The Full Guide of Automated Parking Systems
An automated parking system is transforming the way we approach parking spaces in urban areas, increasing efficiency, saving space, and minimizing environmental impact in a fast-paced world of technological advancement.
We will explore the different types of automated parking: fully automated, puzzle, and stackers, shedding light on their functionalities and benefits.
Fully Automated Parking System – Maximizing Space with Intelligent Technology
A fully automated parking system represents the forefront of innovation in the parking industry. This advanced system eliminates the need for human intervention entirely, utilizing cutting edge technology to park and retrieve vehicles automatically.
Vehicles are typically driven onto a designated platform or bay, and the system takes over from there, transporting the vehicle to an available parking space using a combination of lifts, conveyors, and shuttles. Fully automated parking is known for its space efficiency, reduced carbon footprint, and the convenience it offers to users.
Key Benefits of a Fully Automated Parking System
- Optimal space utilization, allowing for a higher density of parked vehicles.
- Reduced emissions as engines are turned off during the parking process.
- Enhanced safety with minimized human involvement, decreasing the risk of accidents.
Puzzle Parking System – A Modular Solution for Urban Spaces
Puzzle parking systems, also known as semi-automated systems, are designed to optimize parking space in limited areas through a combination of horizontal and vertical movements. These systems, resembling puzzle pieces fitting together, are versatile and can be installed both above ground and underground, making them suitable for various urban environments.
How Do Puzzle Parking Systems Operate?
- Vehicles are driven onto a pallet or platform at the entrance.
- The system automatically transports and places the vehicle into an available parking slot using a combination of lateral and vertical movements.
- Retrieval is as simple as inputting a command, and the system delivers the vehicle back to the entrance.
Main Advantages of A Puzzle Parking System
- Efficient use of available space, particularly in urban settings where land is at a premium.
- Increased capacity by stacking vehicles both vertically and horizontally.
- Reduced construction costs compared to traditional parking structures.
Stacker Parking Systems – Vertical Efficiency for Compact Sites
Stacker systems are a popular choice for automated parking in areas with limited space. These systems utilize vertical stacking, allowing multiple vehicles to be parked in a compact, vertical arrangement. Stackers come in various configurations, such as double-deckers or triple-deckers, providing flexibility to cater to different space requirements.
How Do Stacker Systems Work?
- Vehicles are driven onto a platform or pallet.
- The platform is lifted vertically, stacking the vehicles on top of each other.
- Retrieval involves reversing the process, lowering the platform to ground level for easy access.
Benefits of Stacker Parking Systems
- Efficient use of vertical space, making it suitable for areas with limited footprint.
- Reduced land usage compared to traditional parking structures.
- Quick retrieval process, enhancing user convenience.
As smart cities continue to evolve, embracing technological solutions becomes essential, and automated parking systems represent a significant step forward. Whether it’s fully automated, puzzle, or stacker systems, each type brings its own set of advantages, contributing to a more sustainable and efficient urban landscape.
Utron is leading the way in the parking revolution by offering innovative solutions that meet the changing needs of modern urban environments.
Common questions
An automated parking system (APS) is a mechanical system designed to transport vehicles from an entry point to a designated parking space without human intervention. By removing the need for ramps and driving lanes, these systems maximize space efficiency and reduce construction and operational costs.
Utron provides three core solutions:
• Fully Automated Systems (PACE & SLIDE): Utilize robotics, shuttles, lifts, or conveyors to store and retrieve vehicles autonomously.
• Puzzle Parking Systems: Semi-automated systems that move vehicles both vertically and horizontally, ideal for maximizing urban footprints.
• Stacker Parking Systems: Vertical solutions that allow multiple vehicles to be parked on platforms within a compact structure.
Vehicles are driven into a bay room. Once the driver exits, the system scans and measures the car, then uses lifts, shuttles, or conveyors to move the vehicle to an optimal parking spot. Retrieval is just as simple—initiated by an app or kiosk, and completed in under a minute.
Absolutely. Utron’s systems are designed with safety and convenience in mind:
• Vehicles and their contents remain untouched and secure.
• Users keep their keys and initiate the process via a mobile app or kiosk.
• Accidents, dents, and theft risks are virtually eliminated.
Utron solutions can reduce the parking footprint by 30% to 50% compared to traditional structures. This saved space can be repurposed into residential units, commercial areas, or lifestyle amenities like rooftop gardens and pools.
• Puzzle Systems (semi-automated): Use a grid of moving platforms that shift horizontally and vertically for flexible configurations, typically without the need for a pit.
• Stacker Systems (dependent or independent): Vehicles are parked on vertically moveable platforms. Some designs require the lower vehicle to move first (dependent), while others offer direct access to both levels (independent).
Yes. Both Puzzle and Stacker parking solutions are ideal for retrofits or new developments, providing modular, adaptable designs that can integrate into tight or irregular spaces.
Utron provides 24/7/365 support, preventive maintenance, and remote diagnostics. All systems include intuitive software interfaces and are backed by a network of expert technicians.
Typical retrieval times are:
• Fully Automated Systems: 40–60 seconds.
• Puzzle Systems: Around 30 seconds.
• Stackers: Approximately 45 seconds, depending on system type.
Utron automated systems are ideal for:
• Urban residential or mixed-use buildings.
• Medical centers and municipal structures.
• Properties with high land costs or limited space.
• Developments aiming to maximize revenue-generating areas.
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