TWM656898U - Integrated Smart Catering Retail System - Google Patents

Abstract

This novel system provides an integrated smart food retail system that combines the LINE official account server, an online food ordering subsystem, smart vending machines, and a payment processing subsystem. The system aims to provide a seamless user experience from food selection to food pickup, while also calculating and displaying the carbon footprint saved compared to traditional delivery methods. The LINE official account server serves as the initial interaction point, guiding users through a graphical menu and providing multiple payment methods. The backend server synchronizes data from all components and calculates the environmental impact, providing users with concrete insights into the sustainability benefits of using the service.

Description

Integrated smart catering retail system

This novel technology mainly involves the field of smart catering retail systems. More specifically, this novel technology involves an online and offline integrated system that combines LINE official account servers, online food ordering subsystems, and smart vending machines, and takes into account multiple payment options and environmental impacts.

Food ordering and delivery services have become increasingly popular due to the convenience they offer. Traditional food delivery services typically involve customers placing an order through a website or mobile app, and then a delivery person delivers the food from the restaurant to the customer's location. While convenient, this model has several disadvantages:

1. Limited payment options: Traditional systems usually only support a limited range of payment methods, which may be inconvenient for users who prefer other payment options.

2. Environmental issues: Using a single delivery vehicle, usually a motorcycle, will generate carbon emissions. According to statistics, a motorcycle emits about 0.06 kg of carbon dioxide equivalent per kilometer traveled.

3. Low efficiency: Each delivery person can only serve a limited number of customers per hour, especially during peak hours, the system is inefficient.

4. User experience: The ordering process can be cumbersome, often requiring users to download a separate app or navigate a complex website.

5. Lack of integration: Most systems only run online and do not provide an integrated experience across online and offline touch points.

To solve the above problems, the purpose of this new model is to solve the above problems by providing an integrated smart catering retail system that not only improves the user experience but also solves environmental problems. This new model integrates the LINE official account server, the online food ordering subsystem, and the smart vending machine to provide a seamless and efficient ordering and delivery process. In addition, the smart catering retail system supports multiple payment options and calculates the saved carbon footprint, thereby contributing to environmental sustainability.

For the above and other purposes, the present invention provides an integrated smart food retail system that aims to enhance user experience, provide multiple payment options, and contribute to environmental sustainability. The core of the system is the seamless integration of the LINE official account server, the online food ordering subsystem, and the smart vending machine. This integration is achieved through a backend API that can synchronize data between these components in real time.

Users start the food ordering process by interacting with the LINE official account server, which features a graphical menu and AI chatbot to provide a more interactive and personalized experience. After selecting the food item, users can pay using one of the multiple payment methods supported by the payment processing subsystem, including but not limited to LINEPAY, Jiekou Pay, EasyCard, APPLE PAY, Taiwan PAY, and Green World ECPAY. Once the payment is confirmed, the order details will be automatically transmitted to the smart vending machine through the backend server.

A unique feature of this new model is that a QR code is issued to the user upon successful payment. This QR code serves as an authentication voucher for food pickup. Users only need to scan this QR code on the smart vending machine, and the machine will automatically dispense the ordered food items.

In addition to improving user convenience, the system also addresses environmental issues. The backend server is configured to calculate and display the carbon footprint saved by using this integrated system compared to traditional delivery methods. This is especially important as people become increasingly aware of the environmental impact of their personal choices. In addition, the system is designed to support group orders, allowing for large deliveries to a single location. This feature not only adds another layer of convenience for users, but also reduces carbon emissions by optimizing delivery routes. Overall, this new model provides a comprehensive solution to the limitations of existing smart food and beverage retail systems, providing consumers with an integrated, convenient and environmentally responsible choice.

In order to make the above features and advantages of the new model more obvious and easy to understand, the following is a detailed description of the preferred embodiment with the attached drawings.

100: Integrated smart catering retail system

110:LINE official account server

112: Graphics menu

114: AI Chatbot

120: Online food ordering subsystem

121: First API

122: Second API

123: Third API

124: Group order module

130: Smart vending machine

132:QR code scanner

140: Backend server

142: Environmental impact calculation module

150: Payment processing subsystem

FIG1 is a block diagram showing one embodiment of the novel smart catering retail system.

Figure 2 shows the initial contact interface of this new smart catering retail system.

Figure 3 shows the graphical menu of the new LINE official account server.

Please refer to FIG. 1 , which is a block diagram of one embodiment of the novel smart catering retail system. The purpose of this integrated smart catering retail system 100 is to change the way consumers order and receive food. The smart catering retail system 100 seamlessly integrates the LINE official account server 110, the online food ordering subsystem 120, and the smart vending machine 130, and synchronizes them through an API. This integration makes the food ordering process smooth and efficient, provides users with a variety of payment options, and contributes to environmental sustainability by reducing carbon emissions. The following description will explain each component and the connection relationship between them in detail to have a complete understanding of the novel.

