Description:Brief Description of the Drawings

Generally, the present disclosure relates to parking management systems. Particularly, the present disclosure relates to a system comprising underground sensors for detecting vehicle presence, a gateway for receiving parking status data, a server for processing said data, and a mobile application for displaying parking availability to users.
Background
The background description includes information that may be useful in understanding the present invention. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed invention, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.
In the modern urban environment, efficient management of parking spaces has become a critical concern. With the increase in vehicle ownership, the need for advanced parking solutions has been recognized. The deployment of parking management systems represents a technological advancement aimed at addressing the challenges associated with urban parking. Such systems are designed to optimize the utilization of available parking spaces, reduce traffic congestion caused by drivers searching for parking, and improve the overall user experience.
Among the technologies employed, sensors placed in parking slots have been instrumental in detecting the presence or absence of vehicles. These sensors serve as the foundation for real-time parking monitoring and management. The data collected by these sensors is transmitted to a central system for processing and analysis. This process typically involves the use of gateways that facilitate the communication between the sensor network and a central server. The central server plays a pivotal role in aggregating, processing, and storing parking status data, making it accessible for further use.
Furthermore, the integration of mobile applications with parking management systems has introduced a new dimension of convenience for drivers. Through such applications, users are able to receive real-time information regarding parking availability, allowing them to make informed decisions and save valuable time. This integration not only enhances the user experience but also contributes to the efficient use of parking resources.
Despite the advancements in parking management technologies, several challenges remain. One of the primary concerns is the reliability and accuracy of sensor-based vehicle detection. Environmental factors, sensor malfunctions, and physical obstructions can lead to inaccurate detection, resulting in false indications of parking slot availability. Additionally, the complexity and cost of installing and maintaining an extensive sensor network can be prohibitive for many parking facilities. The reliance on mobile applications also introduces concerns regarding accessibility and usability for all potential users, particularly those who may not have access to smartphones or are less tech-savvy.
In light of the above discussion, there exists an urgent need for solutions that overcome the problems associated with conventional systems and techniques for optimizing parking space management and enhancing user experience. The present invention aims to address these issues by introducing a comprehensive parking management system that incorporates underground sensors for accurate vehicle detection, a gateway for efficient data transmission, a server for robust data processing, and a mobile application for user-friendly access to parking availability information.
Summary
The following presents a simplified summary of various aspects of this disclosure in order to provide a basic understanding of such aspects. This summary is not an extensive overview of all contemplated aspects, and is intended to neither identify key or critical elements nor delineate the scope of such aspects. Its purpose is to present some concepts of this disclosure in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.
The following paragraphs provide additional support for the claims of the subject application.
In an aspect, the present disclosure aims to provide a parking management system equipped with underground sensors for vehicle detection in parking slots, a gateway for data reception, a server for data processing and storage, and a mobile application for user interface. The system enhances the management of parking facilities by offering real-time information on parking slot availability, enabling vehicle detection accuracy and user convenience through a mobile application interface.
The system further includes underground sensors capable of indicating parking slot status through color-coded lights, enhancing visibility and comprehension of slot availability. A feature allows users to reserve parking spots through the mobile application, integrating convenience with functionality. The incorporation of a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) unit enables vehicle identification at entry and exit points, facilitating automated barrier operations for seamless vehicle movement.
A billing module within the mobile application calculates fees based on parking duration, employing dynamic pricing algorithms to adjust charges according to parking slot availability. This mechanism encourages efficient use of parking space by varying the cost in response to demand. Provision is made for reserving slots for emergency vehicles, ensuring accessibility during critical times.
Moreover, a method for managing parking facilities encompasses the steps of vehicle detection, data transmission to a server, database updating, and displaying parking availability to users through a mobile application. This comprehensive approach addresses the complexities of parking management, offering a streamlined, user-friendly solution.

Field of the Invention

The features and advantages of the present disclosure would be more clearly understood from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:
FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of a parking management system (100), in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 2 illustrates a method (200) for managing a parking facility, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 3 illustrates a schematic diagram of an integrated parking management system, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 4 illustrates a flowchart that outlines the operational sequence of a smart sensing node within the parking management system, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure.

