Sleep is attributed to be the cause of 30% of motor vehicle accidents in Spain. A large percentage of these accidents result in fatalities. Statistics are similar for the United States and other countries. ADS (Sleep and Deterrent Systems) was conceived to reduce these figures. The system automatically activates and warns a driver of an impending loss of conscious and voluntary activity (sleep). ADS is a sophisticated electronic system activated by a sensor located on the posterior portion of the steering wheel. When the hand grip on the steering wheel is relaxed the sensor sends a signal to the diagnostic module which immediately goes into the first phase: warning; a loud beep and a bright light which would awake a sober driver. If this condition is caused by factors other than sleep (drowsiness, illness, blackout, etc.) or if there is no response on the part of the driver, the system goes into a second phase: the disabling of the vehicle motion after a pre-programmed time (1-3 seconds) by cutting off the ignition and/or the fuel flow. Simultaneously, the horn and the emergency lights are activated warning others of the loss of control of the vehicle. ADS is an active system. It can be turned off by the driver for city driving, for instance. It does not interfere with any other passive vehicle function (Air Bags, ABS). This report describes in detail the theory, components, installation, operation and additional benefits (proper steering wheel grip, theft deterrent, carjacking, drunk driving, etc.).
