A system and method for automated goods storage and retrieval

SHORT

A system for automated storage and retrieval which utilizes 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, an elevator for access to one or more storage levels, and a vehicle transfer area for transferring vehicles between an outer transit road and the elevator. Unique identification data is assigned to each vehicle to access the vehicle transfer area. Then, horological data are acquired corresponding to the identification denials. The frequency data is calculated on the basis of the identification data and the horological data, corresponding to the frequency of entry and exit of the vehicle. The frequency data is stored together with the identification data for later use. The vehicle is then transported to a storage sector based on the frequency data, with the vehicles having a high input and output frequency stored in close proximity to the vehicle transfer sector.

Dqho ΛΛ ٥٠١۴ ΛΛ

د ١ حهئ ٦٠ 1؟ 8 ه 313

ءهإ \ نم 8 4 3 1 3 \ ا ٠ ٠.

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR STORAGE AND

AUTOMATED GOODS RECOVERY

REFERENCE TO RELEVANT REQUESTS

The present application is based and claims priority from the United States patent application with serial number 11 / 467,423, which was filed on August 25, 2006.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

<img file="MA31348B1_D0001.tif" />

Automated mechanical parking garage systems have been in use since the late 1950s. The first automated parking garages used crane, conveyor, hydraulics, and pneumatic systems to transport and store vehicles in a structure. Parking. Recently, more or less in the same way more advanced systems have been developed which include computer controlled equipment and specializes for transport vehicles to assigned parking spaces in a manner similar to that of assembly lines or computerized warehouses. store and retrieve various goods.

Since the early 1980s, many computer systems have used a graphical user interface (GUI) to present information and to receive input data from a user or operator. In many cases, such a GUI is little more than an alternate expression of a traditional interface. For example, some operating systems use the GUI to collect and display much the same information as traditional text-based operating systems (in which a GUI is defined as any interactive computer interface that substitutes for character graphics, which graphics are manipulated by a pointing device, for example, a mouse or a trackball, and which graphics are displayed using a processor). Moreover, there is no user interface, graphical or otherwise, that presents the status of components in an automated parking and storage system in an intuitive and unambiguous manner suitable for a novice operator.

Further, automated parking facilities, and parking garages in general, typically have drivers entering / exiting the garage frequently for a day, a week, or a month. Unfortunately, these drivers

Paee! Of44

MY

31348Β1 must locate a parking spot at each entry into the parking space, resulting in a parking spot that is far from the entrance / exit than the driver's previous parking spot. This problem is complicated in an automated service, where cars are loaded on a first come / first served basis. Thus, the frequent driver has to wait progressively longer and longer while his car is searched, while the parking place of his vehicle 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 occupied by another vehicle. This forces the reserve boss to locate another parking spot, which causes the problems mentioned above.

Searching for a parking garage in a busy city is usually a source of frustration for the commuter, the visitor, or the tourist. Further, once a parking garage is located, the driver then has to deal with Parking facilities which may OR may not be able to accommodate their vehicle. Furthermore, the parking space can be full, requiring the driver to locate an alternative parking service, wasting time and energy which would be better spent elsewhere.

In an automated parking service, the driver typically cannot access his vehicle once the vehicle has been moved to its parking location. This prevents the driver from searching for items left in the vehicle, or placing items in the vehicle before exiting the garage.

Accordingly, there is a need for an architecture which addresses the imperfections of the prior art. Specifically, there is a need for an architecture which presents and controls information in the automated Parking and Storage facility in an intuitive and unambiguous manner, allowing even a novice operator to understand the status of system components. automated parking. In addition, there is a need for a system which graphically provides alerts regarding the status of components of the automated parking and storage system and allows an operator to take corrective action using the same display interface presenting. the alert.

In addition to the above, there is a need for an automated parking reservation method and system which classifies vehicles based on the frequency of entry and exit. There is another need for a system and a method for

Ρ٩σρ? ς ده ٦٦٣

MY

31348Β1 locate a parking facility, ascertain occupancy levels, and reserve a parking space. Further, there is a need for a system and method for accessing a vehicle stored in an automated parking facility, without first searching for the vehicle and exiting the facility.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Depending on the submitted application, a system and method for automated storage and retrieval of goods is provided.

In addition, depending on the submitted application, there is provided a system and method for the storage and retrieval of vehicles, containers, and ships in a multi-storey parking facility.

Still further, depending on the submitted application, there is provided a system and method for sorting on the basis of frequency the vehicles in an automated parking facility, where the vehicles having the most frequent accesses are located in close proximity to a entry / exit sector associated with the vehicle.

Still further, according to the submitted application, there is provided a system and method for communication of a vehicle corresponding to availability of parking spot, location, reservations, and the like.

Additionally, depending on the submitted application, there is provided a system and method for enabling a user to access a vehicle, located in an automated parking facility, through a secondary access area. , wherein the secondary access sector provides a user with access to a vehicle, without requiring the vehicle to be exited from the parking facility.

According to the submitted request, an automated vehicle storage and retrieval system is provided. The system includes a two-dimensional, vertically oriented storage area with a plurality of oriented Storage compartments in a grid disposed along the vertical axis and the horizontal axis. The system also includes an elevator for selective orientation along each axis and at least one vehicle transfer sector configured for the transfer of vehicles between a passing exterior road and the elevator. The system also uses receiving means configured to receive the description that is uniquely assigned to each vehicle related to access to the vehicle transfer area. Acquisition means are also used by the system to acquire the horological data. The system also includes calculation means adapted to

Ρ۶٠σρ ٩ çnr dd

ΜΑ 31348Β1 calculating the frequency data related to each vehicle according to the descriptions and the horological data, the frequency data representing the frequency of the access to the transfer sector of the vehicles corresponding to each vehicle. Further, the system includes storage means configured to store the frequency data of each associated vehicle and transport control means configured to transport the vehicles via the elevator to a storage area selected according to the data from the elevator. frequency related to the particular vehicle.

According to one embodiment of the submitted request, the horological data includes time, date, or duration data relating to each vehicle's access to the vehicle transfer area. The system also comprises means adapted to record the location data linked only to each storage compartment, and representing a separation of each storage compartment relative to each vehicle transfer sector. The transport control means also include selection means adapted to choose one of the storage areas according to relative frequency data related to each associated vehicle and the location data, so that vehicles with relatively high access frequency are places closer to at least one vehicle transfer sector relative to the vehicle having a lower access frequency.

