ES2908198T3 - Parking monitoring system - Google Patents

Abstract

A parking management system for a car park (500) comprising a plurality of parking spaces (502) for vehicles, an entrance (504) to the car park (500) and an exit (506) from the car park (500), comprising the system: a kiosk (512) comprising: a weather resistant housing (105) including first and second sides; a processor (110) disposed within the housing (105); a memory disposed within the housing (105) and coupled to the processor (110); a network interface (109) disposed in the housing (105) and coupled to the processor (110); a graphical user interface (101) disposed on the housing (105) and facing out from the first side of the housing (105); a kiosk camera (204) disposed in the housing (105) and looking out from the first side of the housing (105); and a payment acceptor (114) disposed in the housing (105); wherein a first parking camera (518) is located in the parking lot (500) such that the entrance (504) to the parking lot is within a field of view of the first parking camera (518), the first parking camera parking lot (518) coupled to the processor (110) of the kiosk (512) and configured to transmit image data to the kiosk (512) for vehicles entering the parking lot, where the first parking camera (518) is placed in the parking lot remote from the kiosk (512) wherein the processor (110) is configured to: detect a vehicle entering the parking lot (500); capturing an identification of the vehicle entering the parking lot (500); transmitting the identification to a remote computer system via the network interface (109); timing an initial grace period (404); receive a payment (406) for a period of parking time; determine that a parking violation has occurred (408) due to at least one of the initial grace period (404) expiring without receiving a payment for the parking time period and the parking time period expiring without the vehicle leaves the parking lot (500); transmitting a parking violation notice (408) to the remote computer system via the network interface (109), the notice including a vehicle identification and a time of the violation; and transmitting a time of departure of the vehicle (506) from the parking lot (500) to the remote computer system via the network interface (109), wherein the kiosk (512) comprises a microphone arranged in the housing (105) and a loudspeaker disposed in the housing (105), wherein the processor (110) is configured to: calculate a total parking fee in response to a selected amount of time, wherein the total parking fee comprises a first parking fee for a a first portion of the selected amount of time and a second parking fee for a second portion of the selected amount of parking time, the second parking fee being different from the first parking fee; displaying the first parking fee and first subtotal for the first portion of the selected amount of time on the graphical user interface (101); displaying the second parking fee and a second subtotal for the second portion of the selected amount of time on the graphical user interface (101); and displaying the total parking fee (240) on the graphical user interface (101), wherein a second parking camera (520) is provided to detect vehicles leaving the parking lot, said second parking camera (520) is placed in the parking lot (500) such that the parking lot exit (506) is within the field of view of the second parking camera (520), the second parking camera (520) is configured to transmit image data to the kiosk (512) for vehicles leaving the parking lot.

Description

DESCRIPTION

Parking monitoring system

Priority

This application claims priority benefit from US Provisional Application No. 61/794,596 filed March 15, 2013, US Provisional Application No. 61/887,319 filed October 4, 2013 and Provisional Application for US Application No. 61/887,324 filed October 4, 2013, and is a partial continuation of US Application No. 14/164,177, filed January 25, 2014, which claims the priority benefit of aforementioned provisional applications, as well as U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/756,854 filed January 25, 2013.

Countryside

The present invention relates to parking and ramp payment management systems and payment methods, more particularly, to parking structures monitored by vehicle identification devices that interact with a payment acceptance and monitoring system.

Background

Conventional parking payment methods involve numbered spaces and a kiosk that produces tickets that need to be returned to the car (or the user must insert payment into a slot that corresponds to their numbered space). Alternatively, the user must purchase a ticket and keep the ticket on their person so they can pay at a ticket kiosk or at the parking lot/ramp exit. These payment systems can be inconvenient for people who park in the parking lot due to many reasons, such as lost tickets, time consuming, etc. And, a person should be employed to periodically inspect the parking lot to determine if violations have occurred. Inspector add cost. Also, many violations may not be detected between inspections, thus resulting in significant lost revenue. Therefore, there is a need for parking and ramp management systems that address some or all of the disadvantages of conventional systems.

Documents US 2008/0212414 A1 and WO 2014/117041 A1 disclose a parking management system for a car park.

JP 2012-203833 A discloses a parking management system for a parking lot where the parking fee is set at the end of the parking period before leaving the parking lot.

The invention is defined in claim 1.

Further developments of the invention are provided in the dependent claims.

Summary

This invention is directed to car parks, ramps and streets for metered parking use and ticketing as required by system software logic (following municipal regulation legislation or municipal guidance), without the use of attendants or control staff. The invention can be used in unattended parking lots.

The parking monitoring embodiments discussed herein eliminate the cost of parking monitoring personnel (eg, cashiers and violation enforcement) and also capture all violators. Therefore, income is improved.

Nationwide, even globally, there are millions of parking spaces in parking lots, hotel lots, parking ramps, street parking, and event parking that currently require significant manual intervention by the consumer and parking owner and the application of parking violations by the police. Various embodiments and features of the various embodiments can automate the entire parking management and payment process and save costs and increase revenue.

While unstaffed parking lots can pose a security concern or an opportunity to deceptively store vehicles, various embodiments of the present invention recognize vehicle IDs and link vehicle identity with permits and length of stay and vehicles of interest to law enforcement. This provides strong protection, security, and ease of permitting to the public, law enforcement, and operators. Therefore, costs are contained, protection is improved and ease of use is increased through automated permission management.

In certain embodiments, a set of class rules may be applied to change the parking parameters for a given parking event. The class rules may correspond to the identification of a particular vehicle or may correspond to an entry for the meter. Parking parameters can also be set and updated by a remote computer system interfaced to the parking meter.

The present invention in certain embodiments increases revenue compared to traditional parking systems used in parking lots and ramps.

The invention provides irrefutable proof of the violation with license plate images after entry, violation and exit by the car.

Certain embodiments may perform license plate recognition (LPR) and transmit the jpg and ASCII data to a remotely located web site for querying the respective department of motor vehicles, issuing a citation via email, and collection of fees. fines.

Certain embodiments may provide citizen and community safety communications services. Such services may include, but are not limited to: meter penalty payments; identification of acts that circumvent the law; identification of stolen vehicles; amber alerts; emergency broadcasts; area monitoring for law enforcement; car tracking for law enforcement; community messaging for town halls and other city announcements; sudden emergencies by location, region, or citywide; business coupons, merchant advertising, public notices, addresses, directories, concierge services, vehicle assistance requests; 911 calls; 311 calls; any call; request for medical assistance; fire report; police request; towing services; visually present advertisements and service coupons from vendors and others.

A wide variety of payment alternatives and pricing features may be included in certain embodiments, including flexible grace periods; insurance without fines; replacement of street signage with on-screen parking notices and regulations; variable preview by time of day, week, event; progressive prices by length of stay; allow parking management by LPR; all centrally managed and distributed remotely by the city's parking department, police or other designated agency. Additionally, each camera can be commanded to allow web-enabled remote viewing via smartphones, tablets, or computers for lawful security and surveillance applications. Therefore, in certain embodiments, the invention is a community kiosk that has many diverse automated city applications for parking, safety, security, and real-time connectivity for web-hosted management and integrated communications and can provide a wide variety of of city services like never before.

A disclosed parking management method may include capturing image and entry time data of a vehicle entering the parking lot and transmitting the image data and time data to a remote networked computer system. A vehicle identification is determined from the image data. The time and image data of the vehicle leaving the parking lot is determined and transmitted to the remote network computer system. A parking violation is determined due to a parking time period expiring without the vehicle leaving the parking lot before the parking period expires. A notice of violation is communicated to the person associated with the vehicle identified as being in violation. A parking kiosk is provided adjacent to the car park. The kiosk is coupled to the remote network computer system and is configured to set parking time, calculate payment and receive payment.

A parking management system including a kiosk is also disclosed.

The kiosk comprises a weather resistant housing including first and second sides with a processor and memory disposed within the housing. A network interface is provided in the housing and couples to the processor. A Graphical User Interface is disposed on the housing and faces out the first side of the housing. A kiosk camera is disposed in the housing, faces out the first side of the housing and is coupled to the processor. A microphone, a loudspeaker and a payment acceptor are all arranged in the housing. A first parking camera located in the parking lot such that an entrance to the parking lot is within its field of view. The parking camera is attached to the kiosk and is configured to transmit image data to the kiosk of vehicles entering the parking lot. The kiosk processor is configured to detect a vehicle entering the parking lot, capture an identification of the vehicle entering the parking lot, transmit the identification to a remote computer system via the network interface, time an initial grace period, receive the payment for a parking time period, determining that a parking violation has occurred due to at least one of the initial grace period expiring without receiving a payment for the parking time period and the expiring parking time period without the vehicle leaving the parking lot, transmitting a parking violation notice to the remote computer system via the network interface, including the notice including vehicle identification and a violation time, and transmitting a vehicle departure time from the first parking space to the remote computer system via the network interface.

Alternatively or additionally, a separate camera, local area network (LAN) or Wi-Fi connected to the kiosk can be used to better position the image and car when entering and exiting parking lots. For vehicles whose IDs are transmitted wirelessly, a receiver located at the counter/kiosk or at a remote location and interconnected to the kiosk/meter can receive the ID signals instead of or in conjunction with the camera.

The foregoing summary is not intended to limit the scope of the invention, the scope of which is defined by claim 1, or to describe each embodiment, aspect, implementation, feature, or advantage of the invention. Detailed technology and preferred embodiments for the subject invention are described in the following paragraphs accompanying the accompanying drawings so that those skilled in the art in this field will appreciate the features of the claimed invention. It is understood that the features mentioned above and those to be discussed hereinafter may be used not only in the specified combinations, but also in other combinations. However, it is repeated that the present invention is defined by the subject matter of independent claim 1.

Brief description of the drawings

Figure 1 is a perspective view of a parking meter/kiosk in accordance with certain embodiments of the invention.

Figure 2 is a block diagram of components of a parking meter/kiosk system in accordance with certain embodiments of the invention.

