ES2418846T3 - Parking locator - Google Patents

Abstract

A parking locator system comprising: a location server (712) configured to provide information to a mobile user device (704) that identifies one or more vacant parking spaces (112) within the vicinity of a specified location in response to a request including a user location of said user mobile device, said information comprising geographic information to indicate a location of said one or more vacant parking spaces within the vicinity of the specified location location relative to said user location; one or more groups comprising: a control box (604) configured to communicate to said location server parking information comprising information indicating the presence or absence of a vehicle within one or more parking spaces; and one or more parking locators (104) configured to generate said parking information and communicate said parking information to said control box, said one or more parking locators comprising: a body (120); one or more sensors (108) attached to said body, each of said one or more sensors being configured to detect the presence of an object within a parking space; and a logic device (504) 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.

Description

Parking locator

1. Field of the invention

The invention relates to a system for determining the parking status of a vehicle, including the location of available car parks.

2. Related technique

Parking location is a big problem in cities around the world. As drivers look for a parking space, they spend fuel, waste time and add to the traffic problems of big cities. The frustration of the search for a car park creates stress for drivers who must frequent large cities for their jobs. Health problems have been linked to high levels of stress.

Document US 2008/0033769 A1 discloses the management of a parking facility, parking system and personalized reservations that allows a better administrative management of the parking lot and also allows a parking pattern to find a recommended parking space inside of a parking garage. A ticket dispenser is equipped with an entry device to have preference information of the parking space introduced, such as its proximity to an elevator, proximity to an emergency staircase, designed for disabled use, at a garage level specific, with a specific vehicle height, with the ability to accommodate a vehicle of specific size, close to a pedestrian entrance and at a particular place in the parking space. The parking preferences are used to calculate the personalized parking space for the parking pattern and the instructions for the parking space are sent to the ticket dispenser in a text format, including the distance and approximate travel time instructions.

Therefore, what is desired and described in this document is a system to optimize the search for a parking space and reduce the search time and the amount of wasted energy.

Summary of the invention

In accordance with one aspect of the present invention a parking locator is provided in accordance with claim 1.

This document discloses a parking locator to detect the presence or absence of a motor vehicle within a parking space. In one embodiment, the parking locator comprises at least one sensor configured to detect the presence of an object in a parking space, and at least one transmitter to transmit information from the sensors to one or more other devices.

In one embodiment, the parking locator comprises a body to support the one or more sensors and other elements of the locator. The body can be configured to be self-supporting, or configured to be supported by another element, such as conforming to at least a portion of a parking header. The one or more sensors can be mounted on the body.

The parking locator may further comprise a logical device in electrical contact with the sensors. The logical device can 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 logical device can 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.

The logical device can have various configurations. In one embodiment, the logical device comprises one or more sensor inputs configured to receive detected information from the sensors, a processor configured to determine the presence of a vehicle within the parking space based on the detected information and generate parking information in Consequently, and a wired or wireless transceiver configured to communicate parking information to one or more external devices. It is noted that the 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 inside a parking space.

The parking locator can communicate through its logical device in various ways. For example, the logical device can be configured to communicate wirelessly, such as by, but not limited to, GPRS communication.

The parking locator can have different sensor configurations. For example, the parking locator may have sensors selected from the group consisting of acoustic, electromagnetic, radiofrequency, light, and motion sensors. The sensors can be fixed to the body by one or more pivot mounts, along the length of the body, or both.

It is contemplated that the parking locator can be used with a variety of parking spaces. Therefore, in one embodiment, the parking locator body is configured to substantially accommodate at least a portion of a curb instead of a parking header. In addition, the body may be flat to allow the parking locator to be installed or attached to the flat surfaces of a parking space, such as, but not limited to the parking space itself or to a wall.

A parking locator system is also disclosed. In one embodiment, the parking locator system comprises one or more groups 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 groups of the parking locator system can be associated with a

or more parking areas selected from the group consisting of parking garages, parking areas, and one or more blocks of buildings.

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 logical device in electrical contact With the one or more sensors. The logical device can be configured to generate the parking information comprising information indicating the presence of a vehicle inside the parking space when one or more of the sensors detect the presence of an object within the parking space. In addition, the logical device can be configured to generate parking information comprising the information indicating the absence of a vehicle inside the parking space when none of the sensors detect the presence of an object within the parking space.

Parking locators can be connected and configured to communicate with the control box in various ways. For example, parking locators can be configured to wirelessly communicate parking information to the control box. In addition, the parking locators can be connected in a daisy chain to the control box by one or more electrical cables selected from the group consisting of communication 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 electric cables. It is noted that the control box can be configured to communicate in various ways as well. For example, the control box can communicate parking information to an external device through text messaging, GPRS, or both.

A location server may be provided in some embodiments of the parking locator system. In general, the location server is a computer or other device capable of organizing and storing parking information from a plurality of one or more groups, and configured to communicate parking information to one or more user devices. In these embodiments, the control box for each of the one or more groups can be configured to communicate the parking information to the location server. The location server can then organize and store the parking information, as well as communicate the parking information to the user's devices. The user devices can be PDA, mobile, GPS units or other devices capable of displaying or presenting parking information to a user.

