Patents by Inventor Harry Karsten

Harry Karsten has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Patent number: 6967581
    Abstract: A breath alcohol detection system that prevents operation of a vehicle when an operator's breath alcohol concentration is above a predetermined threshold limit or when the operator's identity is not verified. The device incorporates a breath alcohol detection device that employs an electrochemical fuel cell and an optical skin sensor that positively identifies the operator. The skin sensor is designed to sense skin on the operator's face or in the operator's mouth. Before a vehicle's starter is enabled, the operator must pass a breath alcohol test and the operator must be positively identified. If the breath alcohol test results indicate a breath alcohol concentration above a predetermined threshold, or the operator is not positively identified, the starter is disabled, thus preventing the vehicle from being operated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2005
    Inventor: Harry Karsten
  • Publication number: 20040239510
    Abstract: A breath alcohol detection system that prevents operation of a vehicle when an operator's breath alcohol concentration is above a predetermined threshold limit or when the operator's identity is not verified. The device incorporates a breath alcohol detection device that employs an electrochemical fuel cell and an optical skin sensor that positively identifies the operator. The skin sensor is designed to sense skin on the operator's face or in the operator's mouth. Before a vehicle's starter is enabled, the operator must pass a breath alcohol test and the operator must be positively identified. If the breath alcohol test results indicate a breath alcohol concentration above a predetermined threshold, or the operator is not positively identified, the starter is disabled, thus preventing the vehicle from being operated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 23, 2004
    Publication date: December 2, 2004
    Inventor: Harry Karsten