Final answer:
The LKAS uses a camera-based sensor system to monitor road markings, helping to prevent unintentional lane departures by providing corrective steering or alerts. It is an assistive feature that relies on clear road markings and is not a substitute for attentive driving.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS) utilizes a camera based sensor system to monitor road markings. This system typically involves a forward-facing camera mounted near the rearview mirror, which is designed to detect lane dividers and other road markings. The purpose of LKAS is to prevent unintentional lane departures by providing corrective steering or alerting the driver with visual, auditory, or haptic signals if the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane without signaling.
When the LKAS detects an unintentional lane departure, it can take subtle control of the steering to gently guide the vehicle back into its lane, or it might simply warn the driver so that they can take corrective action themselves. This function is seen as a step towards fully autonomous driving, enhancing the safety and convenience of driving by reducing the burden on the driver, particularly during highway driving or in traffic-jam situations.
To maintain proper function, the system largely depends on clear and visible road markings, and its performance could be compromised under adverse weather conditions or if the road markings are worn out or obscured. It's important for drivers to understand that the LKAS is an assistive feature and not a replacement for attentive driving. Drivers should always keep their hands on the steering wheel and remain attentive to road conditions while driving.