The location server can be configured to communicate parking information in response to a request for parking information from one or more user devices, or to communicate it, in real time. Similar to the previous elements of the invention, the location server can 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 can be configured to collect a fee before the communication of the parking information to one or more user devices.

Other systems, procedures, features and advantages of the invention will be or will become apparent to a person skilled in the art upon examination of the following figures and detailed description. It is intended that all such additional systems, procedures, features and advantages that are included within this description, are within the scope of the invention, and are protected by the appended claims.

Brief description of the drawings

The components of the figures are not necessarily to scale, with the emphasis of illustration on the principles of the invention. In the figures, similar reference numbers designate corresponding parts in the different views.

Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of a parking locator associated with a parking header according to an embodiment of the invention.

Figure 2 illustrates a perspective side view of the parking locators associated with a curb according to an embodiment of the invention.

Figures 3A-3E each illustrate a cross-sectional view of the body of a parking locator according to various embodiments of the invention.

Figure 4 illustrates the operation of a parking locator according to an embodiment of the invention.

Figure 5 is a block diagram of a logical device according to an embodiment of the invention.

Figure 6 is a block diagram of a plurality of parking locators connected in a daisy chain according to an embodiment of the invention.

Figure 7 is a block diagram of a parking locator system according to an embodiment of the invention.

Detailed description of the preferred embodiments

In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a more complete description of the present invention. It will be apparent, however, to one skilled in the art, that the present invention can be practiced without these specific details. In other cases, well-known features have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the invention.

As will be described later, the parking locator is generally configured to detect if a motor vehicle or other object is within a parking space or elsewhere, and consequently generates the parking information. The parking information, as mentioned herein, includes 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 should be noted that parking information may include details, such as the location or identification of specific parking spaces, directions thereto, and also other information related to parking.

The parking locator may notify external devices or user devices if the presence of a vehicle is not detected in the parking space being monitored, communicating parking information to these devices. As mentioned herein, an external device may be another parking locator or another component of the invention. An external device can also be a computer or other device capable of receiving parking information and performing operations based on it, for example, displaying, analyzing, storing, or transmitting the parking information. A user device can also be a computer or other device capable of receiving parking information and performing operations based on it. Normally, however, a user device differs from an external device in that user devices are generally used to present or display parking information to a user, such as a driver.

Each parking locator can monitor one or more parking spaces, depending on the configuration of its sensors, and can 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 areas, or one or several blocks of buildings.

In one or more embodiments, the parking locator can be used with existing parking spaces

or new, such as those in a parking garage, on a street next to a sidewalk, or placed in a parking area. Of course, the parking locator can be used with any parking space, including temporary event parking spaces and parking spaces in both paved and unpaved areas. Parking spaces or places may or may not be marked. In one or more embodiments, the parking locator can communicate wirelessly allowing parking locators to easily deploy in various parking areas.

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 the parking areas. In Figure 2, parking locator 104 is associated with parking spaces 112 of curb 204 or street. Although shown in a specific configuration, it is contemplated that the locator of

Parking 104 can be used with all types of parking spaces 112 such as, but not limited to, perpendicular, angled, or battery parking. In addition, it is contemplated that parking locators 104 can be configured to account for rare, illegal or inappropriate parking. For example, the parking locator 104 can correctly indicate the presence of a vehicle inside a parking space 112 next to a curb even when one or more wheels of the vehicle are on the curb

204. This type of parking can occur in densely populated urban areas. The parking locator 104 can also be configured to correctly report that a vehicle is parked illegally or inappropriately, such as if a vehicle occupies more than one parking space 112, or if the vehicle is in a parking space or place in which parking It is not allowed or is for a limited time.

The parking locator 104 may include a top light 124 to indicate whether a parking space is occupied or available. For example, the upper light indicator 124 may include a green light

or portion 128 and a red light or portion 132 indicating, respectively, when a parking space is available or occupied. Of course, additional lights or portions may be provided. In addition, it is contemplated that the upper light indicator 124 may have a single light or portion capable of displaying or emitting multiple colors. The upper indicator light 124 may have other shapes and sizes and can be configured with a speaker system to announce the location of a parking space in which a motor vehicle has just been parked. In one embodiment, the upper light indicator 124 is mounted on a pole to raise the upper light indicator so that it can be seen from a distance. The height of the post may vary depending on the situation in question. For example, the upper light indicator 124 can be mounted in a higher position (i.e., on a higher post) when it is in a large parking area or area, or when it is contemplated that large vehicles can be parked.

The upper light indicator 124 has the advantage that it allows free and occupied parking spaces to be easily identified from a distance. Therefore, users will not have to drive around a parking area to find a free space. As will be described later, the upper light indicator 124 can be connected to and controlled by the logical device of the parking locator through one or more electrical, optical, or wireless connections.

In one or more embodiments, the parking locator 104 has a body 120 that can be formed in a variety of different configurations. Generally, the body 120 is a structure that supports the components of the parking locator 104. The body 120 can be configured to be independent or self-sufficient. In other embodiments, the body is configured to accept or couple 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 in the street as shown in Figure 2 or is formed to fit over the top of a parking header 116 as shown in Figure one.

