Parking assistance means

Abstract

To provide a system for assisting parking of a vehicle.SOLUTION: The system for assisting parking of a vehicle includes: a main body to support at least one driver or passenger; and a sensor to detect adjacent structure data corresponding to an adjacent vehicle or structure adjacent to the main body. The system further includes: a network access device to transmit and receive data including receiving a parking assist request from a remote device corresponding to a request to locate the main body; and an electronic control unit (ECU) coupled to the sensor and the network access device. The ECU is designed to receive the parking assist request from the network access device. The ECU is further designed to control the network access device to transmit parking location information to the remote device in response to receiving the parking assist request, the parking location information corresponding to the adjacent vehicle or structure adjacent to the main body.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to systems and methods for providing parking assistance to a vehicle and its occupants.

Background Art

[0002] As technology advances, vehicles are becoming increasingly capable of assisting drivers and users. For example, some vehicles are now fully autonomous and have the ability to navigate lanes without human control. Some vehicles are partially autonomous, with capabilities such as automatic parking and warnings of potential accidents to the driver. To provide this type of functionality, many vehicles include powerful logic devices (e.g., electronic control units (ECUs)), numerous sensors (e.g., cameras, radar sensors, light detection and ranging (LIDAR) sensors, etc.), and communication devices (e.g., vehicle-to-vehicle or vehicle-to-remote device network access devices). This technology enables vehicles to provide powerful functions.

[0003] One area where vehicles are currently not very helpful is assisting the driver in a parking facility. Some autonomous and semi-autonomous vehicles can park themselves, but there are still many unmet desires regarding parking. Some of these unmet desires relate to whether the driver and user can find the vehicle after parking for a long time. For example, after a long trip, the user may have trouble finding their car in an airport parking lot. Further dissatisfaction can also occur when trying to find an available parking spot in a large parking deck. For example, the driver may spend a significant amount of time driving around the parking deck looking for a space to park the vehicle. Additionally, the driver may not notice the location of an available parking spot that matches their preferences and thus may use the first available spot they find regardless of their preferences. Due to the traffic in some parking areas, even more dissatisfaction may occur. For example, a parking deck may have a significant amount of traffic immediately before or after the start or end of a show.

[0004] Therefore, systems and methods for assisting with vehicle parking are desired. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0005] Described herein is a system for assisting in parking a vehicle. The system includes a main body designed to support at least one driver or passenger. The system further includes a sensor designed to detect adjacent vehicle or adjacent structure data corresponding to an adjacent vehicle or structure adjacent to the main body. The system further includes a network access device designed to transmit and receive data, including receiving a parking assistance request from a remote device corresponding to a request to identify the position of the main body. The system further includes an electronic control unit (ECU) coupled to the sensor and the network access device. The ECU is designed to receive a parking assistance request from the network access device. The ECU is further designed to control the network access device to transmit parking location information corresponding to the adjacent vehicle or structure to the remote device in response to receiving the parking assistance request.

[0006] Also disclosed is a system for managing parking of a vehicle. The system includes a memory designed to store map data corresponding to a parking location and including a plurality of parking spots. The system further includes at least one sensor designed to detect parking data corresponding to the presence of vehicles within the plurality of parking spots. The system further includes a network access device designed to transmit and receive the detected parking data. The system further includes a processor coupled to the memory, the at least one sensor, and the network access device. The processor is designed to receive, via the network access device, a first parking notification from a first vehicle that the first vehicle is planning to park at a parking location. The processor is further designed to determine a first available parking spot based on the detected parking data. The processor is further designed to transmit, in response to receiving the first parking notification, a first available parking location corresponding to a first location of the first available parking spot based on the map data.

[0007] Disclosed similarly is a method for assisting in parking a vehicle. The method includes detecting, by a sensor of the vehicle, adjacent vehicle or adjacent structure data corresponding to an adjacent vehicle or structure adjacent to the main body of the vehicle. The method further includes receiving, by a network access device of the vehicle, a parking assistance request from a remote device corresponding to a request to identify the position of the main body. The method further includes controlling, by an electronic control unit (ECU), the network access device to transmit parking location information corresponding to the adjacent vehicle or structure to the remote device in response to receiving the parking assistance request.

[0008] Other systems, methods, features, and advantages of the present invention will be apparent to or will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon examination of the following figures and detailed description. Such additional systems, methods, features, and advantages are intended to be included within this specification, are within the scope of the present invention, and are intended to be protected by the accompanying claims. The components shown in the drawings are not necessarily to scale and may be exaggerated in order to better illustrate the important features of the present invention. In the drawings, like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the different figures.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0009]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3A

Figure 3B

Figure 3C

Figure 4A

Figure 4B

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] The present disclosure describes a system and method for providing parking assistance. The system has a plurality of advantages and benefits, such as assisting a driver or user of a vehicle in finding the vehicle in a congested parking location such as a parking garage building or on-street parking. The system further learns the driver's preferences regarding parking and, advantageously, helps the driver find a parking spot that best suits the driver's preferences based on the learned preferences. Additionally, parked vehicles can detect available parking spots and transmit the locations of these parking spots to other vehicles, advantageously enabling other vehicles to find available parking spots more quickly.

[0011] The system can similarly be designed to provide benefits to a number of vehicles. For example, the system can advantageously track the trends of available parking spots in a parking location. The same system can beneficially transmit the locations of available spots to incoming vehicles, thus saving the time of these incoming vehicles. The system can similarly advantageously control the entry and exit of traffic in a parking location to reduce the traffic in the parking location and further save the driver's time.

