 is temperature dependent and therefore the calibration of theIID 12 must take this into account. - As illustrated in
FIGS. 1 and 2 , thegas delivery system 70 is for delivering a gas sample to theIID 12 from thegas cylinder 44 stored in thecalibration housing 30. Thegas delivery system 70 may include, in the present embodiment, aninline pressure transducer 72, agas regulator 74,gas control valves 76, andcheck valves 78. The operation of thegas delivery system 70 is controlled by themicrocontroller 52. When themicrocontroller 52 is given the command to open thegas control valve 76, thegas control valve 76 opens and releases gas from thegas cylinder 44, through thegas control valve 76, thegas regulator 74, thecheck valve 78, to theIID 12 via asample flow tube 100. Theinline pressure transducer 72 monitors the pressure in thegas cylinder 44. A low reading of theinline pressure transducer 72 could indicate a leak, faulty installation of thegas cylinder 44, or a depletedgas cylinder 44. - The
inline pressure transducer 72 can consist of any analog or digital gauge capable of measuring the pressure in thegas cylinder 44 and transmitting the data to thedevice computer 110 for monitoring and analysis. Types ofinline pressure transducers 72 that could be used include piezoresistive strain gauges, electromagnetic, or potentiometric. - The
gas regulator 74 is used to reduce the gas pressure within thegas cylinder 44 to a desired pressure for use in the calibration. Thegas regulator 74 may be of any type that is compatible with a step-down pressure adjustment. Also thegas regulator 74 is compatible with the gas being used, alcohol being a flammable and reactive compound in sufficiently high concentrations. - The
gas control valve 76 is a valve for the control of a specified amount of gas from thegas cylinder 44 to thesample flow tube 100 or equivalent component. Thegas control valve 76 is connected to thegas regulator 74. Thegas control valve 76 may be of any type capable of enabling the controlled release of gas from thegas cylinder 44 for the period of time specified by the user and/or dictated by the calibration procedure. Examples ofgas control valves 76 suitable for such a purpose include, but are not limited to, solenoidal valves, mechanical valves, pneumatic valves, etc. The operation of thegas control valve 76 is controlled by themicrocontroller 52 mounted on themotherboard 50, which receives commands from thedevice computer 110 during the calibration procedure. - The
check valve 78 is used to prevent the backflow of air or other gasses into thegas delivery system 70 which may cause contamination. Any form ofcheck valve 78 or equivalent may be included, including but not limited to ball check valves, diaphragm check valves, stop-check valves, lift-check valves, in-line check valves, or other similar devices known in the art. - The
sample flow tube 100 may be any form of nonreactive tube for directing the flow of gas from thegas cylinder 44 to theIID 12. Thesample flow tube 100 may include aconnector 102 that enables a connection to abreath receiving port 16 of theIID 12. Anadaptor 102 may be provided that facilitates connecting thesample flow tube 100 to theIID 12. Thesample flow tube 100 may be, for example, a flexible plastic, rubber, nylon or metal hose, or any other suitable device known in the art. - As shown in
FIGS. 1-2 , thedevice computer 110 may be any form of computer components for executing the calibration procedures described herein. In this case, for simplicity, thedevice computer 110 is a separate laptop computer (or, alternatively, a desktop computer, tablet computer, etc.). In another embodiment, themicrocontroller 52 described above might be used, with or without other processing components, memory chips, etc. Any equivalent construction known in the art may be utilized. - Importantly, the
device computer 110 has acomputer processor 112 and acomputer memory 114 with acalibration program 116 installed on thecomputer memory 114 of thedevice computer 110 for receiving the sample data, calibrating theIID 12, and generating confirmation data that theIID 12 was calibrated. Additionally, thecalibration program 116 is capable of transmitting a calibration date and or other unique identifier to theIID 12. - In the present embodiment, the
calibration program 116 transmits a new calibration date to theIID 12 only after the confirmation data has been generated following a successful calibration of theIID 12. Thedevice computer 110 also includes alocal database 118 operably installed on thecomputer memory 114 of thedevice computer 110 for storing the confirmation data. The information stored on thelocal database 118 includes, but is not limited to, the customer's (person being monitored by the IID 12) name,IID 12 unit serial number (both handset and vehicle blocking system), vehicle information such as year, make, model, and vehicle identification number (“VIN”), and prior test results. This information is cross-referenced with existing data in the local database for verifying the identity of the customer. In the present embodiment, thedevice computer 110 is a laptop computer with amonitor 120, and input devices 122 (such as a keyboard and/or touchpad) and interfaced with thecalibration unit 20 to control the functions of the elements within thecalibration housing 30 and manage the calibration procedure. In other embodiments thedevice computer 110 could be a tablet, desktop computer, mobile device, or other computer of equivalent function. - As shown in
FIG. 2 , theIDCCS 10 may also include acentral computer 130 having acomputer processor 132 and acomputer memory 134. Thecentral computer 130 has acentral program 136 and acentral database 138 operably installed on thecomputer memory 134 of thecentral computer 130. Thecentral program 136 of thecentral computer 130 receives data from the local database 118 (or, in typical embodiments, a large number of such device computers). The data may be updated in real time, or periodically, and may be transmitted in any manner known in the art (e.g., via a direct connection, LAN, Ethernet, USB line, or over a network, where the connection may either be physical or wireless). The data is stored in thecentral database 138, where it can then be compiled, analyzed, or otherwise used according to the needs of one skilled in the field. - One of the primary function of the
central program 136 is to analyze the data received from thecalibration unit 20 to determine the state of a fuel cell or any sensor of theIID 12. For example, a systematic drift in the data received could indicate a degradation of the fuel cell sensor that could lead to erroneous readings when used by a customer. Thecentral database 138 serves a number of functions, including backup storage of data in addition to the data stored on thelocal databases 118 of all connectedcalibration units 20, allowing cross-referencing of customer data with other data which may not be stored in thelocal database 118, or allowing cross-referencing of calibration data betweenother calibration units 20 to perform a diagnostic function or general reliability testing. -
