Clemson Vehicular Electronics Laboratory: Lane Keeping Assist

Lane Keeping Assist

Basic Description

Unlike Lane Departure Warning Systems that merely provide a visual or haptic warning when a vehicle starts to drift out of its lane, Lane Keeping Assist systems use the brakes and/or torque applied to the steering column to help keep a vehicle from drifting out of its lane. Lane Keeping Assist first appeared on select model vehicles in 2010. The force applied to the brakes or steering wheel is not strong enough to prevent the driver from making an intentional lane change. It is intended to help the driver avoid unintended lane deviations.

Illustration of Lane Keeping Assistance

Like lane departure warning systems, lane keeping assist systems use cameras to identify lane boundaries and monitor the cars position within the lane. The car’s position and the trajectory is processed by the system.

Lane keeping assist systems are not designed to allow hands-free driving. It is important for the driver to remain attentive and maintain control of the vehicle steering wheel. These systems will not navigate sharp curves and their ability to identify the proper lane can be hindered by snow or heavy rain falling on the road, poor lane marking, or poor visibility.

Sensors