It is contemplated that the body 120 may be smooth or flat and is fixed to the parking space 112 or mounted in or on the parking space. The body 120 can be manufactured from many different types of material, including but not limited to concrete, plastic, rubber, metal, stone, composites, and even wood or wood products. Generally, a durable material is preferred.

It is noted that although generally described herein as fitting on a curb 204

or parking header 116, the body 120 of the parking locator may be a solid mass that forms the edge of a curb or may itself be a parking header. The body 120 can be mounted on the parking surface or other object by various means, such as mechanical, adhesive or similar fasteners.

Figures 3A-3C illustrate side views of various embodiments of the parking locator 104 that can be fitted into curbs 204, parking headers 116, and the like. For example, Figure 3A shows an embodiment in which the parking locator 104 is configured to fit in a square curb. Figures 3B-3C show an embodiment having a body 120 configured to fit into a trapezoidal parking header 116. Of course, the parking locator 104 can be configured to fit through any form and, therefore, a wide variety of parking locators are contemplated. In addition, the parking locator 104 can be configured to partially or totally cover different curbs 204, parking headers 116 or other structures, as shown, for example, in Figures 3B and 3C respectively.

As described, it is contemplated that the parking locator 104 may have a flat body 120 as shown from the side view in Figure 3B. In this configuration, the parking locator 104 can be mounted on many different surfaces, such as the surface of a curb 204, parking header 116, parking space 112, or even on a wall. It is noted that the body 120 of the parking locator 104 may include one or more curves as well as to accommodate curbs 204, rounded parking headers 116, or other rounded structures.

Figures 3D and 3E illustrate side views of the embodiments of the parking locators 104 having a solid or substantially solid body 120. In general, these embodiments are intended for

independent use For example, in Figure 3D, the body 120 is formed as a parking header 116 and, therefore, the parking locator 104 can be used without the need for an existing parking header. In Figure 3 E, the body 120 of the parking locator is formed as the edge of a curb 204 instead of being formed to cover the curb. It is noted that these embodiments do not have to be completely solid and, therefore, may have one or more hollow sections, such as to save 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.

In one embodiment, the parking locator body may comprise another element, such as a specific parking stop. In such an embodiment, the stop can 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 can be configured to house, support or contain the various elements of the parking locator.

Referring again 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 can be fixed to the body 120 of the parking locator 104 in various ways. For example, the sensors 108 can be attached to the outer surface of the body 120 or can be embedded in the outer 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 outside the outer surface of the body 120. In other embodiments, the sensors 108 can be internally secured to the body 120 (it is that is, stay inside the body) so that no part of a sensor is exposed. It is contemplated that individual sensors 108 can be secured by various structures, supports, fasteners, adhesives, or a combination thereof. In one embodiment, the sensors 108 can be secured by a pivoting or pivoting assembly that allows the sensors to point in a particular direction or angle. In addition, different ways of securing a sensor 108, such as those mentioned herein, can be used to secure sensors from a single parking locator 104.

One of the advantages of allowing sensors 108 to be secured in various ways is that particular sensors can function better depending on the way they have been secured. For example, sensors 108 that use electromagnetic or radiofrequency energy can be secured within the body 120 of the parking locator 104 because said energy can be detected through the parking locator body. In contrast, some acoustic or luminous sensors 108 can be ensured such that a portion of these sensors is exposed to better sound or light detection.

It is contemplated that in some embodiments, an optical, acoustic or electromagnetically transparent cover may be used to adequately protect one or more sensors 108 of the parking locator 104. Other covers may also be used; however, the transparent covers have the advantage of less interference with the operation of the sensors 108. Of course, when a sensor 108 is inside the body 120 of the parking locator 104 it is likely that such covers are not necessary and, therefore, therefore, they do not have to be provided.

Referring to Figure 4, the sensors 108 can detect the presence of an object within a parking space by emitting one or more detection beams 404 that can comprise acoustic, electromagnetic, radiofrequency, or light energy (including no visible, such as infrared heat). As will be described later, a logical device can 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. In general, the reflection of a beam of 404 detection of an object allows sensor 108 to detect the presence of the object. It is noted that the detection of an object includes the detection of the presence of a motor vehicle or parts thereof, as well as the detection of the presence of other physical objects. Although shown as a directed beam, it is noted that the detection beams 404 may be omnidirectional, such as electromagnetic or radiofrequency energy. In addition, one or more of the sensors 108 may be passive sensors that detect vehicles without emitting detection beams 404.

For example, the sensors 108 may be acoustic sensors that detect the sound of a vehicle, or the sensors may be radiofrequency or electromagnetic sensors that detect the surrounding changes in electromagnetic or radio energy due to the presence of metals or other materials in A vehicle. Passive sensors 108 can also detect physical contact or movement, such as physical contact with a vehicle or pavement movement (including pressure) due to the presence of a vehicle. Passive sensors 108 can also detect the weight of a vehicle in one or more embodiments.