Detailed Description
In the following detailed description of the invention, reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a part hereof, and in which is shown, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. In the drawings, like numerals describe substantially similar components throughout the several views. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to claim those skilled in the art to practice the invention. Other embodiments may be utilized and structural, logical, and electrical changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present invention is defined only by the appended claims and equivalents thereof.
The use of the terms “a” and “an” and “the” and “at least one” and similar referents in the context of describing the invention (especially in the context of the following claims) are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The use of the term “at least one” followed by a list of one or more items (for example, “at least one of A and B”) is to be construed to mean one item selected from the listed items (A or B) or any combination of two or more of the listed items (A and B), unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The terms “comprising,” “having,” “including,” and “containing” are to be construed as open-ended terms (i.e., meaning “including, but not limited to,”) unless otherwise noted. Recitation of ranges of values herein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range, unless otherwise indicated herein, and each separate value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., “such as”) provided herein, is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention unless otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as essential to the practice of the invention.
Pursuant to the "Detailed Description" section herein, whenever an element is explicitly associated with a specific numeral for the first time, such association shall be deemed consistent and applicable throughout the entirety of the "Detailed Description" section, unless otherwise expressly stated or contradicted by the context.
The term "parking management system" as used throughout the present disclosure relates to a system designed for the management of parking spaces, aiming to optimize the use of parking slots, reduce traffic congestion, and improve user convenience by providing real-time information about parking slot availability. The parking management system comprises a plurality of components including parking slots equipped with sensors, a gateway, a server, and a mobile application, each of which plays a vital role in the efficient management of parking facilities.
The term "plurality of parking slots" as used throughout the present disclosure relates to multiple designated areas within a parking facility where vehicles can be parked. Each parking slot is equipped with an underground sensor. The term "underground sensor" relates to a device placed beneath the surface of each parking slot, capable of detecting the presence or absence of a vehicle. The detection by these sensors serves as the primary data source for monitoring parking slot occupancy.
The term "gateway" as used throughout the present disclosure relates to a network device that facilitates communication between the underground sensors and the server. The gateway receives parking status data from the sensors. This data includes information regarding the occupancy of parking slots. The gateway plays a crucial role in the aggregation and transmission of sensor data to the server for further processing.
The term "server" as used throughout the present disclosure relates to a computing device or system configured to receive parking status data from the gateway. The server processes, stores, and manages this data, making it accessible for various purposes including, but not limited to, monitoring, analysis, and decision-making regarding parking management. The server’s configuration allows for efficient handling of data, ensuring timely and accurate updates on parking slot availability.
The term "mobile application" as used throughout the present disclosure relates to a software application developed for mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets. The mobile application is configured to communicate with the server to receive updated parking status data. It displays parking availability information to users, enabling them to make informed decisions regarding parking. Through the mobile application, users can quickly ascertain the availability of parking slots, significantly improving the parking experience.
FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of a parking management system (100), in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure. The block diagram of a parking management system (100) configured for managing the occupancy of parking slots within a parking facility. The system (100) includes a plurality of parking slots (102) each equipped with underground sensors for detecting the presence of vehicles. Said sensors are responsible for gathering parking status data indicative of the occupancy state of the parking slots (102). A gateway (104) is shown in communication with the underground sensors. Said gateway (104) receives the parking status data transmitted by the sensors. The parking status data, once collected by the gateway (104), is forwarded to a server (106). The server (106) is depicted as being tasked with receiving the parking status data from the gateway (104). Upon reception, the server (106) proceeds to update a parking database with the received parking status data, ensuring that the information regarding parking slot occupancy is current and accurate. In addition, a mobile application (108) is included in the system (100), which is configured to communicate with the server (106). Said mobile application (108) is responsible for receiving the updated parking status data from the server (106). The mobile application (108) is also responsible for displaying the parking availability to a user, providing a user-friendly interface to interact with the parking management system. The interconnectivity of the components within the parking management system (100) ensures a seamless flow of information from the detection of vehicle presence in parking slots (102) to the display of parking availability to the user, thereby optimizing the management and utilization of parking facilities.
