The prevention of high speed accidents on highways was the impetus behind the development of lane departure warning systems for vehicles. There are several types of lane departure technology, some being more proactive than others. The technologies can either sound an alarm or take automatic corrective action to protect the driver and his passengers when the vehicle drifts into the opposite lane.
The way this technology works is either through the use of a Lane Departure Warning system (LDW) or a Lane Keeping system (LKS). Both systems are similar in that they monitor the lane markings on the roadway, and sound an alarm when the vehicle moves from its lane.
With either system, the driver can take corrective action or the system itself can take the action automatically. The LKS is capable of automatically taking the action on the drivers’ behalf.
With either of the technologies, a video camera monitors the lane markings. More modern systems utilize laser or radar sensors to monitor the lane markings. While the current systems are more reliable than the technology of the past, if the lane markers are covered with snow, heavy rain or even excessive sun glare the systems do not operate at full capacity and it is up to the driver to remain alert and aware. Technology that can help prevent accidents is never a bad idea, but it is no substitute for the driver remaining aware of his surroundings and not relying completely on the vehicle technology to protect him.
The National Highway Transportation Administration estimates that about 70% of all single vehicle highway fatalities occur because a car runs off the road. These accidents typically occur when the vehicle leaves its lane and drives off the road; lane departure technologies could help prevent these fatalities.
Universe Kogaku designs and manufactures optical lenses for automotive use in backup cameras, lane departure technology as well as industrial, medical, high tech and electronic applications. UKA also carries standard and custom lens assemblies for scanners, CCTV, CCD/CMOS, medical imaging, surveillance systems, machine vision and night vision systems.