BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention.
[0001] The invention relates to a method and system for determining the status of vehicle
parking, including the location of available vehicle parking.
2. Related Art.
[0002] Locating parking is a big problem in cities all around the world. As drivers search
for a parking space, they waste gas, waste time and add to the traffic problems of
big cities. The frustration of the search for a parking spot creates stress for those
drivers that must frequent big cities for their jobs. Health problems have been linked
to high levels of stress.
[0003] Thus, what is desired and disclosed herein is an apparatus, system and method to
optimize the search for a parking space and reduce the time searching and the amount
of energy wasted.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0004] A parking locator for detecting the presence or absence of a motor vehicle within
a parking space is disclosed herein. In one embodiment, the parking locator comprises
at least one sensor configured to detect the present of an object at a parking space,
and at least one transmitter for transmitting sensor information to one or more other
devices.
[0005] In one embodiment, the parking locator comprises a body for supporting the one or
more sensors and other elements of the locator. The body may be configured to be self-supporting,
or be configured to be supported by another element, such as by conforming to at least
a portion of a parking header. The one or more sensors may be secured to the body.
[0006] The parking locator may further comprise a logic device in electrical contact with
the sensors. The logic device may be configured to communicate the presence of a vehicle
within a parking space to an external device when one or more of the sensors detect
the presence of an object within the parking space. The logic device may also be configured
to communicate the absence of a vehicle within the parking space to an external device
when none of the sensors detect the presence of an object within the parking space.
[0007] The logic device may have various configurations. In one embodiment, the logic device
comprises one or more sensor inputs configured to receive sensor information from
the sensors, a processor configured to determine the presence of a vehicle within
the parking space based on the sensor information and generate parking information
accordingly, and a wired or wireless transceiver configured to communicate parking
information to one or more external devices. It is noted that parking information
will generally comprise information indicating the presence or absence of a vehicle
within the parking space, and that the processor will determine that a vehicle is
present within the parking space when one or more of the sensors detect the presence
of an object within a parking space.
[0008] The parking locator may communicate via its logic device in various ways. For example,
the logic device may be configured to communicate wirelessly, such as by, but not
limited to, GPRS communication.
[0009] The parking locator may have different sensor configurations. For example, the parking
locator may have sensors selected from the group consisting of acoustic, electromagnetic,
radio frequency, light, and motion sensors. The sensors may be secured to the body
by one or more pivoting mounts, along the length of the body, or both.
[0010] It is contemplated that the parking locator may be used with a variety of parking
spaces. Thus, in one embodiment, the parking locator's body is configured to substantially
conform to at least a portion of a curb rather than a parking header. Also, the body
may be planar in shape to allow the parking locator to be installed or attached to
planar surfaces of a parking space such as but not limited to the parking space itself
or a wall.
[0011] A parking locator system is also disclosed. In one embodiment, the parking locator
system comprises one or more clusters comprising a control box configured to communicate
parking information comprising information indicating the presence or absence of a
vehicle within one or more parking spaces to an external device, and one or more parking
locators configured to generate the parking information and communicate the parking
information to the control box. In one or more embodiments, the parking locator system's
clusters may be associated with one or more parking areas selected from the group
consisting of parking garages, parking lots, and one or more city blocks.
[0012] In the parking locator system, the one or more parking locators may comprise a body,
one or more sensors configured to detect the presence of an object within a parking
space and secured to the body, and a logic device in electrical contact with the one
or more sensors. The logic device may be configured to generate the parking information
comprising information indicating the presence of a vehicle within the parking space
when one or more of the sensors detect the presence of an object within the parking
space. Also, the logic device may be configured to generate parking information comprising
information indicating the absence of a vehicle within the parking space when none
of the sensors detect the presence of an object within the parking space.
[0013] The parking locators may be connected and configured to communicate with the control
box in various ways. For example, the parking locators may be configured to wirelessly
communicate parking information to the control box. In addition, the parking locators
may be connected in a daisy chain to the control box by one or more electrical cables
selected from the group consisting of communications cables and power cables. When
in a daisy chain configuration, the control box may further comprise a power distributor
connected to an external power source and configured to power the parking locators
through the electrical cables. It is noted that the control box may be configured
to communicate in various ways as well. For example, the control box may communicate
parking information to an external device via text messaging, GPRS, or both.
[0014] A location server may be provided in some embodiments of the parking locator system.
Generally, the location server is a computer or other device capable of organizing
and storing the parking information from a plurality of the one or more clusters,
and configured to communicate the parking information to one or more user devices.
In these embodiments, the control box for each of the one or more clusters may be
configured to communicate the parking information to the location server. The location
server may then organize and store the parking information as well as communicate
the parking information to user devices. User devices may be PDAs, cell phones, GPS
units, or other devices capable of displaying or presenting parking information to
a user.
[0015] The location server may be configured to communicate the parking information in response
to a request for the parking information from the one or more user devices, or to
communicate the same in real-time. Similar to the above elements of the invention,
the location server may communicate parking information in various ways such as but
not limited to text messaging or GPRS. It is noted that in one or more embodiments,
the parking locator system may be configured to collect a fee prior to communicating
parking information to the one or more user devices.
[0016] Other systems, methods, features and advantages of the invention will be or will
become apparent to one with skill in the art upon examination of the following figures
and detailed description. It is intended that all such additional systems, methods,
features and advantages be included within this description, be within the scope of
the invention, and be protected by the accompanying claims.
According to an example, there is provided a parking locator system comprising a location
server configured to receive parking information indicating the presence or absence
of an object within a plurality of parking spaces and provide information to a mobile
user device identifying one or more unoccupied parking spaces within a vicinity of
a specified location in response to a request including a user location from said
mobile device, said information comprising map information to indicate a location
of said one or more unoccupied parking spaces within the vicinity of the specified
location in relation to the said user location, a plurality of parking locators configured
to generate said parking information and communicate said parking information to said
location server, each of said plurality of parking locators comprising one or more
sensors each of said one or more sensors configured to detect the presence of an object
within at least one parking space; and a logic device in communication with said one
or more sensors and the location server, said logic device configured to generate
said parking information based on input from the one or more sensors.
