Automated Parking systems utilize advanced technology, akin to those found in manufacturing and logistics, to efficiently move cars, similar to the handling of materials and pallets, in a cost-effective manner. These systems use a combination of computer-operated vertical lifts and horizontal shuttles or robotic valets to seamlessly transport vehicles from an entry point to a designated storage spot without requiring manual assistance.
The experience can vary across different systems, but generally, it involves the driver entering the facility and positioning their vehicle on a platform, guided by sensors. After parking, the driver collects their items and exits the car.
Automated Parking systems present numerous advantages. A key benefit is the ability to accommodate twice the number of vehicles in the same area compared to traditional parking or to use significantly less space for the same number of vehicles. Additional advantages include reduced need for excavation in subterranean setups, increased usable or saleable area in above-ground structures, and various environmental benefits such as more green spaces, elimination of emissions, and prevention of water and oil runoff. Moreover, these systems minimize risks of vandalism, theft, and damage from weather, prevent vehicle misplacement, and offer a valet-like parking experience.
While the retrieval time for most systems is advertised as 2-3 minutes, the actual time may vary based on the system’s design, technology, and the simultaneous demand from multiple users.
Automated Parking systems are designed with multiple backup elements for each process, ensuring operational reliability and providing alternatives in the event of a component malfunction.
In the event of a power failure, Automated Parking systems can switch to a standby generator, with an automatic transfer mechanism facilitating a swift shift to backup power within seconds.
Automated Parking systems are typically equipped with both UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) and a backup server that can instantly take over, maintaining uninterrupted operation.
These systems are engineered with potential malfunctions in mind, ensuring that vehicles can always be retrieved, regardless of the issue. System designs include various redundancies and flexible solutions, although resolution times can vary.
Thanks to their modular design, these systems can accommodate anything from as few as six parking spots to several thousand, with the technology scaling to meet any parking demand.
Most systems are equipped to handle standard-sized vehicles, including SUVs, with a maximum length of 19 feet and width of 7 feet 6 inches, though dimensions can vary. Adjustments can be made to accommodate vehicles of any size.
Major system overhauls are generally recommended after 15-20 years of service, depending on the system’s design and usage.
In systems that use pallets, each vehicle is placed on a specially designed pallet, preventing any drips from cars above. In pallet-less systems, solid concrete floors are typically used to eliminate such issues.
The systems adhere to building codes, which typically limit noise levels to 60 dB within 6 feet of the structure. Most Automated Parking systems operate below this threshold, at noise levels of 50-52 dB within the same distance, making them virtually silent.
| Costs | Conventional | Automated |
|---|---|---|
| Land Area Required | 120 x 280 (33,600 Sq. Ft.) | 100 x 120 (12,000 Sq. Ft.) |
| Cost of Land (at €100 per Sq. Ft.) | €3,600,000 | €33,000 per space |
| Cost of Parking Structure | €1,200,000 | €9,000-€24,000 per space |
Operational costs for Automated Parking facilities can vary based on the system implemented. However, due to the reduction or elimination of needs for parking attendants, as well as lower requirements for heating, cooling, ventilation, and lighting due to the absence of public access areas, operational expenses are generally much lower compared to traditional parking structures. As a general guideline, operational costs can be reduced by up to 20% for open-air garages and up to 50% for enclosed garages requiring ventilation systems.
Automated Parking Systems are designed to function autonomously, negating the need for continuous staffing. However, during initial phases or in particular scenarios, it may be advisable to have one or two technicians available on-site for a temporary period to address any immediate concerns. Most system providers offer comprehensive maintenance packages, which include preventative maintenance visits and around-the-clock remote monitoring services, ensuring the system’s optimal performance.
Maintenance costs can differ based on the specifics of the parking system in question, with monthly expenses typically ranging between 20€ to 25€ for each parking space. This estimation provides a general overview of the ongoing maintenance expenditure required to ensure the system remains in good operational condition.
In addition to the main vehicle storage area, Automated Parking Systems typically necessitate several auxiliary rooms to ensure smooth operation. These include a Control Room for system management, a Lobby/Waiting Area for users, an Electrical Room for power management components, a Pump Room for hydraulic systems, a Generator Room for emergency power supply, and a Storage/Maintenance Room for keeping spare parts. The dimensions of these rooms will vary depending on the system’s scale.
