OBJECT OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to a system for managing regulated parking areas, common
in the business areas and historic centers of most cities and even in small towns.
[0002] The object of the invention is to provide a system through which the user can easily
pay the fee for parking in the aforementioned areas, paying the exact amount for parking
in relation to the actual time of use, without needing to have cash, searching for
and going to the parking meter to pay and returning to the vehicle to leave the corresponding
ticket, all of which can be done in a quick and simple way without wasting time.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] As it is known, town councils are designating an increasing number of areas as regulated
parking areas, in which users must pay a certain amount of money to park during a
specific period of time, and users cannot exceed a preestablished limit, except in
the case of area residents or other special cases (vehicles for the disabled, official
cars, ambulances, etc.).
[0004] Payment is carried out through parking meters which have a money slot to accept payment
for the service, a credit/debit card reader, a new feature that allows payments to
be made via a cell phone, and a thermal printer which issues the corresponding receipt
or proof of purchase.
[0005] The fundamental problem presented by this system is that this type of parking meter
is pre-pay, which means users have to introduce the amount of money based on the time
that they "suppose" their vehicle will be in the parking area. If they introduce an
amount greater than the time they are going to be parked, they lose money, since the
parking meter does not reimburse the difference, and if they introduce a lesser amount,
they run the risk of being fined. In the case of paying in cash, many times users
do not have loose change and must look for a store that can give them change, which
is not always easy or possible, with the resulting waste of time that it entails.
Also, in the case of paying with a credit/debit card or with a cell phone, they are
sometimes out of service due to connection problems or unusable due to vandalism.
With these payment systems, the user must always find and go to the parking meter
to make the payment and return to the automobile to leave the corresponding receipt,
with the resulting waste of time.
DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0006] The system for managing regulated parking areas proposed by the invention offers
a completely satisfactory solution to the problem set out above thanks to its novel
and highly effective structuring.
[0007] For this purpose, it is envisaged that each regulated parking space will be integrated
with a numbered space-monitoring device that will preferably be of a single body,
which will contain a micro-controller that is associated with a radio frequency communications
module as well as an infrared, vibration, volumetric, magnetic, etc. sensor for detecting
vehicles, and having a battery connected to the grid or powered by a photovoltaic
solar panel.
[0008] It has been envisaged that this space-monitoring device will include a red/yellow/green
LED indicator that allows the space monitoring staff to verify that the vehicle parked
in said space is truly parked legally, having made the corresponding payment for the
parking service. For example, "red" represents an electronic payment, "yellow" represents
a cash, credit/debit card or cell phone payment (with the corresponding ticket indicating
the number of the space that is occupied) and "green" represents a free space.
[0009] The radio frequency communications module detects the different envisaged payment
means, and those that will be mentioned later, as well as communicating with the area-controlling
device, where all the information regarding the spaces assigned to said area is centralized.
[0010] This area-controlling device may be integrated into existing parking meters, such
that it incorporates the electronics necessary to communicate with the different space-monitoring
devices, being provided with a telematic network (telephone line, ADSL, etc.) from
which corresponding bank transactions are carried out.
[0011] Said area-controlling device is also powered by solar energy and has programming
software to periodically check the communication with the different space devices
that it has assigned, in order to ensure the correct connection and operation of all
equipment.
[0012] The connection to the telematic network (telephone line, ADSL, etc.) of the area-controlling
device not only serves to carry out the transactions (memory, entry/exit, charge,
issuance of receipts, etc.) of the corresponding services provided, but also allows
users to find out the status of said area in real time via the application installed
on their cell phone. In other words, they can find out the number of free spaces,
which is of considerable help to drivers when deciding whether to travel to a specific
area by car or in public transportation, depending on the availability of spaces.
[0013] Likewise, the area-controlling devices store statistical information, incidents,
etc. that will be periodically transmitted to a control center, although they can
also be consulted remotely. This control center is designated to control all of the
town's area-controlling devices, checking the connection and operation of all of the
devices that participate in the network.
[0014] The staff responsible for monitoring the spaces via a cell phone or via a device
specifically designed for this purpose, with its corresponding screen and means of
connection to the area-controlling device and with means of geolocation, will receive
information related to the status of each one of the spaces (occupancy, payment type,
time left until the end of service, etc.) from the area-controlling device, the latter
being in charge of imposing fines, when appropriate.
[0015] As previously mentioned for the payment of required services, the system admits the
methods used to date, whether it be cash or credit/debit card, and further envisages
that the user has what we call an electronic payment device, which can be any of those
which are described below.
- A device, TAG, or one similar to those used in electronic toll payment systems.