Figure 3 is a block diagram of components of a parking system in accordance with certain embodiments of the invention.

un parquímetro/quiosco de acuerdo con ciertas realizaciones de la invención. La Figura 5 es una vista lateral de

un parquímetro/quiosco de acuerdo con ciertas realizaciones de la invención. La Figura 6 es una vista frontal de

un parquímetro/quiosco de acuerdo con ciertas realizaciones de la invención. La Figura 7 es una vista trasera de un parquímetro/quiosco de acuerdo con ciertas realizaciones de la invención.Figure 4 is a front view of

a parking meter/kiosk according to certain embodiments of the invention. Figure 5 is a side view of

a parking meter/kiosk according to certain embodiments of the invention. Figure 6 is a front view of

a parking meter/kiosk according to certain embodiments of the invention. Figure 7 is a rear view of a parking meter/kiosk in accordance with certain embodiments of the invention.

Figure 8 is an internal component view of a parking meter/kiosk in accordance with certain embodiments of the invention.

Figure 9 is a perspective view of a parking meter/kiosk in accordance with certain embodiments of the invention.

Figure 10 is a front view of a parking meter/kiosk in accordance with certain embodiments of the invention.

Figure 11 is a rear view of a parking meter/kiosk in accordance with certain embodiments of the invention.

Figure 12 is a perspective view of a parking meter/kiosk and highway sensor in accordance with certain embodiments of the invention.

Figure 13 is a screen shot of a parking meter/kiosk interactive display screen in accordance with certain embodiments of the invention.

Figure 14 is a side view of a parking monitoring system in accordance with certain aspects of the description.

Figure 15 is a diagram of a parking monitoring system in accordance with certain aspects of the description.

Figure 16 is a block diagram of the operation of parking monitoring in accordance with certain embodiments of the invention.

Figure 17 is a violation report screen shot for a parking system in accordance with certain embodiments of the invention.

Figure 18 is a status screen for meters in a parking system according to certain embodiments of the invention.

Figure 19 is a screen of rate blocks for a meter in a parking system in accordance with certain embodiments of the invention.

Figures 20A and 20B are views of a meter/kiosk setup screen in a parking system according to certain embodiments of the invention.

Figure 21 is a diagram of a parking monitoring system in accordance with certain embodiments of the invention.

Figure 22 is a diagram of a parking monitoring system in accordance with certain embodiments of the invention.

Figure 23 is a diagram of a parking monitoring system in accordance with certain embodiments of the invention.

Figure 24 is a diagram of a parking system in accordance with certain aspects of the description.

Figure 25 is a diagram of a parking system in accordance with certain embodiments of the invention.

Figure 26 is a schematic diagram of a parking system in accordance with certain embodiments of the invention.

While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specifics thereof have been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail. It should be understood, however, that it is not the intention to limit the invention to the particular illustrative embodiments described. On the contrary, the invention will cover all modifications and alternatives that fall within the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

Detailed description

In the following descriptions, the present invention will be explained with reference to various illustrative embodiments; however, these embodiments are not intended to limit the present invention to any particular example, environment, application, or implementation described herein. Therefore, the descriptions of these illustrative embodiments are provided solely for the purpose of illustration rather than to limit the present invention. The various features or aspects discussed herein may also be combined in additional combinations and embodiments, whether or not explicitly discussed herein, provided they do not depart from the scope of the invention, as defined by the appended claims.

Referring to Figure 1, a parking meter or parking kiosk 100 is illustrated. It should therefore be appreciated throughout this disclosure that any reference to a "parking meter" herein is also used to refer to a parking kiosk. parking lot associated with many parking spaces such as in a parking lot or parking ramp. When referring to the meter monitoring an associated space, that also includes a kiosk associated with the plurality of spaces in the parking lot or ramp to which the kiosk is associated. And when referring to a parking space or location it should be appreciated that the space or location could refer to a space in a car park or a parking ramp or other parking facility.

The meter may have an associated monitored parking space 102, or may serve as a parking kiosk or ramp as will be discussed later herein. The counter/kiosk 100 includes a graphical user interface (GUI) 101. The GUI 101 may be located on one or both of the front and rear sides of the kiosk. The GUI may be tactile or a keypad may be provided separate from the meter for data entry, or both a touch screen and keypad may be provided. The GUI can be configured as a backlit LCD display. A card reader mechanism 103 may also be provided in the meter to facilitate card based payments.

In an embodiment where there is a monitored adjacent parking space, a vehicle 104 may park in that associated adjacent parking space 102. Meter 100 includes one or more cameras 106 disposed in its housing. The cameras 106 are configured to identify the presence and absence of a vehicle at the associated parking spot 102. The cameras take images of the vehicle and/or its license plate 108. The cameras may also take video captures. The camera shown in Figure 1 is positioned to view the license plate of vehicle 102. However, the camera may be positioned directly in front of vehicle 102 to display its faceplate 108 instead. Note also that a second camera 106 is located to represent a front license plate of the vehicle at a location behind the vehicle, as shown. Therefore, one meter can serve two adjacent locations.

Alternatively, a single camera can be used to cover two or more associated parking spaces using a wide angle lens or a movable camera.

The camera(s) may be within the main meter housing as shown in Figure 1, or they may be in their own housing on the meter pole or mounted at a separate location remote from the meter as will be discussed later herein.

The camera captures a digital image of the vehicle and/or its license plate. The camera may be a commercially available license plate reader camera or it may be any suitable digital camera. An optical character recognition (license plate recognition or LPR) process can be used to extract the alphanumeric numbers from the license plate for transmission to a database or other destination.

Referring to Figure 2, the internal components of the parking meter/kiosk 100 and the kiosk/counter will be discussed. A microcontroller 110, or processor, with associated physical memory is disposed within the meter housing 100. Software code that controls the operation and function of the meter is stored in memory. Memory may include one or more nonvolatile storage devices and/or one or more volatile storage devices (eg, random access memory (RAM)).

Computer-readable program code is stored in memory, such as, but not limited to, magnetic media (for example, a hard drive), optical media (for example, an OVO), memory devices (for example, random access, flash memory), etc. The computer-readable program code is configured such that when executed by a processor, the code causes the network-connected device to perform the steps of the invention described herein. In other embodiments, the device is configured to perform the steps described below without the need for code.

A timer 112 is coupled to and controlled by the microcontroller 110. The controller may also count processor clock cycles as a form of timer. Camera 106 is coupled with and in bi-directional communication with microcontroller 110. A payment acceptance mechanism 114 is also coupled with and sends signals to microcontroller 110. Additional components, such as the GUI 101 and any other lights, cameras, sensors , etc., are also connected in operable communication with the microcontroller.

Payment acceptance mechanism 114 may be configured to accept payments by any one or more conventional means, including currency, bills, tokens, coupons, credit/debit card, smartphone, or a combination thereof. Payment acceptor 114 may also be configured to accept contactless payments. In a contactless payment acceptance embodiment, a near field communications (NFC) component is provided in the meter to accept mobile payments using, for example, services such as Google Wallet, PayPal, EZ Pass, and Pay Pass. Virtual currencies such as Bitcoin and the like may also be accepted. An image q Rs may also be displayed on the meter screen for the user to scan with their phone to send a payment with an appropriate application on their phone that enables such a payment method.

In alternative embodiments, various types of sensors may be used to detect the presence and absence of a vehicle in an associated parking location other than through the use of the camera. For example, an ultrasonic sensor, a light sensor, a pressure sensor (on the pavement), a magnetic field sensor, sonar sensors, and radar sensors can all be used as alternatives. Each can be built into the meter housing, a separate mount, or embedded in the road or curb. Either of these alternatives is operatively connected to microprocessor 110, which can determine the presence/absence of a vehicle based on the status change information returned from the particular sensor employed. The remainder of the operation and components are otherwise described herein.

The counter/kiosk 100 further includes a network interface 109 either integrated into the microcontroller or as a separate component. The network interface is configured to enable communication with a communication network (eg, a local area network (LAN 116), the Internet, or the World Wide Web), using a wired and/or wireless connection. Network communication media include, but are not limited to, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, cellular (HSPA, LTE, GSM, CDMA), DSL, cable, etc. LAN 116 may include other meters all in communication with a master or main meter for a plurality of slave meters. In the LAN configuration, the LAN 116 can be connected to the Internet 118 as illustrated in Figure 2.

The parking system may also include a host or control computer 120 that governs the operation of and/or stores data from a given number of networked meters. The central or control computer 120 may comprise one or more servers that interface with network storage in a data center. Control computer 120 is remotely located in a secure location for convenience and security purposes. The LAN 116, in turn, is connected to the worldwide computer network (ie, the Internet) to be in communication with a variety of other computer systems, including law enforcement and operating companies. In this way, data can be securely stored and reviewed by the appropriate authorities and the operations of all meters in a given system can be remotely monitored and controlled by a central operator.

Figure 3 provides a communication diagram of certain components of a parking system according to certain embodiments. The parking meter/kiosk 100 includes two vehicle sensors, each associated with a specific parking location. One or both of the sensors can be omitted if the counter is used as a kiosk or there are fewer than two associated spaces. In parking lot/ramp embodiments, the sensors may be control gates and/or remotely located sensors/cameras as will be explained further below.

Small vehicle space identifiers and availability/occupancy identifiers can also be attached to the kiosk. The kiosk can then activate selected signs or signals to productively direct vehicles to available spaces on a parking lot/ramp. This will reduce or eliminate the need for vehicles to travel through parking lots or ramps to find available spaces.

Counter 100 periodically polls sensors to determine if a first vehicle 104a or second vehicle 104b is present in the corresponding space. The meter 100 is also in communication via a LAN, Internet, Intranet, etc., with an internal service server or computer 120. The data exchanged with the internal service server includes occupied/unoccupied status of the monitored spaces, data unique identification of the meter, payment processing information, LPR data, video and image data, maintenance data, operational status and other data as desired by the operator and the department of motor vehicles of the municipality where it is located counter. The SAAS back office server, in certain embodiments, may also supply the meter with configuration data, including parking fees, and display messages to the meter's GUI.