[0012] The exemplary system may include a vehicle and may include a parking management server. The vehicle may include a location sensor for detecting the current location of the vehicle, along with one or more additional sensors such as a camera or a radar sensor. The vehicle may further include a network access device having the ability to communicate with a remote device. The vehicle may similarly include an electronic control unit (ECU). The ECU can learn the driver's parking preferences based on sensor data and can determine a preferred parking location for the driver based on the learned parking preferences. The ECU can similarly receive a message from a remote device, such as a mobile phone, requesting assistance in identifying the location of the parked vehicle. The ECU can control the network access device to transmit location data or other data (e.g., image data) to the remote device for the purpose of assisting the user in finding the vehicle.

[0013] The parking management server may include sensors, a processor, a memory, and a network access device. The memory can store a map of the parking locations, and the sensors can determine which parking spots are occupied and which are available. The processor can control the network access device to transmit a message indicating which parking spots are available, in a broadcast communication or other form, for the purpose of assisting incoming vehicles in quickly finding available parking spaces. The processor can further determine entry and exit points for the vehicles inside the parking location for the purpose of reducing traffic in the parking location.

[0014] Referring to FIG. 1, vehicle 100 may be designed to provide parking assistance for the vehicle itself, its occupants, or the driver. Vehicle 100 may include ECU 102, memory 104, power supply 106, network access device 108, input device 110, and output device 112. Vehicle 100 may further include one or more location sensors 114 and one or more additional sensors 116.

[0015] Vehicle 100 can be propelled along a roadway, suspended in or on water, or fly in the air. Vehicle 100 may resemble a car, motorcycle, ship, aircraft, etc. Vehicle 100 can further support individuals who may be in the passenger compartment, such as a driver, passengers, etc.

[0016] ECU 102 can be coupled to each component of vehicle 100 and can include one or more processors or controllers that can be specially designed for an automotive system. The functions of ECU 102 can be implemented by a single ECU or by a number of ECUs. ECU 102 can receive data from the components of vehicle 100, make decisions based on the received data, and control the operation of the components based on the decisions.

[0017] Vehicle 100 can be fully autonomous or semi-autonomous. In this regard, ECU 102 can control various aspects of vehicle 100 (e.g., steering, braking, accelerating, etc.) to operate vehicle 100 from a starting location to a destination location. In some embodiments, vehicle 100 can be used as a shared vehicle in an autonomous, semi-autonomous, or fully driver-operated state. In this regard, vehicle 100 can be operated independently of the driver's control and sometimes with no one inside the passenger compartment. In some embodiments, vehicle 100 is partially autonomous and can be driven by a driver between multiple locations, and ECU 102 can control the parking operation of vehicle 100.

[0018] Memory 104 can include any non-transitory memory and can have the ability to store data that can be used by ECU 102. For example, memory 104 can store instructions that can be used by ECU 102 to park the vehicle, store the previous location of vehicle 100, store the parking preferences of the driver or rider, etc.

[0019] Power source 106 may include any one or more of engine 118, motor generator 120, battery 122, or fuel cell circuit 124. Engine 118 can convert fuel into mechanical power for propelling vehicle 100. In this regard, engine 118 can be a gasoline engine, a diesel engine, or the like.

[0020] Battery 122 can store electrical energy. In some embodiments, battery 122 can include any one or more energy storage devices, including a battery, a flywheel, a supercapacitor, a heat storage device, and the like.

[0021] Fuel cell circuit 124 can include a plurality of fuel cells that facilitate a chemical reaction for generating electrical energy. For example, a fuel cell can receive hydrogen and oxygen, facilitate the reaction between hydrogen and oxygen, and output electricity in response to this reaction. In this regard, the electrical energy generated by fuel cell circuit 124 can be stored in battery 122 and / or used by motor generator 120. In some embodiments, vehicle 100 can include a number of fuel cell circuits, including fuel cell circuit 124.

[0022] Motor generator 120 can convert the electrical energy stored in battery 122 (or the electrical energy received directly from fuel cell circuit 124) into mechanical power that can be used to propel vehicle 100. Motor generator 120 can further convert mechanical power received from engine 118 or from the wheels of vehicle 100 into electricity, which is stored as energy in battery 122 and / or can be used by other components of vehicle 100. In some embodiments, motor generator 120 can include a motor without a generator portion, and in some embodiments, a separate generator can be provided.

[0023] The network access device 108 can include any port or device having the ability to communicate via a wired or wireless interface, such as those via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth (registered trademark), cellular protocols, vehicle-to-vehicle communication, etc. For example, the ECU 102 can control the network access device 108 to communicate with the cloud, an external vehicle, a server, or one or more remote devices.

[0024] The input device 110 can include any device having the ability to receive user input from a vehicle user or driver. For example, the input device 110 can include a keyboard, a touch screen, a microphone, etc.

[0025] The output device 112 can include any device having the ability to output data to a vehicle user or driver. For example, the output device 112 can include a speaker, a display, a touch screen, etc.

[0026] The location sensor 114 can include any one or a number of sensors having the ability to determine the current location, route, and / or orientation of the vehicle 100. For example, the location sensor 114 can include one or more of a global positioning system (GPS) sensor 126 or an inertial measurement unit (IMU) sensor 128. The GPS sensor 126 can have the ability to detect location data corresponding to the location of the vehicle 100. The IMU sensor 128 can include, for example, an accelerometer, a gyroscope, or other inertial measurement devices, and can have the ability to determine the speed, acceleration, orientation, etc. of the vehicle 100.