It is contemplated that any type of sensor 108, now known or developed later, that is capable of detecting the presence of an object can be used. In addition, one or more different types of sensors 108 may be used in a single parking locator 104, if desired. The ability to have multiple types of sensors 108 is advantageous because readings of the various types of sensors can be used to verify the presence of a vehicle, such as comparing the readings of the different sensors. As is known in the art, different types of sensors 108 may have different ranges and detection capabilities and may be chosen to adapt to different environments, vehicles, or other conditions.

The sensors 108 may be oriented horizontally, such as at an angle of 0 degrees, or at any other angle to detect a motor vehicle. In a preferred embodiment, the sensors 108 are oriented upward at a 45 degree angle. It is contemplated that the sensors 108, in some embodiments, can be adjustable or pivoting at various angles and that each sensor can be oriented towards the same or at a different angle than the other sensors of the parking locator 104. As illustrated in the embodiment An example of Figure 4, an angle closer to the horizontal can be used to detect vehicles parked further while an angle closer to 45 degrees can be used to detect vehicles parked near the parking locator 104. It is noted that orienting a Sensor 108 at an angle that is too high may cause its detection beam 404 to pass over a vehicle causing the vehicle to not be detected, while orienting a sensor at an angle that is too low may cause the sensor to detect objects or vehicles outside its seat. Parking The omnidirectional, non-omnidirectional, active and passive sensors 108 can be oriented and adjusted at various angles in one or more embodiments to maximize or precisely adjust the detection capability of the sensors.

Although shown in Figure 4 as detecting a vehicle from the front, it is noted that the parking locator 104 can detect a vehicle in any orientation or angle and that the sensors 108 of the parking locator can be selected and oriented based on the orientation or angle of the corresponding 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 that is not the front is oriented towards the parking locator. The same can be said for vehicles parked diagonally, illegally, or poorly parked. This is because the parking locator 104 can be configured to detect the location of portions of a vehicle within a particular space as described below.

Each parking locator 104 can be configured to have more or less sensors 108 at different angles and separated at different distances, depending on the size, type, shape, or other characteristic of the 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, motorcycles, bicycles, and the like. Additional sensors 108 may also be included to detect vehicles in relatively large spaces. Less sensors 108 can be included in the parking locator 104 when larger vehicles are parked, such as cars, trucks, vans and the like.

The sensors 108 can be located or distanced 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 can also be used. For example, in some parking spaces it may be desirable to detect the presence of motorcycles, electric vehicles, golf carts, or other small vehicles that have a total length less than the typical motor vehicle (it should be noted that the parking sensor it can be used to detect a variety of objects, including vehicles, as well as other obstacles, such as garbage containers, or the like, and that the term "vehicle" is not limited to a car, but may include bicycles, motorcycles, cars and a variety of other mobile objects). Therefore, the sensors 108 can be placed closer together. When there is a need to detect medium-sized or large-sized vehicles, the sensors 108 can be placed further apart.

It is contemplated that sensors 108 can be positioned (as well as oriented) to detect specific parts of motor vehicles. For example, one or more sensors 108 can be positioned, oriented, or both in such a way that the sensors are better suited to detect the wheels or tires of a vehicle. In this case, the sensors 108 may be closer together correspondingly to where the wheels or tires are likely to be located when a vehicle is parked. Of course, the sensors 108 can be configured or positioned to detect other portions of a vehicle.

Each parking locator 104 can be configured by an installation technician or others by the number and type of sensors 108 and the position and alignment of the sensors for the detection of motor vehicles. For example, sensors 108 can be adjusted, added, or removed by a technician, as desired. In addition, the sensors 108 can be realigned or replaced to ensure that the parking locator 104 continues to function properly.

In one or more embodiments, a logical device 504 may be provided. In general, the logical device 504 receives detected information from one or more sensors 108. The detected information can be conceived as the data or readings emitted by the sensors 108. The device Logic 504 can then interpret this information to determine if a motor vehicle is present within a parking space. The presence of a vehicle can then be transmitted as parking information to other devices, drivers, or others.

Although the parking locator and its elements, such as, but not limited to, the logical device, sensors, and the processor, are generally described herein as detecting the presence of an object or a vehicle, it is noted that the absence of an object or a vehicle is also detected by the

The fact that not detecting an object or vehicle implies that it is not present or is absent. Therefore, in some embodiments, the absence of an object or vehicle can be communicated simply by not communicating that an object or vehicle is present. Of course, the absence of a vehicle can also be communicated. For example, the sensors or logical device of the invention can communicate information indicating the absence of an object or vehicle when an object or vehicle is not detected.

It is noted that the logical device 504 can 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 logical device 504 may communicate that an obstruction is present if a vehicle or other object is partially within a parking space.

The detected information can be interpreted by a logical device 504 to determine the presence of a motor vehicle in different ways. For example, if one or more of the sensors 108 detect the presence of an object, the logical device 504 can communicate that a vehicle is present. Of course, the logical device 504 can be configured to communicate that a vehicle is present if a certain number of sensors detect an object.