The said one or more sensors can be selected from the group consisting of acoustic
sensors, electromagnetic sensors, radio frequency sensors, light sensors and motion
sensors. The object can be an obstruction that is not a motor vehicle, or alternatively,
the object can be a vehicle. In an example, the object can be a vehicle that is only
partially within one of the plurality of parking spaces. At least one of the parking
locators can include a transceiver for allowing two way communications to and from
the parking locators. At least one parking locator can be configured to receive configuration
settings from an external device via the transceiver. At least one parking locator
can be configured to receive commands for adjusting the one or more sensors from an
external device via the transceiver. The commands can switch on or off the one or
more sensors. The commands can calibrate the one or more sensors. The at least one
parking locator can be configured to receive diagnostic commands from an external
device.
In an example, the parking locator system can further comprise a control box configured
to receive the parking information from at least one of the parking locators to communicate
parking information comprising information indicating the presence or absence of a
vehicle within one or more parking spaces to said location server. At least one of
the parking locators can form part of a curb next to a street. At least one of the
parking locators can be coupled to a curb next to a street. A first parking locator
can be configured to communicate parking information to a second parking locator.
According to an example, a parking space locator comprises a location server configured
to accept a request to locate one or more unoccupied parking spaces and reply by communicating
information identifying said one or more unoccupied parking spaces within a vicinity
of a user; and one or more parking locators associated with one or more parking spaces
comprising: a body; one or more sensors secured to said body, each of said one or
more sensors configured to detect the presence of an object within a parking space;
a logic device in communication with said one or more sensors, said logic device configured
to generate parking information comprising information indicating the presence or
absence of a vehicle within said one or more parking spaces based on input from the
one or more sensors; and a transceiver configured to communicate said parking information
to said location server. The parking space locator of can further comprise a power
distributor configured to provide power to the one or more parking locators, wherein
the one or more parking locators are connected in a daisy chain by one or more power
cables and the power distributor is connected to one of the one or more parking locators.
The location server can be configured to accept a location along with said request
to locate said one or more unoccupied parking spaces whereby said location server
communicates said information identifying said one or more of unoccupied parking spaces
within a vicinity of said location. The location server can be configured to charge
a fee for use of said parking space locator. The fee can be charged for use of said
parking space locator for a time period selected from the group consisting of hours,
days, months, and years. The fee can be paid from a cell phone, and can be charged
upon entering a city where said parking space locater is installed.
In an example, the one or more sensors can be secured to said body by one or more
pivoting mounts. The location server can be configured to reply by communicating directions
to one or more of said one or more unoccupied parking spaces within a vicinity of
a user. The body can comprise a shape that conforms to at least a portion of a curb
to retrofit said curb with said one or more parking locators. The body can comprise
a shape that conforms to at least a portion of one or more parking headers to retrofit
said one or more parking headers with said one or more parking locators. The location
server can be configured to request user account information from a user and communicate
said information identifying one or more of said unoccupied parking spaces within
a vicinity of a user only if said username and password is valid.
According to an example, a parking locator system comprises a location server configured
to provide information identifying one or more unoccupied parking spaces within a
vicinity of a specified location in response to a request for said one or more unoccupied
parking spaces, wherein said request specifies said location, one or more clusters
comprising a control box configured to communicate parking information comprising
information indicating the presence or absence of a vehicle within one or more parking
spaces to said location server, and one or more parking locators configured to generate
said parking information and communicate said parking information to said control
box, said one or more parking locators comprising a body, one or more sensors secured
to said body, each of said one or more sensors configured to detect the presence of
an object within a parking space, and a logic device in communication with said one
or more sensors, said logic device configured to generate said parking information
based on input from the one or more sensors. The one or more sensors can be secured
to said body by one or more pivoting mounts. The request can comprise a text message
consisting of information identifying said location. The location server can include
a database configured to store one or more user accounts whereby said location server
is configured to respond to a user only if said user has one of said one or more user
accounts. The location can be provided by a user. The location server can provide
directions to said one or more unoccupied parking spaces in response to said request.
The parking locator system can further comprise one or more tower lights adjacent
said one or more parking locators, said one or more tower lights comprising one or
more lights connected to said control box, and a vertical support configured to support
said one or more lights at an elevated position, whereby said control box emits light
from the one or more lights based on the presence or absence of a vehicle in said
parking space. The one or more clusters can be associated with one or more parking
areas selected from the group consisting of parking garages, parking lots, and one
or more city blocks. The location server can comprise a database and is configured
to organize and store said parking information from said one or more clusters in said
database. The location server can collect a fee prior to responding to said request,
and the fee can be paid through a cell phone. The fee can be collected upon entering
a city where said parking locator system is installed.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0017] The components in the figures are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being
placed upon illustrating the principles of the invention. In the figures, like reference
numerals designate corresponding parts throughout the different views.
[0018] Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of a parking locator associated with a parking
header according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0019] Figure 2 illustrates a side perspective view of parking locators associated with
a curb according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0020] Figures 3A-3E each illustrate a cross sectional view of a parking locator's body
according to various embodiments of the invention.
[0021] Figure 4 illustrates operation of a parking locator according to an embodiment of
the invention.
[0022] Figure 5 is a block diagram of a logic device according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0023] Figure 6 is a block diagram of a plurality of parking locators connected in a daisy
chain according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0024] Figure 7 is a block diagram of a parking locator system according to an embodiment
of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0025] In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to
provide a more thorough description of the present invention. It will be apparent,
however, to one skilled in the art, that the present invention may be practiced without
these specific details. In other instances, well-known features have not been described
in detail so as not to obscure the invention.
