Smart Parking System
2025
The parking system was developed as a science fair project to demonstrate how automation and smart infrastructure can solve real everyday problems. It was built using affordable components such as infrared sensors to detect vehicles, a servo motor to control the entry and exit gate, and a Raspberry Pi or microcontroller to handle the logic. The data is stored in a cloud-based Firebase database so that the system can keep track of how many cars are currently parked, even if the device restarts. The project required wiring the hardware, programming the gate control logic, and designing the communication between the sensors and the database to ensure accurate tracking of vehicles.
As a science fair project, the system showcased practical innovation for the Maldives, where space is limited and parking congestion continues to increase. Many areas, especially in Malé, struggle with improper parking and overcrowded streets. By demonstrating this automated solution, the project highlighted how technology can help organize parking more efficiently and reduce reliance on manual supervision. It also showed how young students can apply engineering, programming, and problem-solving skills to create meaningful contributions to their community.
The project is important to implement in real life because it reduces mistakes, saves time, and prevents confusion about available parking slots. In busy environments such as schools, offices, stadiums, and public parking structures, the system ensures that only the correct number of vehicles enter and exit. It can also be expanded with features like mobile app notifications, payment systems, or license plate recognition in the future. Turning this science fair project into a real working system could support smarter city development in the Maldives and encourage more youth to innovate solutions that benefit the country.