A SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR AUTOMATED GOODS STORAGE AND RETRIEVAL

Abstract

A system and method for automated storage and retrieval that employs a two-dimensional, vertically oriented storage with storage areas arranged in a grid along a horizontal axis, a lift for access to one or more floors of the storage, and a vehicle transfer area for transfer of vehicles between an exterior transit way and the lift. Unique identification data is assigned to each vehicle upon access to the vehicle transfer area. Next, horological data is acquired corresponding to the identification data. Frequency data is calculated based on the identification data and the horological data, corresponding to the frequency of vehicle ingress and egress. The frequency data is stored in association with the identification data for later use. The vehicle is then transported to a storage area based on the frequency data, with vehicles having a higher frequency of ingress and egress stored in close proximity to the vehicle transfer area.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Automated mechanical parking garage systems have been employed since the late 1950's. Early automated parking garages used crane systems, conveyors, hydraulics and pneumatics to transport and store vehicles within a parking structure. Recently, more advanced systems have been developed which include computer-controlled, specialized equipment for carrying vehicles to assigned parking spaces in much the same way that computerized assembly lines or warehouses store and retrieve miscellaneous goods.

Since the early 1980's, many computer-based systems have employed a graphical user interface (GUI) to present information to and receive input from a user or operator. In many cases, such a GUI is little more than an alternative expression of a traditional interface. For example, certain operating systems employ the GUI to collect and display substantially the same information as traditional text-based operating systems (where a GUI is defined as any computer interactive interface that substitutes graphics for characters, which graphics are manipulated by a pointing device, e.g., a mouse or trackball, and which graphics are displayed using a processor). Moreover, there are no user interfaces, graphical or otherwise, which present the status of the components in an automated parking and storage system in an intuitive and unambiguous way suitable for a novice operator.

In addition, automated parking facilities, and parking garages in general, typically have drivers who frequently enter/exit the garage during the course of a day, week, or month. Unfortunately, these drivers are required to locate a parking location on each entrance into the parking facility, resulting in a parking location that is progressively further from the entrance/exit than the driver's previous parking location. This problem is compounded in an automated facility, wherein the cars are loaded in a first come/first served manner. Thus, the frequent driver has to wait progressively longer and longer as his car is retrieved, as the parking location of his automobile is located higher and higher in the parking structure. Reserved parking has been used in common parking garages, but this method has several drawbacks, most commonly the parking space reserved for the driver being taken by another automobile. This forces the reserve patron to locate another parking location, which gives rise to the aforementioned problems.

Searching for a parking garage in a busy city typically frustrates the business commuter, visitor, or tourist. In addition, once a parking garage is located, the driver must then contend with parking facilities that may or may not be able to accommodate his vehicle. Also, the parking may be full, requiring the driver to locate an alternate parking facility, wasting time and energy that would better be spent elsewhere.

In an automated parking facility, the driver is typically not able to access his vehicle once the vehicle has been moved to its parking location. This prevents the driver from retrieving items left in the vehicle, or placing items in the vehicle without first exiting the garage.

Accordingly, there is a need for architecture that addresses the shortcomings of the prior art. Specifically, there is a need for architecture that presents and manages information in the automated parking and storage facility in an intuitive and unambiguous way, enabling even a novice operator to understand the status of the components of the automated parking system. Further, there is a need for a system that graphically provides alerts regarding the status of components of the automated parking and storage system and enables an operator to take corrective action using the same display interface presenting the alert.

In addition thereto, there exists a need for an automated reserve parking method and system that orders automobiles based on the frequency of ingress and egress. There is a further need for a system and method for locating a parking facility, ascertaining occupancy levels, and reserving a parking location. Furthermore, there exists a need for a system and method for accessing a vehicle stored in an automated parking facility, without first retrieving the vehicle and exiting the facility.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In accordance with the subject application, there is provided a system and method for automated goods storage and retrieval.

Further, in accordance with the subject application, there is provided a system and method for automated vehicle, container, and boat storage and retrieval in a multi-story parking facility.

Still further, in accordance with the subject application, there is provided a system and method for the frequency-based sorting of vehicles in an automated parking facility, wherein the most frequently accessed vehicles are located in close proximity to an associated vehicle ingress/egress area.

Yet further, in accordance with the subject application, there is provided a system and method for communication to a vehicle corresponding to a parking location availability, location, reservations, and the like.

In addition thereto, in accordance with the subject application, there is provided a system and method for enabling a user to access a vehicle, located in an automated parking facility, via a secondary access area, wherein the secondary access area provides a user with access to a vehicle, without requiring the vehicle to exit the parking facility.

In accordance with the subject application, there is provided an automated vehicle storage and retrieval system. The system includes a two-dimensional, vertically oriented storage area with a plurality of storage compartments oriented in a grid disposed along the vertical axis and the horizontal axis. The system also includes a lift for selective orientation along each axis and at least one vehicle transfer area configured to transfer vehicles between an exterior transit way and the lift. The system also employs receiving means configured to receive identification data that is uniquely assigned to each vehicle associated with access to the vehicle transfer area. Acquisition means are also employed by the system to acquire horological data. The system further comprises calculating means adapted to calculate frequency data associated with each vehicle in accordance with the identification data and the horological data, the frequency data representing the frequency of access to the vehicle transfer area corresponding to each vehicle. In addition, the system includes storage means configured to store the frequency data of each associated vehicle and transport control means configured to transport vehicles via the lift to a selected storage area in accordance with the frequency data associated with the particular vehicle.

In accordance with one embodiment of the subject application, the horological data includes time, date, or duration data relative to access of each vehicle to the vehicle transfer area. The system further includes means adapted to store location data uniquely associated with each storage compartment, and representative of a separation of each storage compartment relative to each vehicle transfer area. The transport control means further includes selection means adapted to select one of the storage areas in accordance with relative frequency data associated with each associated vehicle and the location data, such that vehicles with a relatively high frequency of access are positioned more proximate to the at least one vehicle transfer area relative to vehicles having a lower frequency of access thereto.

In accordance with another embodiment of the subject application, the system further includes acquisition means adapted to acquire access data representing a past vehicle access pattern or a scheduled vehicle access time. The system embodied by this aspect of the subject application then incorporates repositioning means adapted to reposition vehicles among the storage compartments according to the access data such that selected vehicles are repositioned more proximate to a vehicle transfer area. Such repositioning is capable of being limited to certain days and times of day. The repositioning means are further adapted to reposition vehicles based on a charge associated with the storage of the vehicle.

Further, in accordance with the subject application, there is provided a method for automated vehicle storage and retrieval.

Still further, in accordance with the subject application, there is provided an automated vehicle storage and retrieval system. The system includes a two-dimensional, vertically oriented storage area with a plurality of storage compartments oriented in a grid disposed along the vertical axis and the horizontal axis. The system also includes a lift for selective orientation along each axis and at least one vehicle transfer area configured to transfer vehicles between an exterior transit way and the lift. The system employs storage means adapted to store identification data uniquely assigned to each of a plurality of vehicles. Transport control means are also incorporated by the system, configured to transport vehicle received into the transfer area to a selected storage area. In addition, the instant system includes communication means adapted to communicate status data, representing the storage compartment status, to each vehicle in accordance with the identification data retrieved from the storage means.

In accordance with one embodiment of the subject application, the status data advantageously includes reservation data corresponding to the reserving of a storage compartment in response to a request received from a vehicle. The status data is further capable of including data representing the availability of the storage compartments.

In another embodiment of the subject application, the communications means are capable of communicating position information with each vehicle, thereby generating customized routing from each associated vehicle to a transfer area.

According to another embodiment of the subject application, the transport control means further includes means adapted for transporting vehicles received into the transfer area to a selected storage area based on preselected priority data corresponding to identification data.

In accordance with the subject application, there is provided a method for automated vehicle storage and retrieval.

Further, in accordance with the subject application, there is provided a system for automated vehicle storage and retrieval system. The system includes a two-dimensional, vertically oriented storage area having a plurality of storage compartments in a grid orientation disposed along a vertical axis and a horizontal axis, a lift for selective orientation along each of the vertical and horizontal axes, and at least one vehicle transfer area adapted for transfer of vehicles between an exterior transit way and the lift. The system further includes storage means adapted to store identification data uniquely assigned to each of a plurality of associated vehicles. The system also employs transport control means to transport vehicles received by the transfer area to a selected storage area. The system further employs receiving means adapted to receive a vehicle retrieval request. In addition, the system includes at least one vehicle access area adapted to receive vehicles retrieved from a storage compartment, which is accessible to vehicle ingress and egress solely via the transport control means. The system then uses retrieval means adapted to retrieve a selected vehicle from a corresponding storage area to the vehicle access area in accordance with a received vehicle retrieval request.