[0026] As will be further described below, the parking locator is generally configured to
detect whether a motor vehicle or other object is located within a parking space or
other location, and accordingly generate parking information. Parking information
as discussed herein comprises information indicating the presence or absence of a
vehicle within one or more parking spaces, and/or the location of an object within
a space. It is noted that parking information may include details such as the location
or identification of specific parking spaces, directions thereto, and other parking
related information as well.
[0027] The parking locator may notify external devices or user devices whether or not it
detects the presence of a motor vehicle in the parking space it is monitoring by communicating
parking information to these devices. As discussed herein, an external device may
be another parking locator or another component of the invention. An external device
may also be a computer or other device capable of receiving parking information and
performing operations thereon, such as displaying, analyzing, storing, or forwarding
the parking information. A user device may also be a computer or other device capable
of receiving parking information and performing operations thereon. Typically, however,
a user device differs from an external device in that user devices will generally
be used to present or display parking information to a user, such as for example a
driver.
[0028] Each parking locator may monitor one or more parking spaces, depending on the configuration
of its sensors, and may be connected to form a parking locator system capable of detecting
the presence of vehicles within one or more parking areas such as but not limited
to parking garages, parking lots, or one or more city blocks.
[0029] In one or more embodiments, the parking locator may be used with existing or new
parking spaces such as those within a parking garage, on a street next to a curb,
or located in a parking lot. Of course, the parking locator may be used with any parking
space including temporary event parking and parking spaces in both paved and unpaved
areas. The parking spaces or locations may or may not be marked. In one or more embodiments,
the parking locator may communicate wirelessly which allows parking locators to be
easily deployed in various parking areas.
[0030] Figures 1 and 2 illustrate various embodiments of the parking locator 104. In Figure
1, the parking locator 104 is associated with a parking space 112 such as those found
in parking lots. In Figure 2, the parking locator 104 is associated with curb 204
or street parking spaces 112. Though shown in a specific configuration, it is contemplated
that the parking locator 104 may be used with all manner of parking spaces 112 such
as but not limited to perpendicular, angled, or parallel parking. In addition, it
is contemplated that the parking locator 104 may be configured to account for uncommon,
illegal, or improper parking. For example, the parking locator 104 may properly report
the presence of a vehicle within a curbside parking space 112 even when one or more
wheels of the vehicle are on the curb 204. This type of parking may occur in dense
urban areas. The parking locator 104 may also be configured to properly report that
a vehicle is illegally or improperly parked such as if a vehicle occupies more than
one parking space 112, or if the vehicle is located in a space or location in which
parking it not permitted or is time-limited.
[0031] The parking locator 104 may include a tower light 124 to indicate if a parking space
if occupied or available. For example, the tower light 124 may include a green light
or portion 128 and a red light or portion 132 which respectively indicate when a parking
space is available or occupied. Of course, additional lights or portions may be provided.
In addition, it is contemplated that the tower light 124 may have a single light or
portion capable of displaying or emitting multiple colors. The tower light 124 may
have other shapes and sizes and may be configured with a speaker system to announce
the location of a parking space where a motor vehicle has just parked or just left.
In one embodiment, the tower light 124 is mounted on a pole to elevate the tower light
so that it may be seen from a distance. The height of the pole may vary according
to the situation at hand. For example, the tower light 124 may be mounted at a higher
position (i.e. on a taller pole) when in a larger parking lot or area or where it
is contemplated that larger vehicles will be parked.
[0032] The tower light 124 is advantageous in that it allows open and occupied parking spaces
to be easily identified from a distance. Thus, users will not have to drive around
a parking area to find an open space. As will be described further below, the tower
light 124 may be connected to and controlled by the logic device of the parking locator
through one or more electrical, optical, or wireless connections.
[0033] In one or more embodiments, the parking locator 104 has a body 120 which may be formed
in a variety of different configurations. Generally, the body 120 is a structure which
supports the components of the parking locator 104. The body 120 may be configured
to be free-standing or self-supporting. In other embodiments, the body is configured
to accept or engage another body, such as a parking header 116 or curb 204. In one
embodiment, the body 120 is shaped to fit over the edge of a curb 204 on the street
as shown in Figure 2 or formed to fit over the top of a parking header 116 such as
that shown in Figure 1.
[0034] It is contemplated that the body 120 may be flat or planar and attached to the parking
space 112 or be mounted in or on the parking space. The body 120 may be manufactured
from many different types of material including but not limited to cement, plastic,
rubber, metal, stone, composites, and even wood or wood products. A durable material
is generally preferred.
[0035] It is noted that though generally described herein as fitting over a curb 204 or
parking header 116, the parking locator's body 120 may be a solid mass forming the
edge of a curb or may be a parking header itself. The body 120 may be mounted to the
parking surface or another object by various means, such as adhesive, mechanical fasteners
or the like.
[0036] Figures 3A-3C illustrate side views of various embodiments of the parking locator
104 which may fit over curbs 204, parking headers 116, and the like. For example,
Figure 3A shows an embodiment where the parking locator 104 is configured to fit over
a square curb. Figures 3B-3C shows an embodiment having a body 120 configured to fit
over a trapezoidal parking header 116. Of course, the parking locator 104 may be configured
to fit over any shape and thus a wide variety of parking locators are contemplated.
In addition, the parking locator 104 may be configured to partially or entirely cover
various curbs 204, parking headers 116 or other structures as shown, for example,
in Figures 3B and 3C respectively.
[0037] As stated, it is contemplated that the parking locator 104 may have a planar body
120 such as shown from side view in Figure 3B. In this configuration, the parking
locator 104 may be mounted to many different surfaces such as the surface of a curb
204, parking header 116, parking space 112, or even a wall. It is noted that the body
120 of the parking locator 104 may include one or more curves as well to accommodate
rounded curbs 204, parking headers 116, or other rounded structures.
