Apparatus, systems and methods for monitoring parking space

Abstract

The invention provides a system, apparatus and method for monitoring the availability of space for parking adjacent electric vehicle charging facilities. The system comprises at least one electric vehicle charging facility comprising a sensor configured to transmit radio signals within a transmission distance range of the sensor and receive reflected radio signals, the reflected radio signals having been reflected by a surface within the transmission distance range of the sensor following transmission from the sensor. The system additionally comprises a processor configured to receive and process data relating to the reflected radio signals and / or characteristics of the reflected radio signals. Space for parking a vehicle adjacent to the at least one electric vehicle charging facility is located within the transmission distance range of the sensor, and the processor is configured to identify the presence of obstructions in the space for parking a vehicle and determine the availability of space for parking a vehicle relative to the at least one electric vehicle charging facility.

Description

[0001] APPARATUS, SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MONITORING PARKING SPACE

[0002] The present invention relates to apparatus, systems and methods for monitoring the availability of space for parking. The invention has particular application to monitoring the availability of space for parking adjacent electric vehicle charging facilities.

[0003] Background to the invention

[0004] Parking bays and on-street parking spots which contain or are adjacent to electric vehicle (EV) charging facilities- otherwise known as charging spaces - are increasing, as the infrastructure for EVs is improved and developed. Charging spaces can become blocked by users who do not require use of the charging facilities offered by that space, including by drivers of internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, non-plug-in hybrid vehicles (non- PHEVs) or EVs not making use of the charging facilities.

[0005] When a charging space is blocked, it cannot be utilised by an EV driver in need of vehicle charging. Not only is this inconvenient for EV drivers, but it is also a lost earning opportunity for the charging energy supplier(s). This is a growing problem and one that is encountered frequently for on-street charging, particularly when located in residential areas.

[0006] In an attempt to mitigate charging space blocking, EV only spaces can be designated. These spaces are typically found in car parks as it is recognised by local governments and authorities that the introduction of EV specific spaces in residential and on-street parking areas may be unpopular with individuals who live or work nearby, and who may be negatively impacted by their inability to park in designated EV only spaces (or otherwise risk being penalised or fined).

[0007] Whilst there is an impetus to avoid the creation of designated EV only bays in residential and on-street parking areas and instead provide charging facilities in areas in which all drivers are permitted to park, a problem exists in how to allow EV users to more readily access the facilities for charging.

[0008] Known systems for determining the availability of parking spaces, including charging spaces, often rely on the use of camera-based monitoring techniques. For example, US 10,192,440 describes a system for displaying parking spaces comprising a camera system designed to provide image indicators of parking spaces within a parking lot and a recognition unit. The recognition unit is designed to store the geographical coordinates of parking spaces present in the visual range of the camera system and to assign each parking space a respective occupation status (i.e. available or occupied) based on the image indicators.

[0009] The use of cameras can be problematic. Often, cameras are required to be mounted on streetlights (where available), requiring permission from the local authority. This may not be readily given, particularly in heritage areas. They can also become obscured by overgrown trees and vegetation, which again, typically requires permission from local authorities or homeowners for trimming or removal. On top of this regular maintenance, the initial fitting operation may require extensive electrical modifications to be carried out to the streetlight to incorporate the camera.

[0010] Other methods for determining the availability of spaces utilise sensors which are able to detect if a vehicle has parked directly above them. Such sensors typically harness magnetic or light sensing methods. Whilst useable in car parks with defined parking spaces, these sensors are less suited to residential and / or on-street parking settings; in particular, those where defined parking spaces are not present. For example, this kind of sensor could end up being located in a small space left between two vehicles parked beside one another and, in error, identify available space for parking.

[0011] Summary of the invention

[0012] There is generally a need for an apparatus, system and method which addresses one or more of the problems identified above.

[0013] It is amongst the aims and objects of the invention to provide an apparatus, system and method for determining the availability of charging spaces that address one or more deficiencies of current apparatus, systems and methods, and / or to provide an alternative solution.

[0014] It is amongst the aims and objects of the invention to provide an apparatus, system and method for determining the availability of space for parking beside EV charging facilities. A particular aim is to determine the availability of space for parking beside EV charging facilities in on-street parking areas, where there is no demarcation of designated spaces.

[0015] It is amongst the aims and objects of the invention to provide an apparatus, system and method for improving the utilisation of parking space or spaces adjacent EV charging facilities.

[0016] According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a system for monitoring the availability of space for parking adjacent electric vehicle charging facilities, the system comprising: at least one electric vehicle charging facility comprising a sensor configured to: transmit radio signals within a transmission distance range of the sensor; and receive reflected radio signals, the reflected radio signals having been reflected by a surface within the transmission distance range of the sensor following transmission from the sensor; and a processor configured to receive and process data relating to the reflected radio signals and / or characteristics of the reflected radio signals; wherein space for parking a vehicle adjacent to the at least one electric vehicle charging facility is located within the transmission distance range of the sensor; and wherein the processor is configured to identify the presence of obstructions in the space for parking a vehicle and determine the availability of space for parking a vehicle relative to the at least one electric vehicle charging facility.

[0017] By providing sensors for monitoring the availability of space for parking adjacent an electric vehicle charging facility within the vehicle charging facility itself, the sophisticated parking system becomes self-contained. This not only reduces initial installation steps and associated costs, but also allows for the simple retrofit of existing electric vehicle charging facilities, without the requirement for additional and extensive ground works.

[0018] In addition, the system enables an owner / operator of the electric vehicle charging facility to produce their own parking availability information, without having to rely on third party equipment or offerings.

