Course Content

Introduction

The Smart Car Parking System is designed to automate the process of vehicle parking and improve space utilization, security, and user convenience. Using sensors, microcontrollers, and a control mechanism, the system detects available parking slots, displays real-time availability, and controls the entry gate through a servo motor. This helps in reducing traffic congestion, saving time for drivers, and improving parking efficiency.

The project is implemented with a Raspberry Pi as the main controller, interfacing with sensors to detect cars, and an LCD display to show the parking status. A servo motor is used for automated gate control. The system can be powered by rechargeable batteries, making it portable and independent of a continuous power supply.

Components Used

1. Raspberry Pi (Controller) – Acts as the brain of the system, processing inputs from sensors and controlling output devices.

2. IR Sensors – Used to detect the presence of a vehicle in parking slots.

3. Servo Motor – Controls the gate barrier for vehicle entry and exit.

4. 16x2 LCD Display with I2C Module – Displays parking availability and system status.

5. Rechargeable Li-ion Batteries – Provide portable power supply.

6. Breadboard & Jumper Wires – For circuit connections and prototyping.

7. Resistors & Supporting Components – For stable and safe sensor operation.

8. MicroSD Card – Contains the operating system and program for the Raspberry Pi.

9. Voltage Sensor (optional) – To monitor battery level.

10. Base Structure & Parking Slot Model – For physical representation of the parking area.

Methodology

1. System Setup

   • The Raspberry Pi is programmed to monitor IR sensor readings from each parking slot.

   • The IR sensors are placed at each slot to detect vehicle presence based on obstacle reflection.

2. Vehicle Detection

   • When a vehicle approaches, the entry IR sensor detects it.

   • If a free slot is available, the servo motor raises the barrier; otherwise, it stays closed.

3. Slot Status Display

   • The LCD continuously updates and displays the number of available and occupied slots.

   • Messages like "Welcome", "Slot Available", or "Parking Full" are shown.

4. Gate Control

   • The servo motor operates as an automatic gate barrier, allowing cars only if slots are available.

   • After entry, the gate closes automatically.

5. Power Supply & Backup

   • The system is powered by Li-ion batteries for portability.

   • The Raspberry Pi ensures uninterrupted processing and updates.

6. Optional IoT Integration

   • Can be expanded to send parking data to a mobile app or cloud for remote monitoring.