# N3P: Accelerated Automated Parking via a Learning-Based Naturalistic Three-Stage Scheme

arXiv: https://arxiv.org/abs/2605.22722 · HTML: https://mlsanity.com/paper/2605.22722/

## Key facts

- Cited by 1 papers in the map (data through 14 Oct 2026).
- First posted on arXiv 21 May 2026.

## Built on by (most cited first, 1 of 1)

- [NeuralParker: A Reinforcement Learning Planner for Irregular Parking Environments](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2608.24485/) (2026)

## Abstract (arXiv)

Autonomous parking requires efficient path planning that ensures kinematic feasibility and collision avoidance in constrained environments. Hybrid A* is widely used but computationally expensive, while reinforcement learning (RL) methods lack reliability and often struggle with long-horizon geometric constraints, leading to suboptimal trajectories. We present N3P, a fast learning-based three-stage framework for automated parking. By introducing an intermediate preparatory pose and using a learning module to predict it, N3P decomposes the maneuver into simpler subproblems, thereby reducing computational complexity and accelerating path generation. We validate the framework by integrating it with Hybrid A* algorithms. Experiments in perpendicular and parallel parking scenarios show that N3P-enhanced Hybrid A* speeds up planning by more than 80%. It also outperforms RL baselines in success rate and trajectory quality, producing shorter trajectories with fewer gear changes, while achieving comparable or lower planning time in most cases.