Optionally, the system may include additional functionalities such as the ability to reserve parking slots through the mobile application, dynamic pricing based on slot availability, and the integration of RFID technology for vehicle identification and automated gate operations. These optional features further enhance the efficiency, convenience, and security of the parking management system.
Working examples include scenarios where users utilize the mobile application to locate available parking slots in real-time, thereby reducing the time spent searching for parking. The system’s use of underground sensors ensures that the status of each parking slot is accurately reflected, minimizing errors and optimizing parking space utilization.
In an embodiment, the underground sensors of the parking management system (100) are further configured to differentiate between vacant and occupied parking slots (102) by changing an indicator light to green for vacant and red for occupied. This functionality enhances the user experience by providing a visually intuitive means to identify parking slot status quickly. The employment of color-coded indicator lights facilitates immediate recognition of parking slot availability, thereby reducing the time drivers spend searching for vacant slots. This feature also improves the overall efficiency of the parking management system by enabling better traffic flow within the parking facility. The integration of these color-coded lights with the underground sensors not only simplifies the parking process but also leverages existing infrastructure to provide a low-cost solution to parking slot identification. Furthermore, this system enhancement can potentially reduce the reliance on the mobile application for parking slot information, providing a versatile approach to parking management that accommodates users of varying preferences and technology access levels.
In another embodiment, the mobile application (108) of the parking management system (100) is further configured to allow the user to reserve a parking spot. This functionality introduces a significant improvement in convenience and efficiency for users, enabling them to secure parking spaces before arriving at the location. The reservation feature within the mobile application addresses common issues such as time wasted searching for parking and the frustration associated with finding no available spots on arrival. By allowing users to reserve parking slots, the system effectively manages parking space turnover and optimizes slot utilization. Additionally, the reservation feature can be integrated with a calendar or scheduling application to provide reminders and navigation assistance to the reserved slot. This advanced functionality underscores the system’s commitment to leveraging technology to enhance the user parking experience, making it adaptable to the needs of a diverse user base.
In a further embodiment, the parking management system (100) comprises a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) unit for identifying a user's vehicle upon entering and exiting the parking facility. The integration of RFID technology into the parking management system represents a leap forward in automating and streamlining parking operations. The RFID unit enhances security measures by enabling the identification of vehicles and their owners, thereby mitigating unauthorized access and use of parking facilities. Moreover, the use of RFID technology facilitates a more efficient use of parking resources by automating the entry and exit processes, reducing wait times, and improving traffic flow within the facility. The RFID unit’s ability to quickly identify vehicles contributes to a seamless parking experience, underlining the system’s emphasis on convenience, security, and operational efficiency.
In an additional embodiment, the RFID unit of the parking management system (100) facilitates the automatic opening of a barrier gate upon vehicle entry and exit. This feature eliminates the need for manual intervention or ticket-based systems at entry and exit points, thereby expediting vehicle throughput and reducing congestion. The automation of barrier gates via the RFID unit significantly enhances the user experience by providing a touchless, hassle-free entry and exit process. Furthermore, this functionality can be integrated with security protocols to ensure that only authorized vehicles gain access to the facility, thereby enhancing the safety and security of the parking environment. The implementation of an automated gate opening system, powered by RFID technology, showcases the system’s dedication to adopting innovative solutions for improving parking management and user satisfaction.
In another embodiment, the parking management system (100) further comprises a billing module within the mobile application (108) configured to calculate a billing amount based on the duration of time a user's vehicle occupies a parking slot. This feature introduces a flexible and fair billing system that aligns charges with actual usage, ensuring users are billed accurately for the time their vehicles are parked. The billing module’s ability to calculate fees based on parking duration addresses the need for transparency and fairness in parking charges, enhancing user trust and satisfaction. Moreover, the integration of the billing module within the mobile application simplifies the payment process, allowing users to complete transactions seamlessly within the app. This convenience eliminates the need for physical payment kiosks, reducing queues and facilitating a smoother exit process from the parking facility.