In accordance with one embodiment of the subject application, the system further includes means adapted for assessing an access charge in accordance with a received vehicle access request.

In accordance with another embodiment of the subject application, the at least one vehicle access area includes vehicle maintenance equipment. In addition, the vehicle maintenance equipment includes vehicle cleaning equipment.

Another embodiment of the subject application provides the system with transporting means adapted to transport parcels to the at least one vehicle access area for transfer to a vehicle disposed therein.

In addition, in accordance with one embodiment of the subject application, the system further comprises means adapted for receiving electronic payment data corresponding to a storage of an associated vehicle in the selected one of the plurality of storage areas. In association with this embodiment, the system also includes means adapted for receiving the electronic payment data wirelessly.

Still further, in accordance with the subject application, there is provided a method for automated vehicle storage and retrieval.

Still other aspects of the subject application will become readily apparent to those skilled in this art from the following description wherein there is shown and described a preferred embodiment of the subject application. As it will be realized, the subject application is capable of other different embodiments and its several details are capable of modifications in various obvious aspects all without from the subject application. Accordingly, the drawing and descriptions will be regarded as illustrative in nature and not as restrictive because the total or selective application of modules will always depend on the available ground area, capacity and business requirements. While the illustration shows the automated storage and car provision center on top of the dealership operation it is also alternatively able to be located underground or in the back of a building, depending on local circumstances, optimal solution or traffic planning. The skilled artisan will appreciate that by such a variable/conditional placement of the “automated heart/automated center” the core and scope of the subject application is explicitly maintained as is in the case of selective modular application.

Still other advantages, aspects and features of the present invention will become readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description wherein there is shown and described a preferred embodiment of the subject application, simply by way of illustration of one of the best modes best suited to carry out the subject application. As it will be realized, the subject application is capable of other different embodiments and its several details are capable of modifications in various obvious aspects all without departing from the scope of the subject application. Accordingly, the drawing and descriptions will be regarded as illustrative in nature and not as restrictive.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings incorporated in and forming a part of the specification, illustrate several aspects of the subject application, and together with the description serve to explain the principles of the subject application. In the drawings:

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a preferred embodiment according to the subject application;

FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an entry level according to one embodiment of the subject application;

FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a parking and storage level according to one embodiment of the subject application;

FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating computer system for implementation of the system and method according to the subject application;

FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a method for automated vehicle storage and retrieval according to one embodiment of the subject application;

FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a method for automated vehicle storage and retrieval according to one embodiment of the subject application;

FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a method for automated vehicle storage and retrieval according to one embodiment of the subject application; and

FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a method for automated vehicle storage and retrieval according to one embodiment of the subject application.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The subject application is directed to a system and method for automated storage and retrieval of goods. In particular, the subject application is directed to a system and method for the frequency-based sorting of vehicles in an automated parking facility, wherein the most frequently accessed vehicles are located in close proximity to an associated vehicle ingress/egress area. More particularly, the subject application is directed to a system and method for communication to a vehicle corresponding to parking location availability, location, reservations, and the like. Particularly, the subject application is directed to a system and method for enabling a user to access a vehicle, located in an automated parking structure or facility, via a secondary access area, wherein the secondary access area provides a user with access to a vehicle, without requiring the vehicle to exit the parking facility.

Turning now to FIG. 1, there is shown an exterior isometric view of the system 100 for automated storage and retrieval in accordance with the subject application. The system 100 is implemented in a multi-story facility 101 including N number of floors or levels 102, 104, 106, 108, 110, 112, 114, and 116. As shown in FIG. 1, N is equivalent to 8, however, the skilled artisan will appreciate that a greater or lesser value for N is acceptable for the subject application. Each of the N levels 102-116 is capable of supporting the weight of a plurality of vehicles and the corresponding auxiliary infrastructures as set forth hereinafter. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that proper construction of the facility 101 is dependent upon numerous factors, including the available land upon which the facility 101 is to stand, the number of levels of the building, as well as the square area of each level. Using these and other variables, the skilled artisan is able to determine the appropriate specifications for each of the levels and structural support members of the multi-level facility 101 of the subject application.

For purposes of this example embodiment, each of N levels is approximately 100″×175′ or 32 m×54 m, for an approximate per level square footage of 17,500 sq. ft. (1,728 sq. meters). The skilled artisan will appreciate that various impediments, supports and the like, as well as structural components, will impact on the available square footage per level. It will further be appreciated that various outside factors, e.g., zoning ordinances, environmental impacts, and the like, will also affect the facility 101. The example embodiment, described herein, includes N number of levels. However, the skilled artisan will appreciate that the subject application need not include multiple levels, but rather be extended along a single levels. It will further be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the facility 101 is shown above-ground for illustration purposes only, and the system and method described herein is capable of implementation as a multi-level below-ground facility without departing from the scope of the subject application. In accordance with one embodiment of the subject application, the levels 102-116 are constructed with different distances between floor and ceiling, such that each level is capable of accommodating a type of vehicle. For example, one level has a higher ceiling, thereby allowing storage of sport utility vehicles, while another level has a lower ceiling, enabling the storage of compact cars. The skilled artisan will appreciate that such an embodiment enables the separation of different heights of vehicles into different levels.

The multi-level facility 101 is illustrated in FIG. 1 as having a transparent exterior for purposes of description only. In accordance with one embodiment of the subject application, the exterior of the multi-level facility 101 is sheathed in a transparent material. Preferably, the exterior of the multi-level facility 101 is an opaque material, suitably adapted to withstand the elements. The skilled artisan will appreciate that any suitable material known in the construction arts is capable of being used in accordance with the subject application.

As depicted in FIG. 1, a first level 102 includes at least one vehicle entrance/exit 130, shown in FIG. 1 as entry area 118 and exit area 120. It will be appreciated that the entry area 118 and exit area 120, as shown in FIG. 1, enable ingress and egress of a single vehicle, respectively. The skilled artisan will appreciate that a greater number of vehicles can enter and exit than one at a time, however, for purposes of explanation herein, reference to a single ingress and egress automobile. The vehicle entrance/exit areas, e.g., entry area 118 and exit area 120, enable the facility 101 to receive vehicles, boats, containers, or the like, for storage. It will further be understood by those skilled in the art that while a single vehicle entrance/exit area 130 is shown in FIG. 1, the subject application is capable of incorporating any number of vehicle entrance/exit areas in accordance with the subject application. In accordance with the preferred embodiment of the subject application, the first level 102 designates a secondary access area of the multi-level automated facility 101, enabling the access by one or more drivers to their respective vehicles, containers, boats, or the like.

The multi-level facility 101 includes one or more rotating platforms 122, 124, 126, and 128, enabling the driver or passenger of a given vehicle to access the vehicle without first removing the vehicle from the facility 101. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that while the subject application uses rotating platforms, stationary platforms are equally capable of employment, without departing from the scope of the subject application. Furthermore, as will be discussed, the platforms 122-128 are suitably capable of being attached to one or more levels 102-116 of the multi-level facility 101 via any means known in the art. The skilled artisan will appreciate that the structural components of the platforms are determined based upon the composition of the platform, the weight of the vehicle, storage container, boat, or the like, and any accompaniments known in the art. It will further be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the rotating platforms 122-128 are suitably capable of adaptation as loading/unloading stations on any one or more of the levels 102-116 of the facility 101. In addition thereto, the skilled artisan will find it apparent that the rotating platforms 122-128 are further capable of adaptation to display a vehicle, boat, storage container, or the like.

In accordance with one embodiment of the subject application, the multi-level facility 101 further includes an electronic message board 132, suitably positioned so as to be visible to pedestrians, vehicles, and the like. Preferably, the electronic message board 132 is adapted to display special rate structures at a given time based upon the current occupancy level of the multi-level facility 101. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that while a single message board 132 is shown in FIG. 1, the subject application is capable of including any number of such boards, of varying sizes, and at various locations on the facility 101. Preferably, the one or more electronic message boards 132 are communicatively coupled to a main control, enabling the dynamic updating of such rates or messages to passerby.