The logical device 504 can be kept inside the parking locator such as, for example, inside the parking locator body or below the parking locator body. In this way, the logical device 504 is protected from the elements, improper handling, and physical damage by the parking locator body. It is contemplated that one or more covers detachably attached to the body or one or more removable portions of the body may be used to allow access to the logical device 504 for maintenance, replacement, adjustment, configuration, or other reasons.

In one embodiment, the parking locator includes at least one transmitter configured to transmit the information. In a preferred embodiment, such as the exemplary embodiment of Figure 5 shows that the logical 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 devices of memory 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 that the configuration of the logical device 504 does not require it. In a preferred embodiment, the parking locator comprises a transceiver rather than just a transmitter, thus allowing bidirectional communication to and from the parking locator. The transmitted information may include parking information that includes information indicating the presence or absence of a motor vehicle to external devices, as will be described later. The information received may include diagnostic or control instructions.

The 516 transceiver can use various communication links to communicate, including the now known

or developed later. For example, transceiver 516 can be configured to communicate through a cable communication link comprising a physical cable, such as an electrical or optical cable. The 516 transceiver can also be configured to communicate through a wireless communication link. Various communication protocols, packet switching, circuit switching, or otherwise, now known or developed below, can also be used with the invention. In one or more embodiments, the transceiver 516 can communicate via TCP / IP, GPRS, or text messaging.

It is noted that transceiver 516 can be used to install, configure, and maintain the parking locator in some embodiments. For example, a technician or other personnel can connect to a parking locator through transceiver 516 to configure or update configuration settings or initiate diagnosis. It is contemplated that this connection may also allow one or more sensors to be turned off (ie deactivated), switched on (ie 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 can be calibrated or adjusted, such as increasing or decreasing the strength of their detection beams, where appropriate, or by increasing or decreasing their sensitivity. It is noted that this connection allows technicians or other personnel to perform these functions remotely. Of course, these functions can be performed through the transceiver 516 locally as well as, for example, by connecting a laptop or the like directly to the parking locator.

In some embodiments, the transceiver 516 may be configured to control the upper light indicator 124 illustrated in Figure 1. In these embodiments, the transceiver 516 may be configured to send a corresponding signal to the light, color, or both that is must show or emit by the upper indicator light. It is noted that a separate transceiver 516 or other interface configured to control the upper light indicator can be provided as part of the logical device in one or more embodiments.

One or more sensor inputs 532 or another interface can also be included in the logic device 504. In general, a sensor input 532 allows the data emitted by one or more sensors 108 to be received by the other components of the logical device 504. For example, the sensor input 532 can be a terminal or other connector through which Output cables or connectors 520 of a sensor 108 can be connected. It is contemplated that each sensor input 532 can be selected to correspond to the output of one or more sensors 108. By

For example, a sensor input 532 can be configured to accept a particular optical or electrical connection of a sensor 108. In some embodiments, the sensor input 532 can be configured to accept the wireless transmissions of one or more sensors 108.

In one embodiment, the sensor input 532 can transmit the data from a sensor 108 of a format

or type to another. For example, an optical signal can be transmitted in an electrical signal, or a data format can be transmitted in another data format. The advantage of this capability is that a variety of detected information can be transmitted by the sensor input 532 so that it is of the format or type that the one or more processors 508 of the logical device 504 can use. Of course, this is not necessary in all embodiments, since the processor 508 or sensors 108 can be configured such that the transmission of the detected information is not necessary.

The one or more processors 508 may be simple electronic circuits or they may be a more complex device such as a microprocessor. It is contemplated that any electronic device or component, now known or developed later, capable of receiving and interpreting the input of one or more sensors 108 can be used as a 508 processor.

As indicated above, the logical device can be configured to determine the presence of a vehicle within a parking space. In one or more embodiments, the one or more processors 508 can be used to make this determination. For example, a processor 508 can interpret the detected information of one or more sensors 108 to determine the presence of a motor vehicle within a parking space. For example, if a single 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 detects the presence of an object, the processor 508 can determine that a motor vehicle is present. In one embodiment, each sensor 108 will detect an object, if such an object is present, and the processor 508 of the logical device will determine if the object is a motor vehicle based on the location of the sensors and the number of sensors that detect 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.

It is contemplated that the 508 processor can be configured to determine if a motor vehicle is present in other forms as well. For example, the processor 508 can execute one or more images, sound, or other pattern recognition algorithms in the sensor data to determine the presence or absence of a vehicle. These algorithms can be stored as machine-readable codes in one or more memory devices 512 of logical device 504 in one or more embodiments. As indicated, memory devices 512 are not necessary in all embodiments because the processor 508 can be configured to perform these algorithms, such as in the case of a specific application integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable grid matrix (FPGA), or other specialized microprocessor.

In one or more embodiments, the one or more memory devices 512 may be used to store data in this way. For example, the configuration of the parking locator or other settings such as, but not limited to its location in the parking area, the configuration of its sensors and its communication settings can be stored in a memory device 512. In addition, a File containing a record of when motor vehicles are present or absent can be stored on a memory device

512. This has the advantage that this information can be used to plan additional parking capacity, perform diagnostics in parking locators, or to determine the price of parking, among other things.

