Parking has always been an issue in urban areas, especially with increasing vehicles. As cities grow and space becomes limited, finding solutions to parking problems has become crucial. To address this problem, Automated Parking Systems (APS) are becoming increasingly popular. These systems aim to optimise the available parking space and offer a more efficient and eco-friendly way of parking.
Take a look at the different types of automated parking systems that are available along with their advantages.
Types of automated parking systems
Below are the main types of automated parking system:
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Vertical lift parking system
One of the most common types of automated parking solution, it uses vertical lifts to transport vehicles from the ground level to available parking spaces on the upper floors.
How it works: A car enters a platform on the ground, and the system lifts the car to an empty parking spot. The vehicle is then parked without any driver involvement.
Advantages:
- Maximises vertical space, allowing for multiple levels of parking in a small area.
- Ideal for urban areas where space is limited.
- Reduces the need for large ramps or driving lanes, maximising parking capacity.
Disadvantages:
- Requires significant energy to move vehicles vertically.
- It can be slower than other types of APS due to the lift process.
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Rotary parking system
The Rotary parking system uses rotating platforms that move cars from the entrance to the parking area and back to the exit when needed.
How it works: A vehicle enters the parking garage and is placed on a rotating platform. The system rotates the platform, moving the car to an available parking space. When the vehicle is required again, the platform rotates and brings it back to the entrance.
Advantages:
- Simple and efficient for small parking spaces.
- Requires less space than traditional parking garages.
Disadvantages:
- The system's capacity can be limited, especially if the parking area is large and many cars are needed at the same time.
- Not suitable for larger vehicles due to space restrictions.
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Shuttle-based automated parking system
It uses automated shuttles or conveyors to move vehicles from the entrance to available parking spaces.
How it works: When a vehicle enters the parking garage, the system automatically directs it to a shuttle that carries the car along a track to a parking spot. The shuttle then returns to the entrance to pick up the next vehicle.
Advantages:
- It can park multiple cars quickly and efficiently.
- They are adaptable and designed to serve different layouts.
Disadvantages:
- High initial installation costs due to the advanced technology and infrastructure.
- Requires a significant amount of space for the shuttles to move freely within the parking facility.
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Pallet-based automated parking system
It is a type of car parking system that uses a pallet or platform to transport cars to their designated parking spots.
How it works: When a car enters the parking system, it is placed on a pallet and moved to a parking space by automated vehicles.
Advantages:
- Suitable for both small and large parking lots.
- It can accommodate a wide variety of vehicle sizes.
Disadvantages:
- Takes more time to park and retrieve vehicles.
- Requires careful maintenance.
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Horizontal parking system
The horizontal transport system uses automated conveyors or belts to move vehicles from the entrance to available parking spaces on the same floor.
How it works: When a car enters the parking garage, it is placed on a conveyor belt that moves horizontally to the available parking space. The system can move the vehicle to a retrieval position when needed.
Advantages:
- Efficient use of space in narrow areas.
- Provides quick parking and retrieval of cars.
Disadvantages:
- Limited in capacity compared to vertical lift systems.
- The system may be slower in retrieving cars as it requires a direct path to the parking space.
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Automated underground parking systems
These systems are used to maximise the use of underground spaces by automating the process of parking vehicles.
How it works: The vehicle enters the system, which transports it down into an underground area. Once the car is placed on a platform, it is automatically moved to an available parking space. The vehicle can be retrieved later when needed.
Advantages:
- Efficient use of underground space.
- Reduces the need for visible parking structures.
Disadvantages:
- High construction costs due to complex infrastructure.
- The system may be slow, requiring vertical transportation and underground movement.
Conclusion
Automated parking systems have proven to be a game-changer in how we approach parking in urban areas. However, it's important to note that while these systems are useful, they can incur higher installation costs and require regular maintenance.
When using an automated parking system, it's also important to consider a car insurance policy. While these systems are generally safe, mishaps can still occur. The right insurance policy will cover damage, repair costs, thefts and accidents. Make sure to check with your insurer if your policy includes assistance for damage that could happen while using APS.
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