[0027] Sensor 116 can include any one or more sensors designed to detect adjacent object data corresponding to locations or objects located in the vicinity of vehicle 100. In that regard, sensor 116 can be referred to as an adjacent object sensor. In some embodiments, vehicle 100 can include a number of adjacent object sensors positioned around the body of vehicle 100 such that ECU 102 can receive adjacent object data corresponding to a number of sides of vehicle 100. For example, vehicle 100 can include one or more adjacent object sensors 116 disposed in front of, behind, and on both sides of vehicle 100.

[0028] Sensor 116 can include any one or more of camera 130, radar sensor 132, light detection and ranging (LIDAR) sensor 134, or any other proximity, distance, or other object sensors. The camera can detect image data within a predetermined distance or range from vehicle 100. The radar sensor can detect the presence of objects within a predetermined distance or range from vehicle 100. Similarly, the LIDAR sensor can detect the presence of objects within a predetermined distance or range from vehicle 100. The predetermined distance or range for each sensor 116 can correspond to the distance or range within which information is desired to be determined.

[0029] Camera 130 can detect additional data corresponding to the environment. For example, camera 130 can detect text data on signs within a parking garage building or on road signs. The data can include parking-related rules such as the business hours of the parking garage, special rules related to parking locations (e.g., permit-only parking after 8:00 p.m.).

[0030] Vehicle 100 can be designed to assist in various types of parking situations. For example, the driver (or rider) of vehicle 100 may leave a vehicle parked at a parking location for an extended period of time. When returning to vehicle 100, the driver may not be able to recall the specific parking spot where vehicle 100 is parked. The driver can transmit a message to the vehicle using a remote device, and this message can be received by network access device 108. Upon receiving the message, ECU 102 can transmit back to the remote device a message containing data corresponding to the specific location detected by location sensor 114, a specific location stored in memory 104 (e.g., on a map), or an object near vehicle 100 (detected by sensor 116). For example, when entering a parking location, ECU 102 can store in memory 104 the floor number and the general location of vehicle 100 on that floor. The ECU can transmit this information along with an image of an object or another vehicle near vehicle 100 to the remote device to assist the driver in finding the vehicle.

[0031] As another example, as vehicle 100 is parked multiple times, ECU 102 can learn the driver's preferences. These preferences can include, for example, a preference to park within a disabled spot, a preference not to walk up and down stairs, or a preference to park as close as possible to an entrance. This information can be stored in memory 104. Memory 104 can further store (or receive) map information corresponding to a specific parking location (e.g., a parking deck) as well as availability information (e.g., from a server including which parking spots are available). Based on the preferences, map, and availability information, ECU 102 can select an ideal parking spot for vehicle 100 to park in. ECU 102 can further provide the location of the ideal parking spot (or directions to drive to this location).

[0032] As yet another example, the driver can provide preference information to the ECU 102 via the input device 110. The preference information may include a preference to stay in a parked state for a predetermined time, whether the driver carries a permit to park in a predetermined type of parking spot, whether the driver is willing to pay a premium for a better parking spot, and the like. The camera 130 can detect image data corresponding to parking rules (such as business hours of a parking location or whether a permit is required). In some embodiments, the network access device 108 can receive this parking rule information from a remote device (such as a server associated with the parking location). Based on the parking rule information and the driver preference information, the ECU 102 can select an ideal parking spot and output information (such as a location) corresponding to the ideal parking spot.

[0033] In some embodiments, the server can collect data on which parking spots are occupied or available based on sensor data. The sensors may be associated with a particular parking spot (or a particular parking location), or may be associated with other vehicles parked within the parking location. For example, once parked, the vehicle 100 can transmit to the server (via the network access device 108) information indicating in which parking spot the vehicle 100 is parked. The vehicle 100 can further transmit adjacent vehicle information indicating whether a vehicle is parked in the spot adjacent to the current parking spot (based on data detected, for example, by the sensor 116). The adjacent vehicle information can be used by the server or another vehicle to identify available parking spots.

[0034] Referring now to FIG. 2, a system 200 for providing parking assistance to a vehicle is provided. System 200 can include vehicle 100, along with other vehicles 101 having similar features to vehicle 100 of FIG. 1. System 200 can be implemented at a parking location 202. Parking location 202 can include a plurality of parking spots 204. For example, parking location 202 can include a parking lot, a parking deck, on-street parking (with or without a parking meter), etc.

[0035] System 200 can include a plurality of sensors 206. Sensors 206 can include sensors disposed at each of the parking spots 204 or one sensor for a number of parking spots 204. Sensors 206 can detect the presence of a vehicle parked in one or more of the parking spots 204. For example, sensors 206 can include a camera, a proximity sensor, a radar sensor, a LIDAR sensor, an inductive sensor, or any other sensor capable of detecting the presence of a vehicle parked in one or more of the parking spots 204.

[0036] System 200 can further include sensors 208 designed to detect the presence of vehicles within a number of the parking spots 204. For example, sensors 208 can include a camera, a radar sensor, a LIDAR sensor, or any other sensor capable of detecting the presence of a vehicle parked in one or more of the parking spots 204.