Figure 6 shows a plurality of parking locators 104 connected by power cables 620 and communication cables 624. Generally, power cables 620 are used to provide power to each parking locator 104, while communication cables 624 allow each parking locator to transmit data, receive data, or both. It is noted that the power cables 620 and the communication cables 624 may be within a single cable that has one or more conductors in some embodiments. In addition, it is contemplated that additional cables, such as redundant power cables 620 or redundant communication cables 624 may also be included in some embodiments.

It is contemplated that a power cable 620 can be any power cable through which one or more parking locators 104 can be provided, and a communication cable 624 can be any cable through which data can be transmitted. , receiving, or both for one or more parking locators 104. In one or more embodiments, the communication cables 624 may be conventional network cables such as, but not limited to Ethernet, coaxial, or optical cables. It is contemplated that in embodiments in which the parking locator 104 can communicate wirelessly, such as through a wireless transceiver, communication cables 624 may not be provided. It is contemplated that a parking locator 104 may be powered by battery or solar energy in one or more embodiments. In these embodiments, power cables 620 may not be necessary, but may be used to power parking locators 104 if solar or battery power is insufficient.

In the embodiment shown in Figure 6, a plurality of parking locators 104 are connected in a daisy chain configuration in which the power and data input to a second parking locator is routed from a first device, while A third parking locator is connected to the power and data output of the second parking locator. Of course, it is contemplated that each parking locator can be connected directly to a power source for its power, to an external device for transmitting and receiving data, or both, in one or more embodiments. The number of parking locators 104 that can be connected in a daisy chain can be 1 to n, in which n is defined by the power and distance. It is preferable to organize the parking locators 104 in groups associated with a particular location to provide the data required by a parking locator system.

A control box 604 can be used to facilitate daisy chain connection of a plurality of parking locators 104 in one or more embodiments. The control box may comprise a power distributor 628 that connects to and sends the power of a power source to power the daisy chain of the parking locators 104. The power source will normally be an electrical network, however, it will be It contemplates that other energy sources such as generators or batteries can also be used. It is contemplated that the power distributor 628 can be configured to supply power to a particular number of parking locators 104 or to a range of a series of parking locators. In one or more embodiments, the power distributor 628 may alter the power supply of the power supply, such as, but not limited to the conversion from AC to DC and from DC to AC, and by increasing or decreasing the voltage or current, before of supplying power to the one or more parking locators 104.

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 zone can be plugged into or connected to the power grid or another power source.

In general, the control box 604 is connected to one or more parking locators 104 via one or more communication cables 624 or wirelessly to allow data to communicate to and from each of the one or more parking locators . It is contemplated that control box 604 is used to notify one

or more drivers, parking assistants, other external or user devices, or persons of the presence or absence of a motor vehicle in a particular parking locator. For example, in one or more embodiments, control box 604 receives data indicating whether a particular parking locator 104 has detected or has not detected the presence of a vehicle and communicates the same parking information to one or more external devices or of users.

Normally, this occurs by the logical device within a parking locator 104 that communicates the parking information comprising information indicating the presence or absence of a vehicle within its parking space associated with the control box 604. Of course , other parking information regarding a parking space can be collected by the sensors 108 of a parking locator 104 and communicated to the control box 604 as well. In one embodiment, the parking information provided by a logical device of a parking locator 104 can be communicated in the following format:

<Device Number>, <Status Code>, <Location>

The Device Numbers may be numeric or alphanumeric codes that uniquely identify each parking locator 104. Of course, any indicator capable of uniquely identifying a parking locator 104 from a plurality of parking locators can be used as a device number The location can be a description, geographical coordinates, street name, garage number, or any other indicator of the location of the parking locator. It is noted that location cannot be communicated by a parking locator 104 in all embodiments because a separate record or database of locations indexed by each Device Number of the parking locator can be maintained and used to retrieve the location of a parking locator The State Codes generally indicate the presence or absence of a vehicle and may include specific information such as, but not limited to, the following examples:

one.

 Empty space

2.

 Motorcycle Presence

3.

 Presence of Small Motor Vehicle

Four.

 Presence of Motor Vehicle

5.

 Presence of Unknown Obstruction

6.

 Device Error

7.

 Other Status Information

The parking information can then be used by the control box 604 to communicate to one or more external or user devices the current state of one or more parking spaces. The communication of

Status of certain parking spaces or vacant parking lots in an area can occur in various ways. For example, the control box 604 can be connected to a telephone line, Internet, mobile network, one or more screens or posters, or a combination thereof. Users can then call a number or send a request via text message to receive information about free or occupied parking spaces or search for information on the Internet or on a sign. It is contemplated that electronic signals can be posted, near the entrance of a parking area or other visible area so that users (such as drivers) can easily see which spaces are free or occupied. The poster can direct users to free places, providing a map or directions to a free place, or showing a list of a number or other information that identifies the place.

Control box 604 can be configured to communicate parking information to users through one or more user devices of various types. In this way, a wide variety of communication procedures can be used. For example, users can receive notifications through text messages, instant messaging, phone calls, email, or a combination of them on any device capable of displaying them.