Referring now to FIG. 2, there is shown a representative embodiment of an entry level 200 of the multi-level facility 101. The entry level 200 includes eight rotating platforms 220, 222, 224, 226, 228, 230, 232, and 234, each suitably adapted to rotating a vehicle. Preferably, the entry level 220, in addition to receiving vehicles for parking in the upper levels of the facility 101 is advantageously employed as a secondary access level, enabling a driver to access his vehicle via one of the rotating platforms 222, 224, 226, 228, 230, 232, or 234. In accordance with the subject application, the rotating platforms 222, 224, 226, 228, 230, 232, or 234 function as a secondary area, in addition to the entry/exit area 130 (as shown in FIG. 1), in which the driver has access to his vehicle. The skilled artisan will appreciate that such an access enables the driver to remove items or load items into his vehicle, without first removing the vehicle from the parking facility 101. According to the preferred embodiment of the subject application, each platform 220-234 is rotated by any means known in the art for rotating platforms. The skilled artisan will appreciate that stationary platforms are equally capable of being implemented in accordance with the subject application. Preferably, the secondary access areas, or rotating platforms 222, 224, 226, 228, 230, 232, and 234 are located on the entry level 200 of the facility 101 so as to enable ease of access by pedestrians to their respective vehicles, negating the need for stairs, elevators, or the like. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the rotating platforms 220-234, or other similar secondary access areas are shown on the entry level 200 for explanation purposes only, and any level of the facility is equally capable of supporting secondary access areas.

Turning now to FIG. 3, there is illustrated a parking level 300 of the multi-level facility 101. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the level 300 is representative of a parking level and need not have rotating platforms 318, 320, 322 and 324. For example, with reference to FIG. 1, the level 300 of FIG. 3 is a representation of levels 104, 106, and 110 of FIG. 1. Levels 108, 112, 114, and 116 resemble the parking level 300, however these levels do not possess rotating platforms similar to the platforms 318-324 of FIG. 3. Thus, in an alternate embodiment, the system of the subject application employs platforms on each level, while in a tertiary embodiment, the system of the subject application, due to the parking facility 101 construction, does not use any rotating platform modules. The height of the parking level 300 is capable of varying in accordance with the type of vehicle, boat, or storage container stored thereon, resulting in a homogenous level of X height for storage of boats, a level of Y height for storage of containers, and a level of Z height for storage of automobiles. The skilled artisan will appreciate that the specific heights of the attendant levels of the multi-level facility 101 will depend upon the particular type of item being stored on each level. The additional components and features of the parking level 300 are explained in greater detail below.

Turning now to FIG. 4, illustrated is a representative architecture of a suitable server 400 on which operations of the subject system are completed. The skilled artisan will appreciate that while a server is used herein, the subject application is capable of employing any personal computing device, known in the art, for control of the parking facility 101 in accordance with the methodologies described hereinafter. Included is a processor 402, suitably comprised of a central processor unit. However, it will be appreciated that processor 402 may advantageously be composed of multiple processors working in concert with one another as will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art. Also included is a non-volatile or read only memory 404 which is advantageously used for static or fixed data or instructions, such as BIOS functions, system functions, system configuration, and other routines or data used for operation of the server 400.

Also included in the server 400 is random access memory 406, suitably formed of dynamic random access memory, static random access memory, or any other suitable, addressable memory system. Random access memory provides a storage area for data instructions associated with applications and data handling accomplished by processor 402.

A storage interface 408 suitably provides a mechanism for volatile, bulk or long term storage of data associated with the server 400. The storage interface 408 suitably uses bulk storage, such as any suitable addressable or serial storage, such as a disk, optical, tape drive and the like as shown as 416, as well as any suitable storage medium as will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art.

A network interface subsystem 410 suitably routes input and output from an associated network allowing the server 400 to communicate to other devices. Network interface subsystem 410 suitably interfaces with one or more connections with external devices to the server 400. By way of example, illustrated is at least one network interface card 414 for data communication with fixed or wired networks, such as Ethernet, token ring, and the like, and a wireless interface 418, suitably adapted for wireless communication via means such as WiFi, WiMax, wireless modem, cellular network, or any suitable wireless communication system. It is to be appreciated however, that the network interface subsystem suitably utilizes any physical or non-physical data transfer layer or protocol layer as will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art. In the illustration, the network interface 414 is interconnected for data interchange via a physical network 420, suitably comprised of a local area network, wide area network, or a combination thereof.

Data communication between the processor 402, read only memory 404, random access memory 406, storage interface 408 and network subsystem 410 is suitably accomplished via a bus data transfer mechanism, such as illustrated by bus 412.

Suitable executable instructions on the server 400 facilitate communication with a plurality of external devices, such as workstations, portable handheld devices, personal data assistants, vehicle communications devices, document processing devices, other servers, or the like. While, in operation, a typical server operates autonomously, it is to be appreciated that direct control by a local user is sometimes desirable, and is suitably accomplished via an optional input/output interface 422 as will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art.

Returning to FIG. 2, a vehicle 206A enters the facility 101 through the entry level 200 at a vehicle transfer area, e.g., entrance 202. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the entry level 200 is shown for illustration purposes only, and the subject application is capable of implementing an entry level at any of the levels 102-116 of the multi-level facility 101. The vehicle 206A then proceeds to park on a pallet 208 received from a pallet storage unit (not shown). The pallet 208 is suitably adapted to transport the vehicle 206A throughout the facility 101, including traversing the entry level 200. The pallet 208 is then transported via any suitable means to the primary transport way 236. The primary transport way 236 suitably comprises one or more vehicle transfer units, capable of carrying a loaded or unloaded pallet 208. As will be understood by the skilled artisan, the primary transport way 236 is capable of transporting the pallet 208 on which the vehicle 206A resides laterally along the entry level 200, as well as perpendicular along secondary transport ways 238, 240, 242, 244, 246, 248, 250, and 252. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the pallet 208 is further capable of transportation to any portion of the entry level 200 between the transport ways 238, 240, 242, 244, 246, 248, 250, and 252. The skilled artisan will appreciate that the secondary transport ways 238, 240, 242, 244, 246, 248, 250, and 252 each represent an individual transport unit (not shown) and are implemented in a grid format. The transport units of the present, example embodiment are 8 ft. wide by 20 ft. in length. However, the units are capable of implementation in different sizes, dependent upon the overall configuration of the facility 101.

The secondary transport ways 238-252 are suitably adapted to transfer the pallet 208 from the primary transport way 236 to any one of the platforms 220-234. For example, the pallet 208 is carried via the primary transport way 236 to the left end of the entry level 200. Once reaching the end of the lateral primary transport way 236, the pallet 208 is transferred via any suitable means to the perpendicular transport way 238. Through secondary transport way 238, the pallet 208 is then carried to the platform 220, wherein the vehicle 206A is then moved, either under its own power or other suitable means, to the platform 220 for driver access.

As shown in FIG. 2, a pallet 210 carrying a vehicle 206B, is traversing the primary transport way 236. Upon reaching the pallet 210 destination, the primary transport way 236 allows the vehicle transport unit of the secondary transport way, for example, secondary transport way 246, to carry the pallet 210 to its destination of the rotating platform 224. Similarly, when it is determined that a vehicle 206C, located on rotating platform 228 is to exit the multi-level facility 101, the platform 228 rotates to enable the vehicle 206C to be in a suitable position for extraction. Once the appropriate position is attained, the vehicle 206C is carried on a pallet 212 on the vehicle transport unit of the secondary transport way 252 to the primary transport way 236. The pallet 212 containing the vehicle 206C is then suitably carried to the exit 204. When vehicle 206C has reached the appropriate position relative to the exit area 204, the vehicle 206C is ready for the driver to drive away. The pallet 212 is then transferred via any suitable means to the pallet storage unit (not shown) for subsequent reuse in the system.

The entry level 200 also enables a vehicle 206A to be transported to one of N levels above or below the entry level 200 via lifts 214, 216 and 218. A non-vehicle transport elevator (not shown) is also accessible via the entry level 200, located within the building core 254, and is used for ferrying drivers and employees between the N levels of the multi-level facility 101. The building core 254 further comprises stairwells to upper floors of the multi-level facility 101. Located within the building core 254 are electronic, electric and mechanical installations suitably adapted to operate, power, and control the multi-level automated parking facility 101 of the subject application. A suitable computing device, e.g., the server 400, adapted to control operations of the facility 101 is explained in greater detail above with respect to FIG. 4. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the building core 254 extends through each of the N levels of the multi-level facility 101, containing the necessary electrical and mechanical components for operating the various units, levels, platforms, transports, and the like, of the multi-level facility 101. The skilled artisan will appreciate that the building core 254 need not be constrained to the depiction set forth above, or to the illustration shown in FIG. 2, as the local building codes, parking requirements, and the like, will impact the location and construction of the building core 254, without departing from the spirit of the subject application.