The counter/kiosk 100 may be equipped with a license plate reading means in certain embodiments, which may be responsive to the vehicle identification means employed by the licensing authority where the counter is located. For example, if the license plate provides alphanumeric data, then the meter is equipped to read alphanumeric numbers. This can be achieved by equipping the meter with so-called license plate reader software (LPR) which reads or converts the image of the license plate taken by the camera(s) to alphanumeric text. If the license plate (or other part of the vehicle) is equipped with a Radio Frequency ID (RFID) tag, then the meter is equipped with an RFID tag reader. And, if the license plate (or other portion of the vehicle) is equipped with a machine-readable barcode or transmitter/receiver (for example, a matrix barcode) then the meter is equipped with a transmitter/receiver (to read the license plate, vehicle identification number, driver information) or with a barcode scanning device. The reading means in each instance are in operable communication with the microprocessor. Multiple reading media can be included in a single or multiple slot metering system to allow the system to accommodate a variety of licensing methodologies.

Referring now to Figures 4-9, a first exemplary embodiment of a counter/kiosk is shown. The meter includes an outer housing 105 or casing that houses and protects the various components of the meter. Housing 105 is moisture and impact resistant since it is exposed to rain, snow, and other elements. Also, light impacts can be provided to the housing by people and objects, whereby the enclosure is generally formed of strong materials such as impact resistant metals or plastics. Illustrative dimensions are indicated in Figures 4-5, but the dimensions may be modified without departing from the scope of the invention, unless specifically indicated in a given claim.

The meter casing 105 includes on a first side or front, a microphone, speaker and camera interface area 122 so that the user can interact with the meter and/or operator/janitor/another person through words and/or images. The images are presented to the user by the screen 101. The screen 101 may be tactile (capacitive, pressure sensitive, etc.) and include a plurality of programmable buttons 124 displayed on the screen so that the user can select various options. , services and recover data. Hard navigation buttons 126 may be provided in addition to, or as an alternative to, the screen which is touch. For example, a "home" button and a "back" button may be provided.

The internal components of the housing can be accessed by a 128 t-handle with the integral lock.

Both coin slot 130 and credit card reader 132 are defined in the housing for payment acceptance. Additionally, a contactless payment region 134 may be defined on the meter for payment via NFC or other contactless payment means.

A plurality of status lights 136 are also defined on the counter. At least one light corresponds to a respective parking space and may use color coding to quickly indicate the status to the user. For example, a green color may be designated as being within the prepaid parking time, yellow to designate grace period and/or prepaid parking time about to expire, and red to designate that a violation has occurred. Colors can be varied, increased in number and flashing modes can also be incorporated to convey additional levels of urgency and status to the user.

Referring now to the opposite, or back/rear, of the meter housing in Figure 7, additional features are shown. It should be noted that front/back are relative terms and are used herein simply for convenience and clarity of disclosure. Status lights 136 are repeated on this side of the counter for enhanced visibility. The exits of chamber 138 are shown adjacent to each other. In this illustration, the cameras are arranged in a side-by-side configuration with protruding housings so that the viewing angle corresponds to a respective parking spot. However, the cameras may be arranged in an overlapping stacked configuration instead of the side-by-side configuration shown. The vertically stacked configuration allows for a slimmer width of the counter and also reduces the likelihood of blocking the adjacent chamber due to the distance a chamber housing projects out from the side of the counter side surface. Additionally, the cameras can be recessed into the housing to achieve the desired viewing angle versus protruding as shown in Figure 7.

An ultrasonic sensor 140 is provided that corresponds to each parking space being monitored by the meter. The sensors are used to determine the presence/absence of a vehicle in the respective space. It should be understood that those occupancy monitoring means discussed herein may be employed in alternative embodiments.

Infrared (IR) lights 142 corresponding to each monitored parking space are also provided. IR 142 lights illuminate the vehicle's license plate to allow the plate to be better photographed compared to simply using ambient light.

Figure 8 illustrates the meter with the front half of the housing removed. Status lights 136, IR lights 142, vehicle sensors 140, and cameras 106, 106' can also be seen. Also, the microprocessor or CPU 110 is shown, along with a power supply 144 and internet gateway interface component 146.

Referring to Figures 8-9, a standardized (tall or short) coin can 148 resides securely in housing 105 behind a coin door 150. The door allows access to the coin can without opening the housing. 105. Locating the door 150 on the side of the meter increases the usable surface area available on the front and back sides of the meter. However, front and rear located coin doors are within the scope of the invention unless the location is specifically indicated in the claim. The coin can 148, the door 150 and the coin slot 130 can be eliminated if it is desired to exclude payment by coins.

Figures 10-11 show an alternative embodiment of the parking meter/kiosk in accordance with certain aspects of the invention. Counter 200 includes one or more status and violation indicator lights 202 (at the front, rear, or both). A forward-facing camera 204 is arranged in the meter housing along with a microphone and speaker to provide two-way communication. The front side is provided with a touch screen display (GUI) 206. A physical keypad 208 may also be included in the housing. Keypad 208 may be in the traditional telephone number/alpha layout or in another desired configuration. Alternatively, a touch pad, joystick, or other input means may be included in the counter in addition to or instead of the keypad 208 and/or the touch screen.

A card reader 210 is included in the meter and arranged to be operable from the front side. A traditional coin slot 212 may also be provided. In addition, a near field communication (NFC) reader assembly 214 is provided in the meter housing on the front side to facilitate NFC payment.

It can be seen from the rear side of the meter that the meter housing includes dual wide angle cameras 216 to capture images/video for two adjacent parking spaces. An illumination light (eg, white light emitting diode) 218 is provided adjacent to each camera to provide adequate illumination of the vehicle license plate or other intended imaging target.

The coin vault or security box is held securely within the meter housing, but can be accessed by the key lock 220 on the rear side of the housing.

Counter 200 further includes a microprocessor and non-transitive physical memory. The memory contains software code that is executed by the processor to control the operation of the counter. The same memory may also store the image/video/audio captured by the meter's cameras and microphone, or such information may be stored in a separate physical memory in the meter, or the image/video information may be transmitted to a remote location for your storage, or any combination of the foregoing.

The meter may contain software code executable by the processor to facilitate recognition of voice commands issued by an operator (consumer) that are captured by the meter's microphone. These may be the preferred means of entry to the meter for some users, including people who are visually impaired.

The parking meter/kiosk disclosed herein is an intelligent, self-contained, computer-controlled device that, in certain embodiments, is linked to a larger security network via a high-speed internet connection as a stealthy surveillance system. It has extensive data collection capabilities given its three cameras, LPR feature, a speaker, microphone and touch screen.

The data, including the length of time a vehicle spends in a given space, can be monitored and stored in a central database.

The cameras can be high definition cameras, used to capture images and video. In an illustrative use, meters are placed around every approximately twelve meters (forty feet) of a street. The two street-facing cameras at the rear of the meter head are equipped with wide-angle lenses that allow them to capture a wide field of view. Therefore, all street activity can be captured, including vehicles, crowds, faces in crowds, suspicious objects, and prohibited substances. While the street-facing cameras are recording street activity, the forward-facing cameras are positioned on the sidewalk adjacent to the cameras to capture activity taking place on the sidewalk. The images can be used by law enforcement with facial and vehicle recognition applications to search for persons of interest and stealthily determine the location and monitor such persons. Alternatively, when a face match is found, a notification can be sent and/or an alarm triggered.

Additionally, captured license plate images can be converted to text as previously analyzed and compared to a database of known license plate numbers tagged for pending parking violations, criminal records, Amber Alerts, stolen cars, fugitives, or terrorists, etc. The surveillance system therefore automatically initiates notifications and appropriate response actions when a match is found. For example, responses may include automatically generating a citation, notifying a police officer, requesting the appropriate law enforcement, requesting fire personnel, or calling a tow truck.

Indicator lights 202 in one embodiment are red, and are lit when the vehicle parked in the space is in violation. Additional and/or multi-colored lights may also be included to enhance visual cues to users and potential users as previously discussed. For example, they can turn on a green light when the counter is available. This helps people search for available places. An amber or yellow light can be used to indicate that the parking time will expire soon or that a grace period is in effect. The lights can also be flashed to convey additional information as may be desired. Corresponding explanatory messages are displayed on the counter display 206.

In one embodiment, touch screen 206 is a 20.32 centimeter (8 inch) high definition color touch screen. The customer interacts with the touch screen to select parking options and enter payment information. Commands can also be sent remotely to the display via the internal service server to broadcast emergency messages, instructions or warnings. For example, a tornado warning, weather warnings, Amber Alerts, and other public broadcast notifications. Community information can also be presented visually. Payment warnings can be displayed visually. Maps can be published. The user may be prompted to respond to a survey. The user can also download certain information through the counter such as addresses, directories, weather and personal account information, allowed access to Internet sites, calls for help, report a crime, establish a VOIP or video conference call, purchase tickets, buy passes etc. Additional features and functions are discussed throughout this specification. The meter therefore functions as a community kiosk or portal connected to the government.

In alternative embodiments, a biometric identification means such as a fingerprint scanner, iris scanner, or other biometric identification mechanism may be provided at the counter. The biometric identification means may associate an individual's identification (if registered with the monitoring computer) with a given account or form of payment.

Referring to Figure 12, the counter is shown in operation when combined with a ground vehicle sensor 222. The sensor 222 detects the arrival and departure of a vehicle and the camera corresponding to the counter captures photo evidence of the car registration. The vehicle sensor can also be incorporated in the meter housing or the camera can be used to detect the presence of the vehicle. Sensor 222 uses a radar, laser, acoustic, or motion sensor, or other suitable sensing mechanism to determine the presence of the vehicle. Sensors may be hardwired for power or battery operated. The use of low power communications protocols such as Bluetooth to communicate with the corresponding meter would provide a useful life of approximately five years before replacement is required.

Referring to Figure 13, a screenshot of the interactive display screen for a parking meter/kiosk according to certain embodiments is shown. The touch screen 206 is displaying a screen for the consumer user to select a parking time of the desired amount before the issuing a payment for the selected length of time. The screen displays a price schedule 230 to alert the user of applicable prices for parking at the meter's location. Please note that the price schedule indicates variable prices depending on the specific time of day. For example, between the periods of 5:00 pm and 8:00 pm, the price is $4 per hour. Otherwise it is $2 per hour. The portion of the pricing schedule applicable to the individual user is designated by highlighting the schedule that corresponds to the current time of day 231 (5:46 pm in this example) with an indicator 232 and/or highlighted or alternate color text. Time qualifications for price schedule 230 may be more precise or coarser without departing from the scope of the invention.

