Automation of space management in vehicle parking using PLC and SCADA

Abstract

This work is to identify the available space in the parking area using PLC and SCADA. The main objective is to identify the empty space and indicating the driver to a particular slot. This paper attempts to design and implement an automated parking lot management system. Automated Parking Lot Management System is a fully functional and digitally controlled parking lot management system that is implemented with the use and integration of different digital circuitry and micro computing. The design involves different stages, from the main unit; process is passed on to different subunits to achieve the goal of full automation. An oncoming car will communicate (through the driver) wirelessly with the main unit attached to the Parking Facility Gate. The main unit will verify the transmitted access information and will pass control after verification to the gate mechanism drivers, this in turn drives the right gate control (either exit or entry unit). The system now monitors the activity of the driver afterwards, and for entry, as the driver moves a predetermined distance into the facility ,the system turns back the gate mechanism (for closure of gate) and passes control to the space allocation and management unit. The objective of this later unit is to manage the parking spaces available in the lot by monitoring the activity of the cars inside, allocating the spaces in an orderly manner, monitoring compliance and notify the overall control center (manned) of the space(s) available. It has a display interface for communicating with the users of the facility. There is also a control center that is manned by personnel and monitors the activities within the parking lot. It is notified of any activity, space(s) available and also the overall system can be shut down or switched on from the control center. The main goal of this project is to achieve full automation and it will find immediate usage inlarge facilities with different access restrictions, government properties, and university campuses to sectionalize lecturers car park and students car park etc.