- An application installed on the user's smartphone.
- A chip or RFID card integrated into the vehicle.
[0016] In the first case, the use of a device or TAG, of the type used in electronic toll
payment systems, will be duly adapted, providing the complementary means of reading
space-monitoring devices available. This operates in the same way as conventional
means by including user/vehicle information, as well as the associated bank account
number.
[0017] In the case of paying with a smartphone, the phone should have the application installed
that is designed for this purpose, which is detected by the space-monitoring device
through Wi-Fi, thus starting the service (arrival time, vehicle information and bank
account number). The LED indicator will turn "red" for electronic payment. The system
envisages collecting payment at the time when the vehicle leaves the space, the space-monitoring
device communicates to the area-controlling device that the vehicle has left the space,
sending the corresponding message of the end of service (exit time), while the color
of the LED indicator also changes to "green" for the free space. The area-controlling
device will carry out the corresponding bank transaction with its installed memory.
[0018] Once payment has been made, the area-controlling device will send a message to the
user with the billing information.
[0019] For the third payment method, the vehicle can incorporate a chip or circuit associated
with the car radio, which will serve for radio frequency communications with the area-controlling
device, so that user and vehicle information and the bank account number can be introduced
via the radio interface itself.
[0020] In any of the three cases, at the time of carrying out the entry/exit operation,
the codes approving the operation will be requested, respecting the entry/exit times
established by the system, for greater security in transactions, although this option
may be decided by the user.
[0021] As for the space-monitoring device, it will be preferably integrated into a single
body, in which all of its components are established.
[0022] In parallel, the system may incorporate image capturing devices (photography, video,
etc.) such as cameras or video cameras as a security measure.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0023] As a complement to the description provided herein, and for the purpose of helping
to make the characteristics of the invention more readily understandable, the present
specification is accompanied by a set of drawings constituting an integral part of
the same, which, by way of illustration and hot limitation, represent the following:
Figure 1 is a schematic representation of the system for managing regulated parking
areas object of the present invention.
Figure 2A is a schematic representation of the space-monitoring device in regulated
parking areas with parallel parking.
Figure 2B is a schematic representation of the space-monitoring device in regulated
parking areas with perpendicular parking.
Figure 3 shows a schematic representation corresponding to a variant embodiment of
the area-controlling device, which may be integrated into an existing parking meter.
Figure 4 shows a schematic representation of the space-monitoring device installed
on the entry and exit lane of a toll highway.
PREFERRED EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION
[0024] As can be seen in Figure 1, the system of the invention is expected to have a space-monitoring
device (2) integrated into each numbered regulated parking space (1). Figure 2
[0025] This device (2) is equipped with:
- a) Vehicle detector. (Vibration, sound, volume, etc.)
- b) Battery connected to the grid or powered by a photovoltaic source.
- c) Payment device reader
- d) Radio frequency communications module that sends and receives information (I)
- e) LED indicator.
[0026] Thus, the space-monitoring device (2) is equipped with the corresponding control
electronics associated with a sensor for detecting vehicles (a), having a battery
connected to the grid or powered by a photovoltaic solar panel (b), a payment device
reader (c), a radio frequency communications module that sends and receives information
(d) and a red/yellow/green LED indicator (e), which the system uses to indicate the
payment method chosen by the user, which gives more control to the staff responsible
for monitoring.
[0027] The different space-controlling devices (2) communicate through radio frequency (d)
with the area-controlling device (3), in which all information about the spaces assigned
to said area is centralized.
[0028] This area-controlling device (3) is equipped with:
f) Telematic network (telephone line, ADSL, Wi-Fi, etc.).
g) Radio frequency communications module that sends and receives data (II).
h) Computer with memory to store information about the different spaces.
i) Message delivery to users.
j) Photovoltaic solar panel.
k) USB outlet for updating data.
[0029] As mentioned previously, the area-controlling device (3) can be integrated into currently
existing parking meters (7) as shown in figure 3, such that it incorporates the electronics
necessary to communicate with different space-monitoring devices (2), since it has
a telematic network (telephone line, ADSL, Wi-Fi, etc.) through which different system
operations and the corresponding bank transactions can be carried out.
[0030] The area-controlling device (3) has a photovoltaic solar panel (j), and programming
software to periodically check communication with the different space-monitoring devices
(2) in order to ensure the correct connection and operation of all equipment.
[0031] The area-controlling device (3) makes it possible to store statistical information,
incidents, etc. which will be periodically transmitted, although they can also be
consulted remotely. A control center (6) with a server is designated, which is also
in charge of controlling all of the town's area-controlling devices, checking the
connection and operation of all of the devices that participate in the network.
