IPS Group USA
Multi-Space Universal Kiosk
2024
Research, Concept, Development + Production
Multi-Space Universal Kiosk
User-Friendly. Eco-Friendly. Cashless. Connected.
IPS, a global innovator in parking technology, sought a next-generation Multi-Space Universal Kiosk (MSU) capable of delivering a cashless, seamless experience across diverse parking environments—from high-traffic urban areas to remote locations. In response to growing demands from operators for sustainable, future-ready solutions, IPS aimed to create a kiosk that would blend a high-tech, branded aesthetic with robust, versatile functionality, adaptable to evolving technological needs. D+I Part of Capgemini was engaged to engineer a solution that met these requirements while ensuring ADA compliance, ease of installation, and maintenance-free operation.
Key Product Design + Development Objectives
Key objectives included reducing part complexity to improve production efficiency and lower costs, enabling real-time data insights through IPS’s Cloud Management Suite, and designing a modular, adaptable system for seamless integration with emerging technologies. The MSU needed to provide intuitive, touch-based usability through an anti-glare LCD screen with multi-language support, a streamlined tactile interface, and LED status indicators for easy navigation in any lighting condition. Reliable performance in varied environmental conditions—including resistance to heat, cold, rain, dust, and potential vandalism—was also essential, along with a dual power option (eco-friendly solar and AC with battery backup) to ensure continuous uptime.
From Concept into Production.
Stage-Gated Design + Development Approach
D+I Part of Capgemini approached the MSU project with a structured, engineering-driven process, addressing usability, operability, desirability, manufacturability, and commercial considerations that would align with both IPS’s goals and the needs of end-users. Every element was carefully balanced to meet both functional and aesthetic standards, ensuring the MSU could be positioned as a high-value, accessible, and visually appealing solution in the global market.
Design: Discovery & Concept
D+I Part of Capgemini began with comprehensive design research, user testing, and competitor analysis, focusing on key ergonomic and environmental requirements for unattended parking. Multiple design concepts were explored through mockups and interaction studies, ensuring an intuitive user experience. The modular structure and mounting options were optimised for flexibility in various installation contexts, including pole-mounted, wall, and pedestal setups, facilitating easy installation and relocation.
Development: Engineering & Prototyping
Detailed 3D CAD models and Finite Element Analysis (FEA) helped optimise the MSU’s structural integrity and durability, balancing robustness with ease of assembly. Prototypes ranged from low-fidelity mockups to “looks-like, works-like” models to test fit, usability, and environmental resilience of each component. Key features, such as modular components (fascia display, battery pack, head unit), facilitate ease of installation and “swap-and-go” convenience if maintenance is required. The anti-glare full-colour LCD touchscreen was selected for readability across diverse lighting conditions, while 'Light Ring' status indicators were positioned to enhance visibility of availability, supporting user identification at a glance and creating an illuminated brand presence—representative of IPS smart parking solutions.
Production: Readiness for Mass Manufacture
D+I Part of Capgemini applied Design for Manufacturability (DFM) principles to streamline the MSU’s production, reducing part count to enhance cost efficiency, simplify assembly, and achieve a design with no visible fasteners. Durable, weather-resistant materials and an IP-rated, weatherproof, and vandal-resistant enclosure were developed to ensure longevity in demanding environments and use cases. Solar and AC power options, along with a replaceable battery, supported sustainable operations. Throughout production readiness, D+I Part of Capgemini, collaborated with IPS to manage quality control, vendor qualification, and ISO 9001-compliant documentation, ensuring that the final product met the stringent requirements for commercial deployment.
Smart Parking for Smart Communities.
Our collaboration with IPS resulted in a versatile, high-performance MSU that successfully reduced part complexity by 45% compared to the IPS Multi-Pay Station Model, enabling an efficient, cost-effective production and assembly process. The ADA-compliant interface and anti-glare LCD touchscreen provided an intuitive, multilingual user experience, eliminating mechanical buttons and enhancing accessibility for a broad user base. Equipped with contactless and mobile payment options, merchant coupons, and real-time data integration via IPS’s Cloud Management Suite, the MSU delivers essential insights for operators to streamline operations and monitor performance. The resilient, built-for-all-environments IP-rated construction and energy-efficient dual power system, featuring both solar and AC power with battery backup, and ‘push’ to wake from sleep-mode, support continuous uptime while reducing environmental impact through renewable energy sources. With modular, on-site maintenance-free components and future-ready connectivity for third-party integration, the MSU enables IPS to meet evolving market demands and expand deployment across varied environments, reinforcing IPS’s position as a leader in adaptable, innovative parking solutions.
About IPS Group Inc.
IPS Group, Inc. offers Smart Parking solutions that drive innovation in cities around the globe. For over 20 years, IPS has collaborated with D+I to develop globally competitive Smart City technology solutions. This long-standing R&D partnership has produced groundbreaking advancements in Internet of Things (IoT) and Intelligent Parking Systems, transforming transportation and parking operations worldwide. With over 100 patents, more than 8.5 million credit card transactions processed monthly, and systems installed in 200+ cities across 5 countries, IPS is at the forefront of the smart cities revolution. Seamlessly integrating with existing infrastructure and third-party applications, IPS’s wireless network of 225,000+ devices brings Smart Meters, data management, and advanced analytics to the fingertips of urban operators—enabling cities to meet the evolving demands of modern urban life.
