Abstract: A method and system of providing information and directions to truck drivers in relation to the availability of specifically marked parking places within a certain highway truck stop area is provided. Such a method includes the utilization of properly placed sensors working in combination with a particular algorithm to provide reliable information in terms of actual availability of such spaces as well as indications as to the actual size of the vehicles parked within such spaces at specific times. As such, this system accords a manner of properly notifying truck drivers of the availability of parking spaces along a highway from a distance, as well as the potential to reserve such spaces on demand. Additionally, then, the ability to indicate the presence of a smaller vehicle that attempts to utilize such a parking space in unauthorized fashion may be handled within a remote platform.

Abstract: A method and system of providing information and directions to drivers in relation to the availability of parallel street parking places within a certain area is provided. Such a method includes the utilization of properly placed sensors working in combination with a particular algorithm to provide reliable information in terms of actual availability for certain vehicle sizes on a continuous basis. As well, this system accords a manner of properly assessing actual parking place sizes, potential obstacles (such as driveways, hydrants, and the like), and other important information for electronic relay to any driver (through, for instance, a suitable wireless program and router to a hand-held or dashboard mounted communicator) to locate and assess for himself the potential for utilizing such a vacant parking place. Furthermore, such a system may also provide an effective means to properly charge a driver for parking without the need for parking meters or other like mechanisms.

Abstract: A parking meter consisting of a housing and a stanchion located adjacent a parking space for mounting of the parking meter thereon. The stanchion has a tubular upper end portion and the parking meter has a tubular lower end portion for positioning around the upper end of the stanchion. A fitting is attached to the upper end of the stanchion and gear teeth are defined by the fitting. The lower end of the meter housing has formed therein a set of gear teeth adapted to mesh with the gear teeth of the fitting in any one of several available relative positions. A bolt and pin combination is employed for providing a high security connection of the fitting and upper housing to the stanchion. Passages are provided so that rainwater and the like is directed outside of the housing and stanchion and does not accumulate within the meter housing.

Abstract: A parking meter system consisting of a cylindrical housing having an upper section for a driver assistance display, control buttons, payment means and a time display. The housing is located adjacent a plurality of parking spaces and a single parking meter mechanism is mounted within the housing for controlling parking for each of the plurality of spaces. A separate enforcement display is located on the street side of the housing so that an enforcement officer can observe the compliance status without leaving his vehicle. The housing also supports a coin collection canister in a lower section thereof and access doors are provided for both the upper and lower housing sections for ease of servicing. The contours of the doors preserves the cylindrical housing shape when the doors are closed.

Abstract: A parking meter construction having an upper and lower housing with payment means for receiving coins or a payment card. A microprocessor and other electronic components are included on a PC board mounted in the upper housing. A modular jack is connected to terminals of the microprocessor for communication therewith, and the jack is supported in the meter for connection with any of a large variety of peripheral devices which can then utilize the microprocessor in their operation. A plurality of peripheral devices may be linked together and all kept in communication with the microprocessor.