Implementation of RFID Payment for Parking Meters

On the first day that our capstone group was placed together, we discussed many possible projects to undertake. After brainstorming and deliberating we concluded that our project will be one that is simplistic in nature as well as logical to its environment. To be successful in the completion of our project we would all have to be highly motivated and have a basic understanding of the underlying problem. This motivation came from our past experiences and the knowledge that comes with those experiences. During our team meetings, our group realized that we had similar issues with commuting into and around the city of Boston. When driving around, more often than not, we would have to find a spot to park, which almost always takes longer than desired. In addition to the time it takes to find a meter, another issue is that the meter only accepts change as payment. Then the decision of how long to stay at the meter has to be determined upon arrival. So, as a commuter you are asked to first drive around blindly looking for an open space hoping to get lucky, then estimate how long you are going to be there, then pay the meter in change, with no other option of payment. Our group looked at these issues and thought that there could be a more efficient system.