[0032] Likewise, the area-controlling device (3) keeps up-to-date, real-time information
on the free spaces assigned, so that users can consult their status and location via
the application installed on the payment device or through any navigation system introduced
into the system.
[0033] The staff responsible for monitoring (5) the spaces will have a cell phone or device
specifically designed for this purpose (4). This device (4) is equipped with:
I) Screen.
m) Telematic network (telephone line, ADSL, Wi-Fi, etc.) that sends and receives data.
n) Geolocation system.
o) Computer system to impose fines.
[0034] This device (4), with its corresponding screen (1) and means of geolocation (n),
will receive information relating to the status of each one of the spaces from the
area-controlling device, which will control their correct use. In the event that a
user incurs a fine, the agent can use the corresponding system to act accordingly
(o).
[0035] Payment methods are based on communication through radio frequency with the communications
module of the space-monitoring device (2), which sends information to the area-controlling
device (3) both when the vehicle arrives and when it leaves. In this way, said communication
and payment management can be carried out through a frequency emitter that is similar
to the ones used in electronic toll payment systems. It is carried out through an
application installed on the user's smartphone or via a chip, RFID card or circuit
integrated into the vehicle and associated with the radio of the same.
[0036] Regarding system operation, the space device (2) detects the arrival of a vehicle
that occupies a regulated parking space and sends the information to the area-controlling
device (3), which memorizes the entry information (arrival time). If the space-monitoring
device (2) detects an electronic payment device (1), it automatically asks for consent
from the user, who then authorizes the operation, with the space-monitoring device
sending the information (bank account number, vehicle information, etc.) to the area-controlling
device (3) so that it memorizes that information and activates the LED indicator,
signaling the electronic payment method chosen by the user. In this case, it would
be a red LED light.
[0037] When the vehicle leaves the regulated parking space, the space-monitoring device
(2) sends the information to the area-controlling device (3), and this device carries
out the charge operation, while at the same time sending a message to the user with
the transaction details.
[0038] In the event that the users do not have an electronic payment device, they will have
to go to the area-controlling device (3) and make a prepayment, whether in cash or
with a credit/debit card, just as it is carried out today, and indicate the number
of the space their car occupies. This way, the area-controlling device (3) can associate
the information emitted by the space-monitoring device (2) and send the relevant information
to the space-monitoring device (2), which will use the yellow LED indicator to signal
the payment method chosen by the user of the space. At the same time, it will send
a message to the staff responsible for monitoring (5) so that they carry out the appropriate
control measures.
[0039] If, after a reasonable amount of time, the system determines that no payment process
has taken place, it advises the monitoring staff of the incident so that they act
accordingly.
[0040] Thus, a system for managing parking areas that is incredibly easy to use is achieved,
without needing to have cash, go to the parking meter and return to leave the ticket
in the car, pay more money than necessary, risk being fined for exceeding the prepaid
time, etc., but which nevertheless is compatible with current payment methods.
[0041] According to another characteristic of the invention, it is envisaged that the space-monitoring
device (2) is integrated into a single body, in which are established an infrared,
magnetic, volume, vibration, etc. sensor for detecting vehicles (a), a battery that
could be connected to the grid or powered by' a photovoltaic source (b), a radio frequency
payment device reader (c), a radio frequency communications module that sends and
receives data (d) and an LED indicator (e) of the payment method.
[0042] The area-controlling device (3), which can be integrated into existing parking meters,
has a single body with the electronics necessary, such as a computer, an ADSL or similar
telematic network, programming, etc., to communicate with the different numbered space-monitoring
devices.
[0043] The system may incorporate image capturing devices (photography, video, etc.) such
as cameras or video cameras as a security measure.
[0044] Likewise, it is envisaged that all information will be sent through the computer
of the area-controlling device (3) and its associated memory (h) to the control center
(6) via the radio frequency communications module (d), in order to be able to gather
all types of statistics, and thereby be able to obtain information about the times
of maximum occupancy, average time, type of vehicle, etc.
[0045] According to another characteristic of the invention, it is envisaged that the system
may be installed on the entry and exit lanes of toll highways that are associated
with the device, which will be available or located at a point decided upon by the
service operator, acting in the same way as the system for managing regulated parking
areas, so that the user pays for the actual distance and use of the toll highway.
This also prevents the excessive use of fuel caused by cars waiting in line to pay
and it allows traffic to move.
[0046] Through the system of the invention, it is possible to charge users according to
the actual time they used the parking area, unlike that which happens with conventional
systems, where it is common to leave with the vehicle before the time period paid
for has ended, and this money is never returned.
