Abstract: A three-dimensional magnetic field sensor is used as part of a vehicle detector to monitor plural parking spaces. The detector includes a controller which periodically samples the magnetic field and compares the present field to a prior field. When the difference exceeds a threshold, the change in the field is compared to previously recorded calibration changes to determine which calibration change the present change most closely resembles. The results are displayed to direct customers to vacant parking spaces or to identify spaces which are occupied but whose meters have expired.

Abstract: Parking spaces are managed by providing: a parking space monitor with a vehicle detector responsive to the presence of a vehicle in a parking space and a power supply to recharge vehicle batteries, an alarm, a code entry device for entry of an authorization code, and a computer system programmed to receive requests to reserve a selected parking space for a selected time slot; to accept the request if the selected space is available for the selected time slot; to provide an authorization code to the requester if the request is accepted; to respond to a signal from the vehicle detector indicating the presence of a vehicle in the selected space during the selected time slot; and to activate the alarm if a vehicle is detected in the selected parking space during the selected time slot until the authorization code is entered in the code entry device by the requester.

Abstract: A parking management system generates a first record reflecting the time a parking interval begins. A persistent memory 12, 14 stores the first record. A recharging station 30 connects to a vehicle 40 having rechargeable batteries to supply electricity from a power source 60. A communications link 42 is connected with the recharging station 30 and communicates with the power source 60. A controller 50 enables the recharging station to direct electricity from the vehicle's batteries to the power source 60 in response to a request. A second device 32 generates a second record reflecting use of electricity for battery recharging and reflecting the repurchase of electricity directed from the vehicle's batteries. The persistent memory stores the second record. A third device reads the first and second records and calculates an amount due for parking and recharging and notifies the customer of the calculated amount.

Abstract: A basketball goal for use in playing the game of basketball. The basketball goal includes a metal circular rim attached to a mounting bracket. The rim in configured with an inner rim perimeter with a diameter of about 18 inches and a centerline rim perimeter with a diameter of between about 18.5 inches and about 20 inches. A pair of support braces are disposed between the mounting bracket and the rim to support the rim. The basketball goal also includes net hooks for attaching a net to the rim.