The user presses virtual up 234 and down 236 buttons on the screen to increase the desired amount of parking time. A digital time display 238 located between these buttons conspicuously indicates to the user the amount of time selected. A corresponding $240 total is also displayed adjacent to the time selection portion of the screen. A maximum parking time 242 is also displayed to alert the user of such a limitation.

As the user increases/decreases the amount of parking time until the desired amount of time is reached or the maximum time allowed is reached. Indicator 232 expands to reflect the amount of time selected. This also visually kicks the user in the event that their time increment has crossed a different price level. Once the user has finished selecting the amount of time, they press the virtual "finish" button 244 on the screen, which will take them to a payment screen. At any time, the user may press the virtual "back" button 246 to return to the previous screen. The user may also select the virtual "help" button 248 for additional instructions and/or to access a live service person.

Referring to Figure 14, an alternative parking space monitoring system is shown. A master parking meter or kiosk 300 such as the one discussed herein is disposed on a pole on the side of the street adjacent to two parking spaces (herein labeled A and B). Instead of placing additional meters adjacent to the remaining locations for this street segment, a dual-lens camera 302, 304, and 306 is arranged on a pole so that vehicle license plate/tag images can be obtained at the locations. B, C, D, and E. Cameras 302, 304, and 306 at adjacent locations B, C, D, and E in this illustration then communicate with meter 300 wirelessly or by performing wired communications so that meter 300 it can function as a monitoring and payment kiosk for cameras 302, 304 and 306 through a local area network.

The user's interaction with the kiosk counter 300 is the same as described above, but with the additional step of entering or selecting space usage corresponding to the user's vehicle. This can be provided in a number of ways, such as by tagging locations on the pavement and/or via marker posts, prompting the user to enter their license plate number, or prompting the user to select their license plate number or vehicle image from the display that displays all license plates in the places to which the counter corresponds in the local area network.

In a further alternative, the cameras on posts 302, 304, and 306 may be replaced with a camera embedded in the roadway 308 at each of locations B-E. The camera is encased in an impact resistant plastic or glass material so that it can be passed while still facing the vehicle tag/license plate. A fisheye lens configuration can be defined on the camera housing to expand the viewable area of the roadway camera 308. As with pole-mounted cameras, roadway cameras 308 communicate wirelessly using a wireless connection or wired to kiosk meter 300. Roadway cameras 308 can be powered by an internal battery and communicate by wireless means so that installation is made easier since it is not necessary to connect cables for power or communications. The cameras 308 "go to sleep" until they are reactivated for transmission and imaging tasks. Idle input cycles are triggered by internal timers or by a wakeup signal sent by kiosk counter 300. Therefore, battery power can be conserved.

"Wireless" communication between remote cameras 302, 304, and 306 and kiosk counter 300 may be via any conventional wireless protocol, including Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, NFC, cellular, etc.

As an alternative to a customer entering their license plate number, the customer could enter a space ID at the kiosk that corresponds to the particular spot in which they are parked. This will be possible when the camera can track the vehicle to a specific location and associate the Vehicle ID in memory accordingly to the specific location. Location identification can be provided in numerous ways, including numbers on the pavement, numbers on an overhead billboard, and/or a scannable one (eg, QRS code) provided at the location that can be scanned by the customer's smartphone. This same feature can be used in street meters, where QRS codes are provided on the curb/street at each space and the customer scans or photographs the code with an app that designates and uploads their time to the kiosk or remote phone app. .

If a feature is provided that can be explored, then the user can use an application on their smartphone to add time, buy passes or permits, find open places, reserve places, etc.

Referring now to Figure 15, a system for managing parking in a street section 350 is shown. A plurality of parking spaces 352 are defined longitudinally along opposing curbs 351 in a street section 350. The street shown is for one-way traffic, but this embodiment is also applicable to two-way traffic.

A license plate recognition (LPR) capable camera 354 is mounted on a structure across each of the defined section of street entrance 356 and exit 358, thereby defining a discrete monitored defined area, such as a parking lot. . The monitoring system reads the license plates of each passing vehicle within the camera's view and reports the data to the control computer. This arrangement allows the parking system to count cars, identify cars specifically, and determine just how long each car has been on that street. The on-street time is determined for a car to drop off or pick up passengers or goods, and then it is determined that the car was parked and for how long, if it was double parked, for how long, and can provide either of security features discussed in the various embodiments herein.

Where there are other exits or parking lots along the same street, additional cameras can be mounted in positions to determine if these vehicles should be excluded from parking charges or violations.

This embodiment can be used to totally eliminate the need for meters/kiosks on those streets where this system would be applied. Users could be allowed through pre-registration to park during pre-assigned periods, with or without parking charges as permitted by the permit. Such registration can be done through a web browser interface, a smartphone application, or through a kiosk/counter as discussed herein. Leaves can be managed on a daily, weekly, monthly, or other recurring basis. Vehicle identities can be used to charge different prices for different classes of people, such as residents, commuters, non-residents, workers, etc.

Referring to Figure 16, in use, the parking system according to certain embodiments is in the idle state 400 by default. The counter periodically queries the vehicle sensor (or camera, etc.) to determine if a vehicle is present 402 . If no vehicle is present, then the system remains in the idle state and continues its queries.

Once a vehicle is detected by query 402, the system goes into the active state and begins timing a grace period 404 with the internal timer as discussed above. The grace period (for example, 5 minutes) allows the vehicle operator a reasonable time to interact with the applicable parking meter or kiosk before a violation is determined. The 404 grace period accumulates until the 406 payment is received or the grace period expires, at which time a 408 violation is determined to have occurred.

Payment block 406 includes the driver's selection of the desired amount of parking time or payment of the flat fee, as applicable. A parking space or license is also selected when required. Once payment has been accepted, the parking period 410 begins.

The parking period 410 counts down the time that the user has previously purchased until the vehicle leaves the space/parking lot/ramp 412 or the purchased parking time expires, resulting in a violation 408. parking meter is counting down, the meter continues to query the vehicle's sensor to determine if and when the vehicle has left the space/parking lot/ramp.

A grace period may also be provided to the driver at the end of the purchased parking period. The driver card can optionally be validated or charged at a flat rate to ensure it is valid, and then charged an additional fee for any time spent past the prepaid time.

The microcontroller (processor or microprocessor) sends commands to the camera to capture an image of the vehicle's license plate (or other identifying information) as the vehicle enters the associated space/parking lot/ramp. The license plate image may also be recaptured at the time the vehicle leaves the space/parking lot/ramp and/or at the time a 408 violation is determined to have occurred or both. Images and/or video of the entire parking event (from entry to exit of the parking space) may be captured, stored in memory and/or transmitted to the central computer system for any of the cameras coupled to the microcontroller.

Each camera can be individually commanded by the central computer to allow remote viewing of each camera feed by an authorized phone, tablet or computer for legal surveillance and security. Thus, for example, law enforcement agencies can be provided with a network of cameras at street level at approximately chest height or eye level of an adult through the which surveillance and security can be carried out.

A violation timer may also be started at the time a violation 408 occurs to determine the duration of a violation. This latter information can be used to determine the increase in violation penalties, if desired by the municipality. Also, a violation can be reported to law enforcement authorities at the time it occurs, or after the violation has lasted for a set period of time (for example, 24 hours).

In a "no parking" mode, such as during declared snow emergencies, police orders, or other temporary no parking circumstances, the meter will query the location for the presence of a vehicle 402 and immediately determine that a violation 408 has occurred. after the entry of the vehicle into the place or after a grace period 404 has taken place.

Violations are determined in one embodiment by timer algorithms programmed in the meter's microprocessor 110 or in the central control computer 120 that is part of the LAN or in a control computer 120 that is in communication with the meter via the internet. .

A driver may also purchase violation insurance at the time of the initial 406 parking purchase. When a user selects and pays for the insurance option, the meter will automatically "feed" itself until the maximum allowable time is reached. , debiting the appropriate amount from the user's credit card.

A driver whose vehicle has been determined to be in violation 408 may be provided with a violation notice at the time the driver interacts with the meter for a second time. In such a circumstance, the driver may be presented with the option of acknowledging their violation and making a corresponding payment through the meter. This feature makes collecting violations efficient. As an incentive, the offending driver may optionally be provided with a discounted violation fee or fine if he or she pays promptly at the meter.

In a further embodiment, a vehicle whose identification is known to have unpaid parking or other violations may be denied parking services by matching the vehicle's identification information to a blacklist of prohibited vehicles. In such an embodiment, the vehicle ID is read at the time car 402 is detected. The ID is transmitted to control computer 120, which then returns an indication of the status of the vehicle on the blacklist. The driver could then be provided with an opportunity to pay those past violations at the meter for parking space, in addition to some parking fee for the current parking event.

The feature that each parking meter is in communication with a central control computer (also referred to herein as an internal service server) allows easy changing of parking rates and parameters for different times of day and for events. For example, parking fees during the weekday may be charged at a higher hourly rate with a lower maximum time limit compared to hourly parking fees and time limits at night. Grace periods can be changed and modified depending on the time of day. No parking mode can be set. Counters/kiosks in certain locations may have their rates changed to manage the supply and demand for spaces in a given area. Also, rates during events, such as concerts and sporting events, may be increased significantly and the duration may be changed to correspond to the duration of the event. This allows the municipality or parking lot/ramp owner to optimize the potential revenue from their spaces. And the changes can be scheduled by the central control computer to take place automatically or the changes can be entered manually by the central control computer and sent to the target meters where the change is desired.

In accordance with a further aspect, a user may establish an account with the municipality (or its contracted private designee) to deposit a positive balance in a driver's account. The driver may then be provided with a proximity card which can be read by a proximity card reader included in the meter/kiosk. The driver's account is then debited an amount corresponding to the duration of the parking. Therefore, the driver would not need to interact with the meter at all unless a violation occurred. However, the driver's license plate would continue to be rendered when the vehicle enters and exits a given parking space. The driver would be in violation if their corresponding account balance fell below zero. Alternatively, the license plate could be associated with the account, and any parking fees automatically deducted from the corresponding account. Therefore, the driver would not need to interact with the counter at all.