[0019] Moreover, by providing electric vehicle driver / users with real-time information relating to the availability of parking adjacent EV charging facilities, the drivers / users are able to more efficiently identify and navigate to appropriate parking. The provision of this information means that electric vehicle driver / users will be more likely to use the electric vehicle charging facilities of the system, rather than an alternative charging facility which does not generate or provide associated parking availability information.

[0020] The electric vehicle charging facility may be located on or next to a street. The space for parking may comprise on-street space for parking. The on-street space for parking may be floating space not comprising designated vehicle parking spaces and / or the on-street space for parking may comprise one or more designated vehicle parking spaces.

[0021] The electric vehicle charging facility may be located in or next to a car park. The space for parking may comprise one or more parking spaces in the car park.

[0022] The transmission distance range of the sensor may extend over a space sufficient for parking one or more average-sized vehicles.

[0023] The sensor may comprise a transmitter configured to transmit radio signals, and a receiver configured to receive radio signals. Alternatively, the sensor may comprise a transceiver configured to transmit and receive radio signals.

[0024] The sensor may be configured to receive radio signals, reflected or otherwise, transmitted from other sensors within the system. The sensor (and / or the processor) may be configured to distinguish between signals received from different sensors / transmitters in the system. The sensor may be configured to ignore and / or block radio signals transmitted from radio signal transmitters outside of the system.

[0025] The radio signals may comprise Wi-Fi signals and the sensor may be a Wi-Fi sensor.

[0026] The inventors have realised that utilising Wi-Fi sensors in this application is advantageous for a number of reasons. Wi-Fi transmitting and receiving components are readily available and economically priced. The relevant components are small and can be integrated, or retrofitted, into new and existing charging facilities without having to consider severe spatial constraints. The low power draw of these components is also beneficial. As will be described below in more detail, when a number of Wi-Fi sensors are used a Wi-Fi mesh network can be formed, which has various uses and benefits. Alternatively, or in addition, the sensor may comprise one of more of the following sensor types: radar sensors, including but not limited to millimetre-wave (mmWave) Frequency Modulated Continuous Wave (FMCW) radar sensors; Ultrawideband (UWB) radio sensors; or Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) sensors. Accordingly, the radio signals may comprise one or more of the following radio signal types: radar signals, including but not limited to millimetre-wave (mmWave) Frequency Modulated Continuous Wave (FMCW) radar signals; Ultrawideband (UWB) radio signals; or Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) sensors.

[0027] The system may comprise a plurality of electric vehicle charging facilities, each of which may comprise a sensor as claimed. The system may therefore also comprise a plurality of sensors.

[0028] Where the system comprises a plurality of sensors, the plurality of sensors may form a network.

[0029] Where the system comprises a plurality of Wi-Fi sensors, the plurality of Wi-Fi sensors may form a Wi-Fi mesh network.

[0030] The electric vehicle charging facility may be any form of electric vehicle charging station or connector.

[0031] The electric vehicle charging facility may be an access connector of the type described in the applicant’s international patent application publication number WO2019 / 002868 - with additional radio signal and / or Wi-Fi sensing functionality - and may belong to the system described therein.

[0032] The electric vehicle charging facility may be an access connector which is installed in the ground. The access connector may be a socket-like connector into which an electric vehicle connector can be inserted to establish an electrical connection for charging.

[0033] The access connector may have a body portion which is installed in the ground. The access connector may be installed in a pavement, kerb, kerbstone, road, paving stone, gutter stone, in the ground surface of a car park or in other components of roadside infrastructure. The access connector may comprise a top surface which is substantially flush with a surface of the ground.

[0034] The access connector may have a central bore. A plug - which may be an annular plug - may be axially movable within the bore to allow insertion of an EV connector into the bore to make electrical contact with the access connector and the electrical network for charging. The plug may ordinarily be biased into an upper position, in which it has a top surface which is substantially flush with a top surface of the access connector.

[0035] The access connector may be one of a plurality of access connectors connected to a control a distribution module. The control and distribution module may be connected to the electrical network (such as the electrical grid) and, as such, the access connector may be connected to the electrical network via the control and distribution module. The control and distribution module and / or access connector (or connectors) may be connected to a data processing and control centre via a wired or wireless communication link. The data processing and control centre may comprise the processor. The data processing and control centre may be operable to receive data from the control and distribution sensor and / or access connector (or connectors) and may be able to send control signals to these components - for example, to instruct them to begin transmission of electrical energy to a connected EV for charging.

[0036] The sensor and / or components of the sensor may be contained within one or more removable modules installed within the electric vehicle charging facility. The one or more removable modules may contain one or more additional functional components of the electric vehicle charging facility.

[0037] Where the electric vehicle charging facility is an access connector installed in the ground and / or has a top surface which is substantially flush with the ground, the sensor may be arranged in the access connector in such a way that components of the sensor - particularly the necessary aerial(s) - may extend outwardly from (and / or be raised above) a main body portion of the access connector and / or a surface of the ground, to improve signal propagation and reception. The access connector may comprise a ridge or projection which is raised above the top surface of the access connector and in which the necessary sensor aerial(s) are housed. The ridge or projection may be less than 10mm high. The system may include one or more user associated devices. A user associated device may be a personal device which may be associated with an electric vehicle driver or user. The one or more user associated devices may (not exclusively) include one or more of the following: a tablet, a computer, a smartphone, and / or a vehicle infotainment system.

[0038] The system may comprise one or more communication connection(s) between the sensor and / or electric vehicle charging facility and / or processor and / or one or more user associated devices. The communication connections(s) may be wired, wireless or a combination of the two. The communication connection(s) may use any or a wide range of communications protocols, and may make use of communications networks (for example, the internet). The communication connection(s) may make use of a network, for example a Wi-Fi network, formed by the sensors when the system comprises more than one sensor.

