Method and apparatus for parking lot metering using activation codes
US10000128B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 11, 2011 |
| Grant date | Jun 19, 2018 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 16, 2032 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY04S30/14
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Embodiments of the present invention allow multi-space meters and gated parking systems to separately manage and control electric vehicle charging stations located in conjunction with parking spaces. Control is implemented by the meters or other management systems providing codes, for example by printing them on a parking pass or receipt. When entered into the electric vehicle charging station, the code initiates a predetermined interval of charging, or an interval of charging selected by the patron during a transaction with the meter. The code is typically a multi-digit number, and may be encrypted to resist fraud. Data representative of the receipt, including the code, may be made available from an online server and delivered to a parking patron's smartphone or other portable device, whereby parking and vehicle charging may be obtained without first visiting a parking management kiosk and then returning to the vehicle to initiate charging.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.