Vehicle Alcohol Detection & Engine Control System
1. Description
This project involves the design and development of a vehicle-integrated alcohol detector
that detects alcohol vapors from a driver's breath every 5 minutes. If alcohol is detected
above a legal threshold, the system automatically shuts off the vehicle engine to prevent
drunk driving. It can be used in cars, bikes, and other vehicles.
2. Idea Statement
To create a smart alcohol detection system for vehicles that checks the driver’s breath every
5 minutes and automatically cuts off engine ignition if alcohol is detected.
3. Introduction
Drunk driving is a major cause of road fatalities. Although alcohol detection devices exist,
they are often used manually and are not embedded in vehicles. This project aims to create
an automated, integrated solution that enhances vehicle safety and enforces responsible
driving habits.
4. Objective
• To detect alcohol from the driver’s breath every 5 minutes
• To alert the driver using buzzer/LED and stop the engine if alcohol is detected
• To develop a system that is vehicle-compatible (cars, bikes)
• To ensure system restarts only if alcohol is no longer detected
5. Block Diagram
[Power Supply] -> [MQ-3 Sensor] -> [Microcontroller] -> [Timer (5 mins)]
+-------+--------+
| |
[LED/Buzzer] [Relay to Engine Ignition]
6. Product Specifications
Component Specification
Alcohol Sensor MQ-3 Gas Sensor
Microcontroller Arduino Uno / ESP32
Timer Logic 5-minute detection loop
Alert Mechanism Buzzer + LED
Engine Cutoff Relay 5V/12V Relay Module
Power Supply Vehicle 12V / Battery
Integration Ignition/Fuel Line Relay
Detection Range 0.05 mg/L to 10 mg/L
Response Time < 10 seconds
7. Operation and Performance
The system powers up with the vehicle. Every 5 minutes, the MQ-3 sensor checks the
driver's breath for alcohol. If alcohol is above threshold, the microcontroller activates a relay
to cut off the ignition/fuel supply, and alerts via buzzer/LED. The engine can only be
restarted if the alcohol level drops below threshold.
8. Beneficial to Society
This innovation enhances road safety by reducing accidents caused by drunk driving. It
enforces responsible behavior and can be deployed in commercial fleets, school buses, and
personal vehicles.
9. Newness or Uniqueness of Innovation
Unlike manual breathalyzers, this system is automated and integrated with vehicle control. It
works on a timed detection loop, making it proactive, not reactive. It provides real-time
safety enforcement without human intervention.
10. Market Opportunity
Potential buyers include:
• Individual vehicle owners
• Commercial transport companies
• Taxi aggregators
• Government fleets
With rising road safety norms, the market for in-vehicle alcohol detectors is expected to
grow significantly.
11. Marketing Plan
• Promote through automobile safety campaigns, road safety authorities, and fleet
management firms
• Offer installation in new vehicles or as an aftermarket kit via workshops and e-
commerce platforms
• Highlight benefits in advertisements targeting families, logistics companies, and
schools
12. Financial Plan
Item Cost (INR)
MQ-3 Sensor Rs. 150
Microcontroller Rs. 500
Relay + Timer Components Rs. 200
Buzzer + LED Rs. 50
Wiring and Assembly Rs. 150
Power Adapter or Battery Rs. 100
Total (per unit) Rs. 1,150
• Selling Price: Rs. 1,800 – Rs. 2,200
• Expected Profit: Rs. 500/unit
• Initial Investment: Rs. 60,000 (for 50 units + marketing)
• Break-even: ~40 units
Would you like help with:
• Creating a PowerPoint (PPT) using this?
• Writing the Arduino code for this timed alcohol detection + engine control?
• Translating this to Telugu?
Let me know!