[0039] The processor may communicate with the sensor to control signal transmission.

[0040] The electric vehicle charging facility may communicate with the processor to share various information and data (for example, relating to its current use status). In addition, an electric vehicle connected to the electric vehicle charging facility may communicate with the processor to share various information and data (for example, relating to its current battery charge, data captured by the vehicle for analytics, vehicle software updates and / or infotainment information) - communication may be via the electric vehicle charging facility.

[0041] The processor may communicate with the one or more user associated devices to communicate data relating to the availability of space for parking adjacent the EV charging facility to the electric vehicle driver or user.

[0042] The processor may (not exclusively) carry out one or more of the following steps:

[0043] - sending a control signal(s) to the sensor to initiate and control signal transmission;

[0044] - extracting and / or analysing characteristics of the reflected signals;

[0045] - determining the availability, location and / or size of free areas for parking adjacent the electric vehicle charging facility;

[0046] - referencing map data and / or combining information or data gleaned from the signal analysis with map data; - producing and providing georeferenced data / information relating to the location of available space for parking and / or the associated electric vehicle charging facility;

[0047] - producing a visualisation of the location of available (and / or unavailable) space for parking adjacent EV charging facilities on a map;

[0048] - sending a notification or alert to one or more user associated devices to communicate the availability of space for parking adjacent EV charging facilities, which may be in response to notification preferences set by the user (which may, for example, cover set areas or be desirable during set time periods);

[0049] - sending a notification or alert to one or more user associated devices to communicate the availability of space for parking adjacent EV charging facilities when a user associated device comes within the vicinity of (i.e. it comes within a set distance range of) an electric vehicle charging facility.

[0050] According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided an electric vehicle charging facility, the electric vehicle charging facility comprising: a sensor configured to: transmit radio signals within a transmission distance range of the sensor; and receive reflected radio signals, the reflected radio signals having been reflected by a surface within the transmission distance range of the sensor following transmission from the sensor; and wherein the electric vehicle charging facility is configured to be located such that space for parking a vehicle adjacent to the electric vehicle charging facility is located within the transmission distance range of the sensor.

[0051] The radio signals may comprise Wi-Fi signals and the sensor may be a Wi-Fi sensor.

[0052] Alternatively, or in addition, the sensor may comprise one of more of the following sensor types: radar sensors, including but not limited to millimetre-wave (mmWave) Frequency Modulated Continuous Wave (FMCW) radar sensors; Ultrawideband (UWB) radio sensors; or Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) sensors. Accordingly, the radio signals may comprise one or more of the following radio signal types: radar signals, including but not limited to millimetre-wave (mmWave) Frequency Modulated Continuous Wave (FMCW) radar signals; Ultrawideband (UWB) radio signals; or Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) sensors. The electric vehicle charging facility may be any form of electric vehicle charging station or connector.

[0053] The electric vehicle charging facility may be an access connector of the type described in the applicant’s international patent application publication number WO2019 / 002868 - with additional radio signal and / or Wi-Fi sensing functionality - and may belong to the system described therein.

[0054] The electric vehicle charging facility may be an access connector which is installed in the ground. The access connector may be a socket-like connector into which an electric vehicle connector can be inserted, to establish an electrical connection for charging.

[0055] The access connector may have a body portion which is installed in the ground. The access connector may be installed in a pavement, kerb, kerbstone, road, paving stone, gutter stone, in the ground surface of a car park or in other components of roadside infrastructure. The access connector may comprise a top surface which is substantially flush with a surface of the ground.

[0056] The access connector may have a central bore. A plug - which may be an annular plug - may be axially movable within the bore to allow insertion of an EV connector into the bore to make electrical contact with the access connector and the electrical network for charging. The plug may ordinarily be biased into an upper position, in which it has a top surface which is substantially flush with a top surface of the access connector.

[0057] Embodiments of the second aspect of the invention may include one or more features of the first aspect of the invention or its embodiments, or vice versa.

[0058] According to a third aspect of the invention, there is provided a method for monitoring the availability of space for parking adjacent electric vehicle charging facilities, the method comprising: providing a system comprising: at least one electric vehicle charging facility comprising a sensor; a processor configured to receive and process data from the sensor; wherein space for parking a vehicle adjacent to the at least one electric vehicle charging facility is located within a transmission distance range of the sensor; transmitting radio signals from the sensor, within a transmission distance range of the sensor; receiving reflected radio signals in the sensor, the reflected radio signals having been reflected by a surface within the transmission distance range of the sensor following transmission from the sensor; receiving, in the processor, data relating to the reflected radio signals and / or characteristics of the reflected radio signals; and using the processor, identifying the presence of obstructions in the space for parking a vehicle and determining the availability of space for parking a vehicle relative to the at least one electric vehicle charging facility.

[0059] The method may comprise determining the location and / or size of free areas for parking adjacent the electric vehicle charging facility.

[0060] The method may comprise overlaying parking availability information on a map to provide a visual reference for electric vehicle drivers / users of parking availability. Electric vehicle drivers / users may be able to navigate to a selected parking location using the map. The map may provide the electric vehicle driver / user with directions to a selected parking location.

[0061] The method may comprise communicating with an EV user / driver to provide them with information / data regarding the space for parking a vehicle relative to the at least one electric vehicle charging facility.

[0062] The method may comprise communicating with one or more user associated device associated with the EV user / driver. The one or more user associated device may (not exclusively) include one or more of the following: a tablet, a computer, a smartphone, and / or a vehicle infotainment system.

[0063] The method may comprise communicating with one or more user associated device using the processor.