FIGS. 3 and 4 are flow diagrams of the operation of the system ofFIG. 1 . As illustrated inFIGS. 3-4 , the calibration procedure is initiated by starting thecalibration program 116, typically either by the user pressing theinitiation button 56 on thecalibration housing 30 or an automatic startup when the system is powered on. This begins the startup phase, where theIDCCS 10 communicates with the network via wireless, landline, 4G internet, etc., and receives daily updates, such as software updates, database updates or other procedures. Any database updates are stored on thelocal database 118. Also, theIDCCS 10 may send data to and receive data from thecentral computer 130 such as test results, prior calibration data, or other data regarding the systems usage or status. - In this embodiment, the next step in the calibration procedure is to read the
gas cylinder 44 pressure via theinline pressure transducer 72. If thegas cylinder 44 pressure is below a minimum pressure then the user is instructed to remove the lowpressure gas cylinder 44, scan the bar code of areplacement gas cylinder 44 which is then stored in thelocal database 118 and thecentral database 138, and finally connect afull gas cylinder 44. Thegas cylinder 44 is connected to the leak tight delivery system consisting of theinline pressure transducer 72, an optional pressure relief valve (not shown), thegas regulator 76, thegas control valve 76, and thecheck valve 78. Thegas cylinder 44 pressure is once again determined via theinline pressure transducer 72 to confirm that the pressure is above the required minimum. Once this is satisfied, thecalibration program 116 confirms that theIID 12 is connected to thedata port 54. If theIID 12 is not connected, thecalibration program 116 waits until this condition is satisfied before continuing with the procedure. - Once the
IID 12 is operably connected to thedata port 54, thecalibration program 116 receives theIID 12 serial number, hardware information, etc. as well as getting customer information stored on theIID 12. Thecalibration program 116 then verifies the client identity, for example, by cross-checking theIDCCS 10 identifiers with theIID 12 serial number, pass codes, or other identifiers. If the customers identification cannot be verified, the user is prompted to contact the central office for further instructions. Once the clients identity has been verified, device data which was recorded on theIID 12 is downloaded into thecomputer memory 114 of thedevice computer 110. An internal check is performed to confirm that the download is complete and without errors, and if incomplete or if errors are present, the user is prompted to contact the central office for further instructions. After a complete and successful download of the device data, the device data is encrypted and saved to thelocal database 118. - As shown in
FIG. 4 , the procedure fromFIG. 3 continues by once again reading thegas cylinder 44 pressure via theinline pressure transducer 72. This second pressure check is performed to ensure that there are no leaks in the system or that thegas cylinder 44 is properly connected. An unexpected pressure drop could indicate a leak as well as introduce the possibility of external contamination into thegas delivery system 70 orgas cylinder 44. The second pressure check helps to avoid a faulty calibration and giving incorrect test results when theIID 12 is used. If the gas cylinder pressure is below a minimum pressure then the user is instructed to remove the lowpressure gas cylinder 44, scan the bar code of areplacement gas cylinder 44 which is stored in thelocal database 118 and thecentral database 138, and finally connect afull gas cylinder 44. Thegas cylinder 44 pressure is once again read via theinline pressure transducer 72 to confirm that the pressure is above the required minimum. - Once the
gas cylinder 44 pressure is confirmed to be within an acceptable range, thecalibration program 116 receives the local barometric pressure from thebarometer 90, and receives the temperature from thethermometer 92, and adjusts the gas flow rates or concentrations, correcting for the local barometric pressure and the temperature, which may vary from location to location depending on the weather conditions and/or elevation. After correcting for the pressure and the temperature, thecalibration program 116 checks to make sure that the temperature is within an acceptable range. If the temperature is not in an acceptable range, the calibration procedure will stop and the device will wait until the temperature is within the acceptable range before continuing. - The next step is to open the
gas control valve 76, deliver the gas from thegas cylinder 44 to theIID 12 via thesample flow tube 100, perform theIID 12 calibration and finally close thegas control valve 76. After theIID 12 calibration is performed, a diagnostic is run to determine if the calibration was successful. If not, then the calibration is repeated up to three times, re-running the diagnostic after each attempt. In the event that there are three failures in a row, the user is prompted to contact the central office for instructions. Once the diagnostic confirms that theIID 12 has been properly calibrated, thegas control valve 76 is opened, gas is delivered to theIID 12, the sensor in theIID 12 is checked, and thegas control valve 76 is closed. All of the readings taken by thecalibration program 116 are then saved to thelocal database 118 and a final procedure ending the calibration process is performed. At this point the calibration of theIDCCS 10 is complete and theIID 12 is ready to be used by the customer. - As used in this application, the terms computer, processor, memory, and other computer related components, are hereby expressly defined to include any arrangement of computer(s), processor(s), memory device or devices, and/or computer components, either as a single unit or operably connected and/or networked across multiple computers (or distributed computer components), to perform the functions described herein.
- As used in this application, the words “a,” “an,” and “one” are defined to include one or more of the referenced item unless specifically stated otherwise. Also, the terms “have,” “include,” “contain,” and similar terms are defined to mean “comprising” unless specifically stated otherwise. Furthermore, the terminology used in the specification provided above is hereby defined to include similar and/or equivalent terms, and/or alternative embodiments that would be considered obvious to one skilled in the art given the teachings of the present patent application.
Claims (17)
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