Optimal design and control of an automated bike parking system

Large cities and metropolitan areas are facing parking space problems due to the increasing number of commuters who choose bicycles as the main mode of transportation. The bicycle parking should provide enough space for the bicycle, as well as corridors and isles to reach the space. Inspired by the automated storage and retrieving systems and by the cities' cycling encouraging plans and their problem of space and location for the bicycle parking, an automated bicycle parking system is introduced in this work. First, the growth of cycling and the subsequent issues that the cities and cyclists confronting are investigated. Then the traditional and existing solutions and their deficiencies are explored. The automated parking system is studied as a solution which meets and improves the deficiencies of the existing solutions, it takes minimum space and encourages the use of bicycle by providing a more secure parking experience. To exhibit the superiority of the automated system, this thesis follows the design, model, and manufacture of such a system. however, to even improve the system further, a study in the optimization of some parts of the system to reduce energy consumption has been commenced. The design, manufacturing, and installation of the system's exterior are not included in this work.