Automated Parking Systems offer versatile installation options, allowing for their placement as stand-alone structures, beneath existing buildings, or incorporated within new constructions, provided there is adequate access for vehicle drop-off and pickup. These systems are also adaptable enough to be installed in existing buildings through retrofitting, broadening the scope of potential applications.
Automated Parking Systems are compatible with both steel and concrete frameworks, offering flexibility in their construction to match the specific requirements and preferences of the project.
In most scenarios, the external façade and roof structures of an Automated Parking System can be directly attached to the main supporting structure of the parking system itself, eliminating the need for them to be independently supported. This integration is particularly straightforward in systems designed with concrete structures, ensuring cohesive architectural and structural unity.
To maintain optimal functionality, Automated Parking Garages are generally designed to operate effectively within a broad temperature range, from as low as -22 F (-30 º C) to as high as 122 F (+50 º C). This wide operational range ensures reliable performance under various environmental conditions.
Automated Parking Systems can fully support users with disabilities, provided the vehicle drop-off and pickup areas are designed in compliance with the American Disability Act (ADA) standards. This ensures that every parking space within the facility is accessible and compliant with ADA requirements.
Automated Parking Systems offer unparalleled safety and security features compared to traditional parking methods. Parking facilities are notably high-risk areas for incidents such as sexual assaults by strangers, with conventional self-park garages presenting significant security challenges due to their size and complexity. These environments can be difficult to monitor effectively, offering potential opportunities for criminal activities. Additionally, the isolated atmosphere of walking alone to one’s car at night in a large parking garage can be intimidating.
In contrast, Automated Parking Systems eliminate these concerns by restricting public access to the parking area itself. The only accessible space for users is a well-monitored, central common area, significantly enhancing the security of the parking process. With an automated system, users can park their cars knowing they are secure from a range of issues prevalent in self-park garages, including minor collisions, door scratches, vandalism, and theft of the vehicle or its contents.
Fire safety in Automated Parking Systems is governed by the NFPA® 88A Standard for Parking Structures, 2011 Edition, which addresses fire fighting, alarms, standpipes, escape routes, and ventilation. Local codes and regulations may necessitate the use of fire-retardant paint and typically require the installation of at least two sprinkler heads per parking space to mitigate fire risks effectively.
Automated Parking Systems do not require full lighting throughout the facility, as they are generally classified as “dark garages” due to the absence of human activity within the parking areas. Nevertheless, local regulations mandate a minimum level of emergency and maintenance lighting for safety and operational purposes.
In facilities operating as dark garages, the International Building Code (IBC) mandates a minimum lighting level of 1 lumen per square foot at the floor level across all egress pathways, effectively covering the entire floor area to ensure safe navigation in emergency situations.
For the vehicle drop-off and pickup zones, it is recommended to maintain a lighting intensity of 30 foot-candles to support the operation of full D1 resolution video at 30 frames per second, although lower light levels may be acceptable at kiosk locations depending on specific requirements.
The latest edition of the NFPA 88A-A2010 standard stipulates that enclosed automated parking structures must have a ventilation system capable of providing a minimum of two air changes per hour to ensure adequate air quality and safety, in contrast to the seven air changes per hour required for conventional parking facilities.
In most Automated Parking Systems, drivers are assisted by an LED display located at the opposite end of the drop-off bay from the entrance. This display provides real-time instructions using both text and symbols, which change based on the vehicle’s position as the driver enters the bay. The guidance continues throughout the vehicle’s entry into the loading area. Once the vehicle is correctly positioned within the system’s specified tolerances, the display signals the driver to stop. If the vehicle is properly stopped within these tolerances, the display will then offer additional instructions to aid in the smooth transition of the vehicle into the storage process.
Manufacturers typically advise that clear signage indicating the garage’s vehicle restrictions be posted at the entrance, much like any conventional parking facility. Upon entering the bay, vehicles are scanned and measured to ensure they meet specific criteria related to weight, size, and possibly other factors. Vehicles that exceed these limitations are not permitted to park within the facility. Additionally, depending on the preferences of the system’s owner, some parking systems may also provide auditory feedback to assist drivers during the vehicle acceptance process.