According to another embodiment of the submitted request, the system also comprises acquisition means suitable for acquiring access data representing the history of accesses of a vehicle or a programmed access time of the vehicle. The system represents by this aspect of the submitted request then integrates repositioning means adapted to replace vehicles among the storage compartments according to the access data so that the chosen vehicles are replaced closer to a transfer sector. cars. Such repositioning is capable of being limited to certain days and periods of the day. The repositioning means are also suitable for repositioning the vehicles on the basis of a load linked to the storage of the vehicle.

In addition, according to the submitted request, a method is provided for the automated storage and retrieval of vehicles.

Even more, according to the submitted request, an automated vehicle storage and retrieval system is provided. The system includes a two-dimensional, vertically oriented storage area with a plurality of oriented storage compartments in a grid disposed along the vertical axis and the horizontal axis. The Qiir dd system

VIA

31348Β1 also includes an elevator for selective orientation along each axis and at least one vehicle transfer sector configured for the transfer of vehicles between a passing exterior road and the elevator. The system uses suitable storage means to store identification data uniquely assigned to each of a plurality of vehicles. Transport control means are also integrated by the system, configured to transport the vehicle received in the transfer sector to a selected storage area. Further, the system herein includes suitable communication means for communicating status data, representing the status of the storage compartments, to each vehicle according to the identification data retrieved from the recording means.

According to an embodiment of the request which is the subject of the present, the status data advantageously comprise reservation data corresponding to the reservation of a storage compartment in response to a request received from a vehicle. The status data is still capable of including data representing the availability of the 15 storage compartments.

In another embodiment of the request subject hereof, the communications means are capable of communicating the positional information of each vehicle, thereby producing a route tailored to the customer's needs of each vehicle associated with a transfer sector.

According to another embodiment of the request that is the subject of the present, the transport control means also comprises means adapted to transport vehicles received in the transfer sector to a storage area chosen on the basis of the priority pre-selected data corresponding to the identification data.

According to the application subject herein, there is provided a method for the automated storage and retrieval of vehicles.

In addition, according to the request object of the present, there is provided a system for the automated system of storage and recovery of vehicles. 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, an elevator for the selective orientation along each of the axes. vertical and horizontal, and at least one vehicle transfer sector suitable for the transfer of vehicles between an exterior passage way and the elevator. The system also includes suitable storage means to record the identification information only assigned to

Payroll 5 of 44

MY

31348Β1 each of a plurality of associated vehicles. The system also uses transport control means to transport the vehicles received through the transfer sector to a selected storage area. The system also uses reception means adapted to receive a request for vehicle recovery. Further, the system includes at least one vehicle access area adapted to receive vehicles retrieved from a storage compartment, which is accessible to vehicle entry and exit only through the control means. transport. The system then uses recovery means suitable for recovering a chosen vehicle from a storage area corresponding to the vehicle access sector according to a received request for vehicle recovery.

According to one embodiment of the request that is the subject of these presents, the system also comprises means suitable for evaluating a right of access according to an access request received from a vehicle.

According to another embodiment of the request that is the subject of the present, at least one vehicle access sector comprises the vehicle maintenance equipment. Further, vehicle maintenance equipment includes vehicle cleaning equipment.

Another embodiment of the application object of the present provides the system with means of transport adapted to transport packages to the at least one vehicle access sector for transfer to a vehicle disposed therein.

In addition, according to an embodiment of the request that is the subject of the present, the system 20 also comprises means adapted to receive electronic payment data corresponding to a storage of an associated vehicle chosen from the plurality of storage areas. In association with this embodiment, the system also includes means adapted to receive the electronic payment data wirelessly.

Still further, according to the application subject herein, there is provided a method for the automated storage and retrieval of vehicles.

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 30 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

Pope 6 ς٦٦Γ ΔΑ

VIA

31348Β1 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 5 scope of the subject application is explicitly maintained as is in the case of selective modular application.

Other advantages, aspects and devices of the present invention will become quite apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description in which it is shown and described a preferred embodiment of the application subject herein, simply to by way of illustration of one of the best modes more adapted to carry out the request object of the present. As will be realized, the application subject hereof is capable of other different embodiments and several details are capable of modification in various obvious aspects without departing from the scope of the application subject hereof. Accordingly, the drawing and descriptions will also be taken to be illustrative and not to be restrictive.

SHORT DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

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

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

FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an entry level according to one embodiment of the request described herein;

FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a storage level of a Parking space according to an embodiment of the request subject herein;

FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating the computer system for setting up a system and method according to the request subject hereof;

Fig. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a method for the automated storage and retrieval of vehicles in accordance with one embodiment of the application herein;

Pacp 7 ς٦٦Γ dd

MY

31348Β1

Fig. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a method for the automated storage and retrieval of vehicles according to one embodiment of the application herein;

Figure 7 is a flowchart illustrating a method for the automated storage and retrieval of vehicles in accordance with one embodiment of the application herein; and

Fig. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a method for the automated storage and retrieval of vehicles according to one embodiment of the application herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The request described herein is directed to a system and method for the automated storage and retrieval of goods. In particular, the application subject herein is directed to a system and method for sorting vehicles based on frequency in an automated parking facility, where the most frequently used vehicles are located in close proximity to an area of. associated entry / exit of vehicles. More particularly, the request disclosed herein is directed to a system and method for communicating to a vehicle corresponding parking space availability, location, reservations, and the like. In particular, the request subject herein is directed to a system and method for allowing a user to access a vehicle, located in an automated parking structure or facility, via a parking area. secondary access, in which the secondary access sector provides a user with access to a vehicle, without requiring the vehicle to be exited from the parking facility.

Turning now to Figure 1, there is shown an exterior isometric view of the system 100 for automated storage and retrieval as claimed herein. The system 100 is implemented in a multi-storey parking facility 101 comprising the number N of floors or levels 102, 104, 106, 108, 110, 112, 114, and 116. As shown in Figure 1, N is equivalent to 8, however, anyone skilled in the art will appreciate that a higher or lower value for N 30 is acceptable for the application subject herein. Each of the levels of N 102 to 116 is capable of supporting the weight of a plurality of vehicles and the corresponding auxiliary infrastructures as indicated below. People experienced in the field

Pan * »2 ٠١١٣ ΛΔ

ر ٩

MY

31348Β1 will understand that the proper construction of Facility 101 depends on many factors, including the available land on which Facility 101 is to stand, the number of levels in the building, as well as the square footage of each level. Using these and other variables, anyone skilled in the art can determine the appropriate characteristics for each of the levels and structural support members of the multi-level facility 101 of the application subject herein.

For the purposes of this exemplary embodiment, each of the levels of N is approximately 100 'x 175' or 32m x 54m, for an approximate square footage per level of 17,500 square feet (1,728 square meters). ). Anyone skilled in the art will appreciate that various impediments, supports and the like, as well as structural components, will effect the available square footage per level. It will also be appreciated that various external factors, for example, the distribution of ordered areas, environmental impacts, and the like, will also affect facility 101. The exemplary embodiment, described above, includes the number N of levels.

