Semi-autonomous virtual valet parking

Arne SUPPE, Singapore Management University
Luis NAVARRO-SERMENT
Aaron STEINFELD

Abstract

Despite regulations specifying parking spots that support wheelchair vans, it is not uncommon for end users to encounter problems with clearance for van ramps. Even if a driver elects to park in the far reaches of a parking lot as a precautionary measure, there is no guarantee that the spot next to their van will be empty when they return. Likewise, the prevalence of older drivers who experience significant difficulty with ingress and egress from vehicles is nontrivial and the ability to fully open a car door is important. This work describes a method and user interaction for low cost, short-range parking without a driver in car. This will enable ingress/egress without the doors being blocked by neighboring cars.