In a further embodiment, the billing module of the parking management system (100) is further configured to adjust the billing amount based on dynamic pricing algorithms that take into account the current availability of parking slots (102). This advanced feature enables the system to implement demand-responsive pricing, thereby optimizing parking slot utilization and revenue generation. Dynamic pricing allows for the adjustment of parking fees in real-time based on factors such as occupancy levels, time of day, and special events. This approach not only maximizes the efficient use of parking resources but also offers the flexibility to incentivize parking during off-peak hours. The adoption of dynamic pricing algorithms within the billing module represents a sophisticated strategy to balance demand and supply, ensuring that parking facilities can adapt to varying usage patterns while maintaining user accessibility and affordability.
In an additional embodiment, the billing module of the parking management system (100) reduces the billing amount during times of high parking slot availability and increases the billing amount during times of low parking slot (102) availability. This pricing strategy, informed by dynamic pricing algorithms, serves to regulate parking demand, encouraging users to take advantage of lower rates during periods of lesser demand. Such a pricing model not only ensures more efficient utilization of parking slots but also provides financial incentives for users to park during less congested times. The implementation of variable pricing based on slot availability underscores the system’s commitment to innovative approaches for managing parking resources effectively and equitably.
In another embodiment, the server (106) of the parking management system (100) is further configured to reserve parking slots (102) for emergency vehicles and adjust the availability data sent to the mobile application (108) accordingly. This functionality ensures that parking slots are readily available for emergency vehicles when needed, enhancing the responsiveness of emergency services and contributing to public safety. By allocating and reserving slots specifically for emergency vehicles, the system demonstrates a proactive approach to supporting essential services. The capability of the server to adjust the parking availability data in real-time ensures that users are informed of the current status of parking resources, including the availability of slots designated for emergency use. This feature not only optimizes the allocation of parking spaces but also reinforces the system’s role in facilitating a safer and more efficient urban environment.
FIG. 2 illustrates a method (200) for managing a parking facility, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure. The method (200) for managing a parking facility encompasses steps that ensure comprehensive monitoring and management of parking spaces. The method (200) begins with a step (202) detection of vehicle presence in parking slots (102) by underground sensors, followed by a step (204) transmission of parking status data to a gateway (104). In step (206), the server (106) receives this data, updates a parking database in step (208), and communicates the updated parking status data to a mobile application (108) in step (210), which displays the parking availability to users in step (212). This methodical approach to parking management leverages technology to provide accurate and timely information, facilitating efficient use of parking resources and enhancing the user experience. By outlining a systematic process for managing parking facilities, this method exemplifies the system’s commitment to innovation, efficiency, and user satisfaction in parking management.
FIG. 3 illustrates a schematic diagram of an integrated parking management system, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure. This system incorporates various components that facilitate real-time monitoring and management of parking spaces. The RFID component that communicates with a mobile application, presumably to identify and verify vehicles entering the parking area. The mobile application is linked to a server, which acts as the central processing unit, aggregating data and managing communication between different parts of the system. The underground sensors play a pivotal role in detecting the occupancy of parking slots. These sensors transmit the parking slot status to the gateway, which then relays this information back to the server. Subsequently, the server updates the parking slot status in the mobile application. This interconnected setup ensures that users of the mobile application can receive up-to-date information about the availability of parking spaces, thereby streamlining the parking process.
FIG. 4 illustrates a flowchart that outlines the operational sequence of a smart sensing node within the parking management system, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure. The process commences with the activation of the battery, which powers the smart sensing node. Once operational, the node is placed in a parking slot where it is responsible for detecting the vacancy of the slot. The detection mechanism is simplified using visual indicators: a green LED signals a vacant slot, while a red LED indicates that the slot is occupied. Following the detection process, the parking status is communicated through a LoRa gateway to the server. LoRa technology is known for its long-range and low-power communication capabilities, making it an efficient choice for transmitting data over extended distances without requiring significant power consumption. After the data reaches the server, the information regarding the parking slot's status is updated in the mobile application. This update enables users to view the current occupancy status of parking spaces in real-time.