The LINE official account server 110 is the initial contact interface between the user and the smart catering retail system 100 (as shown in FIG. 2 ), which is displayed on the display screen of the user's smartphone, for example. It has a graphical menu 112 showing various food options available for ordering. The LINE official account server 110 is also equipped with an AI chatbot 114 that can answer queries and provide recommendations to assist users in making choices during the ordering process. The chatbot 114 is designed to understand natural language input and provide relevant responses, thereby enhancing the user experience. The LINE official account server 110 is connected to the online food ordering subsystem 120 via the first API 121, allowing real-time updates to menu items, prices, and availability.

The Online Food Ordering Subsystem 120 is a sophisticated web-based platform that not only facilitates food selection, but also serves as a hub for a variety of other functions. It can be accessed through the LINE Official Account Server 110, and it features a user-friendly interface designed using the latest UX/UI principles to ensure a seamless customer experience. The Online Food Ordering Subsystem 120 combines advanced algorithms to recommend menus based on user behavior, dietary restrictions, and even current inventory levels, thereby personalizing the user experience to a large extent.

When connected to the online food ordering subsystem 120, the user's LINE official account server 110 will see a dynamic graphic menu 112 (as shown in Figure 3), which is regularly updated to reflect seasonal dishes, special promotions, and instant availability. In some embodiments, the graphic menu 112 is organized into various categories, such as appetizers, main dishes, desserts, and drinks, each with a high-resolution image and detailed description, including ingredients and nutritional information. Users can select dishes and customize them, changing aspects such as portion size, spiciness, and additional ingredients or side dishes.

In one embodiment, the online food ordering subsystem 120 also includes a real-time tracking function that allows users to monitor the status of their orders from preparation to collection. This is very useful for managing customer expectations and improving overall satisfaction. In addition, for payment, the payment processing subsystem 150 integrates a secure and versatile payment gateway that complies with PCI DSS standards. It supports a wide range of payment methods, including but not limited to LINEPAY, Jiekou Pay, EasyCard, APPLE PAY, Taiwan PAY and Green World ECPAY. The payment process is designed to complete the transaction quickly, adopt a one-click payment option and save the preferred payment method for future orders. In this embodiment, the payment processing subsystem 150 is connected to the online food ordering subsystem 120 via a third API 123. Once the payment is successfully processed, the online food ordering subsystem 120 will generate an order confirmation and a unique, time-sensitive QR code for food collection. The QR code is encrypted for security and sent to the user via the LINE official account server 110. At the same time, the order details are transmitted to the smart vending machine 130 via the second API 122, triggering the preparation and packaging process. The online food ordering subsystem 120 ensures that the smart vending machine 130 receives accurate and complete order details, thereby minimizing the chance of errors.

Additionally, the online food ordering subsystem 120 is capable of handling group orders, allowing multiple users to contribute to a single order that can be delivered in batches to a designated location. This feature is particularly useful for office lunches or family gatherings, providing convenience while also reducing the carbon footprint associated with multiple individual deliveries. Overall, the online food ordering subsystem 120 is a multi-faceted platform designed to provide a comprehensive and personalized food ordering experience, from menu selection and customization to payment and order fulfillment. It serves as a central node that connects and integrates the various components of the smart catering retail system, ensuring smooth and efficient operations.

Smart vending machines 130 serve as the final touch point of the integrated smart food and beverage retail system, and are strategically placed in high-traffic areas such as office buildings or residential complexes for easy access by users. Smart vending machines 130 are equipped with QR code scanners 132 as an identity verification mechanism. After users receive a unique QR code through the LINE official account server 110, they can scan it on the smart vending machine 130 to retrieve their ordered food items. Smart vending machines 130 have temperature-controlled compartments to ensure that the food remains fresh before collection. The smart vending machine 130 is connected to the online food ordering subsystem 120 via the second API 122, enabling it to receive real-time updates on orders, thereby ensuring that the correct food items are distributed to the correct users. Unlike traditional food delivery services that rely on motorcycles or cars for each individual order, the smart catering retail system 100 adopts a batch delivery method because the location of the smart vending machine 130 is known. This method is not only efficient, but also significantly reduces the carbon footprint by minimizing the number of vehicles on the road and the driving distance. In one embodiment, the smart vending machine 130 is a smart vending machine made by Li Zhanxing Co., Ltd.

In one embodiment, the smart food retail system 100 also integrates a backend server 140 as a central hub for synchronizing all elements in the system. The backend server 140 is configured to communicate with the LINE official account server 110, the online food ordering subsystem 120, and the smart vending machine 130 through their respective APIs. The server is responsible for real-time data synchronization, order processing, and payment confirmation. In addition, it plays a key role in calculating and displaying the carbon footprint saved by using the smart food retail system 100. This information is sent to users through the LINE official account server 110, adding an educational element to the user experience and improving environmental awareness.

