How does a mechanical puzzle parking work?

A mechanical puzzle parking system, also known as a puzzle car parking system or puzzle parking garage, is an automated parking solution designed to maximize parking capacity in limited spaces. These systems utilize a mechanical mechanism to move vehicles vertically and horizontally within the parking structure, allowing for efficient storage and retrieval of cars. Here's how a mechanical puzzle parking system generally works:

Entry and Vehicle Positioning: When a driver enters the puzzle parking garage, they park their vehicle on a dedicated platform or pallet at the entry level. The driver then leaves the parking area, and the system takes over from here.

Lift Mechanism: The entry-level platform, with the vehicle on it, is raised using a lift mechanism. This lift moves the vehicle to an available slot on an upper level, creating space on the ground level for the next vehicle.

Horizontal Movement: Once the platform reaches the appropriate upper level, it is moved horizontally by the puzzle parking system to find an available parking slot. This horizontal movement is achieved by a combination of rails, tracks, and mechanical arms that guide the platform to the correct parking space.

Parking Space Selection: The puzzle parking system has pre-designed arrangements of parking slots on each level. The platform is maneuvered into a specific slot that accommodates the size of the vehicle. These slots can be standard-sized for smaller cars or custom-sized for larger vehicles.

Retrieval: When the driver needs to retrieve their vehicle, they request it through the parking system's control interface (e.g., an app or a kiosk). The system then identifies the location of the vehicle, retrieves the platform from its parking space, and brings it back to the ground level.

Vehicle Delivery: The platform, with the vehicle on it, is lowered back to the ground level using the lift mechanism. Once it reaches the ground level, the driver can access their vehicle and drive it out of the puzzle parking garage.

It's important to note that puzzle parking systems are typically used in situations where land space is limited, and traditional parking lots would not be feasible or would be too costly. These systems can be automated and integrated with modern technology, allowing for smooth and efficient parking operations. However, due to the complex mechanical nature of these systems, regular maintenance and safety checks are crucial to ensure their proper functioning and the safety of users and their vehicles.