Development of a Smart Phone App to Warn the Driver of Unintentional Lane Departure Using GPS Technology Status: CompleteReport Date: 11/01/2024 Summary: Unintentional lane departure that occurs when drivers are speeding, distracted or drowsy poses a significant safety risk on roadways. Some higher-end vehicles have built-in lane departure warning systems (LDWS). But the technologies are not widely accessible, and their performance is limited when lane markings aren’t completely visible due to inclement weather. The latest phase of an ongoing research project has refined a smartphone app that provides an audible warning if a vehicle drifts from its lane. The addition of GPS has improved the accuracy of the algorithms driving the system, and a user-friendly smart phone interface offers the potential of a widely accessible safety tool. Researchers will continue work to patent the app and coordinate with mapping companies to streamline its operation. Once available, Minnesota’s transportation agencies will encourage all drivers with smartphones to use it. Final Deliverables: Development of a Smart Phone App to Warn the Driver of Unintentional Lane Departure Using GPS Technology (Report #2024-25) New Smartphone App Uses GPS Technology to Warn Drivers of Lane Departures (Research Summary) Related Materials: Stay in Your Lane: App to Warn Drivers of Unintentional Lane Departures (Video/Webinar) Demonstration of App to Warn Drivers of Unintentional Lane Departures (Video/Webinar) Related Research: Development and Demonstration of a Cost Effective In-Vehicle Lane Departure and Advanced Curve Speed Warning System Development and Demonstration of an In-Vehicle Lane Departure Warning System using V2V Communication