[0037] Vehicle 100 can similarly include sensors (e.g., sensor 116 of FIG. 1) capable of detecting the presence of a vehicle parked in one or more of the parking spots 204 adjacent to vehicle 100.

[0038] System 200 can further include a server 210, such as a parking lot server. Server 210 can include a processor 212, a memory 214, and a network access device 216. Processor 212 can include any processor, controller, or other electronic device having the ability to perform logical functionality. Memory 214 can include any non-transitory memory and can have the ability to store data usable by processor 212. Network access device 216 can include any port or device having the ability to communicate via a wired or wireless interface, such as those via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth®, cellular protocol, vehicle-to-vehicle communication, etc. Network access device 216 can communicate with either of sensors 206, 208, or with any of vehicles 100, 101.

[0039] Memory 214 can store map data corresponding to a map of parking location 202. Processor 212 can receive information from sensors 206, 208 (or from vehicle 100) indicating the presence of a vehicle in one or more of parking spots 204. As vehicle 101 approaches parking location 202, processor 212 can identify which parking spots 204 are available and which are occupied. The processor can store this information in memory 214. Processor 212 can control network access device 216 to transmit information indicating available parking spots 204 and their locations to approaching vehicle 101.

[0040] When multiple vehicles are approaching parking location 202, processor 212 can select (and transmit the assigned parking spot to the corresponding vehicle) one or more parking spots 204 for each vehicle to park in. Thereby, the likelihood of multiple vehicles approaching the same parking spot can be reduced. Processor 212 can further identify a route that each approaching vehicle should take that will result in reduced traffic at parking location 202.

[0041] After a certain time limit, vehicle 100 can transmit information to server 210 indicating that vehicle 100 intends to leave parking location 202. Processor 212 can retrieve this information and update the map in memory 214 to indicate that the parking spot of vehicle 100 is expected to become available. Processor 212 can further determine whether a number of vehicles are attempting to leave parking location 202 simultaneously. If so, processor 212 can determine a route for each vehicle to leave parking location 202 that will reduce traffic at parking location 202.

[0042] Referring now to FIGS. 3A, 3B, and 3C, a method 300 for controlling, assisting, or managing vehicle parking is shown. Method 300 can be implemented by components of a vehicle such as vehicle 100 of FIG. 1. In block 302, a location sensor of the vehicle can detect location data. The location data can include the physical location of the vehicle, the location of the vehicle on a map, the location of the vehicle in relation to another known object or location, the acceleration, speed, or path of the vehicle, and the like.

[0043] In block 304, various data can be stored in memory. Specifically, the data can include previously detected location data, previously detected adjacent structure data, and map data corresponding to one or more parking locations. The previously detected location data can include any previously detected location data such as a parking spot inside a parking location, a preferred parking location, and the like. The previously detected adjacent structure data can include any information corresponding to a vehicle or structure adjacent to the vehicle. The map data can correspond to a map of one or more parking locations, including the locations of parking spots inside the one or more parking locations. The memory can further store parking rules associated with the parking locations. The parking rules will be discussed in more detail below.

[0044] In block 306, the vehicle's ECU can determine the parking preferences of the vehicle's driver or user based on previously detected and stored data. The ECU can use a machine learning algorithm or other algorithms to learn the driver's preferences. In some embodiments, the user can provide their preferences using an input device. For example, the user can provide an input indicating a willingness to pay a premium for a better parking spot. As another example, the ECU can learn that the driver prefers to park in a location that results in the shortest walk to the destination based on the driver's previously detected parking behavior. In another example, the ECU may learn that the driver prefers to avoid using stairs or escalators if possible. As yet another example, the ECU may learn that the driver prefers to park as close as possible to an elevator.

[0045] In block 308, the ECU can determine that the vehicle is approaching a specific parking location. The ECU can make this determination based on the vehicle's current location, based on data detected by one or more sensors of the vehicle, based on a route provided by the user, based on a predicted route, etc. For example, the image data detected by a camera can indicate that the vehicle is entering a parking building. As another example, the ECU can determine that the vehicle is approaching the end of a route. As yet another example, the vehicle's network access device can receive a signal from a server indicating that the vehicle has entered a parking location.

[0046] In block 310, the ECU can receive or determine parking regulation information. The ECU can receive parking regulation information from a server or other remote device associated with a parking location. Similarly, the ECU can receive information from a remote server not associated with a parking location by transmitting the current location of the vehicle and receiving the associated parking regulations in response. The ECU can determine parking regulation information based on a comparison of the current location of the vehicle with the rule data in the memory. The ECU can similarly determine parking regulation information based on data detected by sensors. For example, a camera can detect image data corresponding to signs including the regulations of a parking location, and the ECU can interpret the regulations based on the detected image data.

[0047] In block 312, the ECU can predict or receive a parking time. The parking time can correspond to a time when the vehicle is likely to be parked. For example, the ECU can receive the parking time from the user via an input device. As another example, the ECU can predict the parking time based on the user's previous parking habits. For example, the ECU can determine that the user has parked at this parking location for an average of 30 minutes at a specific time. If the vehicle is parked at the parking location at a specific time, the ECU can predict that the parking time is 30 minutes.