Each meter connected to the central control computer 120 continuously reports its status as busy or not busy. In the case of parking lots/ramps or similar, the space occupancy data is reported. For example, the number of cars currently in the monitored parking lot/ramp or the number of remaining open spaces, or both, or the utilization percentage may be reported. These dates they allow analysis to be performed for a variety of reasons, such as price adjustments, traffic analysis, urban planning, etc.

Citizens can access space utilization data in a further embodiment through a public interface to find an available parking space. A smartphone application may be provided that accesses the geographic location information of open parking spaces and presents the driver with map application data (for example, via Google Maps or the like) so that the driver can quickly and easily find a parking space. parking place available.

The central computer may also send coupons and advertisements to the driver's smartphone by sending the coupon data to the corresponding meter for transmission to the user's phone. Alternatively, the counter/kiosk can transmit the coupons without the need to communicate with the central computer.

The specific coupons, messages and advertisements sent may be based on the specific geographic location in which the driver has parked and/or based on the type of vehicle parked in the space and/or the residence information for the vehicle's registered address. This allows local merchants to pay for the territory in which their advertisements/coupons are distributed, to be charged accordingly for such distribution, and also to serve the driver advertisements and coupons targeted to one or more particular demographic groups.

Each counter can display advertisements on the counter GUI or kiosk for the driver to receive on a similar matter. The user can alternatively obtain coupons through the counter through NFC protocols. Coupons may be targeted to the driver based on demographic groups, including geography, vehicle type, frequency of parking, and other data pertaining to vehicle owner and/or vehicle type.

The vehicle type may be determined by matching the vehicle ID to records in a government vehicle registry, such as may be maintained by the department of motor vehicles in a given state or municipality. The counter/kiosk can also be programmed with vehicle shape recognition software to determine the type of vehicle from the image data collected by the camera(s). The vehicle type can be used for various purposes as explained throughout this specification.

In certain embodiments, the vehicle type is determined through software-enabled shape recognition, and then that determined type is compared to the vehicle type listed on the government vehicle registry. If the vehicle types do not match, then an alert may be sent to law enforcement authorities.

In certain arrangements, each parking space, or a group of spaces, is monitored by an associated camera and a master meter or kiosk interacts with multiple separate cameras. In this embodiment, at least one of the camera units is separate from the parking meter/kiosk. Each camera unit can communicate with its respective master parking meter/kiosk to be controlled by that meter/kiosk. This embodiment allows the use of less expensive parking meters/kiosks by having a single meter/kiosk interacting with multiple cameras monitoring a plurality of parking spaces.

License plate (or other vehicle ID) information for automobiles parking in monitored spaces may be transmitted to law enforcement authorities after the vehicle enters and exits the space/parking lot/ramp. This information can be useful for a variety of reasons, including tracking suspected criminals or monitoring suspicious activity. For example, a particular vehicle may be associated with a person of interest to law enforcement authorities and such authorities may track and determine the whereabouts of such person from the monitored Vehicle ID information.

In addition to vehicle ID data collection as described above, the meter/kiosk, or one of the associated cameras, may be actively remotely controlled to perform surveillance. This may include being remotely activated to obtain images and video from the cameras. The cameras can also be remotely pointed and configured as such. For example, a law enforcement agency may interface, via the host computer or corresponding LAN, to selectively trigger the camera(s) to acquire images and/or video.

The cameras at the counters/kiosks and located separate from the counters can be additionally configured and used to perform facial recognition of the user, passers-by or any selected person within the effective field of view of the cameras.

Counters/kiosks may also include a microphone for voice capture and a speaker for audio transmission. Thus, audio data can be recorded both passively and actively as described for video/images herein. The audio capability additionally allows the user to selectively communicate with a concierge, law enforcement authorities, medical professionals, towing services, a helpdesk, and also make calls (using the voice over the Internet) for any one of the user's choice. The user can also make two-way video conference calls using the camera, microphone and speaker.

Any number of additional sensors and transmitters can be deployed at this point to hear, see and interact with the counter or kiosk environment and users, and to provide data and intelligence to the community, including beacon generation technology that enables smartphone interaction and data exchange automatically for real-time user-to-counter alerts and information exchanges.

For example, a beacon transmitter may be included in the counter/kiosk. A beacon transmitter (for example, iBeacon for iOS from Apple, Inc.) is a low-cost transmitter that can send data to and collect data from nearby smartphones. Beacon transmitters typically operate using Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), also known as Bluetooth Smart, or other NFC protocols. Bluetooth LE can also be found on Bluetooth 4.0 devices that support dual mode. Beacon transmitters can be used for people's smartphones, which are within range of the counter/kiosk, notifications of items around it that are on sale or items the person may be looking for, and can provide those people point-of-sale (POS) features where they don't need to pull out their wallets or credit cards to make a payment.

Coupling beacon transmitters to the processor at the counter/kiosk provides several enhanced features and functions. For example, the beacon transmitter/receiver may read cookies from nearby pedestrians' smartphones to acquire sufficient identification information to display advertisements that are relevant to the specific person's shopping habits or needs. Tracked information may be collected in a database for analysis, as well as the number of ad views may be tracked to facilitate individual personalized ads and point-of-presence sales and advertising billings. In further embodiments, beacon protocols can be used to allow a person to carry out a parking transaction without the need to physically touch the meter/kiosk. The transaction could even take place while the driver stays in the car, which is safer and often more comfortable depending on weather conditions.

If the vehicle license plate cannot be read when the vehicle enters a monitored space/parking lot/ramp, the meter/kiosk display will prompt the driver to enter their vehicle ID information and will associate their vehicle ID with the vehicle image obtained when the vehicle enters and leaves the space. If the driver fails to enter the vehicle ID information, then a violation notice is provided and law enforcement authorities are requested.

The meter/kiosk may also notify an agent to inspect the vehicle to validate if parking privileges are being abused; for example to verify a user who selects the disabled parking status option. Additionally, a parking officer or other agent can validate certain parking events remotely by manually reviewing photos of license plate data from an authorized, network-enabled device.

The counters/kiosks are configured to monitor their functionality, and the functionality of their associated cameras, and report the status to the control computer at regular intervals. For example, the microprocessor may be configured to run a self-test once a day (or other selected interval) and then report the results to the central control computer. Users can also report errors through the GUI and the counter can also automatically report errors found during operation. The monitoring computer can then use this information to automatically dispatch service personnel to counters/kiosks that report errors or have failed to report at the expected time. A meter or kiosk that has not communicated with the monitoring computer within a specified time will be reported as needing service automatically by the monitoring computer.

An additional feature of certain embodiments is the ability for the user to charge vehicles equipped with electrical storage capacity (eg, batteries) via the meter/kiosk interface while parked in the corresponding location. In such an embodiment, the meter or other corresponding structure is equipped with a charging port and electrical supply configured to allow the user to plug in their vehicle for recharging. The meter/kiosk can be configured to allow the user to purchase electricity, if desired, from the municipality supplying the electricity, with payment made through the meter's user interface and any of the payment methods described herein.

It is also understood that when referring to the act of taking an image, this includes taking a plurality of images or video as part of a given image-taking action. The images taken by the camera(s) are digitally encoded with date, time, camera number, meter number (or parking lot number or ramp number), and space number. The camera(s) may be provided with flash (eg, an LED flash) and light sensor components to achieve a desired image quality. An accelerometer may be included in the counter/kiosk to provide shock detection.

The counter/kiosk can be programmed to make video or audio calls through its user interface and internet connectivity. In particular, the counter/kiosk can provide a quick link to emergency calling services (eg 911) with a single touch. A videoconference link with emergency services can also be established. Additional call options can be included, such as concierge services, 311 number information/services, roadside assistance, and calls to any individual number the consumer wishes to enter. Other video conferencing services, voice over IP services and instant messaging clients can be additionally programmed to be accessible through the meter/kiosk. A web browser may also be provided. The user can access address information (for example, current location, directions to a destination, nearby points of interest, etc.) through a personalized address menu or through the Internet (for example, Google Maps). The user can additionally access weather information through a personalized menu or via the Internet. Options to select different languages may also be provided. Tutorial video clips can also be provided.

The microphone provides audio input for parking customers who want to speak with a customer service representative. They can also be remotely turned on continuously to listen for certain target sounds, including hostile foot traffic or gunshots, and provide appropriate location information to authorities. The speakers provide the audio output of the customer service representative on a call. They can also be used to broadcast information or emergency messages from a command and control center. Such messages may be provided to selected subgroups of meters/kiosks in selected areas or system-wide or city-wide.

The counter/kiosk can also include an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) reader to capture and track tags in addition to the NFC reader noted above that facilitate contactless payment.

A counter/kiosk can be set up with progressive pricing rates, for example, $1 for the first hour, $2 for the second hour, $4 for the third hour, $8 for the fourth hour, etc., to encourage turnover of space/parking/ramp. Prices can change dynamically based on time of day, day of week, special events, or even congestion levels. Congestion levels can be defined as a ratio of occupied spaces to available spaces in a given area, or could be defined as a volume of traffic flowing on a given roadway or other selected metric. The above may be started manually or automated by the control computer, respectively calculating the space utilization ratio and interfacing with traffic control systems monitoring traffic congestion or based on insurance statistics regarding accidents, traffic, etc.

Monitored spaces can be selectably identified as a handicapped space, snow emergency no parking, no parking or other classification by central control.

The meter/kiosk may also include a wireless transmitter/receiver antenna to allow the meter to operate as a Wi-Fi hotspot.

The screen can be programmed to present the user with advertisements about local vendors and the ability to instantly receive coupons electronically on a smartphone. The advertising display may be delivered based on the type of car parked in the space, based on license plate data and/or other metrics.

