Methods and apparatus for smart distribution of restaurant items and notification of order readiness

Abstract

A Smartsery platform system and methods are provided. When a restaurant item order is placed via a smart device app interface, the order is transmitted to computer server which notifies a preparer. The order is also transmitted to a Smartsery platform, which generates a user identifiable area, such as a color-coded area of a Smartsery platform surface within which an ordered restaurant item will be distributed, thereby enabling simpler and more organized restaurant item ordering and distribution. The computer server may also notify the customer that the customer's order is ready for pickup at the area designated by the appropriately colored lights. This improves known customer-notification methods.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62 / 975,993, filed Feb. 13, 2020, and entitled Methods and Apparatus for Smart Distribution of Restaurant Items, and to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62 / 938,504, filed Nov. 21, 2019, and entitled Methods and Apparatus for Smart Distribution of Restaurant Items. The contents of each of these applications is relied upon and incorporated herein by reference.FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE[0002]The present disclosure relates to methods and apparatus for providing an automated distribution platform for delivery of items ordered to be picked up or delivered at or to a certain place after preparation of the items. More specifically, the present invention relates to a Smartsery system for placing an order for restaurant items via interaction with a smart device and distributing the ordered items via a color-coded area designated on a Smartsery tray. Once...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention provides a system and method for efficiently ordering and distributing food items from restaurants. This is done in a way that is both efficient and aesthetically pleasing. The system uses a smart device application that can be easily added to existing applications for restaurants. Overall, the invention improves the experience of ordering from restaurants and makes it easier for them to manage their inventory.

Problems solved by technology

Presently, placing an order and receiving food and restaurant items at a crowded retail food and drink establishment (sometimes referred to herein as a “restaurant”) may be a frustrating experience for patrons and a logistical challenge for establishment personnel.

In addition to the difficulties associated with ordering a restaurant item (especially at crowded establishments that involve physical interaction, such as pushing and bodily displacement to reach a service area, such as a bar), distributing an ordered item may be difficult due to a volume of items prepared for consumption in the establishment as a whole.

Prepared items may be confused or delivered to a wrong patron.

Moreover, innovative solutions suitable for a restaurant setting may be limited due to the aesthetic considerations involved.

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