[0048] In block 314, the ECU can determine a preferred parking spot for the vehicle based on the parking preference determined in block 306 and the parking rule information determined in block 310. In some embodiments, the ECU can further determine the preferred parking spot based on the predicted or received parking time. In some embodiments, the ECU can further determine the preferred parking spot based on received information corresponding to which parking spots are available. The ECU can determine a preferred parking spot for the vehicle that provides the best match between the parking spot and the parking preference while satisfying the parking rule information. For example, if a first parking spot that satisfies all of the parking preferences but is only available for 30 minutes of parking is available, while the planned parking time is one hour, the ECU will attempt to find a second parking spot that allows for one hour of parking time but satisfies only some of the parking preferences.

[0049] In some embodiments, the server can determine a preferred parking spot for the vehicle. In this regard, in block 316, the ECU can transmit a preference message indicating the parking preference determined within block 306 to the server. The server can determine which parking spots are available and can allocate one parking spot to the vehicle.

[0050] In block 318, the vehicle can receive an available parking spot message from the server. The available parking spot can include the parking spot that best satisfies the parking preference determined by the server and is currently available.

[0051] In block 320, the ECU can control the vehicle's output device to output the location of a preferred or available parking spot or a direction indication to this parking spot. The preferred or available parking spot can be determined by the ECU in block 314 or received from the server in block 318. The location of the parking spot can be provided in many ways. For example, a step-by-step direction indication towards the parking spot can be provided. As another example, it is possible to display a map with an indicator of the parking spot on the map of the parking location.

[0052] In block 322, the vehicle's sensor can detect adjacent structure data or adjacent parking spot information. The adjacent structure data or adjacent parking spot information can include information such as an image of an object or vehicle adjacent to the vehicle, or identification information of the object or vehicle. The adjacent structure data can further include information such as whether the vehicle is parked in a spot adjacent to the vehicle.

[0053] In block 324, the vehicle's location sensor can detect location data in a similar manner to that implemented within block 302.

[0054] In block 326, the vehicle can receive a parking assistance request from a remote device. The parking assistance request can correspond to a request to identify the current location of the vehicle within the parking location. For example, the user can use a mobile device such as a mobile phone to transmit a message to the vehicle requesting assistance in identifying the current location of the vehicle.

[0055] The ECU can determine parking location information in response to receiving the parking assistance request. For example, the parking location information can include the current location of the vehicle detected in block 324. As another example, the parking location information can include an image of an object in the vicinity of the vehicle. As yet another example, the parking location information can include the location of a preferred or available parking spot on the map.

[0056] In block 328, the ECU can control the network access device to transmit parking location information to the remote device. The ECU can control the network access device to transmit parking location information in response to the reception of a parking assistance request in block 326.

[0057] In block 330, the ECU can determine whether the parking spot adjacent to the current parking spot is vacant or occupied. The ECU can make this determination based on the data detected in block 322. For example, the ECU can analyze image data, radar data, or LIDAR data to determine whether the adjacent parking spot is vacant or occupied.

[0058] In block 332, the ECU can control the network access device to transmit an empty parking spot message to the server or another vehicle in response to the determination that the adjacent parking spot is vacant. The empty parking spot message can include the absolute or relative location of the empty parking spot, the size of the empty parking spot, the rules associated with the empty parking spot, etc.

[0059] In block 334, the ECU can determine that the vehicle is scheduled to leave the parking location. For example, when the user enters the vehicle and starts the vehicle, it may indicate that the vehicle will be driven away from the parking location.

[0060] In block 336, the ECU can control the network access device to transmit a parking lot departure notice. The parking lot departure notice can indicate that the vehicle is scheduled to leave the parking location. In this regard, the ECU can control the network access device to transmit a parking lot departure notice in response to the determination that the vehicle is scheduled to leave the parking location.

[0061] In some embodiments, the server can control the traffic flow into and out of the parking lot. In this regard, the server can determine an ideal exit point for a vehicle to leave the parking lot for the purpose of reducing traffic within and around the parking lot.

[0062] At block 338, the vehicle can receive the exit point from the server. At block 340, the ECU can control an output device to output the location of the exit point or a direction indication to the exit point. For example, the ECU can receive the exit point and determine a direction indication to the exit point based on the stored map data.

[0063] Referring now to FIGS. 4A and 4B, a method 400 for assisting vehicle parking is shown. This method can be implemented, for example, by a system similar to the system 200 of FIG. 2. At block 402, the memory can store map data corresponding to a map of the parking lot. For example, the memory can be included within a parking lot server associated with the parking lot. As another example, the memory can be included within a parking lot server that processes parking in a number of parking lots.

[0064] At block 404, parking data indicating the presence of a vehicle in a parking spot of the parking structure can be detected or received. For example, the parking data can be detected and received from one or more sensors associated with the parking lot. As another example, the parking data can be received from a vehicle parked within the parking lot.

[0065] At block 406, a first parking notification can be received via a network access device of the parking lot server. The first parking notification can indicate that a first vehicle is approaching the parking lot and intends to park in the parking lot. The first parking notification can further include parking preference data corresponding to the first vehicle.

[0066] At block 408, a second parking notification can be received via the network access device of the parking lot server. The second parking notification can indicate that a second vehicle is approaching a parking location and intends to park at the parking location. The second parking notification can further include parking preference data corresponding to the second vehicle.

[0067] At block 410, a processor of the parking lot server can determine a first available parking spot for the first vehicle based on map data, parking data, and the parking preferences of the first vehicle. For example, the parking lot server can determine a first available parking spot that is available and matches the parking preferences of the first vehicle.