[0064] The method may comprise sending a notification or alert to the one or more user associated device to communicate the availability of space for parking adjacent EV charging facilities, which may be in response to notification preferences set by the user (which may for example cover set areas or be desirable during set time periods).

[0065] Embodiments of the third aspect of the invention may include one or more features of the first or second aspects of the invention or their embodiments, or vice versa.

[0066] According to a fourth aspect of the invention, there is provided a system for monitoring the availability of space for parking adjacent electric vehicle charging facilities, the system comprising: a sensor configured to: transmit radio signals within a transmission distance range of the sensor; and receive reflected radio signals, the reflected radio signals having been reflected by a surface within the transmission distance range of the sensor following transmission from the sensor; and a processor configured to receive and process data relating to the reflected radio signals and / or characteristics of the reflected radio signals; wherein space for parking a vehicle adjacent to electric vehicle charging facilities is located within the transmission distance range of the sensor; and wherein the processor is configured to identify the presence of obstructions in the space for parking a vehicle and determine the availability of space for parking a vehicle relative to the electric vehicle charging facilities.

[0067] The radio signals may comprise Wi-Fi signals and, as such, the sensor may be a Wi-Fi sensor.

[0068] Alternatively, or in addition, the sensor may comprise one of more of the following sensor types: radar sensors, including but not limited to millimetre-wave (mmWave) Frequency Modulated Continuous Wave (FMCW) radar sensors; Ultrawideband (UWB) radio sensors; or Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) sensors. Accordingly, the radio signals may comprise one or more of the following radio signal types: radar signals, including but not limited to millimetre-wave (mmWave) Frequency Modulated Continuous Wave (FMCW) radar signals; Ultrawideband (UWB) radio signals; or Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) sensors. The sensor may comprise a transmitter configured to transmit radio signals, and a receiver configured to receive radio signals. Alternatively, the sensor may comprise a transceiver configured to transmit and receive radio signals.

[0069] The sensor may be configured to receive radio signals, reflected or otherwise, transmitted from other sensors in the system, where the system comprises a plurality of sensors.

[0070] The system may comprise a plurality of sensors.

[0071] The sensor may be integrated into the EV charging facilities.

[0072] The system may comprise a plurality of sensors and a plurality of EV charging facilities, and each of the plurality of sensors may be integrated into an EV charging facility.

[0073] Embodiments of the fourth aspect of the invention may include one or more features of the first to third aspects of the invention or their embodiments, or vice versa.

[0074] According to a fifth aspect of the invention, there is provided an electric vehicle charging facility comprising: a Wi-Fi communications module configured to establish a Wi-Fi connection with a connected electric vehicle or its user; and a network connection for connecting the electric vehicle charging facility to a remote network.

[0075] The electric vehicle charging facility may comprise a sensor configured to: transmit radio signals within a transmission distance range of the sensor; and receive reflected radio signals, the reflected radio signals having been reflected by a surface within the transmission distance range of the sensor following transmission from the sensor.

[0076] Embodiments of the fifth aspect of the invention may include one or more features of the first to fourth aspects of the invention or their embodiments, or vice versa. According to a sixth aspect of the invention, there is provided a system for monitoring the availability of space for parking adjacent electric vehicle charging facilities, the system comprising: a plurality of electric vehicle charging facilities according to the fifth aspect of the invention; wherein the plurality of Wi-Fi communications modules of the electric vehicle charging facilities are connected together to enable wireless data transfer between a user and / or vehicle to a remote network, via the plurality of electric vehicle charging facilities.

[0077] The system may comprise a processor configured to receive and process data relating to the reflected radio signals and / or characteristics of the reflected radio signals; wherein space for parking a vehicle adjacent to the at least one electric vehicle charging facility is located within the transmission distance range of the sensor; and wherein the processor is configured to identify the presence of obstructions in the space for parking a vehicle and determine the availability of space for parking a vehicle relative to the at least one electric vehicle charging facility.

[0078] Embodiments of the sixth aspect of the invention may include one or more features of the first to fifth aspects of the invention or their embodiments, or vice versa.

[0079] According to a seventh aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of transferring data between an electric vehicle or its user and a remote network using an electric charging facility, the electric charging facility comprising a Wi-Fi communications module, the method comprising:

[0080] - wirelessly transmitting data between the Wi-Fi communications module of the electric vehicle charging facility and a connected electric vehicle or its user; providing a network connection between the electric vehicle charging facility and a remote network.

[0081] Embodiments of the seventh aspect of the invention may include one or more features of the first to sixth aspects of the invention or their embodiments, or vice versa. Brief of the drawings

[0082] There will now be described, by way of example only, various embodiments of the invention with reference to the drawings, of which:

[0083] Figure 1 A is a schematic representation showing the on-street components of a system according to an embodiment of the invention;

[0084] Figure 1B is a schematic physical representation of the components of the system of Figure 1A;

[0085] Figures 2A is a perspective view of a charge point access connector of the system shown in Figures 1A and 1 B;

[0086] Figure 2B is a partially exploded perspective view of the charge point access connector of Figure 2A; and

[0087] Figure 2C is a plan view of the charge point access connector of Figures 2A and 2B.

[0088] Detailed description of preferred embodiments

[0089] Referring firstly to Figure 1A there is shown, generally at 10, the on-street components of a system for determining the availability of charging spaces or, rather, the availability of space for parking adjacent EV charging facilities. The system utilises a networked system of Wi-Fi sensors to detect the presence of parked cars and / or other obstructions in the onstreet parking area along the road.