However, anyone skilled in the art will appreciate that the request object of the present need not include multiple levels, but rather can extend along a single level. Those skilled in the art will also appreciate that the facility 101 is shown above ground for illustration only, and the system and method described herein is capable of being performed as a multi-level underground facility without depart from the scope of the request in question. According to one embodiment of the application subject herein, the levels 102 to 116 are constructed with different distances between the floor and the ceiling, so that each level is able to adapt to a type of vehicle. For example, one level has a higher ceiling, thereby allowing the storage of sports service vehicles, while another level has a lower ceiling, allowing the storage of compact cars. Anyone skilled in the art will appreciate that such an embodiment allows for the separation of different sizes of vehicles into different levels.

The multi-level facility 101 is illustrated in Figure 1 as having a transparent exterior for purposes of description only. In accordance with one embodiment of the application herein, 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 suited to withstand the elements. Any

O ٠١١١ * ΛΛ

Λ

MY

A person skilled in the art will appreciate that any suitable material known in the building arts is capable of being used according to the demand herein.

As shown in Figure 1, a first level 102 has at least one vehicle entry / exit 130, shown in Figure 1 as entry area 118 and exit area 120. It will be appreciated that entry area 118 and the exit sector 120, as shown in Figure 1, allow entry and exit of a single vehicle, respectively. Anyone skilled in the art will appreciate that a greater number of vehicles can enter and exit one at a time, however, for the purpose of explaining herein, reference is made to a single vehicle entry and exit. Vehicle entry / exit sectors, e.g., entry sector 118 and exit sector 120, allow facility 101 to receive vehicles, ships, containers, or the like, for storage. . Those skilled in the art will also understand that while a single vehicle entry / exit sector 130 is shown in Fig. 1, the application subject herein is capable of integrating any number of entry / exit sectors. of vehicles according to the request object 15 hereof. According to the preferred embodiment of the application subject hereof, the first level 102 designates a secondary access sector of the multi-level automated installation 101, allowing access by one or more drivers to their vehicles, containers, boats. , or the respective like.

The multi-level facility 101 includes one or more turntables 122, 124, 126, and 128, allowing the driver or passenger of a given vehicle to access the vehicle without first removing the vehicle from the facility. 101. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that while the request subject to the present uses rotating platforms, the stationary platforms are also capable of being used without departing from the scope of the request subject here. Further, as will be discussed, platforms 122-128 are suitably capable of being attached to one or more levels 102-116 of multi-level facility 101 by any means known in the art. Anyone skilled in the art will appreciate that the structural components of the platforms are determined on the basis of the composition of the platform, the weight of the vehicle, storage container, boat, or the like, and all the accessories known in the art. . Those skilled in the art will also appreciate that the turntables 122 to 128 are suitably capable of adaptation as loading / unloading stations on one or more of levels 102 to 116 of facility 101. Further, any person experienced in the field

14،10siir ؛ PaQf

ΜΑ 31348Β1 will find it obvious that the turntables 122 to 128 are still capable of adaptation to display a vehicle, a boat, a storage container, or the like.

In accordance with one embodiment of the application herein, the multi-level facility 101 also includes an electronic messaging panel 132, suitably positioned to be visible to pedestrians, vehicles, and the like. Preferably, the electronic messaging panel 132 is adapted to display special rate structures at a given time based on the current occupancy level of the multi-level facility 101. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that while a single messaging panel 132 is shown in Figure 1, the application subject herein is capable of including any number of such panels, of varying sizes, and at various locations on the installation 101. Preferably, one or more electronic messaging panels 132 are communicatively connected to a master controller, allowing dynamic updating of such rates or messages to the passerby.

Referring now to Figure 2, there is shown a representative embodiment of an entry level 200 of the multi-level facility 101. Entry level 200 has eight turntables 220, 222, 224, 226, 228, 230, 232, and 234, each suitably adapted to turn a vehicle. Preferably, the entry level 220, in addition to receiving vehicles to park them at the upper levels of the installation 101 is advantageously used as a secondary access level, allowing a driver to access his vehicle from the side. 'via one of the rotating platforms 222, 224, 226, 228, 230, 232, or 234. According to the request object of the present, the rotating platforms 222, 224, 226, 228, 230, 232, or 234 function as secondary sector, in addition to the input / output sector 130 (as shown in FIG. 1), in which the driver has access to his vehicle. Anyone skilled in the art will appreciate that such access allows the driver to remove items OR load items into their vehicle, without first removing the vehicle from parking facility 101. According to the preferred embodiment of the application object of the present, each platform 220 to 234 is rotated by any means known in the art for rotating platforms. Anyone skilled in the art will appreciate that stationary platforms are also capable of being implemented according to the application subject herein. Preferably, the secondary access sectors, or the rotating platforms 222, 224, 226, 228, 230, 232, and 234 are located at the entry level 200 of the installation 101 in order to allow ease of access for pedestrians to their respective vehicles, thereby eliminating the need for stairs, elevators, or the like. The

PsjtTP 1 1 ciirzlzl

ΛΑ

31348Β1 people with experience in this area will appreciate that turntables 220 to 234, or other similar secondary access areas are shown at entry level 200 for explanation only, and any level of the installation is also capable of supporting secondary access areas.

Turning now to Figure 3, there is illustrated a parking level 300 of the multi-level facility 101. Those skilled in the art will understand that the level 300 is representative of a parking level and does not need. to have turntables 318, 320, 322 and 324. For example, referring to Figure 1, level 300 of Figure 3 is a representation of levels 104, 106, and 110 of Figure 1. Levels 108,112, 114, and 116 resemble parking level 300, however these levels do not have rotating platforms similar to platforms 318 to 324 in Figure 3. Thus, in an alternate embodiment, the demand system described herein uses platforms at each level, while in a tertiary embodiment, the demand system described herein, due to the construction of! 101 parking facility, does not use any rotating platform module. The size of the 300 parking level is capable of varying depending on the type of vehicles, boats, or storage containers stored above, resulting in a uniform size X level for boat storage, one size level Y for container storage, and a size Z level for vehicle storage. Anyone skilled in the art will appreciate that the specific sizes of the levels of the multi-level facility 101 will depend on the particular type of item being stored at each level. The components and additional devices of the parking level 300 are explained in more detail below.

Turning now to Figure 4, there is illustrated a representative architecture of a suitable server 400 on which the operations of the system in question are performed.