In accordance with the preferred embodiment of the subject application, the lifts 214, 216 and 218 for transporting vehicles are suitably adapted to transport a pallet upon which rests a vehicle, boat, storage container, and the like. The lifts 214, 216 and 218 are any suitable lifting mechanism known in the art capable of lifting and lowering the combined weight of both the item being transported and the pallet.

Returning to FIG. 3, lifts 302, 304 and 306 suitably carry pallets loaded with automobiles from the entry level 200 to the parking level 300. A pallet loaded vehicle travels up lift 304 and down lift 302. The pallet carrying an automobile arrives in lift 304 on parking level 300. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the parking level 300 is equally suitable to storing boats, storage containers, and the like, while still having the capabilities described herein. The pallet is expelled from the lift 304 onto the transport units (not shown) of the primary transport way 308. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the primary transport way 308 is any suitable means of transporting a pallet, including, but not limited to conveyor, sprocket, independent motor, or the like. As the pallet traverses the primary transport way 308, a control system, as represented by the server 400 shown in FIG. 4, determines which storage area is empty and available to hold the pallet. The control system is any suitable control system known in the art, including a microprocessor driven computer system, an application specific software/hardware configuration, or the like.

For example, a pallet/vehicle 310 has exited the lift 304 and is presently traversing the primary transport way 308. The control system determines that the destination for the pallet/vehicle is storage area 312, which is currently empty and available for storage. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, that the storage areas, in accordance with the grid layout of the system, are suitably configured according to the overall design/layout of the system of the subject application, corresponding to local constraints and parking facility desires. Upon reaching the appropriate position, relative to empty storage area 312, the primary transport way 308 effectuates the stopping of the pallet/vehicle 310 in the lateral direction and the pallet/vehicle 310 is loaded into the empty storage area 312 via any suitable means known in the art.

Retrieval of a pallet/vehicle from the storage areas of the parking level 300 is accomplished in a similar manner. For example, when the driver of the vehicle stored on a pallet 328 in storage area 330 on the parking level 300 desires to retrieve his vehicle, the pallet/vehicle 328 is expelled from is parking position in storage area 330 via any suitable means to the primary transport way 308. The primary transport way 308 then carries the pallet/vehicle 328 from its new position laterally to a position appropriate to loading onto the down lift 302. Once the primary transport way 308 has traversed the pallet/vehicle the distance from its former storage area 330 to the area immediately in front of the lift 302, the pallet/vehicle 328 is loaded onto the lift 302, via any suitable loading means, for transport to the entry level 200.

Alternatively, when a driver, parking attendant, carwash operator, or the like, desires to retrieve a pallet/vehicle 316, the following actions occur. The pallet/vehicle 314 is first moved by expelling the pallet/vehicle 314 from its storage area to the primary transport way 308. The primary transport way 308 then carries the pallet/vehicle 314 laterally away from the storage area of the desired vehicle, i.e., pallet/vehicle 316. The pallet/vehicle 316 is then extracted from its storage area to the primary transport way 308. The primary transport way 308 then carries the pallet/transport 316 to the down lift 302 for transport to the level on which the driver, parking attendant, carwash operator, or the like, is currently located. The pallet/vehicle 314 is then replaced in its storage area in the manner discussed above.

It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the presence of the transport elevator on the parking level 300, located in the building core 332, enables facility maintenance personnel to access the level 300 and perform scheduled or emergency maintenance to any of the systems residing on the level 300. Such maintenance includes, for example, repairing or retrieving a pallet, repairing a lift 302-306, or the like. In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 3, the parking level 300 suitably includes an automated carwash unit 334. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the automated carwash unit is any automated carwashing device known in the art including, without limitation, brushless, soft-cloth, high-pressure, and the like. In accordance with the subject application, prior to retrieval by a driver, a vehicle located on pallet 310, is first washed by the automated carwash unit 334. The pallet/vehicle 310 enters the carwash 334 and is subjected to the carwash method employed by the unit. The cleaned pallet/vehicle is then returned to the primary transport way 308. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that in the event that manual cleaning of the automobile is desired, the carwash unit 334 is suitably adaptable to include hoses, faucets, electrical outlets and the like, so as to facilitate the manual cleaning of the pallet/vehicle 310. Upon completion of the washing/cleaning of the automobile, operations of the parking level 300 then continue as set forth in detail above.

The skilled artisan will understand that the parking level 300, as described above, is for example purposes only, and the subject application need not be limited to such a level. For example, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the parking level 300 is capable of implementation have multiple rows of storage areas, various transport units, and the like. The layout of the storage areas need only comply with the grid layout of preceding and subsequent levels, to maintain the proper positioning of the building core 332, and the lifts 302-306.

In operation of the subject system 100 in accordance with one embodiment of the subject application, a vehicle transfer area, such as the entrance 118, the exit 120, or the like, first receives identification data associated with a given vehicle. Suitable identification data includes, for example and without limitation, a vehicle identification number (VIN), a bar code, an alpha-numeric code, or the like, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art. Next, horological data is gathered by the server 400 corresponding to the particular vehicle associated with the identification data. The server 400 then determines whether frequency data, associated with the identification data, is available. Preferably, the frequency data corresponds to the number of times a given vehicle, as identified by the identification data, has entered and exited the storage facility 101. When such data is available, the frequency data is retrieved by the server 400 from storage, such as disks 416, and a suitable storage area is then determined. Preferably, the greater the frequency of ingress and egress, the closer to the vehicle transfer area the vehicle is stored. That is, when the frequency data indicates a high frequency of ingress and egress, the storage area that is closest to the vehicle transfer area and currently available for receipt of a vehicle is selected as the storage location for the vehicle. The vehicle is then transported to the storage area until such time as the driver associated therewith requests retrieval and egress.

When no frequency data is available for the vehicle, as identified by the identification data, frequency data is calculated by the server 400 using any suitable means known in the art. Preferably, the server 400 determines the number of times the vehicle has been accessed, retrieved, entered, or exited the parking facility 101, if known. This information is then used to calculate frequency data, which is stored in storage 416 for future use by the system 100. The skilled artisan will appreciate that frequency data is calculated even when the vehicle is entering the facility 101 for the first time, thereafter being updated for each ingress and egress of the vehicle. Preferably, the frequency data is stored in the storage 416 in association with the unique vehicle identification data. The new frequency data is then used to determine the storage location for the vehicle. The vehicle is then transported to the selected storage area via the appropriate transport mechanisms, as described above.

According to another embodiment of the subject application, the server 400 stores storage compartment, i.e., storage area, data corresponding to the compartment's or area's proximity to the vehicle transfer area. Preferably, this data is stored on a suitable storage device, such as the disks 416 associated with the server 400. As a vehicle enters the entrance/exit area 130, or the vehicle transfer area, it is identified by unique identification data and horological data is gathered by the server 400 and the vehicle is loaded onto a pallet 208 at the vehicle transfer area, e.g., entrance 202. The server 400 then determines whether frequency data, corresponding to data representing the number of ingresses and egresses associated with the vehicle, is available. Preferably, the server 400 queries the storage 416 for frequency data associated with the vehicle identification data. When such data is not currently stored in the storage 416, the server 416 calculates the frequency data to be associated with the vehicle via any suitable means known in the art. The frequency data is then stored in the storage 416 in association with the identification data. When the frequency data has been previously stored in the storage 416, the server 400 retrieves the data from the disks 416.

Using the frequency data, the server 400 determines whether the vehicle is a high frequency vehicle or a low frequency vehicle. For example, the frequency data indicates to the server 400 whether the vehicle is accessed frequently during a set time period, or if it is only accessed infrequently, e.g., many times a day or only in the evening. When the vehicle is not a high frequency vehicle, i.e., does not enter/exit the facility 101 a multiple number of times per day, week, month, etc., the vehicle/pallet 208 is transported to an available storage area not in close proximity to the vehicle transfer area. When the frequency data indicates to the server 400 that the vehicle has a high frequency of ingress/egress instances, the vehicle/pallet 208 is transported to a storage area in relative close proximity to the vehicle transfer area. The skilled artisan will appreciate that such positioning enables the vehicle to be more quickly made available to the driver, as a result of the short distance between the vehicle and the exit.

