Direct Line | Breathalyser toothbrush

Behaviour changing invention

The concept research revealed further findings from Dr Joeran Koechling. Dr Koechling recently led a University of Cambridge study investigating the reasons behind drink driving, and how accurately drivers can estimate their levels of intoxication after drinking alcohol. He says:

“Our own study specifically showed drivers are strongly misjudging their alcohol levels, meaning people consider themselves fit to drive when in fact they have dangerous levels of alcohol in their blood.”

Removing the technology adoption barriers

Following the initial discussions with Direct Line and the preliminary review of the research data, we focused on the experience that needed to be achieved; the design should allow the product to fit into everyone’s morning routine for the ultimate convenience. This objective formed a key part of the design brief.

The prototype worked quite simply – the user brushes their teeth and blows into the toothbrush. It then quickly produces an indication on whether they are within the legal limit. This allows them to make an informed decision on whether they should be driving or not.

The development process

Our engineering and industrial design teams quickly began exploring ergonomics and anthropometrics data, researching the best technological solutions, and working on product styling.

Different versions of the initial concept were produced to test the principle and refine user experience. After a couple of iterations, we produced a design that worked really well, looked great and everyone was delighted with.

The product campaign is backed by Dr Joeran Koechling, who said: “This invention is incredibly smart. It embeds breath testing into a drivers’ morning routines seamlessly, even the visual reminder of seeing the breathalyser section on the back while you’re brushing your teeth acts as a prompt to take stock and test your alcohol levels”.

Testing before product launch

We produced a small batch of working prototypes and carried out initial testing with a focus group representing different user profiles.

The results confirmed that the product worked consistently so that the team could then focus on producing the final design for manufacture ahead of mass production.

Improving lives

We feel very passionate about making a real difference to people’s lives, and our input into products that contribute towards this.

We’re hugely grateful for the opportunity to work on this project with Weber Shandwick UK and Direct Line; their passion to make the roads safer for everyone is inspiring and we’ve thoroughly enjoyed working alongside their team.

Click here to find out more about the breathalyser toothbrush launch.