Anyone skilled in the art will appreciate that while a server is used herein, the application described herein is capable of using any personal computing device known in the art for the control of the computer. parking facility 101 according to the methodologies described below. Included is a processor 402, suitably constituting a central processing unit. However, it will be appreciated that the processor

402 may advantageously consist of multiple processors operating in concert with one another as will be appreciated by anyone of ordinary skill in the art. Also included is a non-volatile or read-only 404 memory which is advantageously p٩af&gt; 19ci٦rdzl

31348Β1 used for static or fixed data or instructions, such as BIOS functions, system functions, system setup, and other routines or data used for server 400 operation.

Also included in server 400 is random access memory 406, suitably formed of dynamic random access memory, static random access memory, or any other suitable and accessible memory system. The random access memory provides a storage area for instruction data related to applications and data processing performed by processor 402.

A storage interface 408 suitably provides a mechanism for volatile, bulk, or long-term storage of data related to server 400. Storage interface 408 suitably utilizes large capacity memory, such as any suitable accessible or periodic storage medium, such as disk, optical drive system, magnetic tape, and the like as provided 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 conveniently conducts the input and output of an associated network allowing the server 400 to communicate to other devices. Network interface subsystem 410 conveniently interfaces with one or more connections with devices external to server 400. By way of example, there is illustrated at least one network interface card 414 for data communication with fixed or cable networks, such as Ethernet, token ring network, and the like, and a wireless interface. 418, suitably suited for wireless communication via such means as WiFi, WiMax, wireless modem, cellular network, or any suitable wireless communication system. It should be appreciated, however, that the network interface subsystem properly utilizes any physical or non-physical data transfer layer or protocol layer as will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art. In the illustration, the network interface 414 is interconnected for the exchange of data via a physical network 420, suitably consisting of a local area network, a wide area network, or a combination thereof.

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

PflOP 1 ٩

31348Β1

Appropriate executable instructions on the server 400 facilitate communication with a plurality of external devices, such as workstations, handheld devices, personal data assistants, vehicle communications devices, document processing devices, etc. other servers, or the like. While in operation a typical server operates in a stand-alone fashion, it should be appreciated that direct control by a local user is sometimes desirable, and is accomplished through an optional I / O interface 422 as will be. appreciated by anyone of ordinary skill in the art.

Returning to Figure 2, a vehicle 206Α enters facility 101 through entry level 200 at a vehicle transfer area, for example, entry 202. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the level of. entry 200 is presented for illustration only, and the application subject herein is capable of implementing an entry level to any of these levels 102 through 116 of multi-level facility 101. The vehicle 206Α then proceeds to park on a pallet 208 received from a pallet storage unit (not shown). The pallet 208 is suitable for transporting the vehicle 206Α throughout the installation 101, including crossing the entry level 200. The pallet 208 is then transported by any means appropriate to the primary transport route 236 . The primary transport route 236 suitably includes one or more vehicle transfer units, capable of carrying a loaded or unloaded pallet 208. As will be understood by anyone skilled in the art, the primary transport route 236 is capable of transporting the pallet 208 on which the vehicle 206Α resides laterally along the entry level 200, as well as perpendicularly along the transport routes. secondary 238, 240, 242, 244, 246, 248, 250, and 252. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the pallet 208 is still capable of transport to any part of the entry level 200 between transport routes 238, 240, 242, 244, 246, 248, 250, and 252. Anyone experienced in the matter will appreciate that the secondary transport routes 238, 240, 242, 244, 246, 248, 250, and 252 represent an individual transport unit (not shown) and are set up in grid form. The transport units of the current exemplary embodiment are 8 feet wide by 20 feet long. However, the units are able to be set up in different sizes, depending on the overall setup of the facility 101.

The secondary transport routes 238 to 252 are adapted to transfer the pallet 208 from the primary transport route 236 to any of the platforms 220 to

31348Β1

234. For example, pallet 208 is carried via primary transport route 236 to the left end of entry level 200. Upon reaching the end of primary side transport route 236, pallet 208 is transferred. by any means appropriate to the perpendicular transport route 238. Through secondary transport route 238, pallet 208 is then carried to platform 220, where vehicle 206Α is then moved, under its own power or other suitable means, to platform 220 for operator access.

As shown in Figure 2, a pallet 210 carrying a vehicle 206Β crosses the primary transport route 236. Upon reaching the destination of the pallet 210, the primary transport route 236 allows the transport unit of the vehicle to move. the secondary transport route, for example, the secondary transport route 246, to carry the pallet 210 to its destination of the turntable 224. Likewise, when it is determined that a 206C vehicle, located on the turntable 228 is to exit the multi-level facility 101, the platform 228 rotates to allow the 206C vehicle to be in the appropriate position for exit. Once the appropriate position is reached, vehicle 206C is carried on a pallet 212 on the vehicle transport unit from secondary transport route 252 to primary transport route 236. Pallet 212 containing vehicle 206C is then suitably carried to exit 204. When vehicle 206C has reached the appropriate position relative to exit sector 204, vehicle 206C is ready for use and exited by the driver. Pallet 212 is then transferred through any suitable means to the pallet storage unit (not shown) for subsequent reuse in the system.

Entry level 200 also allows a 206Α vehicle to be transported to any of the N levels above or below entry level 200 via elevators 214, 216 and 218. An elevator Non-vehicle transport facility (not present) is also accessible via entry level 200, located in the core of building 254, and is used to transport drivers and employees between N levels of the multi-level facility 101. The core of building 254 additionally includes stairwells to the upper floors of multi-level facility 101. In the core of building 254 are electronic, electrical and mechanical facilities suitably adapted to operate, power, and control. the multi-level automated parking facility 101 of the present application. A suitable computing device, for example, the server 400, adapts to the operations of

Jlir AA ، بم 1 pQiTA

AT

31348Β1 installation check 101 is explained in more detail above with reference to the figure. Those skilled in the art will understand that the building core 254 extends through each of the N levels of the multi-level facility 101, containing the electrical and mechanical components necessary to operate the various units, levels, devices. multi-level facility 101 platforms, transports, and the like. Anyone experienced in this will appreciate that the core of building 254 need not be constrained to the description given above, or the illustration shown in Figure 2, such as local building codes, requirements. parking lots, and the like, will effect the location and construction of the core of building 254, without departing from the spirit of the application herein.

According to the preferred embodiment of the present application, the elevators 214, 216 and 218 for transporting the vehicles are adapted to transport a pallet on which rests a vehicle, a boat, a storage container, and the like. Elevators 214, 216 and 218 are any suitable lifting mechanism known in the art capable of lifting and lowering the combined weight of the article being transported and the pallet.