The meter/kiosk may include, or interface with, a central computer which has a database of permit holders who are permitted to park for free or at a reduced rate. For example, a given class of person (eg, municipal employees, disabled individuals, neighborhood residents, senior citizens, military veterans, monthly parking pass holders, etc.) associated with a given vehicle registration might be allowed to park free or at reduced rates at certain spaces/parking lots/ramps and/or during certain times of day or subject to reduced fees and fines anywhere or at certain spaces/parking lots/ramps. For example, residents of buildings and houses in a given neighborhood or area could be allowed to park for free or pay reduced rates at meters close to their residence address (and even only on certain days). This ability to designate multiple different class rules (and sub-rules) for parking authorization, parking parameters (for example, grace period length and maximum parking time), corresponding rates (for example, general, free and discount, etc.), corresponding fine rates and even geographically customizing certain privileges for individual vehicles is not possible with conventional parking systems.

The counter/kiosk may automatically recognize that a given vehicle belongs to a particular class based on reading the license plate or ID of the vehicles. Alternatively, a driver can enter a code, swipe a pass/voucher/card, or enter other identification at the meter/kiosk that changes the parking class rules applicable to the instant parking occurrence. For example, to initiate the discount fare, the driver can manually key in a code at the meter, or the driver can use a credit card registered in the control computer that provides a discount, or the driver can use their phone cell phone to transmit a discount code at the meter, or the driver can use their phone to enter or broadcast the discount code wirelessly to the meter, or the user could use a fingerprint scanner (or other biometric ID means) at the accountant to identify himself as a person entitled to a discount.

A merchant can establish a parking account with the control computer so that parking passes or discount codes can be distributed to consumers as desired, and the corresponding merchant account can then be debited for the parking fee covered by the pass/discount For example, a merchant may wish to attract consumers by offering to cover the cost of parking for any consumer purchases greater than a certain dollar amount of merchandise from that merchant. The merchant can then provide such qualified consumers with a one-time parking pass code to be entered at the meter when the consumer returns to their car. By entering the code, the consumer is credited with their prepaid parking fee and the parking fee is deducted from the merchant's account.

In addition to discounting the cost of parking, other parking parameters may be modified for certain individuals based on their authorized class rules as noted above. These other parameters can be any meter/kiosk operation parameter, including the cost of insurance without fines, duration of the grace period, maximum parking time, immediate fine payment discount, etc. The code may also be used for certain authorized individuals to allow parking at meters or in parking lots/ramps that are in a no parking condition. This latter example would allow spaces/parking lots/ramps (or a fractional portion thereof) to be reserved by not allowing parking except for a class or individual person or recognized vehicle.

The parking customer (or another person who interacts with the kiosk/meter) can obtain event tickets or purchase other services (for example, parking passes) through the meter/kiosk interface and means of payment. In such an embodiment, the kiosk/meter can function as a point-of-sale (POS) device for virtually any product or service, including paying bills (for example, water and electricity bills), paying parking tickets or other fines. , access to concierges, etc.

Cameras associated with a meter/kiosk can also be programmed to detect the expiration status of a vehicle's ID plates or tags, and also issue a corresponding violation notice for the expired status.

A drunk driver can easily request a driving alternative, such as a taxi, to take him home through the kiosk/meter user interface. Additionally, a self-reporting "drunk button" can be selected on the screen by the driver, which would spare the driver from having to move their car in an intoxicated state, as well as automatically call the driver a sober taxi. In this embodiment, the button on the screen is easily accessible for disabled people, in which case the parking event can be extended or excused for a certain amount of time. Usage of this feature can be tracked for each instance by associating it with a given license plate to ensure that the feature is not overused. Such monitoring would also flag authorities if the button is pressed for vehicles bearing special status plates, such as repeat DUI offenders with so-called "whiskey" plates. A small fee may also be charged at the discretion of the municipality. Notification will be automatically sent to law enforcement if the intoxication button is pressed and the car subsequently vacates the space/parking/ramp within a pre-defined time interval.

If a driver with a disabled permit parks in a monitored space, the driver selects "Disabled" as an option through the GUI. The GUI displays a warning that a valid handicap license plate or placard must be visually displayed. The system notifies the central control computer of the disabled selection. A list of registered license plates for disabled permit holders can be used to confirm permission to use, and flag off vehicles for tracking by parking enforcement personnel. A registered license plate indicated by the central control computer as belonging to a disabled driver may eliminate the need to select the disabled option because the option will be selected automatically.

When a violation is determined, the counter/kiosk sends photos and details of the violation to the monitoring computer as shown in Figure 17. The monitoring computer informs the counter/kiosk that a ticket has been issued, and the counter turns on a violation light where applicable. When the offending driver approaches the viewer, the counter/kiosk notifies the user that a ticket has been received. The driver is offered a choice between an immediate discounted payment or a full price future payment. The user can choose to pay immediately at a discount, or have a ticket sent to their email address associated with the vehicle registration.

As shown in Figure 17, the violation is assigned a violation number for tracking purposes. An image of the vehicle and its license plate details and registration status are indicated. Each relevant violation data is provided, such as the reasons or basis for finding a violation, the location, indications of time, fine and payment. The license plate information can be edited and the violation can be manually cleared in certain embodiments.

The meter/kiosk can also be configured to allow an expiration grace period beyond the predetermined, limited time of payment of the recovery fee to avoid a violation. In such a situation, the driver enters the space/parking lot/ramp, pays for a fixed period of time, but does not pre-pay the previously described no-penalty insurance, and then returns five minutes after the time has expired. In such a situation according to this feature, the user approaches the counter. The user selects his parking place. The viewer displays a grace period notification to the user, notifying the user that they are five minutes late, if they pay for the extra time, they will not receive a ticket. The user chooses to pay the extra time. The user enters the vehicle and leaves. The system takes a photo of the car and license plate, including the time and details of the user's interaction with the system.

In another alternative scenario, the driver enters the space/parking lot/ramp, pays for half of the fixed time period, pays for insurance without fines, and returns five minutes after the timer expires. In this situation, the user approaches the counter/kiosk. The counter displays a choice of place/vehicle. The user selects his parking place/vehicle. The meter shows that the credit card penalty-free feature has charged your credit card for the extra time to cover the overage. The user enters the vehicle and leaves. The system takes a photo of the car and license plate, including the time and details of the user's interaction with the system.

The meter/kiosk can be configured with a maximum parking time. The GUI will prompt the driver with the maximum amount of time and will not allow the driver to select more time than is allowed. If the vehicle remains parked in the space/parking lot/ramp for more than the maximum time, then a violation is automatically determined. Insurance without penalty and any grace period after expiration apply.

Once a vehicle exits a space/parking lot/ramp, the counter transmits its space availability status to the control computer, where applicable, the counter is reset to zero minutes remaining and any violation status is cleared.

The counter/kiosk is also configured with a maintenance mode. This mode is initiated by the control computer, by an attendant swiping an authorized "maintenance attendant" card, or by entering an assigned keypad combination. Once this mode is entered, the display shows a maintenance mode menu. The wizard chooses between "Withdraw money" and "Control unit". The wizard enters a passcode. If the passcode is incorrect, the system notifies the control computer. If the pass code is repeatedly wrong, it starts the system alarm. If the passcode is correct, the system disables internal alarms and transmits the access notification to the control computer. When maintenance is complete, the counter/kiosk exits maintenance mode. Alarms are reactivated. The counter/kiosk notifies the control computer that it has returned to normal service mode.

If the counter/kiosk receives a shock greater than a set threshold value as measured by an internal sensor, then it issues an alarm and notifies the monitoring computer. The alarm is audible and visible. The alarm continues until the expiration of a predefined impact alarm duration.

If the meter/kiosk casing is opened without prior entry of the appropriate credentials, then the meter issues an alarm and notifies the monitoring computer.

Alarms can be manually or automatically disabled by the control computer. An alarm can also be deactivated at the meter by entering a corresponding code or entering another credential. If the alarm is interrupted by loss of power, for example due to a vandal cutting the power line or removing the controller, then the alarm will continue when power is restored.

If the driver/user chooses to pay via NFC, the meter display prompts the user to hold their NFC phone or wallet to the NFC reader. The counter/kiosk transmits the data to the control computer which interfaces with the appropriate institution to validate the account. If validation is declined, the user is informed and prompted to select another payment method. If the amount required to pay is greater than the balance, the user is prompted for an additional payment method. When the payment is complete, a transaction ID is displayed allowing retrieval of a receipt over the Internet.

If the driver chooses to pay with an account, then the display prompts the user to enter their account ID or swipe an account card. Driver enters ID/swipes card. The system prompts the user to enter their PIN. The driver enters the PIN. The counter/kiosk corresponds with the central computer to validate the account and the available balance. If validation is declined, the user is informed and prompted to select another payment method. If the amount required to pay is greater than the balance, the user is prompted for an additional payment method. When the payment is complete, a transaction ID is displayed allowing the recovery of a I receive through the Internet.

The user can also top up their account through the counter/kiosk. The viewer prompts the user to enter their account ID/swipe card. Driver enters ID/swipes card. The system prompts the user to enter their PIN. The driver enters the PIN. The counter/kiosk, through the control computer, validates the account and the available balance. The user is then prompted for an additional payment to be added to the account. Payment can be made by any means described in this document; including EFT from the parking account if associated with a bank account. When the payment is complete, a transaction ID is displayed allowing retrieval of a receipt over the Internet.

Monitored space/parking lot/ramp owners/operators are provided with the ability to change many of the operating parameters of any one or more monitored spaces/parking lots/ramps, including rates, hours, pass codes, grace periods, maximum time and cards allowed. Each meter/kiosk setting can be accessed through a control screen accessible to the owner/operator via the control computer. The owner/operator may be provided with secured remote access to an owner/operator subsystem within the control computer system. The updated data is sent to the selected counter(s), who implement the new settings as soon as the current slot is vacant.

Referring to Figure 18, an owner/operator maintenance screen is shown. The screen includes a block for each counter/kiosk in the location selected by the user. In a previous screen, not shown, the user would be provided with a list of meter locations by area or other grouping corresponding to the user's login credentials. Selecting a particular area from the list, the user is then presented with a screen like the one shown in Figure 18.

In one alternative, the owner/operator is presented with an interactive map indicating each counter/kiosk that corresponds to the user's credentials. By moving the cursor on the user's screen across a given counter/kiosk, data relevant to the counter/kiosk would be displayed.

Clicking on a meter block in Figure 18, or on a particular meter/kiosk on the interactive map, will present the owner/operator with a detailed meter status screen similar to the one shown in Figure 17.