Figure 7 illustrates an embodiment of a parking locator system according to the invention. As shown in Figure 7, the parking locator system is composed of one or more groups of parking locators 708. As shown, each group of parking locators 708 comprises one or more parking locators 104 connected in a type chain margarita to a control box 604. Each group 708 can transmit parking information based on real time to a location server 712 through a network 720. For example, parking locators or parking locator groups 708 can continuously transmit parking information to the location server 712. The location server 712, as described below, can be configured to organize and store the received parking information and provide the parking information to one or more user devices 704.

These transmissions of information can occur through one or more communication links 716 via cable or wireless and 720 networks that use different communication protocols. It is noted that in some embodiments, parking information may be transmitted when requested by a location server 712 instead of being transmitted based on real time. For example, parking information may be requested by a location server 712 from one or more parking locators 104 or groups 708 in response to the request of a driver or another person to obtain parking information. Such a request can be made from a user device 704.

Although illustrated as two separate networks 720, it is contemplated that user devices 704, location servers 712, groups 708, and individual parking locators 104 can communicate through a single network or several networks. It is also contemplated that the networks may be of different types. For example, communication can occur over the Internet, telephone networks, mobile networks, as well as other wired or wireless networks. The type of network or networks used will depend on the communication requirements used by and with the invention herein.

In one embodiment, the communication between each group 708 and the location server 712 is performed through wireless communication links 716. In a preferred wireless embodiment, GPRS communication is used to facilitate communication between each group 708 and the location server 712. In another embodiment, communication between each group 708 and the location server 712 is performed through communication links 716 cable. In a preferred wired embodiment, groups 708 and location server 712 communicate via TCP / IP or another Internet protocol. In another additional embodiment, individual groups 708 can communicate through different wired or wireless 720 networks, such as GPRS networks, circuit switching networks, or packet switching networks (eg, Internet).

As mentioned, each group 708 comprises one or more parking locators 104 connected in a daisy chain to a control box 604. In this embodiment, each group 708 communicates through a communication link 716 through its control box 604. Also shown in Figure 7 is a parking locator 104 configured to communicate directly with a location server 712 through a network 720. For example, the logical device of a parking locator 104 can be configured with a suitable transceiver to allow direct communication of parking information to a location server 712, if desired.

The location server 712 can collect the information collected in real time, periodically, or otherwise (for example, as the information is requested by the users) and organize the information based on location and time. This information can then be easily retrieved by system users. The location server 712 will normally be a server computer or a personal computer with machine-readable code configured to perform the functions described herein. However, it is noted that other devices capable of performing the functions herein can also be used with the invention.

In one embodiment, the location server 712 uses a database to organize and store parking information. The database can include the following data elements:

1) User accounts to allow access to the system and the service, which include the type of account, name and address information, type of user device and user device configuration. 2) Network configurations that include each parking device, each transmission device, the location within a defined geographical area, and other configuration information 3) Information and configuration of the wireless network 4) Assistance personnel accounts 5) Status of the device of the parking device 6) Location and status of the user 7) Traffic alerts 8) Traffic information 9) Rates in City and Payment repository 10) Connection to financial institutions for payment services 11) Other related information and status in real time

Account information, such as user accounts and support personnel, can be used to allow or deny access to 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.

Therefore, it can be seen that the location server 714 is advantageous since it provides a central storage area, such as the database described above, for parking information. In addition, other related information can be stored and accessed. In addition, location server 714 allows access to such information so that it has to be controlled by one or more user accounts, support personnel, or other accounts, and provides a single device in which account holders can access to parking information and related information. As mentioned, it is contemplated that the location server 714 can be a computer and, therefore, can be easily programmed to include additional functionality and connect to a wide variety of networks and devices as needed.

Similar to individual parking locators 104 or groups of parking locators, the parking locator system offers a service to the user that provides the user with information about the available parking space within a particular location or region. In one embodiment, the user can send a text message (for example, SMS messages from a mobile phone) with a specific access code to request the nearest 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. Therefore, it can be seen that a variety of text messages can be sent to the parking locator system and that the system can be configured to provide specific information requested by a particular text message. An example of this type of text message request might look like this:

"Nearest square?" (To request the nearest place)

"All the squares?" (To request all available places within an area)

A user can provide his current location to the system in the text message, or the user's phone can provide the user's current location. For example, the phone can provide GPS coordinates to the system or the user can enter street crossings, postal codes, coordinates, or other location information in a text message. This request could be observed as follows:

"Square closest to Main Street and 4th Street?"

In response to a request, the parking locator system can be configured to return a text message to the user, providing travel directions to the free space. For example:

"Plaza available on 4th Street between Main Street and River Street"

The system can be configured to send a map or other visual information indicating the location of one or more places, or said information can be synchronized to a map or other data. For example, the system can send a map in jpg showing the streets and the location of free parking spaces to a user device, such as a telephone, for viewing.

It is contemplated that the parking locator system can be connected to other user devices, such as navigation devices. For example, it can be used in automobile or portable GPS steering systems. The state of the parking spaces, preferably free spaces, can then be displayed on a map showing the navigation device. In addition, the system may include a GPS system, which

It includes radio communication and can specifically inform the user about the availability of parking within a specific area. Additional options may include the ability of a GPS-enabled user device to also provide integrated information regarding accidents or traffic jams.

