Adaptive Reinforcement Learning Strategies for Efficient Parking Space Management in Fully Automated Multi-Level Parking Systems

Tanaka Delight Dzapasi*, Rudo Duri**, Trust Marongedze***
*-*** Harare Institute of Technology, Harare, Zimbabwe.
Periodicity:July - December'2025

Abstract

Rapid urbanization and rising vehicle ownership have intensified the demand for efficient parking, especially in dense urban areas. Fully automated multi-level parking systems provide a promising solution, but real-time space allocation remains a major challenge. This paper presents an adaptive Reinforcement Learning (RL) framework using Deep Q- learning to optimize dynamic slot allocation. The state space integrates high-resolution data such as vehicle dimensions, parking duration, demand patterns, and occupancy levels, enabling context-aware decision-making. The action space supports adaptive strategies including priority-based assignment, dynamic rerouting, and load balancing. A novel reward function balances space utilization, vehicle search time, and energy efficiency while prioritizing user- centric metrics like wait time and throughput. Simulations in a realistic 3D parking environment show a 10% reduction in search times and a 15% improvement in throughput compared to heuristic methods. These findings demonstrate the potential of RL-driven approaches to transform automated parking, advancing smart transportation theory while offering practical guidance for next-generation urban infrastructure.

Keywords

Reinforcement Learning, Deep Q-Learning, Automated Parking Systems, Dynamic Space Allocation, Urban Mobility.

How to Cite this Article?

Dzapasi, T. D., Duri, R., and Marongedze, T. (2025). Adaptive Reinforcement Learning Strategies for Efficient Parking Space Management in Fully Automated Multi-Level Parking Systems. i-manager’s Journal on IoT and Smart Automation, 3(2), 1-10.

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