The backend server 140 contains an environmental impact calculation module 142, which is used to execute a sophisticated algorithm designed to quantify the environmental benefits of using this smart catering retail system 100. The environmental impact calculation module 142 uses real-time data and statistical models for calculations. It takes into account various factors such as the type of vehicle used for delivery, the average driving distance, and the number of orders per delivery. It then compares these indicators with the average CO2 emissions per kilometer for motorcycles and cars provided by authoritative environmental organizations. However, the environmental impact calculation module 142 does more than just display numbers; it makes the numbers concrete. For example, it can convert the amount of CO2 saved into equivalent activities, such as how many trees need to be planted to absorb the same amount of CO2, or how much electricity is saved. This makes the environmental impact more relevant and understandable to the average user.

Additionally, the environmental impact calculation module 142 is integrated with the user's LINE official account server 110 to display these insights in an engaging manner. Users can see their individual contributions to reducing carbon emissions, as well as collective data showing the overall impact of all service users. This not only educates users on the importance of sustainable choices, but also adds a gamification element, encouraging them to continue using the service to "score" higher on environmental savings.

The environmental impact calculator 142 also serves a dual purpose, providing valuable data to service providers. This data can be used for sustainability reporting, obtaining environmental partnerships, and applying for environmental certification, thereby improving the brand's reputation and marketability. In essence, the environmental impact calculator 142 is not only a function, but also a powerful change tool, driving consumer behavior and business practices toward a more sustainable future.

In addition, the online food ordering subsystem 120 also includes a group order module 124 to support group orders, allowing multiple users to place orders and deliver the orders in bulk to a single location, such as an office building. This feature not only provides convenience, but also helps reduce carbon emissions by optimizing delivery routes and minimizing the number of trips required. Users can initiate group orders through the online food ordering subsystem 120, and the backend server 140 coordinates logistics to ensure timely and accurate delivery.

Here is a real-life example to illustrate how the above-mentioned smart food retail system 100 works. A busy office worker named Emily is overwhelmed by meetings and deadlines. She doesn’t have time to go out for lunch, so she turns to our integrated smart food retail system 100 for a quick and convenient solution. Emily first adds the LINE official account server 110, which immediately welcomes her with a friendly AI chatbot 114. The chatbot 114 guides her through a graphical menu 112, showing a variety of mouth-watering dishes. Let’s assume that Emily decides to order a sushi bento and proceeds to pay. She is happy to find multiple payment options, including her preferred payment method: LINEPAY. She completed the payment and received the order confirmation and QR code for pick-up almost immediately on her LINE account 110.

Now, let's talk about the environment. While Emily was waiting for her order, she received a notification on her LINE account 110, informing her of the amount of carbon footprint she had saved by using this system.

Finally, Emily receives a message that her sushi bento is ready for her to pick up. She walks to the smart vending machine 130 located in the lobby of her office building, scans the QR code, and the smart vending machine 130 automatically dispenses the food items she ordered.

Another day, Emily decides to initiate a group order for her team. She navigates to the group order option of the online food ordering subsystem 120 and invites her colleagues to join. Each team member adds their preferred dishes to the group order. Once everyone's selections have been made, Emily finalizes the order. The food items are then delivered in bulk to their office locations, making the process efficient and environmentally friendly.

Although the present invention has been disclosed as above with the preferred embodiment, it is not intended to limit the present invention. Anyone with common knowledge in the relevant technical field can make some changes and modifications without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Therefore, the protection scope of the present invention shall be subject to the scope defined in the attached patent application.

100: Integrated smart catering retail system

110:LINE official account server

112: Graphics menu

114: AI Chatbot

120: Online food ordering subsystem

121: First API

122: Second API

123: Third API

124: Group order module

130: Smart vending machine

132:QR code scanner

140: Backend server

142: Environmental impact calculation module

150: Payment processing subsystem

Claims (5)

An integrated smart catering retail system includes: a LINE official account server configured to provide a graphical menu and an AI chat robot for user interaction; an online food ordering subsystem connected to the LINE official account server via a first API; a smart vending machine connected to the online food ordering subsystem via a second API; a payment processing subsystem supporting multiple payment methods, the payment processing subsystem connected to the online food ordering subsystem via a third API; a backend server electrically connected to the LINE official account server, the online food ordering subsystem and the smart vending machine, the backend server configured to synchronize data between the LINE official account server, the online food ordering subsystem and the smart vending machine. An integrated smart catering retail system according to claim 1, wherein the backend server is further configured to calculate and display the carbon footprint saved by using the system compared to traditional delivery methods. An integrated smart catering retail system according to claim 1, wherein the smart vending machine is equipped with a QR code scanner for user identity verification. According to the integrated smart catering retail system of claim 1, the online food ordering subsystem is further configured to support group orders for large-scale delivery to a single location. According to the integrated smart catering retail system of claim 1, the payment methods include LINEPAY, Jiekou Pay, EasyCard, APPLE PAY, Taiwan PAY and ECPAY.