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The widespread use of smartphones among drivers has opened up new possibilities for tracking vehicle movements using accelerometers and GPS data. This information can be used to determine the start and end times of parking processes and thus estimate the availability of parking spaces in real time.
Google Maps introduced this feature in 2017 and uses historical data collected from smartphones with location services enabled. While the concept offers some certainty in parking time, it lacks accuracy for parking management when interpreting smartphone data. Real-time data is much more accurate and efficient for parking management.
Advances in the field of computer vision make it possible to automate the estimation of parking space occupancy by using street cameras. For this purpose, video recordings and snapshots are analyzed with cloud or onboard processing. This offers greater accuracy compared to analyzing smartphone data. While cloud processing solutions require significant data traffic, onboard processing systems require more powerful hardware. Despite the relatively higher infrastructure costs, the versatile use of cameras and improved accuracy make this method an attractive option for parking lot management. However, there are limitations in darkness or at night and in unfavorable weather conditions.
The use of ultrasonic and electromagnetic distance meters on lampposts or street signs offers another option for detecting vacant parking spaces. This method is less expensive than analysis with cameras, but has the disadvantage that a shorter range is detected. The overall accuracy and cost efficiency of parking lot management using lamppost radars is similar to that of camera analysis, making it a very good alternative in certain situations.
Battery-operated parking sensors are installed on or under parking spaces for this purpose. The parking sensors work with magnetic, infrared and ultrasonic technology. This setup offers high spatial resolution and a short distance, resulting in higher accuracy compared to other detection methods. However, despite the benefits, challenges such as road works and setting up wireless infrastructure can make the system difficult to deploy and manage.
By integrating these innovative parking sensors with effective enforcement practices, cities can optimize on-street parking management. This can improve sustainability and mobility amidst the challenges of growing urbanization and traffic congestion.
Fits Traffic offers a solution to prevent illegal parking in urban areas through parking sensors. It thus supports the police and city authorities in urban parking management. This ground-breaking system integrates seamlessly with any existing CCTV network to automatically detect parking violations.
Centralized management ensures fast and effective enforcement.