[0090] On the street 12 shown, there are no designated parking spaces. Instead, vehicles can park anywhere along the street 12 and, as such, parking positions are likely to move as vehicles come and go. On the pavement 14a, multiple charge point access connectors 16a to 16g are installed. General references to the access connectors will use reference numeral 16. The access connectors 16 may be access connectors of the type described in the applicant’s international patent application publication number WO2019 / 002868 - with additional Wi-Fi sensing functionality - and may belong to the system described therein. The access connectors 16 allow EV users to connect their EVs to an electrical network for charging; however, because the street does not have designated parking spaces or charging spaces, anyone (including ICE vehicle users) is able to park next to the access connectors 16 and block their use by EV drivers requiring charge. For example, ICE vehicles 18a and 18b are parked adjacent to access connectors 16b, 16c and 16d.

[0091] Without designated EV charging spaces, it is difficult to prevent vehicle users who do not require use of the charging facilities from parking in this way, and without the certainty of charging space availability it can be inconvenient and time consuming for EV drivers requiring charge to drive around looking for a suitable space. By providing EV drivers with real-time information relating to the location(s) of available parking spots beside EV charging facilities, the present invention enables EV drivers to navigate to and access charging with minimal inconvenience.

[0092] To this end, each charge point access connector 16 comprises a Wi-Fi signal transmitter and a Wi-Fi signal receiver configured to receive backscattered Wi-Fi signals reflected by a surface or an object, such as a vehicle, after transmission. By using a processor (not shown) to extract and / or analyse the characteristics of the reflected signals, the system is able to determine the availability, location and size of free areas for parking adjacent to the access connectors 16. This information can be overlaid on a map using, for example, mapping software, to provide EV drivers with a real-time visualisation of parking availability in an area.

[0093] With reference to Figure 1A, it can be seen that the Wi-Fi signals transmitted by the transmitters of access connectors 16b, 16c and 16d - shown generally at 20b, 20c and 20d, respectively - do not travel far before they reach vehicles 18a and 18b and are reflected. The signals 20a and 20d transmitted by the transmitters of access connectors 16a and 16d propagate further, but still ultimately reach vehicles 18a and 18b. Using the processor, the system will process the signals to determine the distance between access connectors 16a and 16d and the vehicles 18a and 18b and the size of the available spaces.

[0094] Like access connectors 16b, 16c and 16d, the Wi-Fi signals transmitted by the transmitter of access connector 20g are soon reflected by the vehicle 18c. However, in this case it can be seen that the vehicle 18c is connected to access connector 20g for active charging.

[0095] The processor can be provided with real-time access point use information to determine, when a vehicle is parked alongside a particular access connector (i.e. when the access connector is blocked), whether or not it is being used for charging. This can provide the system owners and / or operators with useful information relating to the utilisation of the charging system.

[0096] Figure 1 B shows, schematically, the main components of the system which is partially shown in Figure 1A. The components include: multiple charge point access connectors 16, each with integrated Wi-Fi signal transmitters and receivers, a processor 22 (or multiple processors) and a user associated device 24. In this example, the processor 22 is cloud based, although it will be appreciated that this may not always be the case. The user associated device 24 is a smartphone, although in alternative or additional implementations of the system it could be a tablet, a computer, or it may be a user interface (III) device within the vehicle itself. Only one user associated device is shown, but it will be appreciated that multiple EV users / drivers will be a part of the system. In addition, a single user / driver may use more than one device with the system. The communication connections between the components in the system may be wired or wireless, may use any or a wide-range of communications protocols, and may make use of communications networks (for example, the internet and / or using the Wi-Fi network formed by the Wi-Fi signals transmitted from the access connectors 16).

[0097] The Wi-Fi signal receivers contained within each of the access connectors 16 send data relating to the backscattered signals received by them to the processor 22. The processor may also be able to communicate with the Wi-Fi signal transmitters in the access connectors 16 to control signal transmission. The access connectors 16 themselves may also communicate with the processor to share various information and data (for example, their current use status). The access connectors 16 and / or Wi-Fi transmitters and / or Wi-Fi receivers may additionally, or alternatively, communicate with the processor 22 indirectly, via an intermediate device or component. Control and operation of the charge point access connectors is not discussed here, although it will be appreciated that the processor 22 could have a part to play in these roles.

[0098] The processor 22 can perform various functions, including receiving the signal data from the Wi-Fi signal receivers and processing and analysing the characteristics of the reflected signals. Using this data, the processor 22 can, for every access connector 16, determine the availability and size of space for parking adjacent to it. Local mapping data can also be used in making this determination. The processor can generate data relating to the location of obstructions (likely parked cars) on the road, the free parking space available, and the location of free space relative to the access connectors - the location (GPS coordinates) of which are known - and may store other GPS data relating to the parking areas / spaces within the transmission range of the sensor and / or generate GPS coordinates of the free space. Data models, algorithms and / or machine learning can be employed to develop and improve the analysis and interpretation reflected signals and their characteristics. These techniques could be used to discount reflected signals produced by relatively small and / or moving obstructions - such as a person or a dog walking - and other obstructions deemed not to be consequential to the parking situation. In processing reflected signals and / or signal characteristics, the processor may also refer to and / or make a comparison with the characteristics of historic (past) reflected signals.

[0099] The parking information derived by the processor 22 is overlaid on a local map, to produce a visual indication of available spaces. The processor 22 can then communicate with the user associated device 24 to provide an EV user / driver with local parking availability information. Before delivery, the EV user / driver may, using their user associated device 24, communicate with the processor 22 to tell it when and where they are looking for parking. Alternatively, real-time parking information may be readily available and accessible via an application or website accessed via the user associated device 24. The user / driver can elect to receive notifications of parking availability for selected locations or access connectors 16. They may choose to receive notifications at certain times of the day - for example, when they are due to arrive home from work - or at any time parking becomes available. The processor 22 may utilise GPS (global positioning system) data from an EV user / driver’s user associated device 24 to determine their location and provide relevant parking data.

