Waiter traffic light

Abstract

Signaling device preferably for the catering industry to indicate that service is desired.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a service request device according to the preamble of the independent claims.

[0002] In the restaurant industry, it is common for guests who want to place an order or pay to have to wait a long time to inform the staff of their service request.

[0003] Similar problems exist in other environments, for example in conference rooms, etc.

[0004] Patent CH172523 discloses a service request device designed to alert staff to a guest's service request. When a guest requests service, they can raise a rotatable arm mounted on a stand to a vertical position. This upward-pointing arm signals the request to the staff. This device significantly simplifies the process of signaling a service request, as the guest can then return to their conversation, meal, or other activity without having to check whether the staff has acknowledged their request.

[0005] In the following, such a service request device will be called a waiter traffic light.

[0006] The term "waiter traffic light" is not intended to imply that it is only suitable for use in restaurants. Such a device can also be used at conferences or to support group work. It is common, for example, to need to signal to the moderator during a seminar that the work session is over or that their presence is requested. This can be done silently with the waiter traffic light, without disturbing other groups.

[0007] The device described in patent CH172523 can only represent one signal and therefore has only limited information capabilities.

[0008] Eliminating these disadvantages is the object of the present invention. It can be equipped with further features.

[0009] The invention consists of a base plate made of wood, metal, or plastic, into which two vertical guide rods are embedded. These guide rods are connected at their upper ends by a crossbar made of wood, metal, or plastic. A colored ball can be moved vertically along each guide rod by hand. The positions of the balls signal different requests from the guest.

[0010] The base plate is large enough to ensure sufficient stability. It can be designed, for example, to help keep a restaurant table tidy by providing space and a surface for salt and pepper shakers, oil and vinegar bottles, sugar dispensers, etc.

[0011] The guide rods are designed to allow easy movement of the balls. Preferably made of polished round stainless steel.

[0012] The crossbar is designed so that it can be printed with information such as the restaurant's name or location, table number, advertisements, or similar content. Simple instructions for using the waiter's traffic light can also be printed on it.

[0013] The colored balls have a central through-hole which is equipped with a sliding brake, so that the balls can be easily moved but remain securely in their position. QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] CH 172523 [0004, 0007]

Claims

[1] Signaling device, preferably for catering establishments, to indicate that service is desired. [2] Signaling device according to claim 1, wherein the signaling device is designed such that at least two different operating requirements can be signaled. [3] Signaling device according to one of the preceding claims comprising two substantially vertical rods. [4] Signaling device according to claim 3, characterized by that a printable cross connection can be attached between the essentially vertical bars. [5] Signaling device according to claim 3 or 4, characterized by , that a ball is attached to each of the vertical rods, which can be easily moved in height by hand and visually indicates information through its height position. [6] Signaling device according to any of the preceding claims characterized bythat she is trained to receive other items, preferably from the catering sector. [7] Signaling device according to any of the preceding claims characterized by that it is trained to indicate a payment request or order request. [8] Signaling device according to any of the preceding claims characterized by that the mood of a person or group can be indicated by the position of the spheres. [9] Signaling device according to any of the preceding claims characterized by that it indicates the wish of a person or group.