The server 400 then acquires past vehicle access patterns corresponding to the number of times the vehicle has been accessed. Any scheduled access times, such as when a driver would like the vehicle available, are also gathered by the server and used to ascertain whether the current storage area in which the vehicle is stored is appropriate. That is, the server 400 determines whether the vehicle should be moved to a storage area in closer or farther proximity to the vehicle transfer area. When such a movement is required, as determined by the server 400, the vehicle/pallet 208 is moved from its current storage area to a storage area closer to the vehicle transfer area. For example, when the vehicle/pallet 208 is stored on the parking level 300, the vehicle/pallet is moved to a position closer to the elevator 302 for faster retrieval. Similarly, when the data acquired by the server 400 indicates that the vehicle/pallet 208 is located closer to the exit point, e.g., elevator 302, than warranted, the server 400 directs the appropriate mechanisms to move the vehicle/pallet 208 to a more suitable storage area, located in further away from the elevator 302. Preferably, the parking facility 101 is capable of reorganizing vehicles stored therein in accordance with a predetermined schedule. In accordance with one embodiment of the subject application, this movement of the vehicles/pallets to a different storage area is advantageously accomplished at night, on a weekend, during a set time of day, or the like.

In accordance with another embodiment of the subject application, following storage of identification data corresponding to each vehicle associated with the parking facility 101, the server 400 ascertains the status data of each storage area in the facility 101. The skilled artisan will appreciate that suitable status data includes, for example and without limitation, data representing the availability of the area, the size of the area, the reserved status of the area, the relative location of the area to ingress/egress points, maintenance standards, and the like. This status data, preferably the availability data, is then communicated to each vehicle via a suitable communications channel. The skilled artisan will appreciate that such a communications channel includes, for example and without limitation, WiFi, Bluetooth, GPS, RF, 802.11(x) wireless communication channels, the Internet, cellular telephone networks, or the like.

The vehicles receive this status data and are capable of transmitting a reservation request via the communications channel. Preferably, the reservation request includes data indicative of a time of arrival, duration of storage, a payment method, and the like. The skilled artisan will appreciate that the driver is capable of telephoning in the reservation request, requesting via the Internet, as well as allowing the vehicle to communicate the reservation request to the server 400. The server 400, upon receipt of the reservation request, then allocates a storage area for the vehicle via any suitable means known in the art. In one embodiment, the server 400 ascertains the vehicle's location, preferably using GPS, and determines an appropriate route to the parking facility 101. This routing is then transmitted, via the communications channel, to the vehicle from the facility 101. The skilled artisan will appreciate that thereafter, the vehicle is able to locate the parking facility 101 and proceed to the entrance 202, or vehicle transfer area.

The parking facility 101 then receives a vehicle at the entrance 202 and identifies the vehicle via unique identification data. The server 400, upon receipt of the identification data of the vehicle at the entrance 202, then determines whether any reservations, with respect to the vehicle identified in the entrance, have been made. When no reservation is located, the server 400 determines an appropriate storage area for storage of the vehicle. The skilled artisan will appreciate that the server 400 is capable of assigning an appropriate storage area based on frequency data, as explained above, upon a first-come-first-served basis, or the like. The server 400 then directs the facility 101, via the mechanisms described above, to transfer the vehicle from the vehicle transfer area, e.g., entrance 202, to the designated storage area.

When the server 400 locates a reservation corresponding to the vehicle identified at the vehicle transfer area, the reservation data is retrieved from storage 416 and the storage area corresponding thereto is determined. The facility 101, at the direction of the server 400, uses the mechanisms described in greater detail above to thereafter transfer the vehicle from the vehicle transfer area to the reserved storage area.

In accordance with a further embodiment of the subject application, the server 400 has stored identification data corresponding to each vehicle associated with the facility 101 in data storage 416. Upon receipt of a vehicle retrieval request, the server 400 identifies the storage area in which the vehicle is stored and initiates the retrieval process, i.e., directs the transport mechanisms to retrieve the vehicle/pallet. Once the vehicle is on the transport unit, the server 400 determines whether the vehicle is destined for access only, or if the vehicle is being retrieved for removal from the parking facility 101. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the server 400 is capable of determining the destination of the vehicle prior to retrieval of the vehicle in accordance with the methodologies of the subject application. When the vehicle is being retrieved for removal from the parking facility 101, the vehicle/pallet is transported from the storage area to the vehicle transfer area. A determination is then made whether a fee is to be assessed for the retrieval, i.e., if a fee is due for removal. The skilled artisan will appreciate that the subject application is capable of assessing any fees at the time of deposit of the vehicle for storage in the parking facility 101, in replacement of the assessment of the fee at the conclusion of the storage of the vehicle. When no fee is to be assessed, the vehicle is driven from the vehicle transfer area, e.g., the exit 204, and the operation concludes with respect to that vehicle. In the event that a fee is necessitated by the storage of the vehicle, the driver of the vehicle is assessed the fee and the vehicle is released. Preferably, the fee is received from the vehicle via a credit card, cash, account, or other transaction prior to removal of the vehicle from the parking facility 101.

When the vehicle is not being removed, but rather is being transported solely to enable a driver or pedestrian access to the vehicle, the vehicle is transported to the secondary access area. Preferably, this access area is on the entry level 200 of the parking facility 101, thereby enabling easy access to the vehicle. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the access area is suitably capable of being located at any portion of the facility 101 wherein a pedestrian has access to the facility 101, e.g., a platform 220, 222, 224, 226, 228, 230, 232, 234, a platform 318, 320, 322, 324, or the like. As shown in FIG. 2, the entry level 200 includes several access areas, represented as the platforms 220, 222, 224, 226, 228, 230, 232, and 234, at which the person requesting access is able to retrieve items from the vehicle or place items into the vehicle. In one embodiment, a charge associated with the access is then charged to the patron requesting access to the vehicle. The skilled artisan will appreciate that this charge is capable of be assessed prior to retrieval, or not incurred in the event that the vehicle has a daily, monthly, or yearly payment plan. A determination is made by the server 400 whether the access request is a request for a carwash. When such is the case, the vehicle is transported to a carwash unit, whereupon the vehicle is cleaned. When the access request is not for a carwash, the server 400 determines whether the access request is for the purpose of loading one or more parcels into the vehicle. When there are one or more parcels to be loaded into the vehicle, the parcels are transported to the vehicle access area, via any suitable means, for loading into the vehicle. Once the person accessing the vehicle has finished loading, retrieving, cleaning, or the like, the vehicle is returned to its designated storage area.

The foregoing description of the system 100 and components described above in FIGS. 1, 2, 3, and 4, will be better understood in conjunction with the methodologies described in FIGS. 5, 6, 7, and 8. Turning now to FIG. 5, there is shown a flowchart 500 illustrating a method for automated vehicle storage and retrieval in accordance with one embodiment of the subject application. Beginning at step 502, a server 400 or other computerized controller of the parking facility 101, receives identification data associated with a vehicle. Preferably, the identification data is unique to each vehicle associated with the parking facility 101, such as, for example and without limitation, a vehicle identification number (VIN), an alpha-numeric identifier, a bar code, or the like. Retrieval of such identification data is advantageously accomplished via electronic communication of the identification data from the vehicle to the server 400, communication of the identifier via an appropriate user-interface, scanning of the bar code via an appropriate scanner, or the like. The skilled artisan will appreciate that any method for retrieving such data, known in the art, is capable of implementation in accordance with the subject application. Preferably, the identification data is received from a vehicle at a vehicle transfer area, such as the entrance 202 of the entry level 200, as shown in FIG. 2.

The server 400 then receives, at step 504, horological data corresponding to the vehicle identification data. A determination is then made at step 506 whether frequency data, associated with the vehicle, is available. The skilled artisan will appreciate that frequency data includes, for example and without limitation, the number of ingresses and egresses of a vehicle for a given time period. When the server 400 determines that frequency data is available, that is, frequency data associated with the vehicle identification data is located in the data storage 416, the server 400 retrieves this data at step 508 and determines, at step 510, the appropriate storage location. At step 512, the vehicle is transport to the determined storage area for storage.

Returning to step 506, when frequency data is unavailable, flow proceeds to step 514, whereupon frequency associated with the vehicle is calculated via any suitable means. The calculated frequency data is then stored in the data storage 416 in association with the vehicle identification data at step 516. The skilled artisan will appreciate that such storage enables the server 400 to retrieve frequency data at a later transaction with the vehicle. The calculated frequency data is then used, at step 518, to determine the storage location for the vehicle. At step 520, the vehicle is transported to the storage area determined by the server 400 based upon the frequency data.