It is noted that user devices, which are generally devices capable of displaying or presenting parking information to a user, can be of various types. For example, in addition to mobile phones and navigation devices, PDAs, portable media players, electronic signs, portable game machines, Internet terminals and computers can be used to request and view parking information. It is contemplated that these devices can request and display the parking information through various interfaces. For example, some user devices may use a web interface or other software interface to allow users to make requests for parking information and display them to users.

In addition, an upper light indicator, as described above with respect to Figure 1, can be used to display the parking information. In this situation, the upper light can be configured as a user device in which the upper light would communicate with or be controlled by a location server or a control box without connecting to a parking locator or any other device. internal logic It is contemplated that a higher indicator light may be associated with a parking space instead of joining the parking locator. For example, the upper indicator light can be attached to the parking space itself or can be mounted on a pole that extends upwards from the parking space. As indicated, such a post can have different heights as desired for visibility, aesthetics, or for other reasons.

In one or more embodiments, users may be charged for parking information provided by the invention. Many procedures to charge users of the system are possible, including monthly fees, subscriptions, transaction costs, being subsidized by the government or advertising, by specific location, specific region, etc. It is noted that any method of accepting payment, now known or subsequently developed, can be used with the invention.

In one embodiment, the location server can be configured to charge a fee or payment and verify that a user has paid before communicating the parking information to the user. Each user can be identified by their phone number, username and password, or any other identifying information. It is contemplated that, when a location server is not provided, a control box can be configured to collect payment and verify that a user has paid before communicating the information to the user.

The parking locator system can be configured to support a plurality of financial procedures to access the system and use the service. For example, in many of Europe's big cities, drivers are forced by cities to pay for access to urban centers to alleviate environmental problems. A mobile phone can be used as an electronic wallet that communicates to the system using protocols such as GPRS to make the payment for access to the city. Therefore, it is contemplated that a mobile telephone can be used similarly to make the payment for access to the parking locator system. Said payment may include a single payment for a single day, several days, one month, different months, or another period of time as desired.

In some embodiments, the system may admit access based on the time the user pays only for the time he or she is within a city center or in another area and wishes to use the parking locator system. In other embodiments, access can be supported based on a subscription when the system user pays a monthly fee to use the system to access parking information. It is contemplated that the system may allow payments to access other services that the system is able to provide, including but not limited to traffic information and traffic alert services. There may also be a software development kit (SDK), always on behalf of third parties to add additional services or functions to the system, such as information on retail stores, entertainment information, restaurant information and special offers and services.

Although various embodiments of the invention have been described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many more embodiments and implementations are possible that are within the scope of the present invention. In addition, the various features, elements, and embodiments described herein can be claimed or combined in any combination or arrangement.

Claims (12)

1. A parking locator system comprising: a location server (712) configured to provide information to a mobile user device (704) that identifies one or more unoccupied parking spaces (112) within the vicinity of a specified location in response to a request that includes a user location of said mobile user device, said information comprising geographic information to indicate a location of said one or more unoccupied parking spaces within the vicinity of the specified location location in relation to said user location; one or more groups comprising: a control box (604) configured to communicate said location server with parking information comprising information indicating the presence or absence of a vehicle within one or more parking spaces; and one or more parking locators (104) configured to generate said parking information and communicate said parking information to said control box, said one or more parking locators comprising: a body (120); one or more sensors (108) attached to said body, each of said one or more sensors being configured to detect the presence of an object within a parking space; and a logical device (504) in communication with said one or more sensors, said logical device being configured to generate said parking information based on the input of the one or more sensors.

2.

 The parking locator system according to claim 1, wherein said one or more sensors are attached to said body by one or more pivoting mounts.

3.

 The parking locator system according to claim 1, wherein said request comprises a text message consisting of information identifying said location.

Four.

 The parking locator system according to claim 1, wherein said location server comprises 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.

5.

 The parking locator system according to claim 1, wherein said location is provided by a user.

6.

 The parking locator system according to claim 1, wherein said location server provides addresses up to said one or more unoccupied parking spaces in response to said request.

7.

 The parking locator system according to claim 1, further comprising one or more upper light indicators (124) adjacent to said one or more parking locators, said one or more upper light indicators comprising:

one or more lights connected to said control box; Y a vertical support configured to support said one or more lights in an elevated position; whereby said control box emits light from one or more lights based on the presence or absence of a vehicle in said parking space.

8.

 The parking locator system according to claim 1, wherein said one or more groups are associated with one or more parking areas selected from the group consisting of parking garages, parking areas and one or more blocks of buildings .

9.

 The parking locator system according to claim 1, wherein said location server comprises a database and is configured to organize and store said parking information from said one or more groups in said database.

10.

 The parking locator system according to claim 1, wherein said location server charges a fee before responding to said request.

eleven.

 The parking locator system of claim 10, wherein said fee is paid through a mobile phone.

12.

 The parking locator system of claim 10, wherein said fee is charged upon entering a city in which said parking locator system is installed.