[0038] Figures 3D and 3E illustrate side views of embodiments of the parking locators 104
having a solid or substantially solid body 120. Generally, these embodiments are meant
for stand alone use. For example, in Figure 3D, the body 120 is formed as a parking
header 116 and thus the parking locator 104 may be used without requiring an existing
parking header. In Figure 3E, the parking locator's body 120 is formed as the edge
of a curb 204 rather than formed to cover the curb. It is noted that these embodiments
need not be completely solid and thus may have one or more hollow sections such as
to save on materials or weight. For example, the body 120 shown in Figure 3D could
have one or more holes running along its length to save materials and reduce the weight
of the parking locator 104.
[0039] In one embodiment, the body of the parking locator may comprise another element,
such as a concrete parking stop. In such embodiment, the stop might be modified to
accommodate the one or more sensors and/or other components of the parking locator.
In addition, the wall of a parking structure, a curb or various other structures might
be configured to house, support or contain the various elements of the parking locator.
[0040] Referring back to Figures 1 and 2, the parking locator 104 comprises one or more
sensors 108 to detect the presence of a motor vehicle in one or more embodiments.
The sensors 108 may be secured to the body 120 of the parking locator 104 in various
ways. For example, the sensors 108 may be attached to the exterior surface of the
body 120 or may be embedded into exterior surface of the body. In some embodiments,
the sensors 108 may be embedded or attached such that a portion of each sensor 108
protrudes or is external to the exterior surface of the body 120. In other embodiments,
the sensors 108 may be secured internal to the body 120 (i.e. held within the body)
such that no portion of a sensor is exposed. It is contemplated that individual sensors
108 may be secured by various structures, mounts, fasteners, adhesives, or a combination
thereof. In one embodiment, the sensors 108 may be secured by a rotating or pivoting
mount which allows the sensors to be pointed in a particular direction or angle. In
addition, different ways of securing a sensor 108, such as those discussed herein,
may be used to secure sensors of a single parking locator 104.
[0041] One advantage to allowing the sensors 108 to be secured in various ways is that particular
sensors may operate better depending on how they have been secured. For example, sensors
108 which utilize electromagnetic or radio frequency energy may be secured within
the body 120 of the parking locator 104 because such energy can be detected through
the body of the parking locator. In contrast, some acoustic or light sensors 108 may
be secured such that a portion of these sensors are exposed to better detect sounds
or light.
[0042] It is contemplated that in some embodiments, an optically, acoustically, or electromagnetically
transparent cover may be used to appropriately protect one or more sensors 108 of
the parking locator 104. Other covers may be used as well; however, transparent covers
have the advantage of reduced interference with the operation of the sensors 108.
Of course, where a sensor 108 is within the body 120 of the parking locator 104 such
covers are likely not necessary and thus may not be provided.
[0043] Referring to Figure 4, the sensors 108 may detect the presence of an object within
a parking space by emitting one or more detection beams 404 which may comprise acoustic,
electromagnetic, radio frequency, or light (including non-visible, such as infrared
heat) energy. As will be described further below, a logic device may be used to determine
the presence of a motor vehicle within a parking space based on the detection of one
or more objects by the sensors 108. Generally, the reflection of a detection beam
404 off an object allows the sensor 108 to detect the object's presence. It is noted
that detecting an object includes detecting the presence of a motor vehicle or parts
thereof as well as detecting the presence of other physical objects. Though shown
as a directed beam, it is noted that the detection beams 404 may be omni directional
such as with electromagnetic or radio frequency energy. In addition, one or more of
the sensors 108 may be passive sensors which detect vehicles without emitting any
detection beams 404.
[0044] For example, the sensors 108 may be acoustic sensors which detect the sound of a
vehicle, or the sensors may be radio frequency or electromagnetic sensors which detect
changes in surrounding radio or electromagnetic energy due to the presence of metals
or other materials in a vehicle. The passive sensors 108 may also detect physical
contact or movement, such as physical contact with a vehicle or movement of the pavement
(including pressure) due to the presence of a vehicle. The passive sensors 108 may
also detect the weight of a vehicle in one or more embodiments.
[0045] It is contemplated that any type of sensor 108, now known or later developed, which
is capable of detecting the presence of an object may be used. In addition, one or
more different types of sensors 108 may be used on a single parking locator 104 if
desired. The ability to have multiple types of sensors 108 is advantageous in that
readings from the various types of sensors may be used to verify the presence of a
vehicle such as by comparing the readings from the various sensors. As is known in
the art, different types of sensors 108 may have different detection ranges and capabilities
and may be chosen to suit different environments, vehicles, or other conditions.
[0046] The sensors 108 may be pointed horizontally, such as at a 0 degree angle, or at any
other angle to detect a motor vehicle. In a preferred embodiment, the sensors 108
are pointed upward at a 45 degree angle. It is contemplated that the sensors 108 in
some embodiments may be adjustable or pivotable to various angles and that each sensor
may be pointed at the same or at a different angle than the other sensors of the parking
locator 104. As illustrated in the exemplary embodiment of Figure 4, an angle closer
to horizontal may be used to detect vehicles parked further away while an angle closer
to 45 degrees may be used to detect vehicles parked close to the parking locator 104.
It is noted that pointing a sensor 108 at too high an angle may result in its detection
beam 404 going over a vehicle causing the vehicle not to be detected, while pointing
a sensor at too low an angle may cause the sensor to detect objects or vehicles outside
its parking space. Omni directional, non-omni directional, active, and passive sensors
108 may be pointed and adjusted to various angles in one or more embodiments so as
to maximize or fine tune the detection capability of the sensors.
[0047] Though shown in Figure 4 as detecting a vehicle from the front, it is noted that
the parking locator 104 may detect a vehicle at any orientation or angle and that
the parking locator's sensors 108 may be selected and pointed based on the orientation
or angle of the relevant parking space. For example, a parking locator 104 installed
on a curb can detect the presence of a vehicle even though the side of the vehicle
rather than the front faces the parking locator. The same may be said for diagonally,
illegally, or improperly parked vehicles. This is because the parking locator 104
may be configured to detect the location of portions of a vehicle within a particular
space as described below.