[0100] In transmitting Wi-Fi signals, the group of access connectors 16 form a distributed Wi-Fi mesh network in the locality of the connectors 16. EVs can connect to the network to download data, where required and / or to perform software updates. This may only be available to charging point access connector users. The Wi-Fi capability of the access connectors provides a wireless access point for a charging point user, to enable vehicle software updates, infotainment or mapping / navigation updates, streaming and / or downloading of media content, and transfer of other data to and from the vehicle and / or a user device. The wireless access point can also be used by the user for communication to internet services, for example VoIP or video communication from the vehicle or mobile devices. These services enhance the charging experience of the user. Where multiple electric vehicle charging facilities have Wi-Fi capabilities, they may together form a Wi-Fi mesh network. Communication over the Wi-Fi mesh network may enable wireless data transfer from a user and / or vehicle to a remote network, via the multiple electric vehicle charging facilities.

[0101] Whilst the above description refers to a single processor 22, it will be appreciated that the various processing steps described may alternatively be performed by multiple processors, some or all of which may communicate with one another, where necessary.

[0102] By integrating Wi-Fi signal transmitters and receivers into the footprint of new and / or existing charge point access connectors, no additional disruptive installation steps are required to utilise this technology. For new connectors, there will be no additional ground preparation steps, and for existing connectors a swap-out or retrofit can be performed without additional ground preparation or digging. Moreover, by being located in or at charge point access connectors, the Wi-Fi sensing components are ideally located to provide parking information exactly where it is needed.

[0103] Referring now to Figures 2A to 2C, an access connector 116 incorporating Wi-Fi signal transmitters and receivers is shown in more detail. The access connector 116 has a body portion 126, which is installed in the ground. In the Figure 1A system, the body portion of the access connector is installed in the pavement, but it could also be installed in a kerb, road, paving stone, gutter stone, in the ground surface of a car park or in other components of roadside infrastructure. The top surface 128 of the access connector 116 is configured to be substantially flush with a surface of the ground (i.e. the pavement, kerb, road, paving stone, gutter stone, et cetera into which it is installed). The access connector 116 has a central bore, into which an annular plug 130 is axially movable to allow insertion of an EV connector into the bore to make electrical contact with the access connector and the electrical network for charging.

[0104] The access connector 116 comprises a recess 132 (see Figure 2B), into which a removable module 134 is installed. The module 134 is electrically connectable to the access connector 116 and houses one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs) and a lighting PCB (printed circuit board) for the LEDs. The module 134 also contains the Wi-Fi transmitter, the Wi-Fi receiver and their associated aerials. The module 134 is formed with an upper ridge 136 (best seen in Figure 2A) into which the aerial or aerials of the Wi-Fi transmitter and receiver extend. The ridge 136 is, in real terms, very small and will not create an obstruction or tripping risk. The inventors have realised that by incorporating a ridge 136 which extends upwardly from the top surface 128 of the access connector 216 to raise the Wi-Fi aerial(s) above the body portion 126 of the access connector 116, signal propagation is improved. This arrangement allows the Wi-Fi sensing components to be integrated into a ground-level access connector 116 to produce and provide parking availability information with minimal ground obstruction.

[0105] Although only one removable module is shown, the Wi-Fi sensing components may be provided in separate modules. In alternative arrangements, all of the components may be integrated into the access connector 116 without being provided in a removable module. In either case, the access connector 116 may one or more additional ridges to house additional Wi-Fi sensing components, such as aerials. In alternative configurations, the WiFi sensing components can be housed in a module with different components of the access connector 116.

[0106] Instead of forming a sensor network, a single access connector (for example, one which is located alone) may be provided with Wi-Fi sensing components and may be operated in the same manner as described above to identify available parking spots around it.

[0107] It will be appreciated that, whilst in the foregoing description the system is principally used to determine the availability of parking spaces adjacent electric vehicle charging facilities, the system may also be used to detect ordinary parking spaces or space for parking (for example on a street without electric vehicle charging facilities). In this case, and in the case of the foregoing, the system technology - primarily the Wi-Fi sensing components of a signal transmitter and a signal receiver, or a transceiver - may not be provided in access connectors or other charging facilities. Instead, these components may be incorporated into alternative equipment, objects and / or street furniture, or they may be provided as a stand-alone unit. Whilst a particular access connector is described, Wi-Fi sensing components may be incorporated into any form of EV charging connector or charging station within the scope of the invention. Whilst Wi-Fi sensing is described above, it will be appreciated that the transmitters and receivers could instead utilise radio waves in substantially the same manner. For example, instead of a Wi-Fi signal transmitter and receiver, the transmitter could transmit radio signals and the receiver could receive the backscattered signals reflected by surfaces. Signal processing and analysis would be carried out in broadly the same way as described above.

[0108] Alternative embodiments may comprise one of more of the following sensor types: radar sensors, including but not limited to millimetre-wave (mmWave) Frequency Modulated Continuous Wave (FMCW) radar sensors; Ultrawideband (UWB) radio sensors; or Radio- Frequency Identification (RFID) sensors.

[0109] Millimetre-wave (mmWave) Frequency Modulated Continuous Wave (FMCW) radar sensors are suitable as they have high accuracy and resolution and are capable of providing accurate distance, velocity, and angular measurements. Radar systems are environmentally robust, being largely unaffected by common environmental factors such as fog, rain, snow, smoke, and dust, as well as adverse lighting conditions. mmWave radar sensors can be provided in a compact form factor as the antennas and other components can be small. Radar ensures user privacy as it does not capture optical images.