The user may also select a rate block screen, such as that shown in Figure 19, for each meter/kiosk. The rate block screen presents the current rate data schedule for each meter/kiosk for each day of the week and for each hour of each day. This visual representation makes it easy for the owner/operator to quickly appreciate the current rate adjustments. Individual rate blocks can be edited on this screen by selecting the block and entering new rate data.

Additional parameters or settings can be accessed on a settings screen as shown in Figures 20A and 20B. Both figures are top and bottom portions of a single screen that is navigated using the screen scroll bar. Modifiable settings include: message waiting, help message, initial parking grace period, violation grace period, maximum parking period duration, instant pay discount rate for parking violation payment, full ticket rate and service fee for purchasing the insurance without penalty. Each setting can be changed via the corresponding editable field. More or less editable parameters can be provided to the owner/operator without departing from the scope of the invention.

The monitoring computer may also be configured to generate a variety of owner/operator reports for any one or more meters over a given period of time. For example, monthly revenues can be summed on a per meter (or per parking lot or per space, etc.) basis for all monitored spaces and meters/kiosks in a given municipality. Other reports can be generated, including occupancy trends, customer parking behavior and detailed usage patterns. Because each transaction is reported and stored on the control computer, data and reports can be generated without consulting the meter/kiosk. Also, the meter/kiosk therefore does not have to maintain much or any transaction data, which reduces meter cost because memory size can be minimized, and also makes the system more secure and robust because data is stored centrally.

Referring now to Fig. 21, a parking ramp or parking payment management system according to an exemplary embodiment will be described. Parking lot 500 comprises a plurality of parking spaces 502. Instead of having a parking meter monitoring each space (or pair of spaces), a single kiosk 512 can be used to manage parking in the entire parking lot/ramp 500.

The vehicle entrance 504 and vehicle exit 506 to the parking lot are monitored because all vehicles must pass through these limited thresholds. Of course, there can be multiple entry/exit points without departing from the scope of the invention. A license plate reader 508 or camera is disposed adjacent to (or associated with) each entry point 504 and is configured to read the Vehicle ID of each vehicle entering the parking lot/ramp/facility 500. A gate 510 may optionally be provided. to allow only the step after the vehicle ID is successfully read. The vehicle ID is then transmitted or stored as described in previous embodiments.

A second camera may be arranged adjacent to the entrance in addition to the license plate reading camera 508 to take a photo of the vehicle and/or the persons in the vehicle. Or a single camera may be provided that is configured to acquire all of the desired ID and photo data.

In locations where vehicles have only rear license plates, the entrance or exit is configured accordingly so that the vehicle ID reading camera 508 is located where the rear ID plate can be effectively read when the car enters. the parking lot or when waiting for the 510 gate barrier to open.

A central 512 kiosk is conveniently located at or adjacent to the parking lot/ramp/facility to accept payment. The user needs to enter only their license plate or vehicle ID information and submits the payment and the payment process, or other user interaction, proceeds according to the description provided herein above. Multiple kiosks 512 may be provided to accommodate multiple simultaneous users or to improve user convenience. However, each 512 kiosk can accept payment for any vehicle that entered the parking lot, ramp, or facility.

A registered user class can be set for a ramp or parking as it will allow the vehicle to bypass certain entry/exit monitoring stations by automatically providing access. For example, a frequent parking customer at an airport or parking garage can be recognized by their vehicle ID, bypass the gate (or have the gate automatically raise upon vehicle identification), and proceed directly to a parking spot. Departure procedures can be similarly simplified/expedited.

Violations are determined and treated the same as for previous embodiments.

Any of the counter features of the previous embodiments may also be incorporated into or used in conjunction with the kiosks of the present embodiment. Therefore, those features will not be repeated again.

Exit 506 of parking lot 500 is also equipped with a camera 214 in this embodiment to capture Vehicle ID, and optionally additional vehicle and person images as noted above, when the vehicle exits parking lot/ramp/facility 500. You can An exit gate barrier 516 may optionally be provided to ensure that the camera 514 successfully captured the vehicle ID before allowing the vehicle to pass.

Also, the kiosk can be programmatically configured to keep the gate barrier 516 lowered to block a vehicle's exit path momentarily while the parking system determines if a violation has occurred. If a violation has occurred, the 516 door may remain lowered or locked to the vehicle until the violation is resolved. A message may also be displayed on a display 515 at exit 506 informing the driver of a violation status and providing instructions to remedy the violation to obtain the exit passage. Fines can be paid through the kiosk as discussed above. Door barriers 510 and 516 can be of any configuration and type known to those skilled in the art.

Referring to Figure 22, a meterless, gateless, unattended parking management system according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention is depicted. This embodiment is intended for car parks, ramps and streets for metered parking use and ticketing as required or stated by the parking management company, or municipal regulation legislation or municipal guide, without the use of physical meters or assistants or control personnel. It can be used in unattended parking lot, ramp and street situations.

In the example of Figure 22, one input 504 and one output 506 are shown for simplicity of explanation, although multiple may be provided. One or more kiosk stations 512 are also provided for users to enter their car license plate/ID and pay for parking time. A camera 518, with license plate reading technology, is positioned at the entrance 504 and exit 506 of the parking lot 500. Upon entering the parking lot 500, the camera 518 reads the license plate/ID and records the same in the memory of the kiosk 512. and/or from the central computer system 120 interfaced with the kiosk 512. The driver goes to the kiosk and completes the parking transaction as described earlier in this specification.

Upon exiting parking lot 500, a second camera 520 again reads the license plate/vehicle ID and takes an image of the license plate/vehicle. At that time, kiosk 512 or host computer 120 determines an amount of total parking time that corresponds to the license plate/ID based on previously stored entry and exit times, and is compared with the time purchased at kiosk 512 by the driver of the vehicle being tested. If the time is equal to or less than the purchased time, no violation is committed and nothing else is recorded - a good time transaction. If the time is more than that purchased or prepaid at the 512 kiosk, then the amount purchased is increased and the incremental difference is charged to the card (payment mechanism). Note that the 512 kiosk would have asked the driver at the time of purchase to allow such a correction to avoid a no-fine insurance ticket. Therefore, this aspect comprises a rectified parking transaction. Alternatively, a notice of infringement may be issued by the means described herein.

If the vehicle has not been registered at the 512 kiosk at all by the owner and was parked illegitimately, a violation status is set, thereby automatically triggering a fine and a notice to the proper authorities and/or towing services. or throw into the vehicle. To achieve this functionality, the central control system 120 uses the data from the kiosk 512 to perform license plate recognition, if not already done by the kiosk 512 or cameras, and sends the ID or license plate number to the MVD. motor vehicles) for the owner's name and address, and automatically sends a notice of violation to the car owner for payment. In this regard, there was a violation for illegal parking in the monitored parking lot/ramp/facility.

Additionally, in the case of pre-registered car owners, the system is programmed to recognize authorized status by comparing the Vehicle ID against the authorization database (either by the kiosk or by the central computer) to determine that no no violation occurred and that the owner had a proper authorization or registered account to be billed accordingly.

In an alternative not according to the claimed invention, all transactions can be done without the kiosk and the municipality or parking owner can mail charges to car owners based on LPR (number plate recognition) technology and implementation of systems described herein.

This alternative provides automated on-street and unattended parking management, without meters, and much less of a nuisance to the consumer, while fully automating the ticketing process for drivers who park who don't pay or overstay their parking lot. paid out.

In a further aspect, the data generated by the parking system cameras and operational databases described hereinabove is coupled to law enforcement databases and analysis. In such a setup, law enforcement agencies can perform real-time monitoring of who/what is off where, to compare vehicle IDs (e.g., license plates) against a database of stolen cars, or compare data of ID against a database of persons of interest or other analyzes related to public safety and security. Such processes could be used by law enforcement for monitoring/investigation of Amber alerts, stolen vehicles, offenders, criminals, and crime prevention, among other security-related applications. This realization of law enforcement coupling would greatly reduce crime and increase the productivity of law enforcement agencies at the local, regional, and national levels. It would be a unique addition to the intelligence collection done by police today and an incremental benefit to the communities served.

Figure 23 illustrates an example configuration that addresses vehicle identification problems related to vehicles having a single rear license plate. Approximately 19 states in the United States and several Canadian provinces use only one license plate located on the rear of the vehicle. This presents some difficulties in obtaining vehicle identification. For parallel parking, one embodiment of the invention solves this problem with a two-camera LPR/OCR (Optical Character Recognition) counter system.

In a so-called "head-on" parking configuration, such as the one shown in Figure 23, add-on cameras 521 with LPR are mounted on the wall of a building (or other fixed structure) behind vehicles parked in spaces 502. The 521 add-on cameras are equipped with LPR and wide-angle technology. Therefore, each can capture as many as 10-20 rear license plates within its field of view and read these plates from a distance, and identify the specific location of each license plate.

In the example shown, a front parking meter 100 located in front of the parking space 502 does not detect any front plate. It then queries the companion camera 521 (via Wi-Fi, LAN, etc.) that is assigned to the particular front counter to read the vehicle's rear license plate. The kiosk/meter 100 or central computer combines the data for the front and rear license plate readings for the vehicle in question. Therefore, in one embodiment, when a car with only one rear license plate enters the space 502, the meter recognizes this, sends a message with the parking space number to the central server, which requests the correct complementary camera 521 to 'read the plate' and match it with the car in the parking space. Therefore, this arrangement can accommodate automated identification and parking management for both single and dual license plate cars. The process for metering and ticketing violations proceeds as described above.

In an alternative not according to the claimed invention, as represented in Figure 24, the chambers of entry/exit are replaced with a single license plate reader camera 522 mounted in a high position above the car park 500. The high position may be, for example, on top of a pole in a position that the camera can see the input 504 and output 506 simultaneously within the fixed field of view of the camera. The elevated position allows the camera 522 to read the license plates of all cars entering and exiting the car park. The camera communicates the license plate images or data to the kiosk 512 as described above. The unique 522 camera reduces equipment costs and places the camera in a location less likely to be damaged due to vandalism. Camera 522 may be disposed within a protective housing. Camera 522 may also be equipped with motors to selectively adjust the angle of rotation (azimuth) and angle of elevation. The camera lens may also be equipped with zoom capability.