[0048] Each parking locator 104 may be configured to have more or fewer sensors 108 at various
angles and spaced apart at various distances depending on the size, type, shape, or
other characteristic of various motor vehicles. For example, more sensors 108 may
be included in the parking locator to better detect smaller vehicles such as motorcycles,
golf carts, scooters, bicycles, and the like. Additional sensors 108 may also be included
to detect vehicles in relatively large spaces. Fewer sensors 108 may be included in
the parking locator 104 where larger vehicles such as sedans, trucks, vans and the
like are parked.
[0049] Sensors 108 may be positioned or spaced along the parking locator 104 in various
ways. As shown in Figures 1 and 2, four sensors are positioned such that two sensors
108 are secured on each side of the parking locator 104. Of course, other sensor positions
may be utilized as well. For example, in some parking spaces it may be desirable to
detect the presence of motor bikes, electric vehicles, golf carts, or other small
vehicles which have a smaller total length then the typical motor vehicle (it should
be noted that the parking sensor may be utilized to detect a variety of objects, including
vehicles as well as other obstructions such as trash bins, or the like, and that the
term "vehicle" is not limited to an automobile but may includes bikes, motorcycles,
carts and a variety of other movable objects). Thus, the sensors 108 may be placed
closer together. Where there is a need to detect medium size or large vehicles, the
sensors 108 may be placed further apart.
[0050] It is contemplated that the sensors 108 may be positioned (as well as pointed) to
detect specific parts of motor vehicles. For example, one or more sensors 108 may
be positioned, pointed, or both such that the sensors are better suited to detect
the wheels or tires of a vehicle. In this case, the sensors 108 may be spaced closer
together corresponding to where the wheels or tires are likely to be located when
a vehicle is parked. Of course, the sensors 108 may be configured or positioned to
detect other portions of a vehicle.
[0051] Each parking locator 104 may be configured by an install technician or others for
the number and type of sensors 108 and the position and alignment of the sensors for
detection of motor vehicles. For example, sensors 108 may be adjusted, added, or removed
by a technician as desired. In addition, sensors 108 may be realigned or replaced
to ensure that the parking locator 104 continues to function properly.
[0052] In one or more embodiments, a logic device 504 may be provided. Generally the logic
device 504 receives sensor information from one or more sensors 108. Sensor information
may be thought of as the data or readings that the sensors 108 output. The logic device
504 may then interpret this information to determine whether a motor vehicle is present
within a parking space. The presence of a vehicle may then be transmitted as parking
information to other devices, drivers, or others.
[0053] Though the parking locator and its elements such as but not limited to the logic
device, sensors, and processor, are generally described herein as detecting the presence
of an object or vehicle, it is noted that the absence of an object or vehicle is also
detected by the fact that not detecting an object or vehicle implies that the same
is not present or absent. Thus, in some embodiments, the absence of an object or vehicle
may be communicated simply by not communicating that an object or vehicle is present.
Of course, the absence of a vehicle may be communicated as well. For example, the
sensors or logic device of the invention may communicate information indicating the
absence of an object or vehicle when an object or vehicle is not detected.
[0054] It is noted that the logic device 504 may be configured to communicate the presence
of a vehicle even if the vehicle is only partially within a parking space. In one
or more embodiments, the logic device 504 may communicate that an obstruction is present
if a vehicle or other object is partially within a parking space.
[0055] Sensor information may be interpreted by a logic device 504 to determine the presence
of a motor vehicle in various ways. For example, if one or more of the sensors 108
detect the presence of an object, the logic device 504 may communicate that there
is a vehicle present. Of course, the logic device 504 may be configured to communicate
that a vehicle is present if a specific number of sensors detect an object.
[0056] The logic device 504 may be held within the parking locator such as for example,
within the parking locator's body or beneath the parking locator's body. In this manner,
the logic device 504 is protected from the elements, tampering, and from physical
damage by the parking locator's body. It is contemplated that one or more covers removably
attached to the body or one or more removable portions of the body may be used to
allow the logic device 504 to be accessed for maintenance, replacement, adjustment,
configuration, or other reasons.
[0057] In one embodiment, the parking locator includes at least one transmitter configured
to transmit information. In a preferred embodiment, as the exemplary embodiment of
Figure 5 shows, the logic device 504 may comprise at least one transceiver 516, as
well as one or more sensor inputs 532, one or more processors 508, and one or more
memory devices 512. It is noted that a separate memory device 512 may not be required
in all embodiments because the processor 508 may have memory or the configuration
of the logic device 504 does not require it. In a preferred embodiment, the parking
locator comprises a transceiver rather than just a transmitter, thus allowing the
two way communications to and from the parking locator. Transmitted information may
include parking information including information indicating the presence or absence
of a motor vehicle to external devices, as will be described further below. Received
information may comprise diagnostic or control instructions.
[0058] The transceiver 516 may utilize various communications links communicate, including
those now known or later developed. For example, the transceiver 516 may be configured
to communicate via a wired communication link comprising a physical cable such as
electrical or optical cable. The transceiver 516 may also be configured to communicate
via a wireless communication link. Various communications protocols, packet switched,
circuit switched, or otherwise, now known or later developed, may be used with the
invention as well. In one or more embodiments, the transceiver 516 may communicate
via TCP/IP, GPRS, or text messaging.
[0059] It is noted that the transceiver 516 may be used to install, configure, and maintain
the parking locator in some embodiments. For example, a technician or other personnel
may connect to a parking locator through the transceiver 516 to setup or update configuration
settings or initiate diagnostics. It is contemplated that this connection may also
allow one or more sensors to be turned off (i.e. deactivated), turned on (i.e. activated),
calibrated, or adjusted. For example, one or more damaged sensors 108 may be turned
off to prevent false readings. In addition, one or more sensors 108 may be calibrated
or adjusted such as by increasing or decreasing the strength of their detection beams,
if applicable, or by increasing or decreasing their sensitivity. It is noted that
this connection allows technicians or other personnel to remotely perform these functions.
