Abstract: A solar power system for an electronic parking meter. At least one solar cell array is connected to the anode of a first diode and at least one current regulating diode has its anode connected to a cathode of the first diode. At least one storage capacitor is connected between a cathode of the current regulating capacitor and ground. At least one second diode has its anode connected to the storage capacitor and has its cathode connected to an input of a voltage regulator. An output of the voltage regulator provides a supply voltage for the electronic parking meter. The input of the voltage regulator is also connected to the cathode of the first diode. A monitor circuit monitors a voltage level at the input of the voltage regulator. A microprocessor is connected to the monitor and when the voltage level decreases below a first threshold, the microprocessor shuts down the electronic parking meter in an orderly manner.

Abstract: An electronic parking meter system for receiving at least one type of coin or other payment device and having an electronic parking meter and an auditor. The electronic parking meter comprises a power source which may be a solar type power source, as well as, having terminals for connection to an external source of power. The meter also has a microprocessor with a memory connected to the power supply. An electronic display is connected to the microprocessor and displays pertinent information for the meter. The auditor may be connected to the microprocessor in the electronic meter by means of a direct cable link or by infrared transmission. The electronic parking meter system may have a sonar range finder connected to the microprocessor in the meter which detects the presence or absence of a vehicle in an associated parking space with the parking meter.

Abstract: A parking meter anchor includes a mounting bolt extending from a vault chamber of the parking meter head through a tapered mounting base extending therefrom and into an interior of a hollow post. An anchor nut is received on the mounting bolt and carries toothed expansion wedges which are held against an inside of the post by tapered surfaces of the mounting base and by radially extending tongues on the anchor nut.

Abstract: A multiple coin sensing apparatus for a parking meter has an index which positions a stop pin in accordance with the diameter of the coin being cycled through the meter. The indexing mechanism comprises a disc which is provided with a groove for each coin to be accommodated into which grooves the stop pin is received upon rotation of the indexing mechanism. The amount of movement of the indexing mechanism is determined by the length of the groove with which the stop pin is aligned by the coin being cycled through the meter.