[0047] If, after a reasonable amount of time, the system determines that no payment process
has taken place, it advises the monitoring staff of the incident so that they act
accordingly.
[0048] With the system of the invention, it is also possible to issue a detailed monthly
bill of the parking services used.
1. A system for managing regulated parking areas, in which a series of numbered spaces
(1) are designated and can be occupied during a predetermined period of time depending
on a series of rates, characterized in that each regulated parking space (1) integrates a numbered space-monitoring device (2),
with a sensor (a) for detecting vehicles, a mini-battery powered by a photovoltaic
source (b), a radio frequency payment device reader (c), a radio frequency communications
module that sends and receives data (d) and an LED indicator (e), it being envisaged
that the numbered space-monitoring devices (2) are linked to the area-controlling
device (3) through the radio frequency communications module (d), and this device
is where all the information regarding each one of the spaces assigned is centralized,
such that said area station (3) incorporates the electronics necessary to communicate
with different numbered space-monitoring devices (2), having a memory (h) associated
with each one of these devices (2) to carry out the charge operation once the vehicle
has left the space; it likewise being envisaged that the system has a telephone line
(f), through which the corresponding bank transactions are carried out, as well as
sending the message (i) to the user regarding the completed transaction or to the
staff responsible for monitoring, in the event that their services are required, with
the special feature in that it includes means of communication with a control center (6) to send a summary of
the different options that have been carried out, likewise having envisaged that the
area station be provided with a photovoltaic solar panel (j) to power it, while the
radio frequency communications module in each area-controlling device (3) acts as
a means of charging users, since it is via an application installed on their cell
phone, a Teletac similar to those used by electronic toll payment systems or a chip
or circuit integrated into the vehicle and associated with the radio of the same.
2. The system for managing regulated parking areas according to claim 1, characterized in that the area station (3) has a photovoltaic solar panel (j) and programming software
to periodically check communication with the different space-monitoring devices (2)
in order to ensure the correct connection and operation of all equipment.
3. The system for managing regulated parking areas according to claim 1, characterized in that the space-monitoring devices (2) incorporate a red/yellow/green LED light.
4. The system for managing regulated parking areas according to claim 1, characterized in that the area stations (3) can be integrated into currently existing parking meters.
5. The system for managing regulated parking areas according to claim 1, characterized in that the staff responsible for monitoring the spaces (5) have a device specifically designed
for this purpose (4), with its corresponding screen and means of connection to the
area station and with means of geolocation, in which it receives information from
the area station related to the status of each one of the spaces.
6. The system for managing regulated parking areas according to claim 1, characterized in that it has a system for reading information through radio frequency for the different
devices used by the user.
7. The system for managing regulated parking areas according to claim 1, characterized in that it has a system to locate the availability of free spaces in specific areas.
8. The system for managing regulated parking areas according to claim 1, characterized in that it has a vehicle detector/locator.
9. The system for managing regulated parking areas according to claim 1, characterized in that the spaces are numbered through the numbered space devices.
10. The system for managing regulated parking areas according to claim 1, characterized in that in regulated parking areas with controlled entry and exit of vehicles, it will only
be necessary to install at its entrance and exit a radio frequency payment reader,
connected to a telephone line.
11. The system for managing regulated parking areas according to claim 1, characterized in that the control device (2) is integrated into a single body, in which are established
an infrared, magnetic, volume, vibration, etc. sensor for detecting vehicles (a),
a battery that can be connected to a grid or powered by a photovoltaic source (b),
a radio frequency payment device reader (c), the radio frequency communications module
that sends and receives data (d) and the LED indicator (e) of the payment method.
12. The system for managing regulated parking areas according to claim 1, characterized in that the area-controlling device (3) can be integrated into existing parking meters and
has a single body with the electronics necessary, such as a computer, an ADSL or similar
telematic network, programming, etc. to communicate with the different numbered space-monitoring
devices.
13. The system for managing regulated parking areas according to claim 1, characterized in that that it incorporates image capturing devices such as photographic and/or video cameras.
14. The system for managing regulated parking areas according to claim 1, characterized in that the system can also be installed in tollbooths at the entrance/exit of toll highways.
15. The system for managing regulated parking areas according to claim 1, characterized in that the control device (2) delimits the individual spaces.
16. The system for managing regulated parking areas according to claim 1, characterized in that the system regulates the actual time of use of the service.
17. The system for managing regulated parking areas according to claim 1, characterized in that the system advises the monitoring staff when no payment method has been activated.