Of course, these functions may be performed through the transceiver 516 locally as
well, such as by connecting a laptop or the like directly to the parking locator.
[0060] In some embodiments, the transceiver 516 may be configured to control the tower light
124 illustrated in Figure 1. In these embodiments, the transceiver 516 may be configured
to send a signal corresponding to the light, color, or both that should be displayed
or emitted by the tower light. It is noted that a separate transceiver 516 or other
interface configured to control the tower light may be provided as part of the logic
device in one or more embodiments.
[0061] One or more sensor inputs 532 or another interface may also be included in the logic
device 504. Generally, a sensor input 532 allows data outputted by one or more sensors
108 to be received by the other components of the logic device 504. For example, the
sensor input 532 may be a terminal or other connector through which the output leads
or connectors 520 of a sensor 108 may be connected. It is contemplated that each sensor
input 532 may be selected to correspond to the output of one or more sensors 108.
For example, a sensor input 532 may be configured to accept a particular optical or
electrical connection from a sensor 108. In some embodiments, the sensor input 532
may be configured to accept wireless transmissions from one or more sensors 108.
[0062] In one embodiment, the sensor input 532 may translate data from a sensor 108 from
one format or type to another. For example, an optical signal may be translated into
an electrical signal, or one data format may be translated into another data format.
The advantage of this capability is that a variety of sensor information may be translated
by the sensor input 532 so that it is of a format or type that the one or more processors
508 of the logic device 504 can utilize. Of course this is not necessary in all embodiments,
as the processor 508 or sensors 108 may be configured such that translation of sensor
information is not required.
[0063] The one or more processors 508 may be simple electronic circuits or may be a more
complex device such as a microprocessor. It is contemplated that any electronic device
or component, now known or later developed, capable of receiving and interpreting
input from the one or more sensors 108 may be used as a processor 508.
[0064] As stated above, the logic device may be configured to determine the presence of
a vehicle within a parking space. In one or more embodiments, the one or more processors
508 may be used to make this determination. For example, a processor 508 may interpret
sensor information from one or more sensors 108 to determine the presence of a motor
vehicle within a parking space. For example, if only one sensor 108 detects the presence
of an object, the processor 508 may determine that there may be an obstruction, but
that no motor vehicle is present. However, if more than one of the sensors 108 detect
the presence of an object, the processor 508 may determine that a motor vehicle is
present. In one embodiment, each sensor 108 will detect an object, if such object
is present, and the logic device's processor 508 will determine whether the object
is a motor vehicle depending on the location of the sensors and the number of sensors
detecting an object. It is noted that in some embodiments, the detection of an object
by a single sensor 108 may be sufficient for the processor 508 to determine that a
vehicle is present.
[0065] It is contemplated that the processor 508 may be configured to determine whether
a motor vehicle is present in other ways as well. For example, the processor 508 may
execute one or more image, sound, or other pattern recognition algorithms on the sensor
data to determine the presence or absence of a vehicle. These algorithms may be stored
as machine readable code on one or more memory devices 512 of the logic device 504
in one or more embodiments. As stated, memory devices 512 are not necessary in all
embodiments because the processor 508 may be configured to perform these algorithms
such as in the case of an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable
grid array (FPGA), or other specialized microprocessor.
[0066] In one or more embodiments, the one or more memory devices 512 may be used to store
data as well. For example, the parking locator's configuration or other settings such
as but not limited to its location on the lot, the configuration of its sensors, and
its communication settings may be stored on a memory device 512. In addition, a log
containing a record of when motor vehicles are present or absent may be stored on
a memory device 512. This is advantageous in that this information may be used to
plan additional parking capacity, conduct diagnostics on parking locators, or determine
the price of parking, among other things.
[0067] Figure 6 shows a plurality of parking locators 104 connected by power cables 620
and communications cables 624. Generally, the power cables 620 are used to provide
power to each parking locator 104 while the communications cables 624 allow each parking
locator to transmit data, receive data, or both. It is noted that the power cables
620 and communications cables 624 may be within a single cable having one or more
conductors in some embodiments. In addition, it is contemplated that additional cables
such as redundant power cables 620 or redundant communications cables 624 may be included
in some embodiments as well.
[0068] It is contemplated that a power cable 620 may be any cable though which power can
be provided to one or more parking locators 104, and that a communications cable 624
may be any cable through which data can be transmitted, received, or both by one or
more parking locators 104. In one or more embodiments, the communications cables 624
may be standard network cables such as but not limited to Ethernet, coaxial, or optical
cables. It is noted that in embodiments where the parking locator 104 may communicate
wirelessly, such as through a wireless transceiver, communications cables 624 may
not be provided. It is contemplated that a parking locator 104 may be solar or battery
powered in one or more embodiments. In these embodiments, power cables 620 may not
be required but may be used to power parking locators 104 if solar or battery power
is inadequate.
[0069] In the embodiment shown in Figure 6, a plurality of parking locators 104 are connected
in a daisy chain configuration wherein the power and data input to a second parking
locator is routed from a first apparatus while a third parking locator connects to
the power and data output of the second parking locator. Of course, it is contemplated
that each parking locator may be directly connected to a power source for power, to
an external device to transmit and receive data, or both in one or more embodiments.
The number of parking locators 104 that may be connected in a daisy chain may be from
1 to n where n is defined by power and distance. It is preferable to organize the
parking locators 104 in clusters associated with a particular location in order to
provide the details required by a parking location system.
[0070] A control box 604 may be used to facilitate daisy chaining a plurality of parking
locators 104 in one or more embodiments. The control box may comprise a power distributor
628 which connects to and sends power from a power source to power the daisy chain
of parking locators 104. The power source will typically be an electrical grid however
it is contemplated that other power sources such as generators or batteries may be
used as well. It is contemplated that the power distributor 628 may be configured
to supply power to a particular number of parking locators 104 or a range of a number
of parking locators. In one or more embodiments, the power distributor 628 may alter
the power from the power source, such as but not limited to converting AC to DC, DC
to AC, and increasing or decreasing voltage or current, prior to supplying power to
the one or more parking locators 104.