Referring now to FIG. 6, there is shown an example embodiment of a flowchart 600 of the method for automated vehicle storage and retrieval in accordance with the subject application. The methodology begins at step 602 with the server 400 storing, in the associated storage device 416, storage compartment, or area, location data corresponding to the proximity of the storage area to the vehicle transfer area. That is, the relative proximity of the storage areas of the facility 101 with respect to the entrance 202 and exit 204 is stored in the disks 416 of the server 400. At step 604 a vehicle is received at the entry 202, or vehicle transfer area. The server 400 then receives, at step 606, vehicle identification data representative of a unique identifier of the vehicle in association with the parking facility 101. The skilled artisan will appreciate that suitable vehicle identification data includes, for example and without limitation, a VIN number, an alpha-numeric identifier, a bar code, or the like. Preferably, the server 400 receives the vehicle identification data via a suitable interface, such as a keypad, a scanner, an RF tag, or the like. Horological data is then received by the server 400 in accordance with the time at which the vehicle is received into the vehicle transfer area at step 608. The vehicle is then loaded onto a pallet at step 610. The server 400 then determines, at step 612, whether frequency data corresponding to the vehicle identification data, is available. That is, the server 400 searches the storage 416 for frequency data stored in association with the vehicle identification data. When such frequency data is located, the server 400 retrieves the frequency data at step 614 and flow proceeds to step 620 for high frequency determination.

When the server 400 is unable to locate frequency data previously stored in the storage 416, flow progresses from step 612 to step 616. At step 616, the server 400 calculates frequency data based upon the current data available, e.g., the number of times this vehicle has entered/exited the parking facility 101, and the like. The calculated frequency data is then stored by the server 400 at step 618 in the associated storage 416 for later use. At step 620, a determination is made whether the vehicle has a relatively high frequency. The skilled artisan will appreciate that the determination made at step 620 corresponds to the server 400 determining whether the vehicle has a frequency of ingress and egress from the parking facility 101, e.g., whether the driver frequently retrieves the vehicle or deposits the vehicle for storage. When the frequency data indicates a relatively low frequency of deposit and retrieval, the vehicle is transported, at step 622 to a storage area less proximate, i.e., farther away with respect to the vehicle transfer area. Flow then proceeds to step 626 for the acquisition of past vehicle access pattern. When the frequency data indicates a high frequency of deposit and retrieval, flow proceeds to step 624, whereupon the vehicle is transported to a storage area in relatively close proximity to the vehicle transfer area. Flow then proceeds to step 626, whereupon the server 400 gathers past vehicle access patterns. That is, the server 400 retrieves the frequency data and any scheduled access times at step 628, and determines whether to move the vehicle to a different storage location at step 630.

Stated another way, the server 400 determines, preferably at a time when the parking facility 101 is not busy, whether any vehicles currently stored should be moved closer to or further away from the vehicle transfer area. The skilled artisan will appreciate that during the course of operations, various vehicles are capable of being designated as high frequency, but then are left in storage for extended periods of time. When such circumstances, or other similar circumstances occur, the facility 101 has the capability of reorganizing the layout of the vehicles in storage, continually maneuvering those vehicles most frequently accessed closer to the vehicle transfer area and those infrequently accessed, or left for extended storage periods, farther away from the vehicle transfer area. Thus, when it is determined at step 630 that a particular vehicle should remain in place, e.g., no closer storage area is available for movement, the vehicle remains in its initial location. When a closer or less proximate area is available, and the vehicle's frequency, access time, or the like, indicates movement is allowable, flow proceeds to step 632, whereupon the vehicle is moved to a storage area more proximate, or less proximate, as indicated by the data, to the vehicle transfer area.

Turning now to FIG. 7, there is shown a flowchart 700 illustrating an example embodiment of the method for automated vehicle storage and retrieval in accordance with the subject application. The server 400 stores vehicle identification data assigned to each vehicle associated with the parking facility 101 at step 702. At step 704, the server 400 communicates storage area status data to each vehicle in accordance with the corresponding identification data. Preferably, the server 400 maintains a database corresponding to the storage areas in use, the storage areas available, the relative proximity of the storage areas to a vehicle transfer area, and the like. This data is then communicated to each vehicle, in accordance with the vehicle's identification data, via a suitable communications channel. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, suitable communications channels include, for example and without limitation, 802.11(x) or other wireless communications channels, WiFi, GPS, Bluetooth, cellular, the public switched telephone network, a proprietary communications network, the Internet, RF, or the like.

At step 706, the server 400 receives a reservation request from a vehicle via the communications channel. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the server 400 associated with the operation of the facility 101 is capable of receiving reservation data via a plurality of methods, including, for example and without limitation, an electronic request via the Internet, direct from the vehicle, via a subscription service, via telephone, or the like. Preferably the reservation request includes data representing the vehicle, e.g., the vehicle identification data, the time/date for deposit, the time/data for retrieval, the services to be rendered, e.g., storage, access, carwash, etc., the payment method, and the like.

Upon receipt of the reservation request, the server 400 assigns, at step 708, a storage area in accordance with the received request. For example, when the request is for a limited time, the vehicle is assigned a storage area in close proximity to the vehicle transfer area, as set forth in greater detail above. Once the server 400 has determined the designated storage area for the vehicle, a route from the vehicle's current location to the parking facility 101 is then determined. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the server 400 is capable of storing map data enabling the self-generation of a route to the facility 101, communicating, via the Internet with any one of a myriad of commercially available direction repositories, using GPS functionality, or the like. After determining the route, the server 400 communicates the routing data to the vehicle via the communications channel. The skilled artisan will appreciate that the routing data is capable of corresponding to a navigational system employed by the vehicle, voice communication to the driver of the vehicle, or the like.

When a vehicle is received at the vehicle transfer area, e.g., the entrance 202, at step 712, flow proceeds to step 714, whereupon the vehicle is identified to ascertain the identification data associated with the vehicle. The identification data is then used by the server 400 to determine, at step 716, whether a reservation associated with the vehicle has been made. Preferably, the server 400 searches the data storage 416 for reservation data corresponding to the vehicle identification data. When no reservation is located for the corresponding vehicle identification data, flow proceeds from step 716 to step 718, whereupon the server 400 determines a storage area for use by the vehicle. The skilled artisan will appreciate that such determination is capable of being made in accordance with the methodologies described above with respect to FIGS. 5 and 6. The vehicle is then transferred, via the transport mechanisms described above, to the determined storage area at step 720.

Returning to step 716, when a reservation corresponding to the vehicle identification data is located by the server 400, flow proceeds to step 722, whereupon the reservation data is retrieved from the data storage 416. Using the reservation data, the server 400 determines an appropriate storage area at step 724. The vehicle is then transferred to the determined storage area at step 726, whereupon the operation terminates until such time as the vehicle is retrieved. The method of retrieval is explained in greater detail above and is equally applicable to the methodology embodied by the flowchart 700 of FIG. 7.

Attention now turns to FIG. 8, which illustrates a flowchart 800 depicting a method for automated vehicle storage and retrieval in accordance with one embodiment of the subject application. The server 400, at step 802, stores vehicle identification data assigned to each vehicle associated with the parking facility 101. At step 804 the server 400 receives, via any suitable means, a vehicle retrieval request. The skilled artisan will appreciate that the server 400 is capable of receiving the retrieval request via an electronic request, a personal request to an attendant, or the like. The server 400 then directs, at step 806, the various transport mechanisms to retrieve the vehicle identified in the retrieval request from its current storage area.

A determination is then made by the server 400 at step 808 whether the request corresponds solely to access to the vehicle. That is, the server 400 determines whether the request indicates that the vehicle is not to be retrieved and exit the parking facility 101, but is rather to be moved to a secondary storage area, receive a carwash, service, or other feature/function offered by the parking facility 101. When such a request is not directed solely to access, flow proceeds to step 810, whereupon the vehicle is transported to a vehicle transfer area, e.g., the exit 204. A determination is then made by the server 400 at step 812 whether any charges are to be assessed in conjunction with the storage and/or retrieval of the vehicle. When no charge is to be assessed, for example a monthly pass holder, payment upon entry to the garage, etc., the vehicle is released to the requesting party and the operation terminates. When a charge is to be levied for the storage and/or retrieval, flow proceeds from step 812 to step 814, whereupon a fee is charged to the occupant of the vehicle. Upon receipt of payment, i.e., credit card, account, cash, etc., the vehicle is released to the driver.