Returning to Figure 3, elevators 302, 304, and 306 suitably carry pallets loaded with vehicles from entry level 200 to parking level 300. The journeys of a vehicle loaded on a pallet pass up through. elevator 304 and down through elevator 302. The pallet carrying an automobile arrives in the elevator 304 at the parking level 300. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the parking level 300 is also suitable for storing boats, storage containers, and the like. , while still having the capabilities described above. The pallet is ejected from elevator 304 onto the transport units (not shown) on primary transport route 308. Those of skill in the art will understand that the primary transport route 308 is any suitable means for transporting a pallet, including, but not limited to, a conveyor, sprocket, independent motor, or the like. As the pallet crosses the primary transport route 308, a control system, as represented by the server 400 shown in Figure 4, determines which storage area is empty and available to accommodate the pallet. The control system 30 is any suitable control system known in the art, including a microprocessor operated computer system, application specific software / hardware configuration, or the like.

Dorra 1 ٥٠٠٠٠ بح ΛΛ

VIA

31348Β1

For example, a pallet / vehicle 310 has exited elevator 304 and is currently crossing primary transport route 308. The monitoring 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, according to the layout of the grid system, are configured according to the overall design / layout of the system of the present application, corresponding to local constraints and wishes of. a parking facility. Upon reaching the appropriate position, relative to the empty storage area 312, the primary transport route 308 stops the pallet / vehicle 310 in the lateral direction and the pallet / vehicle 310 is loaded into the area of. empty storage 312 by any suitable means known in the art.

Recovery of a pallet / vehicle from the storage areas of parking level 300 is accomplished in a similar manner. For example, when the driver of the vehicle stored on a pallet 328 in the storage area 330 at Parking level 300 desires to search for his vehicle, the pallet / vehicle 328 is kicked out of its parked position in the storage area 330 by l 'intermediary of any means appropriate to the primary transport route 308. The primary transport route 308 then carries the pallet / vehicle 328 from its new position laterally to a position suitable for loading onto the descending elevator 302. Once the primary transport route 308 has passed through the pallet / vehicle the distance from its former storage area 330 to the area immediately in front of the elevator 302, the pallet / vehicle 328 is loaded onto the elevator 302, by the. intermediary of any suitable means of loading, for transport at entry level 200.

Alternatively, when a driver, parking attendant, car wash operator, OR the like, desires to search for 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 route 308. The primary transport route 308 then carries the pallet / vehicle 314 laterally out of the storage area. desired vehicle, i.e., pallet / vehicle 316. Pallet / vehicle 316 is then retrieved from its storage area to primary transport route 308. Primary transport route 308 then carries pallet / transport 316 to downhill elevator 302 for transport to the level on which the driver, parking attendant, car wash operator, or the like, is

Pope 17 of 44

ΜΑ 31348Β1 ح currently located. The pallet / vehicle 314 is then returned to its storage area of ​​the

I way above.

إ People experienced in this area will understand that the presence of إ the transport lift at the 300 parking level, located in the core of the building

332, allows maintenance personnel to access level 300 and perform scheduled or emergency maintenance on any of the systems residing at level 300. Such ؛ maintenance includes, for example, repairing or finding a pallet, repairing an elevator 302 to

306 ؛, Or the like. In one embodiment, as shown in Fig. 3, the parking level ا 300 suitably includes an automated car wash unit 334. Like ؛ will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the automated car wash unit is any automated car wash device known in the art, including, and without

I limitation, brushless washing, soft cloth washing, high pressure washing, and the like. According to the present application, before recovery by a driver, a vehicle located on the pallet 310, is first washed by the automated car wash unit 334. The 15 ؛ pallet / vehicle 310 enters car wash 334 and is subjected to the method Used by the car wash unit. The cleaned pallet / vehicle is then returned to the transport route ؛ primary 308. Those with experience in this area will appreciate that if the ؛ manual car cleaning would be desired, the 334 car wash unit is suitably ؛ adaptable to include pipes, valves, electrical outlets and the like, in order to ؛ to facilitate manual cleaning of the pallet / vehicle 310. Upon completion of the washing / cleaning of the automobile, the operations of the parking level 300 then continue as detailed above.

Anyone skilled in the art will understand that the level of Parking 300, as described above, is for illustration purposes only, and the present application need not be limited to such a level. For example, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the parking level 300 can be configured as multiple rows of storage areas, various transport units, and the like. The layout of the storage areas need only conform to the grid layout of the previous and subsequent levels, to maintain the proper positioning of the building core 332, and elevators 302 to 306.

By operating the system 100 in question according to one embodiment of the present application, a vehicle transfer sector, such as input 118, output 120, or the like, first receives related identification data. to a given vehicle. Description ρ٠ηα 1 2 Cl * AA

MY

Appropriate 31348Β1 includes, for example and without limitation, the Vehicle Registration Number (VIN), bar code, alphanumeric code, or the like, as will be appreciated by anyone skilled in the art. Then, the horological data is collected by the server 400 corresponding to the particular vehicle linked to the identification data. The server 400 then determines if the frequency data, related to the descriptions, 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 data These frequencies are looked up by storage server 400, such as disks 416, and an appropriate storage area is then determined. Preferably, the greater the frequency of entries and exits, the closer the vehicle is stored to the vehicle transfer area. That is, when the frequency data indicates a high input and output frequency, the storage area which is closest to the vehicle transfer area and currently available for receiving a vehicle is chosen as the storage location for the vehicle. The vehicle is then transported to the storage area until the moment when the associated driver requests recovery and exit.

When no frequency data is available for the vehicle, as identified by the identification data, the frequency data is calculated by the server 400 using any suitable means known in the art. Preferably, server 400 determines the number of times the vehicle has been viewed, searched for, entered, OR exited parking facility 101, if known. This information is then used to calculate the frequency data, which is stored in storage 416 for future use by the system 100. Anyone experienced in the matter will appreciate that the frequency data is calculated even when the vehicle enters the facility. 101 for the first time, then being updated for each entry and exit of the vehicle. Preferably, the frequency data is stored in the storage 416 in association with the unique identification data of the vehicle. 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 appropriate transport mechanisms, as described above.

According to another embodiment of the present application, the server 400 records the storage compartment, ie, the storage area, the data corresponding to the proximity of the compartment or of the sector to the vehicle transfer sector. Preferably.

