A smart parking system based on mini PC platform and mobile application for parking space detection

Abstract

Car parking is a major problem in urban areas in developed and also in developing countries. The growing number of vehicles creates a problem with parking spaces mainly in the city center and the surrounding streets. The local authorities have to react with regulations, and the current situation is unpleasant for many citizens. Therefore, the aim of this article is to propose a complex outdoor smart parking lot system based on the mini PC platform with the pilot implementation, which would provide a solution for the aforementioned problem. Current outdoor car park management is dependent on human personnel keeping track of the available parking lots or a sensor-based system that monitors the availability of each car. The proposed solution utilizes a modern IoT approach and technologies such as mini PC platform, sensors, and IQRF. When compared to a specialized and expensive system, it is a solution that is cost-effective and has the potential in its expansion and integration with other IoT services.