Returning to step 808, when an access only determination is made, flow proceeds to step 816, whereupon the vehicle is transported from its designated storage area to a vehicle access area. Any charges associated with the vehicle access request are then assessed and payment received by the parking facility 101 at step 818. For example, when the vehicle is to be cleaned, a service charge is collected at step 818 prior to proceeding with the cleaning operation. Flow then proceeds from step 818 to step 820, whereupon a determination is made whether a carwash has been selected for the vehicle. That is, when the access request includes a request for vehicle cleaning, and the correlating payment has been received, a positive determination results at step 820, whereupon the vehicle is transported to a carwashing area for cleaning at step 822. When no carwash has been selected, or upon completion of carwashing, a determination is made at step 824 whether the request includes a parcel transport request, i.e., whether the request includes a desire for loading of items into the vehicle, prior to returning the vehicle to storage or retrieval of the vehicle for exit of the facility 101. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that while in the vehicle access area, shown in FIG. 2 as the platforms 220, 222, 224, 226, 228, 230, 232, and 234, the requesting party is able to retrieve hand-carried items from the vehicle or deposit such items into the vehicle. When one or more parcels are determined to be present at step 824, flow proceeds to step 826, whereupon the parcels are transported to the vehicle access area. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that such transport is accomplished by hand-carrying the items or parcels to the vehicle by the requesting party, mechanical assistance in transporting large parcels, or the like. Once the parcels or items have been deposited in the vehicle at step 826, flow proceeds to step 828, whereupon the vehicle is returned to its previous storage area, as set forth above.

The subject application extends to computer programs in the form of source code, object code, code intermediate sources and partially compiled object code, or in any other form suitable for use in the implementation of the subject application. Computer programs are suitably standalone applications, software components, scripts or plug-ins to other applications. Computer programs embedding the subject application are advantageously embodied on a carrier, being any entity or device capable of carrying the computer program: for example, a storage medium such as ROM or RAM, optical recording media such as CD-ROM or magnetic recording media such as floppy discs. The carrier is any transmissible carrier such as an electrical or optical signal conveyed by electrical or optical cable, or by radio or other means. Computer programs are suitably downloaded across the Internet from a server. Computer programs are also capable of being embedded in an integrated circuit. Any and all such embodiments containing code that will cause a computer to perform substantially the subject application principles as described, will fall within the scope of the subject application.

The foregoing description of a preferred embodiment of the subject application has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the subject application to the precise form disclosed. Obvious modifications or variations are possible in light of the above teachings. The embodiment was chosen and described to provide the best illustration of the principles of the subject application and its practical application to thereby enable one of ordinary skill in the art to use the subject application in various embodiments and with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. All such modifications and variations are within the scope of the subject application as determined by the appended claims when interpreted in accordance with the breadth to which they are fairly, legally and equitably entitled.

Claims

1. An automated vehicle storage and retrieval system comprising:

a two-dimensional, vertically oriented storage area having a plurality of storage compartments in a grid orientation disposed along a vertical axis and a horizontal axis;

a lift adapted for selective orientation along each of the vertical and horizontal axes;

at least one vehicle transfer area adapted for transfer of vehicles between an exterior transit way and the lift;

means adapted for receiving identification data uniquely assigned to each of a plurality of associated vehicles in accordance with access thereof to the vehicle transfer area;

horological data acquisition means adapted for receiving horological data;

means adapted for calculating frequency data associate with each of the plurality of vehicles in accordance with identification data and horological data, the frequency data being representative of a frequency of access of each of the plurality of associated vehicles to the vehicle transfer area;

storage means adapted for storing frequency data associated with each of the plurality of vehicles; and

transport control means adapted for transporting each of the plurality vehicles via the lift to a selected one of the plurality of storage compartments in accordance with frequency data associated therewith.

2. The automated vehicle storage and retrieval system of claim 1, wherein the horological data includes at least one of time, date and duration data relative to access of each of the plurality of vehicles to the vehicle transfer area.

3. The automated vehicle storage and retrieval system of claim 2, further comprising:

means adapted for storing location data uniquely associated with each of the plurality of storage compartments, which location data is representative of a separation of each storage compartment relative to each at least one vehicle transfer area; and

wherein the transport control means includes means adapted for selecting one of the plurality of storage compartments in accordance with relative frequency data associated with the plurality of associated vehicles and the location data, such that vehicles with a relatively high frequency of access are positioned more proximate to the at least one vehicle transfer area relative to vehicles having a lower frequency of access thereto.

4. The automated vehicle storage and retrieval system of claim 3, further comprising:

means adapted for acquiring access data representative of at least one of a past vehicle access pattern and scheduled vehicle access time; and

repositioning means adapted for repositioning vehicles among the plurality of storage compartments in accordance with the access data such that selected vehicles are repositioned more proximate to the at least one vehicle transfer area.

5. The automated vehicle storage and retrieval system of claim 4 wherein the repositioning means includes means adapted to reposition the vehicles in accordance with at least one of a selected time and a selected day.

6. The automated vehicle storage and retrieval system of claim 4 wherein the repositioning means includes means adapted to reposition the vehicles in accordance with a charge associated with storage of the associated vehicles.

7. The automated vehicle storage and retrieval system of claim 1, further comprising means adapted for receiving electronic payment data corresponding to a storage of an associated vehicle in the selected one of the plurality of storage compartments.

8. The automated vehicle storage and retrieval system of claim 7, further comprising means adapted for receiving the electronic payment data wirelessly.

9. The automated vehicle storage and retrieval system of claim 1, further comprising communications means adapted to visually communicate data representative of a charge associated with storage of an associated vehicle, wherein the charge is based upon the occupancy of the storage compartments.

10. The automated vehicle storage and retrieval system of claim 1, wherein one or more vehicles having the same height are stored in corresponding storage compartments disposed along the same horizontal axis.

11. An automated vehicle storage and retrieval method for use in a two-dimensional, vertically oriented storage area having a plurality of storage compartments in a grid orientation disposed along a vertical axis and a horizontal axis, and a lift adapted for selective orientation along each of the vertical and horizontal axes, comprising the steps of:

receiving identification data uniquely assigned to each of a plurality of associated vehicles in accordance with access thereof to at least one vehicle transfer area, wherein the at least one vehicle transfer area is adapted for the transfer of vehicles between an exterior transit way and a lift;

receiving horological data;

calculating frequency data associated with each of the plurality of vehicles in accordance with the identification data and the horological data, the frequency data being representative of a frequency of access of each of the plurality of associated vehicles to the at least one vehicle transfer area;

storing frequency data associated with each of the plurality of vehicles; and

transporting each of the plurality of vehicles via the lift to a selected one of the plurality of storage compartments in accordance with the frequency data associated therewith.

12. The automated vehicle storage and retrieval method of claim 11, wherein the horological data includes at least one of time, date and duration data relative to access of each of the plurality of vehicles to the vehicle transfer area.

13. The automated vehicle storage and retrieval method of claim 12, further comprising the steps of:

storing location data uniquely associated with each of the plurality of storage compartments, which location data is representative of a separation of each storage compartment relative to each at least one vehicle transfer area; and

selecting one of the plurality of storage compartments in accordance with relative frequency data associated with the plurality of associated vehicles and the location data, such that vehicles with a relatively high frequency of access are positioned more proximate to the at least one vehicle transfer area relative to vehicles having a lower frequency of access thereto.

14. The automated vehicle storage and retrieval method of claim 13, further comprising the steps of:

acquiring access data representative of at least one of a past vehicle access pattern and scheduled vehicle access time; and

repositioning vehicles among the plurality of storage compartments in accordance with the access data such that selected vehicles are repositioned more proximate to the at least one vehicle transfer area.

15. The automated vehicle storage and retrieval method of claim 14, further comprising the step of repositioning the vehicles in accordance with at least one of a selected time and a selected day.

16. The automated vehicle storage and retrieval method of claim 14, further comprising the step of repositioning the vehicles in accordance with a charge associated with storage of the associated vehicles.

17. The automated vehicle storage and retrieval method of claim 11, further comprising the step of receiving electronic payment data corresponding to a storage of an associated vehicle in the selected one of the plurality of storage compartments.

18. The automated vehicle storage and retrieval method of claim 17, further comprising the step of receiving the electronic payment data wirelessly.

19. The automated vehicle storage and retrieval method of claim 11, further comprising the step of visually communicating data representative of a charge associated with storage of an associated vehicle, wherein the charge is based upon the occupancy of the storage compartments.

20. The automated vehicle storage and retrieval method of claim 11, further comprising the step of storing one or more vehicles having the same height in corresponding storage compartments disposed along the same horizontal axis.