[0068] At block 412, the processor can determine a second available parking spot for the second vehicle based on map data, parking data, and the parking preferences of the second vehicle. The processor can further determine the second available parking spot based on a desire to reduce traffic at the parking location. For example, the processor can determine the second available parking spot based on an algorithm that will reduce the likelihood that the first vehicle and the second vehicle will wait for each other. The processor can further determine the first available parking spot and the second available parking spot based on an algorithm that will reduce the likelihood of traffic between the first vehicle, the second vehicle, and any other vehicles that may enter or leave the parking location.

[0069] In block 414, the network access device of the parking lot server can transmit the first available parking spot and the second available parking spot to the first and second vehicles respectively. For example, the network access device can transmit the relative locations of the first available parking spot and the second available parking spot, the absolute locations with respect to the first available parking spot and the second available parking spot, navigation instructions to each parking spot, and so on.

[0070] In block 416, the processor can update the map data in the memory based on the detected or received parking data and the parking spots occupied by the first vehicle and the second vehicle. For example, the map can include real-time data including the allocation of vehicles to parking spots, as well as the detected data indicating which vehicle is parked in which parking spot.

[0071] In block 418, the processor can receive a first departure notification from the first vehicle, and in block 420, the processor can receive a second departure notification from the second vehicle. The first departure notification and the second departure notification can indicate that the first vehicle and the second vehicle respectively intend to leave the parking location.

[0072] In block 422, the processor can determine a first exit point and a second exit point for the first and second vehicles respectively to leave the parking location. The first exit point corresponds to the location where the first vehicle should exit the parking location, and the second exit point may correspond to the location where the second vehicle should exit the parking location. The processor can determine the first exit point and the second exit point in a way that reduces traffic in the parking location. For example, the processor can swap the allocation of the exit points between the two exit points, and can determine a route between the exit points that will reduce traffic.

[0073] In block 424, the processor can control the network access device to transmit a first exit point and a second exit point for the first and second vehicles, respectively. For example, the processor may simply transmit the locations of the first and second exit points, or may also transmit navigation direction instructions to the first and second exit points.

[0074] In block 426, the processor can update the map data in the memory based on the first and second departure notifications. For example, the processor can update the map data to indicate that the parking spots of the first and second vehicles are now vacant. In some embodiments, the processor can wait to update the map data until one or more sensors indicate that each parking spot is available.