PflCTAlQcnrZkl

ΜΑ 31348Β1 this data is stored on a suitable storage device, such as the disks 416 linked to the server 400. As a vehicle enters the entry / exit sector 130, or the vehicle transfer sector, it is identified. by unique identification data and horological data is collected by server 400 and the vehicle is loaded onto a pallet 208 at the vehicle transfer area, for example, entrance 202. The server 400 then determines whether the frequency data, corresponding to the data representing the number of entries and exits linked to the vehicle, are available. Preferably, the server 400 searches the records 416 for frequency data linked to the vehicle identification data. When such data is not currently stored in storage 416, server 416 calculates frequency data to be associated with the vehicle through 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 searches for 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 viewed frequently over an overall period of time, or if it is only viewed infrequently, for example, many times a day or only in the evening. When the vehicle is not a high frequency vehicle, ie, does not enter / exit the facility 101 a number of times per day, week, month, etc., the vehicle / pallet 208 is transported to a available storage area which is not in the immediate vicinity of the vehicle transfer area. When the frequency data indicates to the server 400 that the vehicle has a high input / output frequency, the vehicle / pallet 208 is transported to a nearby storage area relative to the vehicle transfer area. Anyone experienced in the field will appreciate that such positioning allows the vehicle to be made more quickly available to the driver, due to the short distance between the vehicle and the exit.

The server 400 then acquires through access models of the vehicle corresponding to the number of times the vehicle has been consulted. Any times of scheduled access, such as when a driver would like to have the vehicle available, are also collected by the server and used to ensure that 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 narrower storage area or more distant proximity to the pQfTA m area ٠٦٦٠٠ Λ

VIA

31348Β1 transfer of vehicles. When such movement is required, as determined by server 400, 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 at parking level 300, the vehicle / pallet is moved to a position closer to the elevator 302 for faster recovery. Likewise, when data acquired by server 400 indicates that vehicle / pallet 208 is located closer to the exit point, for example, elevator 302, than permitted, server 400 directs the appropriate mechanisms to move the vehicle / pallet. pallet 208 to a more suitable storage area, located further from the elevator 302. Preferably, the parking facility 101 is capable of rearranging the vehicles stored therein according to a predetermined schedule. According to one embodiment of the present application, this movement of vehicles / pallets to a different storage area is advantageously accomplished during the night, on a weekend, during a specific time of day, or the like.

According to another embodiment of the present application, after storing the descriptions corresponding to each vehicle linked to the parking facility 101, the server 400 establishes the status data of each storage area in the service 101. Anyone experienced in the matter will appreciate that the appropriate status data includes, for example and without limitation, data representing area availability, area size, area reserve status, relative location of area in points 20 d entry / exit, maintenance standards, and the like. This Status data, preferably the availability data, is then communicated to each vehicle via an appropriate communications channel. Anyone skilled in the art will appreciate that such a communications channel includes, for example and without limitation, wireless communication channels WiFi, Bluetooth, GPS, FR, 802.1l (x), the Internet, cellular telephone networks, OR analogues.

The vehicles receive this status data and are able to transmit a reservation request through a transmission channel. Preferably, the reservation request includes data indicative of an arrival time, duration of storage, a method of payment, and the like. Anyone skilled in the art will appreciate that the driver is able to make a telephone call for 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 assigns a storage area for the vehicle

Pa ، ïA٠1 ،? 11Γ / 1/1

31348Β1 by any suitable means known in the art. In one embodiment, the server 400 establishes the location of the vehicle, preferably using GPS, and determines an appropriate route to the parking facility 101. This route is then transmitted, via the route of transmissions, to the vehicle from installation 101. Anyone skilled in the art will appreciate that the vehicle can then locate the parking facility 101 and proceed to entry 202, or vehicle transfer area.

The parking facility 101 then receives the vehicle at the entrance 202 and identifies the vehicle through the unique identification data. The server 400, upon receiving the vehicle identification data at the entry 202, then determines whether reservations, with respect to the vehicle identified in the entry, have been made. When no reservation is located, the server 400 determines an appropriate storage area for vehicle storage. Anyone skilled in the art will appreciate that the server 400 is able to assign an appropriate storage area based on the frequency data, as explained above, on a first come first served basis, or the like. Server 400 then instructs facility 101, through the mechanisms described above, to transfer the vehicle from the vehicle transfer area, eg, entrance 202, to the indicated storage area.

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

According to another embodiment of the present request, the server 400 has stored identification data corresponding to each vehicle linked to the installation 101 in the data storage 416. Upon receipt of a request to retrieve a vehicle, server 400 identifies the storage area in which the vehicle is stored and initiates the retrieval process, ie, instructs the transport mechanisms to search for the vehicle / pallet. Once the vehicle is on the transport unit, the server 400 determines whether the vehicle is intended for access only, or whether the vehicle is being paged for exiting parking facility 101. Those skilled in the art. matter will appreciate that the server 400 is able to determine the destination of the vehicle before recovery

31348Β1 of the vehicle according to the methodologies of the present application. When the vehicle is searched 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 charge should be assessed for the recovery, ie, whether a charge is due for the removal. Anyone experienced in the matter will appreciate that this application is able to assess all charges at the time of vehicle drop-off for storage in parking facility 101, instead of the assessment of fees at the end of the day. vehicle storage. When no charge is to be assessed, the vehicle is transported from the vehicle transfer area, for example, to exit 204, and the operation is terminated with respect to that vehicle. In the event that costs become necessary for the storage of the vehicle, the driver of the vehicle is paid the costs and the vehicle is released. Preferably, the charge is received from the vehicle by way of credit card, cash, wire transfer, or any other transaction before the vehicle is removed from parking facility 101.

When the vehicle is not removed, but rather is transported only to allow driver or pedestrian access to the vehicle, the vehicle is transported to the secondary access area. Preferably, this access sector is at the entrance level 200 of the parking facility 101, thereby allowing easy access to the vehicle. Those skilled in the art will understand that the access sector is suitably capable of being located at any part of the facility 101 where a pedestrian has access to the facility 101, for example, a platform 220, 222. , 224, 226, 228, 230, 232, 234, a platform 318, 320, 322, 324, or the like. As shown in Figure 2, entry level 200 includes several access sectors, shown as platforms 220, 222, 224, 226, 228, 230, 232, and 234, which the person requesting access can search for. vehicle items or place items in the vehicle. In one embodiment, an access charge is then billed to the owner requesting access to the vehicle. Anyone experienced in the matter will appreciate that these charges are capable of being assessed prior to recovery, or not incurred in the event that the vehicle has a daily, monthly, or annual payment plan. A determination is made by the server 400 whether the access request is a request for a car wash. When this is the case, the vehicle is transported to a car wash unit, at which the vehicle is cleaned. When the access request is not for a car wash, the server 400 determines whether the access request is for the purposes of loading one or more packages into the vehicle. When there is one or more packages to load in the vehicle.

Iir ΔΑ؟ Pacrp

VIA

31348Β1 the packages are transported to the vehicle access area, using any appropriate means, for loading into the vehicle. After the person accessing the vehicle has finished loading, searching, cleaning, or the like, the vehicle is returned to its designated storage area.

