The Elevated Puzzle System delivers semi-automated parking for mid-scale residential and commercial projects. Vehicles move horizontally and vertically within a compact grid structure — no ramps, no aisles, no columns — driven by a control system that finds the optimal space and positions the vehicle automatically.
A puzzle parking system stores vehicles in a grid of platforms that move in multiple directions simultaneously — like a sliding puzzle. When a vehicle needs retrieval, the system rearranges surrounding platforms to create a clear path, then delivers the requested vehicle to the exit position.
Unlike fully automated AGV systems, puzzle systems use platform carriers on fixed rails. The driver pulls into the entry platform, and all subsequent movement is controlled by the system. No driver navigation within the structure is required after entry.
Driver drives onto the entry platform at ground level. The platform dimensions accommodate standard passenger vehicles and most SUVs.
The control system moves the vehicle's platform horizontally and vertically into the optimal available storage position within the grid.
On request, the system rearranges platforms to free the requested vehicle and returns it to the exit position for the driver.
Puzzle systems occupy the middle ground between mechanical stackers and fully automated AGV systems. Understanding where each fits helps match the right product to site requirements.
Two-level lift for residential garages and small commercial lots
Lowest cost per space
Manual or semi-auto
10–30 spaces typical
Multi-level grid for mid-scale residential and commercial projects
Competitive cost per space
Semi-automated
20–200 spaces typical
Fully automated for large-scale or premium projects
Highest density and throughput
Fully automated, 24/7
50–800+ spaces
Puzzle parking is most cost-effective for projects requiring more spaces than a stacker can provide, but where a fully automated AGV system is not warranted by project scale or budget.
Boutique residential buildings requiring 20–80 underground parking spaces
Small commercial office or retail developments with constrained parking footprint
Urban infill projects where excavation or ramp construction is cost-prohibitive
Hospitality and restaurant projects requiring valet-style automated parking
Projects requiring EV charging without individual bay infrastructure
Retrofits into existing below-grade voids or constrained structural envelopes
EPC delivers the Elevated Puzzle System in partnership with SAWA, an automated parking manufacturer with a broad portfolio of puzzle, no-post, and hybrid automated systems. SAWA's platform has been installed in residential, commercial, and municipal projects across North America and internationally.
EPC provides end-to-end project management: feasibility assessment, structural coordination, installation, commissioning, and ongoing service contracts for all puzzle system installations.
| System type | Semi-automated horizontal/vertical grid platform |
| Typical capacity | 20 – 200+ spaces; scalable by grid size |
| Vehicle type | Standard passenger vehicles; SUV configurations available |
| Retrieval time | Varies by grid position; typically 1–4 minutes |
| EV charging | Platform-level charging available on select configurations |
| Levels | Typically 2–6 levels; above or below grade |
| Management | PROvalet software integration available |
EPC can evaluate whether a puzzle system is the right fit for your project — including site-specific capacity modeling and cost-per-space analysis versus conventional and alternative automated options.