Application of systems theoretic process analysis to a lane keeping assist system

The implementation of autonomous vehicles involves an increase in the number and depth of system interactions in comparison to user-driven cars. There is a corresponding need to address the system safety implications of autonomy. Traditional hazard analysis techniques are not designed to identify hazardous states caused by system interactions. An emerging technique based on systems theory, Systems Theoretic Process Analysis (STPA), allows for inclusion of system-level causal factors by focusing on component interactions. This study researches the application of STPA to a lane keeping assist system, resulting in identification of design constraints and requirements needed to engineer a safer system.