[0075] As used throughout the specification and claims, "at least one of A or B" includes only "A", only "B", or "A and B". Exemplary embodiments of the method / system have been disclosed in an exemplary form. Accordingly, the technical terms used throughout must be construed non - limitingly. A person skilled in the art will notice minor modifications to the teachings herein, but it is intended to be limited within the scope of the patents warranted based on this specification to all embodiments that reasonably fall within the scope of progress for the technology receiving contributions from this specification, which scope is understood not to be limited except as illuminated by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0076] The invention disclosed herein includes the following aspects. [Aspect 1] A system for assisting in parking a vehicle, a main body configured to support at least one driver or passenger, a sensor configured to detect adjacent vehicle or adjacent structure data corresponding to an adjacent vehicle or structure adjacent to the main body, A network access device configured to transmit and receive data, including receiving a parking assistance request from a remote device corresponding to a request to identify the position of the main body. Coupled to the sensor and the network access device, and Receives the parking assistance request from the network access device, In response to receiving the parking assistance request, controls the network access device to transmit parking location information corresponding to the adjacent vehicle or structure to the remote device. An electronic control unit (ECU) configured as such, A system including. [Aspect 2] A location sensor configured to detect location data corresponding to the current location of the main body, A memory configured to store previously detected location data, previously detected adjacent structure data, and map data including a number of parking spots corresponding to parking locations, An output device configured to output data, Further including, The ECU Determines the driver's parking preference based on at least one of the previously detected location data or the previously detected adjacent structure data, Determines that the main body is approaching the parking location, Based on the determined parking preference and the stored map data, determines a preferred parking spot, and Controls the output device to output data corresponding to the location of the preferred parking spot. Configured as such, The system according to Aspect 1. [Aspect 3] The sensor is further configured to detect adjacent parking spot information corresponding to whether an adjacent parking spot arranged adjacent to the main body is occupied or vacant, The ECU is further Determine that the adjacent parking spot is vacant based on the adjacent parking spot information, Control the network access device to transmit an available parking spot message corresponding to the location of the adjacent parking spot via the network access device, and is configured as follows, The system according to aspect 1. [Aspect 4] Further include an output device configured to output data, The network access device is further configured to receive an available parking spot message indicating that a parking spot is available and including location information corresponding to the parking spot, The ECU is further configured to control the output device to output at least one of the location information or navigation instructions for the parking spot, The system according to aspect 1. [Aspect 5] Further include a location sensor configured to detect the current location of the main body, The ECU is further configured to control the network access device to transmit the current location to the remote device in response to receiving the parking assistance request, The system according to aspect 1. [Aspect 6] Further include an output device configured to output data, The network access device is further configured to receive parking rule information corresponding to at least one rule of the current parking location, The ECU is further configured to Determine whether the main body is within or approaching the current parking location, and In response to determining that the main body is within or approaching the current parking location, control the output device to output the at least one rule of the current parking location, configured as follows, The system according to aspect 1. [Aspect 7] A camera configured to detect image data corresponding to at least one sign associated with a current parking location, An output device configured to output data, further comprising, The ECU further, determines whether the main body is within or approaching the current parking location, determines parking rule information corresponding to at least one rule of the current parking location based on the detected image data, and controls the output device to output the at least one rule of the current parking location in response to determining that the main body is within or approaching the current parking location. configured as follows, The system according to aspect 1. [Aspect 8] further comprising an output device configured to output data and an input device configured to receive input data, The ECU further, receives, via the input device, a premium parking preference indicating whether the driver is willing to pay a premium for a specific parking spot or parking spot type, controls the network access device to transmit a message indicating that the driver is willing to pay a premium for the specific parking spot or parking spot type based on the premium parking data, receives premium parking spot location information corresponding to the location of the specific parking spot or parking spot type, and controls the output device to output the location of the specific parking spot or parking spot type. configured as follows, The system according to aspect 1. [Aspect 9] A system for managing parking of vehicles, a memory configured to store map data including a plurality of parking spots corresponding to parking locations, at least one sensor configured to detect parking data corresponding to the presence of vehicles within the plurality of parking spots, a network access device configured to transmit and receive the detected parking data, coupled to the memory, the at least one sensor and the network access device, receiving, via the network access device, a first parking notification from a first vehicle that the first vehicle is planning to park at the parking location, determining a first available parking spot based on the detected parking data, and in response to receiving the first parking notification, transmitting a first available parking location corresponding to a first location of the first available parking spot based on the map data, a processor configured as such, a system including the same. [Aspect 10] The processor further receives, via the network access device, a second parking notification from a second vehicle that the second vehicle is planning to park at the parking location, determines a second available parking spot based on the detected parking data, and in response to receiving the second parking notification, transmits a second available parking location corresponding to a second location of the second available parking spot based on the map data, configured as such, the system according to Aspect 9. [Aspect 11] The processor is further configured to determine the first available parking spot and the second available parking spot based on the times at which the first parking notification and the second parking notification are received, for the purpose of reducing traffic in the parking area. The system according to aspect 10. [Aspect 12] The processor is further configured to receive, from the first vehicle and the second vehicle via the network access device, a first departure notification and a second departure notification indicating that the first vehicle and the second vehicle are about to leave the parking area, determine, for the purpose of reducing traffic in the parking area, a first exit point and a second exit point indicating locations for the first vehicle and the second vehicle to leave the parking area respectively, based on the times at which the first departure notification and the second departure notification are received, and transmit a departure command including the first exit point and the second exit point to the first vehicle and the second vehicle respectively. is configured as such. The system according to aspect 10. [Aspect 13] The at least one sensor is disposed in or on a parked vehicle parked in one of the multiple parking spots. The system according to aspect 9. [Aspect 14] The at least one sensor is installed in or near one or more of the multiple parking spots. The system according to aspect 9. [Aspect 15] A method for assisting vehicle parking, comprising: detecting, by a sensor of the vehicle, adjacent vehicle data or adjacent structure data corresponding to an adjacent structure adjacent to a main body of the vehicle; receiving, by a network access device of the vehicle, a parking assistance request from a remote device corresponding to a request for specifying a position of the main body; In response to receiving the parking assistance request, controlling a network access device by an electronic control unit (ECU) to transmit parking location information corresponding to the adjacent vehicle or structure to the remote device; A method comprising. [Aspect 16] Detecting location data corresponding to the current location of the main body by a location sensor; Storing in a memory previously detected location data, previously detected adjacent structure data, and map data including a number of parking spots corresponding to a parking location; Determining a driver's parking preference by the ECU based on at least one of the previously detected location data or the previously detected adjacent structure data; Determining by the ECU that the main body is approaching the parking location; Determining a preferred parking spot by the ECU based on the determined parking preference and the stored map data; Controlling an output device by the ECU to output data corresponding to the location of the preferred parking spot; Further comprising, The method according to aspect 15. [Aspect 17] Detecting by the sensor adjacent parking spot information corresponding to whether an adjacent parking spot arranged adjacent to the main body is occupied or vacant; Determining by the ECU that the adjacent parking spot is vacant based on the adjacent parking spot information; Controlling the network access device by the ECU to transmit an available parking spot message corresponding to the location of the adjacent parking spot via the network access device; Further comprising, The method according to aspect 15. [Aspect 18] Receiving, by the network access device, an available parking spot message indicating that a parking spot is available and including location information corresponding to the parking spot; Controlling, by the ECU, an output device to output at least one of the location information or a navigation command for the parking spot; further comprising; The method according to aspect 15. [Aspect 19] Detecting, by a location sensor, a current location of the main body; Controlling, by the ECU, the network access device to transmit the current location to the remote device in response to receiving the parking assistance request; further comprising; The method according to aspect 15. [Aspect 20] Receiving, by the network access device, parking rule information corresponding to at least one rule of a current parking location; Determining, by the ECU, whether the main body is within or approaching the current parking location; Controlling, by the ECU, the output device to output the at least one rule of the current parking location in response to determining that the main body is within or approaching the current parking location; further comprising; The method according to aspect 15.

