Parking Occupancy Detection Using Acoustic Sensors and ZigBee
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for monitoring the state of occupation of vehicle parking areas are not easily implemented, versatile, or economical, and lack efficient means to identify abusive utilization of spaces.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising underground sensors that transmit periodic signals, a concentrator to interpret signal intensity changes, and a ZigBee network to determine occupancy, coupled with smart cards for user authentication and payment processing, enabling real-time monitoring and management of parking spaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing monitoring systems are implemented, then parking space occupation can be monitored, but the implementation is complex and not economical
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex electronic identification and communication systems with a simple acoustic signal-based detection method. Sensors detect occupation status through acoustic emissions or vibrations from vehicles, eliminating the need for sophisticated electronic tags, readers, and data processing infrastructure while maintaining reliable monitoring capability
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs low-cost, simple sensors that can be easily deployed and replaced rather than investing in expensive, complex monitoring infrastructure. These basic sensors provide sufficient functionality for occupation detection without requiring sophisticated electronics or complex installation procedures
2Quantity of substance
If existing monitoring systems are used, then occupation data can be collected, but abusive utilization cannot be securely and rapidly identified
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors acoustic signals from each parking space and provides real-time feedback on occupation status. This continuous feedback mechanism enables rapid detection of abnormal patterns such as vehicles remaining in spaces beyond authorized time periods, allowing quick identification and response to abusive utilization
Solution Approach 2:
The system establishes baseline occupation patterns and authorization data in advance, enabling it to quickly compare current sensor readings against expected conditions. This preliminary preparation allows the system to rapidly identify deviations indicating abuse without requiring complex real-time analysis
3Area of stationary object
If comprehensive monitoring is implemented, then all parking spaces can be monitored, but the cost becomes prohibitive
Solution Approach 1:
The monitoring system is divided into independent, modular sensor units that can be individually deployed in each parking space. Each sensor operates autonomously with simple functionality, allowing the system to scale to large areas by simply adding more identical units rather than implementing a complex centralized system, thereby reducing overall implementation cost
Data Source
AI summary
A method for determining the state of occupation of a plurality of scheduled areas by vehicles, comprising the steps of: associating with each area to be monitored a transmitter which periodically transmits a signal of fixed power; receiving in a concentrator the plurality of signals emitted by said plurality of transmitters; examining said plurality of signals and determining the occupied/vacant state of each area to be monitored; periodically transmitting a signal comprising information on the occupied/vacant state of each monitored area to an operating center; generating information indicative of the state of occupation of a plurality of areas.