[0110] Ultrawideband (UWB) systems are an alternative to radar which transmit a series of very short, low-power radio pulses (of the order of nanoseconds) over a very wide frequency spectrum. A receiver measures the Time of Flight (ToF) from which distance can be determined. UWB sensors are suitable as they provide centimetre-level accuracy for ranging with low power consumption and is resistant to interference from other wireless technologies like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth because its signal is spread out over a broad frequency range.

[0111] Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) provides a further functional alternative. Although RFID is used primarily for object detection, distance can be inferred from Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI). Reliability may be limited due to multipath reflections and environmental factors, leading to a lower accuracy of the order of metres rather than centimetres, but this may be sufficient for the purpose of determining the availability of a space for parking. In addition, triangulating from multiple RFID sensors may improve reliability and / or accuracy. RFID sensors have the benefit of being very cost-effective, especially with passive tags that do not require their own power sources.

[0112] Systems and electric vehicle charging facilities that utilise radio signal technologies other than Wi-Fi for determining the availability of space for parking a vehicle may also be supplemented with Wi-Fi capability via a Wi-Fi communication module. The Wi-Fi capability of the electric vehicle charging facility provides a wireless access point for a charging point user, to enable vehicle software updates, infotainment or mapping / navigation updates, streaming and / or downloading of media content, and transfer of other data to and from the vehicle and / or a user device. Where multiple electric vehicle charging facilities have Wi-Fi capabilities, they may together form a Wi-Fi mesh network. Communication over the Wi-Fi mesh network may enable wireless data transfer between a user and / or vehicle to a remote network, via the multiple electric vehicle charging facilities.

[0113] The wireless access point can also be used by the user for communication to internet services, for example VoIP or video communication from the vehicle or mobile devices. These services enhance the charging experience of the user by providing a data access service that can be made reliable and secure. The Wi-Fi access can be made specific to the user connected to the charge facility, to improve its security and provide reliable data transfer speeds. Where the parking space availability is determined using radio signals other than Wi-Fi, there will be high resistance to interference with between the data transfer and parking space monitoring systems. A user can be informed of the availability of the parking bay, the charge facility, and a Wi-Fi access point by the system together, in real-time, through a single notification, alert system, or application.

[0114] The invention provides a system, apparatus and method for monitoring the availability of space for parking adjacent electric vehicle charging facilities. The system comprises at least one electric vehicle charging facility comprising a sensor configured to transmit radio signals within a transmission distance range of the sensor and receive reflected radio signals, the reflected radio signals having been reflected by a surface within the transmission distance range of the sensor following transmission from the sensor. The system additionally comprises a processor configured to receive and process data relating to the reflected radio signals and / or characteristics of the reflected radio signals. Space for parking a vehicle adjacent to the at least one electric vehicle charging facility is located within the transmission distance range of the sensor, and the processor is configured to identify the presence of obstructions in the space for parking a vehicle and determine the availability of space for parking a vehicle relative to the at least one electric vehicle charging facility. Various modifications to the above-described embodiments may be made within the scope of the invention, and the invention extends to combinations of features other than those expressly claimed herein.

Claims

Claims1. A system for monitoring the availability of space for parking adjacent electric vehicle charging facilities, the system comprising: at least one electric vehicle charging facility comprising a sensor configured to transmit radio signals within a transmission distance range of the sensor; and receive reflected radio signals, the reflected radio signals having been reflected by a surface within the transmission distance range of the sensor following transmission from the sensor; and a processor configured to receive and process data relating to the reflected radio signals and / or characteristics of the reflected radio signals; wherein space for parking a vehicle adjacent to the at least one electric vehicle charging facility is located within the transmission distance range of the sensor; and wherein the processor is configured to identify the presence of obstructions in the space for parking a vehicle and determine the availability of space for parking a vehicle relative to the at least one electric vehicle charging facility.

2. The system according to claim 1 , wherein the electric vehicle charging facility is located on or next to a street, and the space for parking comprises on-street space for parking.

3. The system according to claim 1 , wherein the electric vehicle charging facility is located in or next to a car park, and the space for parking comprises one or more parking spaces in the car park.

4. The system according to any preceding claim, wherein the transmission distance range of the sensor extends over a space sufficient for parking one or more average-sized vehicles.

5. The system according to any preceding claim, wherein the sensor comprises a transmitter configured to transmit radio signals and a receiver configured to receive radio signals, or comprises a transceiver configured to transmit and receive radio signals.

6. The system according to any preceding claim, wherein the sensor is configured to receive radio signals, reflected or otherwise, transmitted from other sensors within the system, and the system is configured to distinguish between signals received from different sensors / transmitters in the system.

7. The system according to any preceding claim, wherein the radio signals comprise Wi-Fi signals and the sensor comprises a Wi-Fi sensor.

8. The system according to any of claims 1 to 6, wherein the sensor comprises a radar sensor.

9. The system according to claim 8, wherein the sensor comprises a millimetre-wave (mmWave) Frequency Modulated Continuous Wave (FMCW) radar sensor.

10. The system according to any of claims 1 to 6, wherein the sensor comprises an Ultrawideband (UWB) radio sensors.

11. The system according to any of claims 1 to 6, wherein the sensor comprises a Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) sensor.

12. The system according to any preceding claim, further comprising a Wi-Fi communications module.

13. The system according to any preceding claim, comprising a plurality of electric vehicle charging facilities, each of which comprises a radio sensor.

14. The system according to any preceding claim, wherein the sensor and / or components of the sensor are contained within one or more removable modules installed within the electric vehicle charging facility.

