Get notified when your drink runs out!

Previously, we introduced a solution for automatically managing inventory and remaining amount based on weight, but this time we used that technology to make coasters! When you are about to run out of beer or drinks at a drinking party, etc., it will shine brightly to let you know, so you don't miss the chance to get a refill!

When I'm entertaining guests, I tend to enjoy myself so much that I don't notice that the guests don't have drinks, but this gives me peace of mind! You can see it at a glance from a distance, so you don't miss the chance to suggest refills.

By the way, the refill coaster is equipped with Bluetooth, so you can instantly see which seat is about to run out of drinks from an app on your smartphone! Today we will show you how this solution was made possible.

What is restaurant DX? - Basic understanding of digital transformation

In recent years, competition has become more intense in the food and beverage industry, and various measures are required to increase sales. In particular, it is essential for restaurants such as izakayas to take steps to improve customer satisfaction.

The restaurant industry is riding a wave of major change due to digital transformation (DX). DX in the food and beverage industry is directly linked to strengthening competitiveness and improving customer satisfaction. For example, the introduction of a smart ordering system allows customers to order conveniently and stores to operate efficiently. Smart ordering systems typically use tablets or smartphones and have the advantage of allowing quick and easy ordering through an intuitive interface. This increases customer satisfaction and increases repeat business rates.

In this article, as an example of how weight sensors can be used, we will introduce a new item, the "Refill Coaster," to encourage people to order a second helping at a bar. It brings a new customer experience where you don't even need a tablet to order.

Refill coaster demo

We would like to introduce a demonstration of the prototype ``Refill Coaster,'' which clearly visualizes situations where refills are needed on the table, with the aim of increasing sales and reducing the burden on employees at restaurants such as izakaya bars.

"Okawari Coaster" is a coaster that uses LED illumination to notify staff when a drink is running low. Equipped with a weight sensor, it can measure the amount of drink. This allows us to provide smooth service without missing the timing when customers need a second drink.

Demo 1: Standby state

When on standby, the coaster glows light blue, and when you place a full glass on it, it changes to blue to indicate it's full.

Demo 2: Reducing the contents of the glass

As the content of the glass decreases, it approaches the warning color. When reduced to about half, the color changed from blue to yellow.

When the contents decrease further, the light changes to red and gently flashes repeatedly to remind you to refill.

Demo 3: Changing the size of the glass

Even if you change the size of the glass, it will automatically recognize the glass and operate in the same way. Automatically identifies containers of different weights, from paper cups to beer mugs.

DX strategy for restaurants with an eye on the future

By leveraging the latest technologies like AI and big data, restaurants can provide services that better meet customer needs. For example, AI can be used to analyze customer preferences and make personalized menu suggestions.

By incorporating AI into the refill coaster, it could be developed into even more unique systems, such as having people who drink at a fast pace suggest mugs or pitchers.

​DX transformation is an inevitable trend for the food and beverage industry. By embracing and proactively embracing this transformation, you can expect to improve operational efficiency, increase customer satisfaction, and strengthen your long-term competitiveness. Restaurants of the future will continue to offer customers new dining experiences through a combination of technology and human touch.

Summary

This time, I made a refill coaster for drinks as an easy-to-understand application, but there are also other uses.

• Management of remaining amount of medicine and whether or not it has been taken
• Alarm for remaining amount of liquid or powder detergent (bushes are a problem!)
• Subscription water and drink server alarm + automatic ordering by connecting to the internet

It can be used in many other places.

Macnica 's Mpression utilizes cutting-edge sensors and AI technology to realize solutions that solve problems in various industries. Refill coasters that utilize weight sensors can be an effective tool for increasing sales at restaurants. By being able to understand in real time how much drink a customer has left, it is possible to order appropriately and promote refills.

If you are interested in this solution, such as the use of weight sensors inspired by refill coasters, please contact us.

Introducing other examples of DX for stores

As an example, Mpression, Macnica 's original technology brand, has developed a prototype of an "AI smart shelf" that uses a weight sensor to check inventory and remaining quantities. We have released a video, so please take a look.

Automatic management of inventory and remaining amount using weight sensor + IoT [for retail stores and restaurants]