21. An automated vehicle storage and retrieval system comprising:

a two-dimensional, vertically oriented storage area having a plurality of storage compartments in a grid orientation disposed along a vertical axis and a horizontal axis;

a lift adapted for selective orientation along each of the vertical and horizontal axes;

at least one vehicle transfer area adapted for transfer of vehicles between an exterior transit way and the lift;

storage means adapted for storing identification data uniquely assigned to each of a plurality of associated vehicles;

transport control means adapted for transporting vehicles received into the at least one transfer area to a selected one of the plurality of storage compartments; and

communication means adapted for communication of status data representative of storage compartment status with each of the plurality of vehicles in accordance with identification data retrieved from the storage means.

22. The automated vehicle storage and retrieval system of claim 21, wherein the status data includes reservation data associated with a reservation of a storage compartment in accordance with a request received from a vehicle.

23. The automated vehicle storage and retrieval system of claim 21, wherein the status data includes data representative of available storage compartments.

24. The automated vehicle storage and retrieval system of claim 23, wherein the status data includes reservation data associated with a reservation of a storage compartment in accordance with a request received from a vehicle.

25. The automated vehicle storage and retrieval system of claim 24, further comprising means adapted for communicating position information with each of the plurality of associated vehicles, which position information generates customized routing from each associated vehicle to the at least one transfer area.

26. The automated vehicle storage and retrieval system of claim 21, wherein the transport control means includes means adapted for transporting vehicles received into the at least one transfer area to a selected one of the plurality of storage compartments in accordance with preselected priority data corresponding to identification data.

27. The automated vehicle storage and retrieval system of claim 21, further comprising means adapted for receiving electronic payment data corresponding to a storage of an associated vehicle in the selected one of the plurality of storage compartments.

28. The automated vehicle storage and retrieval system of claim 28, further comprising means adapted for receiving the electronic payment data wirelessly.

29. The automated vehicle storage and retrieval system of claim 21, further comprising communications means adapted to visually communicate data representative of a charge associated with storage of an associated vehicle, wherein the charge is based upon the occupancy of the storage compartments.

30. The automated vehicle storage and retrieval system of claim 21, wherein one or more vehicles having the same height are stored in corresponding storage compartments disposed along the same horizontal axis.

31. A method for automated vehicle storage and retrieval for use in a two-dimensional, vertically oriented storage area having a plurality of storage compartments in a grid orientation disposed along a vertical axis and a horizontal axis, and a lift adapted for selective orientation along each of the vertical and horizontal axes, comprising the steps of:

storing identification data uniquely assigned to each of a plurality of associated vehicles;

transporting vehicles received into at least one transfer area to a selected one of the plurality of storage compartments, wherein the at least one vehicle transfer area is adapted for the transfer of vehicles between an exterior transit way and the lift; and

communicating status data representative of storage compartment status with each of the plurality of vehicles in accordance with identification data retrieved from the storage means.

32. The method for automated vehicle storage and retrieval of claim 32, wherein the status data includes reservation data associated with a reservation of a storage compartment in accordance with a request received from a vehicle.

33. The method for automated vehicle storage and retrieval of claim 32, wherein the status data includes data representative of available storage compartments.

34. The method for automated vehicle storage and retrieval of claim 34, wherein the status data includes reservation data associated with a reservation of a storage compartment in accordance with a request received from a vehicle.

35. The method for automated vehicle storage and retrieval of claim 35, further comprising the step of communicating position information with each of the plurality of associated vehicles, which position information generates customized routing from each associated vehicle to the at least one transfer area.

36. The method for automated vehicle storage and retrieval of claim 32, further comprising the step of transporting vehicles received into the at least one transfer area to a selected one of the plurality of storage compartments in accordance with preselected priority data corresponding to identification data.

37. The method for automated vehicle storage and retrieval of claim 32, further comprising the step of receiving electronic payment data corresponding to a storage of an associated vehicle in the selected one of the plurality of storage compartments.

38. The method for automated vehicle storage and retrieval of claim 38, further comprising the step of receiving the electronic payment data wirelessly.

39. The method for automated vehicle storage and retrieval of claim 32, further comprising the step of visually communicating data representative of a charge associated with storage of an associated vehicle, wherein the charge is based upon the occupancy of the storage compartments.

40. The method for automated vehicle storage and retrieval of claim 32, further comprising the step of storing one or more vehicles having the same height in corresponding storage compartments disposed along the same horizontal axis.

41. An automated vehicle storage and retrieval system comprising:

a two-dimensional, vertically oriented storage area having a plurality of storage compartments in a grid orientation disposed along a vertical axis and a horizontal axis;

a lift adapted for selective orientation along each of the vertical and horizontal axes;

at least one vehicle transfer area adapted for transfer of vehicles between an exterior transit way and the lift;

storage means adapted for storing identification data uniquely assigned to each of a plurality of associated vehicles;

transport control means adapted for transporting vehicles received into the at least one transfer area to a selected one of the plurality of storage areas;

means adapted for receiving a vehicle retrieval request;

at least one vehicle access area adapted for receiving vehicles retrieved from a storage compartment, which at least one vehicle access area is accessible to vehicle ingress and egress solely via the transport control means; and

the transport means including means adapted for retrieving at least one selected vehicle from a corresponding storage compartment to the a vehicle access area in accordance with a received vehicle retrieval request.

42. The automated vehicle storage and retrieval system of claim 42, further comprising means adapted for assessing an access charge in accordance with a received vehicle access request.

43. The automated vehicle storage and retrieval system of claim 42, wherein the at least one vehicle access area includes vehicle maintenance equipment.

44. The automated vehicle storage and retrieval system of claim 35, wherein the vehicle maintenance equipment includes vehicle cleaning equipment.

45. The automated vehicle storage and retrieval system of claim 42, further comprising means adapted to transport parcels to the at least one vehicle access area for transfer to a vehicle disposed therein.

46. The automated vehicle storage and retrieval system of claim 42, further comprising means adapted for receiving electronic payment data corresponding to a storage of an associated vehicle in the selected one of the plurality of storage compartments.

47. The automated vehicle storage and retrieval system of claim 38, further comprising means adapted for receiving the electronic payment data wirelessly.

48. The automated vehicle storage and retrieval system of claim 42, further comprising communications means adapted to visually communicate data representative of a charge associated with storage of an associated vehicle, wherein the charge is based upon the occupancy of the storage compartments.

49. The automated vehicle storage and retrieval system of claim 42, wherein one or more vehicles having the same height are stored in corresponding storage compartments disposed along the same horizontal axis.

50. A method for automated vehicle storage and retrieval for use in a two-dimensional, vertically oriented storage area having a plurality of storage compartments in a grid orientation disposed along a vertical axis and a horizontal axis, and a lift adapted for selective orientation along each of the vertical and horizontal axes, comprising the steps of:

storing identification data uniquely assigned to each of a plurality of associated vehicles;

transporting vehicles received into at least one transfer area to a selected one of the plurality of storage areas, wherein the at least one vehicle transfer area adapted for transfer of vehicles between an exterior transit way and the lift;

receiving a vehicle retrieval request;

receiving vehicles retrieved from a storage compartment into at least one vehicle access area, wherein the at least one vehicle access area is accessible to vehicle ingress and egress solely via the transporting step; and

retrieving at least one selected vehicle from a corresponding storage compartment to the a vehicle access area in accordance with a received vehicle retrieval request.

51. The method for automated vehicle storage and retrieval of claim 51, further comprising the step of assessing an access charge in accordance with a received vehicle access request.

52. The method for automated vehicle storage and retrieval of claim 51, wherein the at least one vehicle access area includes vehicle maintenance equipment.

53. The method for automated vehicle storage and retrieval of claim 51, wherein the at least one vehicle access area includes vehicle cleaning equipment.

54. The method for automated vehicle storage and retrieval of claim 51, further comprising the step of transporting parcels to the at least one vehicle access area for transfer to a vehicle disposed therein.

55. The method for automated vehicle storage and retrieval of claim 51, further comprising the step of receiving electronic payment data corresponding to a storage of an associated vehicle in the selected one of the plurality of storage compartments.

56. The method for automated vehicle storage and retrieval of claim 56, further comprising the step of receiving the electronic payment data wirelessly.

57. The method for automated vehicle storage and retrieval of claim 51, further comprising the step of visually communicating data representative of a charge associated with storage of an associated vehicle, wherein the charge is based upon the occupancy of the storage compartments.

58. The method for automated vehicle storage and retrieval of claim 51, further comprising the step of storing one or more vehicles having the same height in corresponding storage compartments disposed along the same horizontal axis.