With the rapid surge in motor vehicles, India faces a dual menace: increasing road accidents due to drunk driving and rising vehicle thefts. Official statistics reveal that almost 16,300 road accidents each year are linked to alcohol consumption, and one vehicle is stolen every 14 minutes. In response to these alarming trends, Shoolini University researchers have developed groundbreaking solutions, earning two patents from the government’s patent agency.
Prof Brij Bhushan Sharma and his team at Shoolini University introduced two major advancements to boost vehicle safety and lower road accident rates. His patents focus on an advanced vehicle anti-theft identification system and a breath analyser designed to prevent drunk driving. Two M Tech students, Harshit Bhatt from Shimla and Wassi Rasooli from Afghanistan, collaborated on the anti-theft system, while Prof Sharma developed the drunk driving prevention system independently.
Revolutionary Drunk Driving Prevention System
The anti-drunk driving system, developed using the Arduino Uno R3 microcontroller, aims to save lives by alerting others to the presence of an intoxicated driver. Central to the system is the MQ-3 gas sensor module, renowned for its high sensitivity to alcohol. When the sensor detects alcohol levels exceeding 1000ppm, it sends a signal to the Arduino microcontroller. The Arduino then activates LED lights on the vehicle, signalling to other drivers and pedestrians that the driver is under the influence. This feature ensures timely detection and provides a clear visual indicator to others, potentially preventing accidents.
One of the key advantages of this system is its affordability and accessibility. Utilising cost-effective components like the Arduino Uno R3 and MQ-3 sensor, the system is both budget-friendly and easy to implement. This practicality allows widespread adoption without requiring extensive vehicle modifications or high costs. The potential global impact of this system is profound, with the possibility of significantly reducing drunk driving incidents and related accidents.
Cutting-Edge Vehicle Anti-Theft System
Addressing the escalating issue of vehicle theft, Prof Sharma’s anti-theft system offers advanced, reliable, and cost-effective technology to keep vehicles secure. Traditional security measures often fall short against sophisticated theft techniques, making this new system a game-changer. Many vehicle owners neglect essential precautions, leaving their cars vulnerable to criminals. This innovative system bridges the gap by providing easy-to-install, affordable, and compact security solutions.
The system operates using a transmitter and receiver setup. The transmitter, installed in the vehicle, stores unique information such as the engine number, chassis number, and number plate. This data is transmitted to the receiver, which can be placed at strategic locations like traffic lights or police checkpoints, enhancing vehicle security.
A Commitment to Public Safety
The research on both the anti-theft system and breath analysers represents an innovative approach to tackling vehicle-related crimes and promoting safer driving practices. Shoolini University Vice Chancellor Prof Atul Khosla praised the work, stating, “The research on anti-drunk driving and anti-theft technology showcases our commitment to enhancing public safety through innovative technology.”
These innovations by Shoolini University exemplify the power of technology in addressing pressing societal issues. As these systems gain traction, they promise to make roads safer and significantly reduce vehicle theft, marking a significant step forward in public safety and technological advancement.
Ahana Nath