[0071] It is contemplated that each or some of the parking locators 104 may be connected
to a power source other than the power distributor 628 in some embodiments. For example,
each parking locator 104 in a particular parking lot may be plugged into or connect
to the electrical grid or other power source.
[0072] Generally, the control box 604 is connected to one or more parking locators 104 via
one or more communications cables 624 or wirelessly to allow data to be communicated
to and from each of the one or more parking locators. It is contemplated that the
control box 604 be used to notify one or more drivers, parking attendants, other external
or user devices, or people of the presence or absence of a motor vehicle at a particular
parking locator. For example, in one or more embodiments, the control box 604 receives
data indicating whether a particular parking locator 104 has detected or not detected
the presence of a vehicle and communicates the same as parking information to one
or more external or user devices.
[0073] Typically this occurs by the logic device within a parking locator 104 communicating
the parking information comprising information indicating the presence or absence
of a vehicle within its associated parking space to the control box 604. Of course,
other parking information regarding a parking space may be collected by a parking
locator's 104 sensors 108 and communicated to the control box 604 as well. In one
embodiment, the parking information provided by a parking locator's 104 logic device
may be communicated in the following format:
<Device Number>,<Status Code>,<Location>
[0074] Device Numbers may be numeric or alphanumeric codes which uniquely identify each
parking locator 104. Of course, any indicator capable of uniquely identifying a parking
locator 104 from a plurality of parking locators may be used as a Device Number. The
Location may be a description, geographic coordinates, street name, parking space
number, or any other indicator of the parking locator's location. It is noted that
Location may not be communicated by a parking locator 104 in all embodiments because
a separate record or database of locations indexed by each parking locator's Device
Number may be kept and used to retrieve the location of a parking locator. Status
codes generally indicate the presence or absence of a vehicle and may include specific
information such as but not limited to the following examples:
- 1. Space Empty
- 2. Motor Bike Present
- 3. Small Motor Vehicle Present
- 4. Motor Vehicle Present
- 5. Unknown Obstruction Present
- 6. Apparatus Error
- 7. Other Status information
[0075] The parking information may then be used by the control box 604 to communicate to
one or more users or external devices the current status of one or more parking spaces.
Communication of the status of particular parking spaces or of vacant parking spaces
in an area may occur in various ways. For example, the control box 604 may be connected
to a telephone line, the internet, cellular network, one or more displays or signs,
or a combination thereof. Users may then call a number or send a request by text message
to receive information regarding open or occupied parking spaces or look up this information
on the internet or on a sign. It is contemplated that electronic signs may be posted
near the entrance to a parking area or other visible area such that users (such as
drivers) may easily see which spaces are open or occupied. The sign may direct users
to open spaces such as by providing a map or directions to an open space, or by listing
a number or other information that identifies the space.
[0076] The control box 604 may be configured to communicate parking information to users
through one or more user devices of various types. In this manner, a wide variety
of communication methods may be used. For example, users could receive notifications
via text messaging, instant messaging, telephone calls, email, or a combination thereof
on any device capable of displaying the same.
[0077] Figure 7 illustrates an embodiment of a parking locator system according to the invention.
As shown in Figure 7, the parking locator system is comprised of one or more parking
locator clusters 708. As shown, each parking locator cluster 708 comprises one or
more parking locators 104 connected in a daisy chain to a control box 604. Each cluster
708 may transmit parking information on a real-time basis to a location server 712
via a network 720. For example, the parking locators or parking locator clusters 708
may continuously transmit parking information to the location server 712. The location
server 712, as described further below, may be configured to organize and store the
received parking information and provide the parking information to one or more user
devices 704.
[0078] These transmissions of information may occur via one or more wired or wireless communication
links 716 and networks 720 utilizing various communication protocols. It is noted
that in some embodiments, parking information may be transmitted when requested by
a location server 712 rather than being transmitted on a real-time basis. For example,
parking information may be requested by a location server 712 from one or more parking
locators 104 or clusters 708 in response to a driver's or other person's request for
parking information. Such a request may be made from a user device 704.
[0079] Though illustrated as two separate networks 720, it is contemplated that user devices
704, location servers 712, clusters 708, and individual parking locators 104 may communicate
through a single network or multiple networks. It is also contemplated that the networks
may be of different types. For example, communication may occur over the internet,
telephone networks, cellular networks, as well as other wired or wireless networks.
The type of network or networks used will depend on the communications requirements
used by and with the invention herein.
[0080] In one embodiment, the communication between each cluster 708 and the location server
712 is accomplished through wireless communication links 716. In a preferred wireless
embodiment, GPRS communication is used to facilitate communication between each cluster
708 and the location server 712. In another embodiment, the communication between
each cluster 708 and the location server 712 is accomplished through wired communication
links 716. In a preferred wired embodiment, the clusters 708 and the location server
712 communicate via TCP/IP or other internet protocol. In yet another embodiment,
individual clusters 708 may communicate via different wired or wireless networks 720
such as GPRS networks, circuit switched networks, or packet switched networks (e.g.
internet).
[0081] As stated, each cluster 708 comprises one or more parking locators 104 connected
in a daisy chain to a control box 604. In this embodiment, each cluster 708 communicates
via a communication link 716 through its control box 604. Also shown in Figure 7 is
a parking locator 104 configured to communicate directly to a location server 712
through a network 720. For example, the logic device of a parking locator 104 may
be configured with an appropriate transceiver to allow direct communication of parking
information to a location server 712 if desired.
[0082] The location server 712 may compile the collected information on a real-time, periodic,
or other basis (e.g. as the information is requested by users) and organize the information
based on location and time. This information may then be easily retrieved for users
of the system. The location server 712 will typically be a server computer or personal
computer having machine readable code configured to perform the functions described
herein. However, it is noted that other devices capable of performing the functions
herein may also be utilized with the invention.
