Alcohol detection in a car’s cab using MQ3 and first approaches to sensing: Laboratory tests

Abstract

It is a matter of interest to the automotive industry and the authorities to prevent alcohol consumption in drivers, crashes and run-over deaths caused by drunk drivers are the leading cause of death among Mexican youth, according to the Deputy General Directorate of Youth Integration (DGAIJ) in Mexico. Likewise, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) in terms of roads, notes that Mexico ranks seventh worldwide in deaths from crashes and run-ins due to alcohol consumption while driving. On the other hand, in recent years, technology has been incorporated into automobiles which aims to help in safety material for both the driver and passengers; however, efforts are needed to increase the safety of pedestrians. Derived from the above, and with the purpose of addressing the identified problem, this work shows the design of a prototype to detect alcohol in the cabin of a vehicle using MQ3 alcohol sensors installed in the ventilation ducts of a car. Laboratory tests were performed and the results were satisfactory since different levels were detected in alcohol intensity. Finally, the result of the evaluation allowed us to improve the initial design of the prototype.