In an embodiment, the parking assistance system of present disclosure overcome various limitations of known parking management solution and facilitates a seamless interaction between vehicle drivers and parking facilities. Through the system an individual can effortlessly reserve a parking spot for either Light Motor Vehicles (LMVs) or Heavy Motor Vehicles (HMVs) from any location at any given time. The reservation process leverages a mobile application, and the reserved spot is marked as booked, providing real-time information to users. Upon arrival at the parking location, the user's vehicle is identified through Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tag, which can captures the time of entry and also propels the user's journey towards the designated parking spot. The user is navigated to the booked spot, thus eliminating the necessity of searching for available spaces. The underground sensors detect the presence of a vehicle to enable system, updating the status of the parking slot from vacant to occupied. The data generated from these sensors is communicated to a server via Long Range (LoRa) communication protocol. Subsequent to this transmission, the mobile application reflects the updated status of the parking slot, signaling full occupancy. As the user returns to their vehicle and prepares to leave the parking area, the RFID technology records the exit time. The total parking duration is calculated based on the initial entry time, and the corresponding parking fee is automatically deducted from the RFID tag balance or e-wallet account. The system offers an automated booking process that enables users to reserve parking slots in advance, ensuring that the slot is booked for the correct vehicle type, whether it be an LMV or an HMV. Further, system introduces an automated method to record the entry and exit of vehicles using RFID to enable automatic ticketing and payment processing.
Example embodiments herein have been described above with reference to block diagrams and flowchart illustrations of methods and apparatuses. It will be understood that each block of the block diagrams and flowchart illustrations, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and flowchart illustrations, respectively, can be implemented by various means including hardware, software, firmware, and a combination thereof. For example, in one embodiment, each block of the block diagrams and flowchart illustrations, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and flowchart illustrations can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions may be loaded onto a general purpose computer, special purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions which execute on the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus create means for implementing the functions specified in the flowchart block or blocks.
Throughout the present disclosure, the term ‘processing means’ or ‘microprocessor’ or ‘processor’ or ‘processors’ includes, but is not limited to, a general purpose processor (such as, for example, a complex instruction set computing (CISC) microprocessor, a reduced instruction set computing (RISC) microprocessor, a very long instruction word (VLIW) microprocessor, a microprocessor implementing other types of instruction sets, or a microprocessor implementing a combination of types of instruction sets) or a specialized processor (such as, for example, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a digital signal processor (DSP), or a network processor).
The term “non-transitory storage device” or “storage” or “memory,” as used herein relates to a random access memory, read only memory and variants thereof, in which a computer can store data or software for any duration.
Operations in accordance with a variety of aspects of the disclosure is described above would not have to be performed in the precise order described. Rather, various steps can be handled in reverse order or simultaneously or not at all.
While several implementations have been described and illustrated herein, a variety of other means and/or structures for performing the function and/or obtaining the results and/or one or more of the advantages described herein may be utilized, and each of such variations and/or modifications is deemed to be within the scope of the implementations described herein. More generally, all parameters, dimensions, materials, and configurations described herein are meant to be exemplary and that the actual parameters, dimensions, materials, and/or configurations will depend upon the specific application or applications for which the teachings is/are used. Those skilled in the art will recognize, or be able to ascertain using no more than routine experimentation, many equivalents to the specific implementations described herein. It is, therefore, to be understood that the foregoing implementations are presented by way of example only and that, within the scope of the appended claims and equivalents thereto, implementations may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described and claimed. Implementations of the present disclosure are directed to each individual feature, system, article, material, kit, and/or method described herein. In addition, any combination of two or more such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and/or methods, if such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and/or methods are not mutually inconsistent, is included within the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