Claims

1. A system for assisting in parking a vehicle, comprising: a main body configured to support at least one driver or passenger; a sensor configured to detect adjacent vehicle or adjacent structure data corresponding to an adjacent vehicle or structure adjacent to the main body; a network access device configured to transmit and receive data; an output device configured to output data; an input device configured to receive input data; a location sensor configured to detect location data corresponding to the current location of the main body; a memory configured to store previously detected location data, previously detected adjacent structure data, and map data including a plurality of parking spots corresponding to parking locations; coupled to the sensor and the network access device, and receives, via the input device, a premium parking preference indicating whether the driver of the vehicle is willing to pay a premium for a specific parking spot or parking spot type, predicts a parking time based on the current time zone and the driver's previously detected parking behavior in the current time zone, the parking time corresponding to a time when the vehicle is likely to be parked, controls the network access device to transmit a message including the received premium parking preference and the predicted parking time, receives parking spot location information based on the transmitted message, the parking spot location information corresponding to the location of an available parking spot, controls the output device to output the location of the available parking spot, determines the driver's parking preference based on at least one of the previously detected location data or the previously detected adjacent structure data, determines that the main body is approaching the parking location, determines a preferred parking spot based on the determined parking preference and the stored map data, and controls the output device to output data corresponding to the location of the preferred parking spot, an electronic control unit (ECU) configured as such; and a system including the same.

2. The sensor is further configured to detect adjacent parking spot information corresponding to whether an adjacent parking spot disposed adjacent to the main body is occupied or vacant, and the ECU is further configured to Determine that the adjacent parking spot is vacant based on the adjacent parking spot information, Control the network access device to transmit an available parking spot message corresponding to the location of the adjacent parking spot via the network access device, Is configured as follows, The system according to claim 1.

3. The network access device is further configured to receive an available parking spot message indicating that a parking spot is available and including location information corresponding to the parking spot, The ECU is further configured to control the output device to output at least one of the location information or navigation instructions for the parking spot, The system according to claim 1.

4. Further includes a location sensor configured to detect the current location of the main body, The network access device is further configured to receive a parking assistance request from a remote device corresponding to a request to identify the location of the main body, The ECU is further, Receive the parking assistance request from the network access device, In response to receiving the parking assistance request, control the network access device to transmit to the remote device the current location of the main body and the parking location information corresponding to the adjacent vehicle or structure, The system according to claim 1.

5. The network access device is further configured to receive parking rule information corresponding to at least one rule of the current parking location, The ECU is further, Determine that the main body is within or approaching the current parking location, and In response to determining that the main body is within or approaching the current parking location, control the output device to output the at least one rule of the current parking location, Is configured as follows, The system according to claim 1.

6. Further includes a camera configured to detect image data corresponding to at least one sign associated with the current parking location, The ECU is further, Determine that the main body is within or approaching the current parking location, determine parking rule information corresponding to at least one rule of the current parking location based on the detected image data, and control the output device to output the at least one rule of the current parking location in response to determining that the main body is within or approaching the current parking location, is configured as such, The system according to claim 1.

7. A method for assisting vehicle parking, comprising: receiving, by an electronic control unit (ECU), from an input device a premium parking preference indicating whether a driver of the vehicle has a will to pay a premium for a specific parking spot or a parking spot type; predicting, by the ECU, a parking time corresponding to a time when the vehicle is likely to be parked based on the current time zone and the previously detected parking behavior of the driver in the current time zone; controlling, by the ECU, a network access device of the vehicle to transmit a message including the received premium parking preference and the predicted parking time; receiving, by the ECU, parking spot location information corresponding to the location of an available parking spot based on the transmitted message; controlling, by the ECU, an output device to output the location of the available parking spot; A method including the above steps.

8. detecting, by a location sensor, location data corresponding to the current location of the main body of the vehicle; storing, in a memory, previously detected location data, previously detected adjacent structure data, and map data including a plurality of parking spots corresponding to a parking location; determining, by the ECU, the driver's parking preference based on at least one of the previously detected location data or the previously detected adjacent structure data; determining, by the ECU, that the main body is approaching the parking location; determining, by the ECU, a preferred parking spot based on the determined parking preference and the stored map data; controlling, by the ECU, an output device to output data corresponding to the location of the preferred parking spot; further including the above steps, The method according to claim 7.

9. Detecting, by a sensor of the vehicle, adjacent vehicle or adjacent structure data corresponding to an adjacent structure adjacent to the main body of the vehicle; Detecting, by the sensor, adjacent parking spot information corresponding to whether an adjacent parking spot arranged adjacent to the main body is blocked or vacant; Determining, by the ECU, based on the adjacent parking spot information, that the adjacent parking spot is vacant; Controlling, by the ECU, the network access device to transmit a vacant parking spot message corresponding to the location of the adjacent parking spot via the network access device; Further comprising: The method according to claim 7.

10. Receiving, by the network access device, a vacant parking spot message indicating that a parking spot is available and including location information corresponding to the parking spot; Controlling, by the ECU, the output device to output at least one of the location information or navigation instruction for the parking spot; Further comprising: The method according to claim 7.

11. Detecting, by a sensor of the vehicle, adjacent vehicle or adjacent structure data corresponding to an adjacent structure adjacent to the main body of the vehicle; Detecting, by a location sensor, the current location of the main body; Receiving, by the network access device of the vehicle, a parking assistance request from a remote device corresponding to a request to identify the location of the main body; Controlling, by the ECU, the network access device to transmit, in response to receiving the parking assistance request, the current location of the main body and parking location information corresponding to the adjacent vehicle or structure to the remote device; Further comprising: The method according to claim 7.

12. Receiving, by the network access device, parking rule information corresponding to at least one rule of a current parking location; Determining, by the ECU, whether the main body of the vehicle is within or approaching the current parking location; In response to a determination that the main body is within or approaching the current parking location, controlling the output device by the ECU to output the at least one rule of the current parking location; further comprising The method according to claim 7.

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