Dynamic Curbside Allocation for Autonomous Vehicles
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing technologies for managing curbside space are inadequate for the increasing demand from connected and autonomous vehicles, leading to congestion, inefficiency, and safety risks, as they lack dynamic allocation and real-time monetization capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A curbside management system that utilizes owner computing devices with integrated navigation, asset verification, and curbside management components to dynamically allocate and monetize curbside space in real-time, prioritizing accessibility, safety, and demand, while communicating with autonomous vehicles and emergency systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If curbside space is allocated using traditional static methods (physical signs and parking meters), then implementation is simple and cost-effective, but the system cannot dynamically respond to varying demand and leads to congestion and inefficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The curbside management system transitions from static allocation to dynamic allocation by continuously monitoring real-time demand, vehicle arrivals, and space availability. The system adjusts pricing and allocation decisions dynamically based on current conditions, enabling adaptability to varying demand patterns while managing complexity through automated algorithms and real-time data processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements closed-loop feedback by continuously collecting data from sensors, vehicle communications, and usage patterns, then using this feedback to adjust allocation and pricing decisions. This feedback mechanism enables the system to learn from past behavior and optimize future allocations, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and complexity through data-driven automation.
2Productivity
If curbside space is made freely accessible to maximize traveler access, then mobility is improved, but congestion and dysfunction multiply including double-parking and lane blockages
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the pricing parameter dynamically based on demand, time of day, and space availability. By adjusting the cost parameter, the system optimizes utilization efficiency during low-demand periods while preventing congestion during high-demand periods, thus resolving the contradiction between productivity and harmful factors through parameter optimization.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies differentiated pricing and access control to different curbside zones and time periods, allowing free or reduced-cost access in certain conditions while imposing restrictions in others. This partial application of control measures optimizes overall utilization while preventing harmful congestion effects in critical areas.
3Extent of automation
If autonomous vehicles are allowed to wait at curbside destinations without management, then vehicle autonomy is maintained, but congestion is exacerbated and space turnover is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system communicates with autonomous vehicles in advance to notify them of curbside space availability, expected wait times, and optimal arrival times. This preliminary information allows autonomous vehicles to plan their routes and arrivals more efficiently, reducing unnecessary waiting and improving space turnover while maintaining full vehicle autonomy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides real-time feedback to autonomous vehicles about curbside conditions, including current occupancy, predicted availability, and pricing. This feedback enables autonomous vehicles to make informed decisions about when and where to arrive, optimizing their operations while reducing congestion and improving overall space utilization efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
System and method for managing curbside use by connected and/or autonomous vehicles that integrates at least a navigation component, an asset verification component, and a curbside management component, that generate recommended curbside access destinations for a vehicle associated with the customer.