The foregoing description of the system 100 and the components described above in Figures 1, 2, 3, and 4, will be best understood with reference to the methodologies depicted in Figures 5, 6, 7, and 8. Turning now to FIG. 5, there is shown a flowchart 500 illustrating a method for the automated storage and retrieval of vehicles according to one embodiment of the present application. Beginning at step 502, a server 400 or other automated controller of the parking facility 101 receives identification data related to a vehicle. Preferably, the description is unique to each vehicle linked to the parking facility 101, so that, for example and without limitation, a vehicle registration number (NIM), an alphanumeric identifier, a bar code , or the like. The recovery of such identification data is advantageously carried out by means of the electronic communication of the identification data of the vehicle to the server 400, the communication of the identifier by means of an appropriate user interface, of the scanner. of the bar code via a suitable scanner module, or the like. Anyone skilled in the art will appreciate that any method for searching for such data, known in the art, is capable of being implemented according to the present application. Preferably, the identification data received from a vehicle at a vehicle transfer sector, such as entry 202 to entry level 200, as shown in Fig. 2.

The server 400 then receives, in step 504, horological data corresponding to the descriptions of the vehicle. A determination is then made in step 506 whether frequency data, related to the vehicle, is available. Anyone skilled in the art will appreciate that the frequency data includes, for example and without limitation, the number of entries and exits of a vehicle during a given period of time. When the server 400 determines that the frequency data is available, ie, the frequency data related to the vehicle identification data is located in the data store 416, the server 400 looks for this data in step 508 and determines. , in step 510, the appropriate storage location. In step 512, the vehicle is transported to the storage area determined for storage.

Paop ΊΑ cnr AA

31348Β1

Returning to step 506, when the frequency data is unavailable, flow proceeds to step 514, where the vehicle-related frequency is calculated through any suitable means. The calculated frequency data is then stored in the data store 416 in association with the vehicle data in step 516. Anyone skilled in the art will appreciate that such storage allows server 400 to retrieve frequency data for a subsequent transaction with the vehicle. The calculated frequency data is then used, in step 518, to determine the storage location for the vehicle. In step 520, the vehicle is transported to the storage area determined by the server 400 on the basis of the frequency data.

Referring now to Fig. 6, there is shown an exemplary embodiment of a flowchart 600 of the method for the automated storage and retrieval of vehicles according to the present application. The methodology begins at step 602 with the server 400 storing, in the associated storage device 416, storage compartment, or sector, the location data corresponding to the proximity of the storage area to the vehicle transfer sector, that is, the relative proximity of the storage areas of facility 101 to inlet 202 and outlet 204 is stored in disks 416 of server 400. In step 604, a vehicle is received at entrance 202, or at the vehicle transfer sector. The server 400 then receives, at step 606, vehicle identification data representing a unique identifier for the vehicle in association with the stationary installation 101. Anyone skilled in the art will appreciate that appropriate vehicle identification data includes, for example and without limitation, a VIN number, an alphanumeric identifier, a bar code, or the like. Preferably, the server 400 receives the vehicle identification data through a suitable interface, such as a keypad, scanner module, RF tag, or the like. Horological data is then received by server 400 according to the time the vehicle is received in the vehicle transfer sector in step 608. The vehicle is then loaded onto a pallet in step 610. Server 400 then determines , in step 612, if frequency data corresponding to the vehicle identification data is available. That is, the server 400 searches the storage 416 for the frequency data stored in association with the vehicle identification data. When such frequency data is located, the server 400 searches for the frequency data.

Qiir ΔΔ ١ ،? Ρπσρ

31348Β1 to step 614 and flow proceeds to step 620 for the determination of the high frequency.

When server 400 cannot locate frequency data previously stored in storage 416, the flow progresses from step 612 to step 616. At step 616, server 400 calculates the frequency data on the. bases the currently available data, for example, the number of times this vehicle has entered / exited parking facility 101, and the like. The calculated frequency data is then stored by the server 400 in step 618 in the associated storage 416 for later use. In step 620, a determination is made whether the vehicle is relatively high frequency. Anyone skilled in the art will appreciate that the determination made in step 620 matches the server 400 determining whether the vehicle has an entry and exit frequency at the parking facility 101, for example, whether the driver frequently searches for the vehicle. vehicle or drops the vehicle for storage. When the frequency data indicates a relatively low frequency of deposition and retrieval, the vehicle is transported, in step 622, to a less near storage area, ie, further from the vehicle transfer sector. Flow then proceeds to step 626 for the acquisition of the vehicle pass access model. When the frequency data indicates a high frequency of deposition and recovery, the flow proceeds to step 624, where the vehicle is transported to a storage area in relatively close proximity to the vehicle transfer area. The flow then proceeds to step 626, at which the server 400 collects after access patterns of the vehicle, that is, the server 400 searches for the frequency data and all scheduled access times. in step 628, and determines to move the vehicle to a different storage location in step 630.

In other words, the server 400 determines, preferably at a time when the parking facility 101 is not occupied, whether vehicles currently stored should be moved closer or further from the vehicle transfer area. Anyone experienced in the matter will appreciate that during operations the various vehicles are capable of being indicated as high frequency, but they are then left for storage for extended periods. When such, or other similar circumstances occur, Facility 101 has the ability to rearrange the arrangement of vehicles in storage, continually handling these most frequently accessed vehicles closer to the vehicle transfer area and those rarely seen. accessed, or left for extended periods of storage, further away from the

Paofi% on 44

MY

31348Β1 transfer of vehicles. Thus, when it is determined in step 630 that a particular vehicle should remain in place, for example, no closer storage area is available for movement, the vehicle remains in its original location. When a closer or less near sector is available, and the frequency of the vehicle, its access time, or the like, indicates that movement is allowed, flow proceeds to step 632, at which the vehicle is moved. to a storage area closer, or less close, as indicated by the data, to the vehicle transfer area.

Turning now to Fig. 7, there is presented a flowchart 700 illustrating an exemplary embodiment of the method for automated storage and retrieval of vehicles according to the present application. The server 400 stores the vehicle identification data assigned to each vehicle linked to the parking facility 101 in step 702. In step 704, the server 400 communicates the status data of the storage areas to each vehicle according to the corresponding identification data. Preferably, server 400 maintains a database corresponding to storage areas in use, storage areas available, relative proximity of storage areas to a vehicle transfer area, and the like. These data are then communicated to each vehicle, according to the vehicle identification data, via an appropriate transmission channel. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, suitable transmission channels include, for example and without limitation 802.1 l (x) or any other means of wireless transmission, WiFi, GPS, Bluetooth, mobile telephony, network public switched telephone, private transmission network, Internet, FR, or the like.

