Patent ID: 8613582
Filing Date: 2013-12-24
Classification: E04H

Abstract:
1. A vehicle shuttle system for use in an automated parking garage comprising: a first shuttle of a first type comprising an essentially flat platform with a central recessed area extending longitudinally along said first shuttle, said central recessed area acting as a guide channel accommodating shuttles of a second type; and a plurality of shuttles of a second type, each of said shuttles of said second type comprising: a low-profile platform; a plurality of retractable members adapted to extend and retract along a transverse axis; means for extending and retracting said retractable members along said transverse axis; and means for propelling the shuttle of the second type back and forth between said central recessed area and a parking space having a flat channel-free surface; wherein said retractable members are adapted to lift and firmly hold the tires of a passenger vehicle, and further adapted to lower said tires to directly contact said flat channel-free surface.