IoT-Based Smart Parking System - Electronic Engineering Guide
1. Introduction
An IoT-Based Smart Parking System is designed to automate the detection and monitoring of available parking spaces using IoT sensors. It enhances parking efficiency in urban environments by providing real-time information to users via web or mobile applications.
2. Objectives
• Monitor real-time availability of parking spaces.
• Display occupancy status remotely.
• Enable users to find and reserve parking spots using an IoT platform.
• Reduce traffic congestion caused by unnecessary parking searches.
3. Components Required
• NodeMCU (ESP8266) or ESP32
• Ultrasonic Sensors (e.g., HC-SR04)
• Jumper Wires and Breadboard
• LEDs (for status indication)
• Resistors (220Ω)
• 5V Power Supply / Battery Bank
• Blynk or ThingSpeak IoT Platform
4. Working Principle
The ultrasonic sensor measures the distance to detect if a vehicle is present in a parking space. This data is processed by the microcontroller (NodeMCU/ESP32), which sends the occupancy status to an IoT platform for remote access.
5. System Architecture
1. Ultrasonic sensors monitor space occupancy.
2. NodeMCU/ESP32 collects sensor data.
3. Data is sent to an IoT cloud service via Wi-Fi.
4. A web/mobile interface displays real-time parking status to users.
6. Sensor Integration and Design
• Ultrasonic sensors are placed in each parking slot.
• Sensor TRIG pin connected to ESP GPIO (e.g., D2), ECHO to another GPIO (e.g.,
D3).
• If the distance is less than a threshold (e.g., 10 cm), the spot is occupied.
7. Microcontroller Programming
• Arduino IDE is used for programming NodeMCU/ESP32.
• Code reads distance from each ultrasonic sensor.
• Based on readings, sends occupancy status to IoT cloud.
Sample Logic:
if (distance < 10) status = 'Occupied'; else status = 'Available';
8. IoT Platform Integration
• Use platforms like Blynk, ThingSpeak, or Firebase.
• ESP8266 sends data via HTTP/MQTT to the cloud.
• Platform visualizes data with widgets like LEDs or labels for each slot.
9. Web/Mobile Interface
• Blynk or custom web apps can show live parking status.
• Mobile notifications can be configured for slot availability.
• Interface may allow reservations or route planning.
10. Power Supply Considerations
• NodeMCU requires 5V USB or regulated source.
• Ultrasonic sensors also operate at 5V.
• For outdoor deployment, solar panels with Li-ion battery modules can be used.
11. Applications
• Smart city parking management
• Shopping malls and airport parking
• University campus parking
• Residential complex vehicle tracking
12. Limitations and Future Enhancements
• Wi-Fi dependency for cloud connectivity.
• Accuracy may reduce in extreme weather or dirt buildup.
• Future scope: AI image processing, RFID vehicle detection, automated gate
entry.
13. Conclusion
The IoT-Based Smart Parking System is an effective electronic engineering project showcasing sensor integration, IoT communication, and real-time user interface design. It improves urban parking efficiency and serves as a scalable base for future smart city solutions.