IoT-Based Car Parking System with ESP8266 and 20×4 LCD Display

This project aims to develop a smart parking management system for a small parking lot with four slots. It leverages IoT technology using an ESP8266 Wi-Fi module, a 20×4 LCD display for real-time car counting, and four IR obstacle sensors to detect vehicle presence.

*Key Components:*

1. *ESP8266 Wi-Fi Module*: The heart of the system, this module enables internet connectivity, allowing for remote monitoring of parking slots. It also manages communication between the IR sensors and the LCD display.

2. *20×4 LCD Display*: This display provides real-time updates on parking availability. It shows the number of available slots and the status of each individual slot, making it easy for drivers to see which slots are open.

3. *IR Obstacle Sensors*: Each parking slot is equipped with an IR sensor that detects when a vehicle enters or exits the slot. These sensors send signals to the ESP8266 to update the parking status.

How the System Works:

– *Vehicle Detection*: As a car approaches and occupies a parking slot, the corresponding IR sensor detects the presence of the vehicle. This sensor sends a signal to the ESP8266 module.

– *Slot Status Update*: Upon receiving the signal, the ESP8266 updates the status of the slot (occupied or available) and recalculates the total number of free slots.

– *Display Information*: The 20×4 LCD displays real-time information about the parking lot, including the availability of each slot. Each row of the display corresponds to a specific parking slot.

– *IoT Connectivity*: The system can be extended to allow remote monitoring through a web or mobile application. This enables users and parking managers to check parking availability in real-time from any location.

Applications:

– *Small Parking Lots*: Ideal for managing small parking areas where efficient use of space is critical.
– *Private Parking Areas*: Suitable for homeowners or businesses looking to monitor and manage their private parking spaces.
– *Public Parking*: Can be deployed in public parking areas with limited slots, providing drivers with up-to-date information on parking availability.