Automated Valet Parking Alignment for Inductive Charging Bays
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automated valet parking systems require alignment mechanisms and construction work for parking spaces, making it difficult for operators to introduce the service without additional infrastructure.
Innovation Solution
An automated valet parking method and system that use information processing apparatuses to select and adjust vehicle positions based on positional misalignment information, aligning power receivers with power transmitters for inductive charging without the need for alignment mechanisms or construction work.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If an alignment mechanism is introduced in the parking lot to align the power receiver with the power transmitter, then the alignment accuracy is improved, but the device complexity and construction work increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical alignment mechanism with an information processing system that uses positional misalignment information to guide vehicle positioning. Instead of using physical guide members and mechanical adjustment devices installed in the parking lot, the system uses data processing and communication between the information processing apparatus and the vehicle to achieve alignment, thereby eliminating complex mechanical infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The vehicle itself performs the alignment adjustment based on positional misalignment information received from the information processing apparatus. The vehicle's automated valet parking system uses the misalignment data to autonomously adjust its position and orientation, eliminating the need for external alignment mechanisms to physically guide or adjust the vehicle.
2Manufacturing precision
If an alignment mechanism with guide members and support plates is installed in the parking space, then the alignment precision is improved, but the ease of manufacture and construction work deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical alignment infrastructure (guide members, support plates, elevated positioning systems) with an information-based guidance system. The information processing apparatus calculates positional misalignment and communicates correction data to the vehicle, eliminating the need for complex construction work in parking spaces while maintaining alignment precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the alignment function from the parking lot infrastructure and transfers it to the vehicle's control system. By removing the alignment mechanism from the fixed infrastructure and embedding the alignment capability in the movable vehicle system, the patent simplifies parking space construction while preserving alignment accuracy.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a guide member supported by elastic members is used for alignment, then the alignment adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical guide member system with an information processing-based guidance system. The system maintains adaptability by calculating positional misalignment for various vehicle types and configurations, then communicating appropriate correction data, eliminating the need for complex mechanical components while preserving versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system achieves adaptability by dynamically adjusting positional misalignment parameters based on vehicle specifications and parking space characteristics. The information processing apparatus calculates optimal positioning parameters for different scenarios, providing versatile alignment guidance without requiring physical adjustment mechanisms.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient alignment of power receivers with power transmitters, reducing operational costs and labor, and allowing for unmanned implementation of valet parking and charging services, thereby enhancing service efficiency and user convenience.
Implementation Method 1
a power transmitter supporting a power receiver for inductive charging, which is mounted in the vehicle, is installed
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are an automated valet parking method and an automated valet parking system. This automated valet parking method uses an information processing apparatus and includes: selecting a parking space based on vehicle information on a specification of a vehicle supporting automated valet parking, where the parking space is a parking space at which a power transmitter supporting a power receiver for inductive charging, which is mounted in the vehicle, is installed; and adjusting a position of the vehicle, which is guided to the parking space having been selected, based on positional misalignment information such that a misalignment amount of an installation position of the power receiver with respect to an installation position of the power transmitter becomes smaller, where the positional misalignment information indicates the misalignment amount of the installation position of the power receiver with respect to the installation position of the power transmitter.