Additional inputs/outputs may be monitored with the same single camera 522, if they are in the camera's effective field of view. If not, then an additional elevated camera 524 may be used as shown in the alternate configuration of Figure 25. A combination of entry/exit cameras and elevated plate reading cameras may also be used in additional embodiments of the invention. Control gates 510 and 516 at input 504 and output 506 may be provided as an option.

Kiosk 512 may be one or more intelligent parking meters/kiosks as described herein above, including any or all of the aforementioned features and functions. Kiosk 212 may be a stand-alone device. In accordance with the invention, for enhanced functionality, kiosk 512 is connected to a network 118 (eg, via the internet or LAN) as discussed herein (and shown in Figure 25), such that kiosk 512 it can interface with central control computers and databases.

It should be appreciated that a given kiosk 512 may simultaneously serve as a meter to monitor adjacent parking spaces, as well as serve as a kiosk for any and all kiosk functions, including paying for parking monitoring advertisements for parking spaces/parking lots/ non-adjacent ramps.

An advantage of certain embodiments is that the electromechanical gates can be eliminated, if desired. Such doors are expensive and can fail.

In use according to an example embodiment, and referring to Figure 26, a camera 522 associated with the parking lot entrance takes an image of the arriving vehicle's license plate, adds a timestamp, and sends the information/data to the kiosk 512. Kiosk control software 512, stored in memory in the kiosk and executed by the processor in the kiosk, then records the time of vehicle entry and starts a timer. The license plate image is converted to text for further processing. Kiosk 512 transmits license plate and time data (preferably both images and text) via network 118 to a control computer 120 located at a remote location.

The LPR function can be performed by the kiosk's microprocessor using LPR software stored in memory in the kiosk/meter. Alternatively, the LPR function may be performed by host computer 120 interfacing with kiosk 512.

The parking customer is given some amount of time, eg 15 minutes, to pay. The customer locates kiosk 512 which prompts them to enter their vehicle registration number and then provides payment (eg inserting a credit card) to complete the transaction. The system is programmed to match the entered license plate number with the number captured by the camera and acknowledge receipt of payment.

If the parking customer does not enter a vehicle license number within a given amount of time, then a violation status occurs. The vehicle registration information is sent to the central computer or server, which is interrelated with the Department of Motor Vehicles records. The name and address of the owner is determined and a ticket or violation notice is automatically sent to that owner for payment.

Upon exit, a camera associated with exit 522 (which is a different camera) captures another image of the vehicle's license plate and again sends the same image to kiosk 512. Kiosk 212 is programmed to calculate the amount of time spent in the parking lot and compare the same with the amount of parking time purchased.

As long as the vehicle leaves the lot on or before the expiration of the purchased parking time, no violation is issued. If the customer does not pay with an accepted payment method or leaves their vehicle in the parking lot beyond the expiration period, the system is programmed to issue a violation. A notice of the violation is also sent to the appropriate law enforcement authorities, if desired by the municipality.

Various additional aspects of the invention exist, in certain embodiments, with respect to how violations are treated and processed, including:

• The parking customer may be registered as a permit holder and pre-authorized to have all the parking time billed directly to your credit card or other designated account. In this case no violation will be issued.

• Customer's Vehicle ID may be listed as immune from violations because it is a government vehicle or other class of vehicles designated on a non-violation list in an appropriate database.

• A ticket can be mailed. The offender's license plate is forwarded to the appropriate law enforcement authority where it is processed and mailed to the offender.

• The customer can pay a ticket/fine through the kiosk interface.

• The automated parking system can be programmed to automatically call a tow truck from a list of towing services held in its database and issue an order to remove the vehicle.

• Offender license plate numbers can also be compared to a database of known license plate numbers flagged for pending parking violations, criminal records, Amber Alerts, stolen cars, fugitives, terrorists, or other persons of interest by law enforcement authorities. order.

The present invention also easily facilitates parking permits. A permit is issued to frequent parking customers who purchase space by the month or some other period of time. The purchase can be made through the kiosk or through an online portal in network communication with the parking system. The license plate number of the customer purchasing the permit is entered into a system database and stored for reference by the kiosks. When a permit vehicle enters the lot, the license plate number sent from the camera is checked against the list of license plates belonging to prepaid customers covered by the permit. No action is required from the client with permission - all verification work is done automatically by the system control software while the client freely comes and goes.

As an alternative to a customer entering their license plate number, the customer could enter a space ID at the kiosk that corresponds to the particular spot in which they are parked. This will be possible when the camera can track the vehicle to a specific location and associate the Vehicle ID in memory accordingly to the specific location. Location identification can be provided in numerous ways, including numbers on the pavement, numbers on an overhead billboard, and/or a scannable one (eg, QRS code) provided at the location that can be scanned by the customer's smartphone.

If a feature that can be explored is provided, then the user can use an app on their smartphone to add time, buy passes or permits, find open places, reserve places, etc.

The present invention can also monitor no parking spaces or no parking areas for illegal parking activities, such as double parking, proximity to fire hydrants, emergency lines, sidewalks, and other no parking restrictions. The offender may be cited as described herein above.

The features described above increase the ease of use by drivers, the ease of management by municipalities and optimize revenue capture by the municipality. Automated operation also minimizes the number of parking enforcement officers required for a given number of metered parking spaces. Law enforcement officers can also better find and track people and vehicles of interest.

The terms "credit card" and "debit card" have been used in this application. These expressions are intended to cover the full spectrum of payments in card form, including; credit cards, debit cards, smart cards, stored value cards, proprietary parking cards and parking passes. It will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art that there are a variety of payment acceptance mechanisms that can be used, be it coins, paper notes or credit cards as described above.

Although the invention has been described in connection with what are presently considered to be the most practical and preferred illustrative embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the invention is not to be limited to the disclosed illustrative embodiments.

Claims (11)

1. A parking management system for a car park (500) comprising a plurality of parking spaces (502) for vehicles, an entrance (504) to the car park (500) and an exit (506) from the car park (500), understanding the system: a kiosk (512) comprising: a weather resistant housing (105) including first and second sides; a processor (110) disposed within the housing (105); a memory disposed within the housing (105) and coupled to the processor (110); a network interface (109) disposed in the housing (105) and coupled to the processor (110); a graphical user interface (101) disposed on the housing (105) and facing out from the first side of the housing (105); a kiosk camera (204) disposed in the housing (105) and looking out from the first side of the housing (105); Y a payment acceptor (114) disposed in the housing (105); where a first parking camera (518) is located in the parking lot (500) in such a way that the entrance (504) to the parking lot is within a field of view of the first parking camera (518), the first parking camera (518) coupled to the processor (110) of the kiosk (512) and configured to transmit image data to the kiosk (512) for vehicles entering the parking lot, where the first parking camera (518) is placed in the remote parking kiosk (512) wherein the processor (110) is configured to: detecting a vehicle entering the parking lot (500); capturing an identification of the vehicle entering the parking lot (500); transmitting the identification to a remote computer system via the network interface (109); timing an initial grace period (404); receive a payment (406) for a period of parking time; determine that a parking violation has occurred (408) due to at least one of the initial grace period (404) expiring without receiving a payment for the parking time period and the parking time period expiring without the vehicle leaves the parking lot (500); transmitting a parking violation notice (408) to the remote computer system via the network interface (109), the notice including vehicle identification and a time of the violation; Y transmitting a time of departure of the vehicle (506) from the parking lot (500) to the remote computer system via the network interface (109), wherein the kiosk (512) comprises a microphone arranged in the housing (105) and a loudspeaker arranged in the housing (105), wherein the processor (110) is configured to: calculating a total parking fee in response to a selected amount of time, wherein the total parking fee comprises a first parking fee for a first portion of the selected amount of time and a second parking fee for a second portion of the selected amount of time selected amount of parking time, the second parking fee being different from the first parking fee; displaying the first parking fee and first subtotal for the first portion of the selected amount of time on the graphical user interface (101); displaying the second parking fee and a second subtotal for the second portion of the selected amount of time on the graphical user interface (101); Y display the total parking fee (240) on the graphical user interface (101), wherein to detect vehicles leaving the parking lot a second parking camera (520) is provided, said second parking camera (520) is placed in the parking lot (500) such that the exit (506) of the parking lot is within the field of view of the second parking camera (520), the second parking camera (520) is configured to transmit image data to the kiosk (512) for vehicles exiting the parking lot. The system of claim 1, wherein the processor (110) is further configured to accept payment of a parking violation fine (408) via the payment acceptor (114) and transmit fine payment notice to the remote computer system through the network interface (109). The system of claim 1, further comprising a parking meter (200) disposed adjacent to at least one of the plurality of parking spaces (502), the parking meter including a meter chamber (216) disposed on the parking meter and facing out towards the at least one adjacent parking space. 4. The system of claim 1, wherein the kiosk (512) is disposed adjacent to at least one of the plurality of parking spaces (502), the kiosk (512) further including a metering chamber (216) disposed in the housing (105) and facing out from the second side towards the at least one adjacent parking space. The system of claim 1, wherein the kiosk (512) is further configured to receive updated parking rate parameters from the remote computing system via the network interface (109). The system of claim 1, wherein the kiosk (512) is further configured to receive an emergency call request via a meter input and initiate a two-way video conference with an emergency services operator. The system of claim 1, wherein the kiosk (512) is further configured to define a maximum parking time (242) and display the maximum parking time on the graphical user interface (101). 8. The system of claim 1, wherein the processor (110) is further configured to display through the graphical user interface (101), after a violation is determined, a notice that the fine can be paid with a fee. discount before the vehicle leaves the first parking space. The system of claim 1, wherein the processor (110) is further configured to: determine a parking class from a plurality of parking classes for each vehicle entering the parking lot (500); Y setting a parking fee corresponding to the determined class for each vehicle entering the parking lot (500). The system of claim 1, wherein the processor (110) is further configured to: compare the identification of the vehicle entering the parking lot (500) against a database of vehicle identifications associated with a parking permit. The system of claim 1, wherein the identification of the vehicle entering the parking lot (500) is reported to a law enforcement authority about the vehicle entering the parking lot (500).