I/We Claims

A parking management system (100) comprising:
a. a plurality of parking slots (102) each equipped with an underground sensor capable of detecting the presence of a vehicle;
b. a gateway (104) in communication with the sensors to receive parking status data;
c. a server (106) configured to receive the parking status data from the gateway (104); and
d. a mobile application (108) configured to communicate with the server (106) to receive the parking status data and to display the parking availability to a user.
The parking management system (100) of claim 1, wherein the underground sensors are further configured to differentiate between vacant and occupied parking slots (102) by changing an indicator light to green for vacant and red for occupied.
The parking management system (100) of claim 1, wherein the mobile application (108) is further configured to allow the user to reserve a parking spot.
The parking management system (100) of claim 1, further comprising a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) unit for identifying a user's vehicle upon entering and exiting the parking facility.
The parking management system (100) of claim 4, wherein the RFID unit facilitates the automatic opening of a barrier gate upon vehicle entry and exit.
The parking management system (100) of claim 3, further comprising a billing module within the mobile application (108) configured to calculate a billing amount based on the duration of time a user's vehicle occupies a parking slot.
The parking management system (100) of claim 6, wherein the billing module is further configured to adjust the billing amount based on dynamic pricing algorithms that take into account the current availability of parking slots (102).
The parking management system (100) of claim 7, wherein the billing module reduces the billing amount during times of high parking slot availability and increases the billing amount during times of low parking slot (102) availability.
The parking management system (100) of claim 1, wherein the server (106) is further configured to reserve parking slots (102) for emergency vehicles and adjust the availability data sent to the mobile application (108) accordingly.
A method (200) for managing a parking facility, the method (200) comprising the steps of:
a. detecting, by a plurality of underground sensors, the presence of a vehicle in each of a plurality of parking slots (102);
b. transmitting, by the underground sensors, parking status data indicative of the occupancy of the parking slots (102) to a gateway (104);
c. receiving, by a server (106), the parking status data from the gateway (104);
d. updating, by the server (106), a parking database with the received parking status data;
e. communicating, by the server (106), the updated parking status data to a mobile application (108); and
f. displaying, by the mobile application (108), the parking availability to a user based on the updated parking status data.

INTEGRATED PARKING MANAGEMENT SYSTEM WITH REAL-TIME DETECTION AND MOBILE APPLICATION INTERFACE

Disclosed is a parking management system comprising: a plurality of parking slots each equipped with an underground sensor capable of detecting the presence of a vehicle; a gateway in communication with the sensors to receive parking status data; a server configured to receive the parking status data from the gateway; and a mobile application configured to communicate with the server to receive the parking status data and to display the parking availability to a user.

, Claims:I/We Claims

A parking management system (100) comprising:
a. a plurality of parking slots (102) each equipped with an underground sensor capable of detecting the presence of a vehicle;
b. a gateway (104) in communication with the sensors to receive parking status data;
c. a server (106) configured to receive the parking status data from the gateway (104); and
d. a mobile application (108) configured to communicate with the server (106) to receive the parking status data and to display the parking availability to a user.
The parking management system (100) of claim 1, wherein the underground sensors are further configured to differentiate between vacant and occupied parking slots (102) by changing an indicator light to green for vacant and red for occupied.
The parking management system (100) of claim 1, wherein the mobile application (108) is further configured to allow the user to reserve a parking spot.
The parking management system (100) of claim 1, further comprising a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) unit for identifying a user's vehicle upon entering and exiting the parking facility.
The parking management system (100) of claim 4, wherein the RFID unit facilitates the automatic opening of a barrier gate upon vehicle entry and exit.
The parking management system (100) of claim 3, further comprising a billing module within the mobile application (108) configured to calculate a billing amount based on the duration of time a user's vehicle occupies a parking slot.
The parking management system (100) of claim 6, wherein the billing module is further configured to adjust the billing amount based on dynamic pricing algorithms that take into account the current availability of parking slots (102).
The parking management system (100) of claim 7, wherein the billing module reduces the billing amount during times of high parking slot availability and increases the billing amount during times of low parking slot (102) availability.
The parking management system (100) of claim 1, wherein the server (106) is further configured to reserve parking slots (102) for emergency vehicles and adjust the availability data sent to the mobile application (108) accordingly.
A method (200) for managing a parking facility, the method (200) comprising the steps of:
a. detecting, by a plurality of underground sensors, the presence of a vehicle in each of a plurality of parking slots (102);
b. transmitting, by the underground sensors, parking status data indicative of the occupancy of the parking slots (102) to a gateway (104);
c. receiving, by a server (106), the parking status data from the gateway (104);
d. updating, by the server (106), a parking database with the received parking status data;
e. communicating, by the server (106), the updated parking status data to a mobile application (108); and
f. displaying, by the mobile application (108), the parking availability to a user based on the updated parking status data.

INTEGRATED PARKING MANAGEMENT SYSTEM WITH REAL-TIME DETECTION AND MOBILE APPLICATION INTERFACE