15. The system according to any preceding claim, wherein the electric vehicle charging facility comprises an access connector which is installed in the ground, and which comprises a top surface which is substantially flush with a surface of the ground.

16. The system according to claim 15, wherein components of the sensor extend outwardly from a main body portion of the access connector and a surface of the ground to improve signal propagation and reception.

17. The system according to claim 16, wherein the access connector comprises a ridge or projection which is raised above the top surface of the access connector and in which sensor components are housed.

18. The system according to claim 17, wherein the ridge or projection is less than 10mm high.

19. The system according to any preceding claim, comprising one or more communication connection(s) between the sensor and / or electric vehicle charging facility and / or processor and / or one or more user associated devices.

20. The system according to claim 19, wherein the communication connection(s) make use of a network formed by the Wi-Fi sensors or Wi-Fi communications modules when the system comprises more than one electric vehicle charging facility.

21. The system according to claim 19 or claim 20, wherein the processor is configured to communicate with the one or more user associated devices to provide data relating to the availability of space for parking adjacent the EV charging facility to the electric vehicle driver or user.

22. An electric vehicle charging facility comprising: a sensor configured to: transmit radio signals within a transmission distance range of the sensor; and receive reflected radio signals, the reflected radio signals having been reflected by a surface within the transmission distance range of the sensor following transmission from the sensor; and wherein the electric vehicle charging facility is configured to be located such that space for parking a vehicle adjacent to the electric vehicle charging facility is located within the transmission distance range of the sensor.

23. The electric vehicle charging facility according to claim 22, wherein the radio signals comprise Wi-Fi signals and the sensor comprises a Wi-Fi sensor.

24. The electric vehicle charging facility according to claim 22, wherein the sensor comprises a radar sensor.

25. The electric vehicle charging facility according to claim 24, wherein the sensor comprises a millimetre-wave (mmWave) Frequency Modulated Continuous Wave (FMCW) radar sensor.

26. The electric vehicle charging facility according to claim 22, wherein the sensor comprises an Ultrawideband (UWB) radio sensors.

27. The electric vehicle charging facility according to claim 22, wherein the sensor comprises a Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) sensor.

28. The electric vehicle charging facility according to any of claims 22 to 27, further comprising a Wi-Fi communications module.

29. The electric vehicle charging facility according to any of claims 22 to 28, wherein the electric vehicle charging facility comprises an access connector which is installed in the ground, and which comprises a top surface which is substantially flush with a surface of the ground.

30. The electric vehicle charging facility according to claim 29, wherein components of the sensor extend outwardly from a main body portion of the access connector and a surface of the ground to improve signal propagation and reception.

31. The electric vehicle charging facility according to claim 30, wherein the access connector comprises a ridge or projection which is raised above the top surface of the access connector and in which the sensor components are housed.

32. The electric vehicle charging facility according to claim 31, wherein the ridge or projection is less than 10mm high.

33. The electric vehicle charging facility according to any of claims 22 to 32, comprising one or more communication connection(s) between the sensor and / or electric vehicle charging facility and / or processor and / or one or more user associated devices.

34. The electric vehicle charging facility according to claim 33, wherein the communication connection(s) make use of a network formed by the Wi-Fi sensors or Wi-Fi communications modules when the system comprises more than one electric vehicle charging facility.

35. A method for monitoring the availability of space for parking adjacent electric vehicle charging facilities using a system comprising: at least one electric vehicle charging facility comprising a sensor; and a processor configured to receive and process data from the sensor, wherein space for parking a vehicle adjacent to the at least one electric vehicle charging facility is located within a transmission distance range of the sensor, the method comprising: transmitting radio signals from the sensor, within a transmission distance range of the sensor; receiving reflected radio signals in the sensor, the reflected radio signals having been reflected by a surface within the transmission distance range of the sensor following transmission from the sensor; receiving, in the processor, data relating to the reflected radio signals and / or characteristics of the reflected radio signals; and using the processor, identifying the presence of obstructions in the space for parking a vehicle and determining the availability of space for parking a vehicle relative to the at least one electric vehicle charging facility.

36. The method according to claim 35 comprising determining the location and / or size of free areas for parking adjacent the electric vehicle charging facility.

37. The method according to claim 35 or claim 36 comprising overlaying parking availability information on a map to provide a visual reference for electric vehicle drivers / users of parking availability.

38. The method according to any of claims 35 to 37, comprising communicating with an EV user / driver to provide them with information / data regarding the space for parking a vehicle relative to the at least one electric vehicle charging facility.

39. The method according to any of claims 35 to 37, comprising communicating with one or more user associated device associated with the EV user / driver.

40. The method according to claim 39 comprising sending a notification or alert to the one or more user associated device to communicate the availability of space for parking adjacent EV charging facilities.

41. The method according to any of claims 35 to 40, comprising transferring data between the electric vehicle charging facility and the user and / or a connected electric vehicle using the Wi-Fi sensor or Wi-Fi communications module.

42. The method according to claim 41 , comprising providing communication between the user and / or connected electric vehicle and a remote network using the Wi-Fi sensor or Wi-Fi communications module.

43. The method according to claim 42, comprising transferring data relating to vehicle software updates, infotainment or mapping / navigation updates, streaming and / or downloading of media content using the Wi-Fi sensor or Wi-Fi communications module.

44. The method according to any of claims 35 to 43, comprising providing a Wi-Fi mesh network from multiple electric vehicle charging facilities with Wi-Fi sensors or Wi-Fi communication modules, and enabling wireless data transfer between a user and / or vehicle to a remote network, via the multiple electric vehicle charging facilities.

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