In step 706, the server 400 receives a request to reserve a vehicle via the communications channel. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the server 400 related to the operation of the facility 101 is capable of receiving reservation data through 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 the telephone, or the like. Preferably the reservation request includes data representing the vehicle, e.g. description of the vehicle, time / date for drop-off, time / data for retrieval, services to be provided e.g. storage. ,! 'access, car wash, etc., method of payment, and the like.

PflffA 77 cnr ΔΔ

31348Β1

On receipt of the reservation request, the server 400 assigns, in step 708, a storage area according to the received request. For example, when the request is for a time limit, the vehicle is assigned a storage area in close proximity to the vehicle transfer area, as discussed in more detail above. Once the server 400 has determined the indicated storage area for the vehicle, a route from the current location of the vehicle to the parking facility 101 is then determined. As will be appreciated by anyone skilled in the art, the server 400 is capable of storing map data allowing the auto-generation of a route to the facility 101, communicating, via the Internet with everything. a myriad of depot directions available in the market, using GPS functionality, or the like. After determining the route, the server 400 communicates the route data to the vehicle via the transmission channel. Anyone skilled in the art will appreciate that the tracking data is capable of matching a system used by the vehicle, voice transmission to the driver of the vehicle, or the like.

When a vehicle is received at the vehicle transfer sector, for example, input 202, at step 712, the flow proceeds to step 714, where the vehicle is identified to establish the related identification data. to the vehicle. The identification data is then used by the server 400 to determine, in step 716, whether a reservation related to 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 identification data corresponding to the vehicle, the flow proceeds from step 716 to step 718, where the server 400 determines a storage area for the use of the vehicle. Anyone skilled in the art will appreciate that such a determination is capable of being made according to the methodologies described above with reference to Figures 5 and 6. The vehicle is then transferred, via the transport mechanisms described above. above to the storage area d determined in step 720.

Returning to step 716, when a reservation corresponding to the vehicle identification data is located by the server 400, the flow proceeds to step 722, where the reservation data is retrieved from the data store 416. using the reservation data, the server 400 determines an appropriate storage area in step 724. The vehicle is then transferred to the storage area determined in step 726, at which the operation ends until the moment when the vehicle is searched. The

Panp 92 ٠١١٣ ΔΑ

31348Β1 recovery process is explained in more detail above and is also applicable to the methodology shown by flowchart 700 of Figure 7.

Attention now turns to Figure 8 which illustrates a flowchart 800 depicting a method for the automated storage and retrieval of vehicles according to one embodiment of the present application. The server 400, in step 802, stores vehicle identification data assigned to each vehicle linked to the parking facility 101. In step 804, the server 400 receives, through any suitable means. , a request to recover the vehicle. Anyone skilled in the art 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. Server 400 then instructs, in step 806, the various transport mechanisms to search for the vehicle identified in the request to retrieve its current storage area.

A determination is then made by the server 400 in step 808 whether the request only matches the vehicle access, i.e., the server 400 determines whether the request indicates that the vehicle should not be searched. and does not take out the parking facility 101, but must instead be moved to a secondary storage area, receive a car wash, maintenance, or any other feature / function offered by the parking facility 101. When such a request is not directed only to access, the flow proceeds to step 810, where the vehicle is transported to a vehicle transfer sector, for example, exit 204. A determination is then made. made by the server 400 at step 812 if a fee is to be billed along with the storage and / or retrieval of the vehicle. When no charge is to be charged, for example for a monthly pass holder, garage entry payment, etc., the vehicle is released to the requesting party and the transaction ends. When a charge is to be taken for storage and / or retrieval, the flow proceeds from step 812 to step 814, at which a charge is made to the occupant of the vehicle. Upon acquisition of payment, ie, 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, at which the vehicle is transported from its designated storage area to a vehicle access area. Any costs associated with the vehicle access request are then billed and payment is received by parking facility 101 at step 818. For example, when the vehicle is to be cleaned, an administrative fee is collected at step 818 before proceeding with the cleaning. The flow then proceeds from step 818

Dorra 90 cnr ΛΛ

VIA

31348Β1 at step 820, at which a determination is made whether a car wash has been chosen for the vehicle, that is, when the access request includes a request for cleaning the vehicle, and the corresponding payment has been received, a positive determination results in step 820, at which the vehicle is transported to a car wash area for cleaning in step 822. When no car wash has been selected, or upon completion of the car wash, a determination is made in step 824 whether the request includes a request to transport packages,

ie, if the request includes a desire for items to be loaded into the vehicle, before returning the vehicle to storage or retrieval of the vehicle for discharge from facility 101. Those skilled in the art will understand that then than in the vehicle access sector, shown in figure 2 as platforms 220, 222,

224, 226, 228, 230, 232, and 234, the requesting party may search for hand-carried items from the vehicle or drop such items into the vehicle. When one or more packages are determined to be present in step 824, flow proceeds to step 826, where the packages are transported to the vehicle access area. Those skilled in the art will understand that such transportation is accomplished by hand carrying the articles or packages to the vehicle by the requesting party, mechanical assistance in the transportation of large packages, or the like. Once the packages or items have been deposited in the vehicle in step 826, flow proceeds to step 828, where the vehicle is returned to its previous storage area, as indicated above.

This application also covers computer programs in the form of source code, object code, intermediate source code and partially compiled object code, or in any other form suitable for use in carrying out the present invention. request. Computer programs are suitably applications, software components, scripts, or stand-alone plug-ins to other applications. The computer programs including the present application are advantageously integrated on a carrier, being any entity or device capable of carrying the computer program: for example, a storage medium such as a ROM or RAM, optical recording media. such as CD-ROMs or magnetic recording media such as floppy disks. The carrier is any transmissible carrier such as an electrical or optical signal given by fiber optic or power cable, or by radio or other means. Computer programs are conveniently downloaded over the Internet from a server. Computer programs are also capable of being integrated on an integrated circuit. All modes of

ΡαπΑ ١ م ٩ cnr ΛΛ

31348Β1 embodiment containing the code which will cause a computer to substantially execute the principles of the present application as described, will fall within the scope of the present application.

The above description of a preferred embodiment of the present application has been presented for the purposes of illustration and description. It is by no means intended to be exhaustive or to limit the present application to the precise form disclosed. Obvious modifications or variations are possible in light of the above teachings. The embodiment has been chosen and described to provide the best illustration of the principles of the present application and are of practical application to thereby enable anyone of ordinary skill in the art to use the present application in various embodiments. and with various modifications as would suit the particular use contemplated. All such modifications and variations are within the scope of this application as determined by the appended claims when interpreted to the extent to which they are right, legally and equitably in law.