[0083] In one embodiment, the location server 712 utilizes a database to organize and store
parking information. The database may include the following data elements:
- 1) User Accounts to enable system and service access, which includes account type,
name and address information, User device type, and user device configuration.
- 2) Network Configurations which include each parking apparatus, every transmitter
device, location within a defined geographical area, and other configuration information
- 3) Wireless Network Information and Configuration
- 4) Support Personnel Accounts
- 5) Parking Device apparatus status
- 6) User location and status
- 7) Traffic Alerts
- 8) Traffic Information
- 9) City Fees and Payment Repository
- 10) Connection to financial institutions for payment services
- 11) Other related information and real-time status
[0084] The account information such as User and Support Personnel Accounts may be used to
allow or deny access to the information stored in the database. For example, User
Accounts may have access to traffic and parking information while Support Personnel
Accounts may have access to configuration and status information such as network information.
[0085] Thus, it can be seen that the location server 714 is advantageous in that it provides
a central storage area, such as the database described above, for parking information.
In addition, other related information may be stored and accessed. Further, the location
server 714 allows access to such information to be controlled by one or more User,
Support Personnel, or other accounts, and provides a single device from which such
account holders may access parking and related information. As stated, it is contemplated
that the location server 714 may be a computer and thus may be easily programmed to
include additional functionality and connected to a wide variety of networks and devices
as necessary.
[0086] Similar to individual parking locators 104 or groups of parking locators, the parking
locator system provides a service to the user that provides the user with available
parking space information within a particular location or region. In one embodiment,
the user may send a text message (e.g. SMS message from a cell phone) to a specific
short code to request the closest available empty parking space from the system. In
another embodiment, a user could send a text message to a particular short code assigned
to the parking locator system to request all available spaces. It can thus be seen
that a variety of text messages may be sent to the parking locator system and that
the system may be configured to provide specific information as requested by a particular
text message. An example of such text message requests could look as follows:
"Closest Space?" (to request the closest space)
"All Spaces?" (to request all available spaces within an area)
[0087] A user may provide his or her current location to the system in the text message
or that the user's phone may provide the user's current location. For example, the
phone may provide GPS coordinates to the system or the user may enter cross streets,
zip codes, coordinates, or other location information in a text message. Such a request
could look as follows:
" Closest Space to Main St. and 4th St.?"
[0088] In response to a request, the parking locator system may be configured to return
a text message to the user, providing driving directions to the open space. For example:
"Space available on 4th St. between Main St. and River St."
[0089] The system may be configured to send map or other visual information indicating the
location of one or more spots, or such information may be synchronized to a map or
other data. For example, the system may send a .jpg map showing streets and the location
of open parking spots to a user device, such as a phone, for display.
[0090] It is contemplated that the parking locator system may be connected to other user
devices such as navigation devices. For example, in-car or handheld GPS/direction
systems may be used. The status of parking spaces, preferably open spaces, may then
be displayed on a map displayed by the navigation device. In addition, the system
may include a GPS system including radio communication and may inform the user specifically
about the availability of parking within a specific area. Additional options may include
the capability of a GPS enabled user device to also provide integrated information
regarding accidents or traffic jams.
[0091] It is noted that user devices, which are generally devices capable of displaying
or presenting parking information to a user, may be of various types. For example,
in addition to cell phones and navigation devices, PDAs, portable media players, electronic
signs, portable game machines, internet terminals, and computers may be used to request
and view parking information. It is contemplated that these devices may request and
display parking information through various interfaces. For example, some user devices
may utilize a web interface or other software interface to allow users to make requests
of parking information and to display the same to users.
[0092] In addition, a tower light, such as described above with respect to Figure 1, may
be used to display parking information. In this situation the tower light may be configured
as a user device in that the tower light would communicate with or be controlled by
a location server or a control box without being connected to a parking locator or
any logic device therein. It is contemplated that a tower light may be associated
with a parking space rather than attached to the parking locator. For example, the
tower light may be attached to the parking space itself or may be mounted on a pole
extending upward from the parking space. As stated, such pole may be of varying heights
as desired for visibility, aesthetic, or other reasons.
[0093] In one or more embodiments, users may be charged for parking information provided
by the invention. Many methods for charging the users of the system are possible,
including monthly fees, subscriptions, per transaction fees, subsidized by government
or advertising, location specific, regional specific, etc... It is noted that any
method of accepting payment, now known or later developed may be used with the invention.
[0094] In one embodiment, the location server may be configured to collect a fee or payment
and check that a user has paid before communicating parking information to the user.
Each user may be identified by his or her phone number, a username and password, or
other identifying information. It is contemplated that where a location server is
not provided, a control box may be configured to collect payment and check that a
user has paid before communicating information to the user.
[0095] The parking locator system may be configured to support a plurality of financial
methods for accessing the system and using the service. For example, in many large
cities within Europe, drivers are forced by cities to pay for access to city centers
to alleviate environmental problems. A cell phone may be used as an electronic purse
communicating to the system using protocols such as GPRS to make payment for access
to the city. It is thus contemplated that a cell phone may similarly be used to make
payment for access to the parking locator system. Such payment may include a single
payment for a single day, multiple days, a month, multiple months, or other time period
as desired.
[0096] In some embodiments, the system may support time based access where the user simply
pays for the time in which they are within a city center or other area and wish to
use the parking locator system. In other embodiments, subscription based access may
be supported where the user of the system pays a monthly fee to utilize the system
to access parking information. It is contemplated that the system may allow payments
for access to other services the system is capable of providing including but not
limited to traffic information and traffic alert services. There may also be a software
development kit (SDK) provided for third parties to add additional services or features
to the system such as retail shopping information, entertainment information, restaurant
information, and special offers and services.
[0097] While various embodiments of the invention have been described, it will be apparent
to those of ordinary skill in the art that many more embodiments and implementations
are possible that are within the scope of this invention. In addition, the various
features, elements, and embodiments described herein may be claimed or combined in
any combination or arrangement.