A proposal of automated valet parking system using automatic pallet

Recently, various issues in self-propelled multi-storey car parks are becoming social concerns: accidents thefts, difficulty in finding a parking space, limited space for getting in/out of cars, and less friendly environment for novice/elderly users. These issues can be solved by introducing a valet parking system where car parking staff receives a car key from a user and drive the car to the parking space. However, the operator of the parking system needs to employ these staff, which impacts negatively financially. This paper aims to solve these conflicting demands by proposing an automated valet parking system by incorporating automatic pallets, which are mobile parking spaces. An automatic pallet is an equipment dedicated specifically for transferring a car: it enables automatic entrance and exit procedures. The proposed system requires no human intervention and enables complete automated parking procedures.