A new patent by Universal Destinations & Experiences could make it easier for Team Members to deliver food to guests at quick-service restaurants.

Orlando Business Journal shared the details of the patent, titled “Systems and Methods for Locating a Guest in a Facility for Order Delivery.” A camera will capture guests when they order food at a quick-service restaurant, identifying them by one or more attributes. Then as the guests move through the restaurant, the system continues to track them and show employees where they’ve sat down.

This way, servers can bring food directly to a guest’s table. Currently, guests have to wait at the counter for their food, carry a device that buzzes when their food is ready for pick up, place a numbered placard or tracking device on their table, or input their table number on the resort app. The new system is designed to remove pressure and anxiety from guests, as well as make finding guests easier for employees.

The system means guests don’t need to be on alert for their food. Plus, if they leave their table and go to the bathroom, the server would know they haven’t left the restaurant.

Right now, the patent only specifically addresses restaurant experiences, but the wording leaves it open for the technology to later be used in other ways. For example, Universal could use the guest tracker to find lost guests or threatening guests.

Orlando Business Journal cites a study on theme park satisfaction by researchers Maksim Godovykh, Ady Milman, and Alsi D.A. Tasci of the University of Central Florida. According to this study, effectively managing people while they wait boosts guest loyalty, satisfaction, and pleasure.

Guest tracking technology may debut at Epic Universe, the new Universal Orlando Resort theme park currently under construction. Universal has already stated Epic Universe will use facial recognition and be their “most technologically advanced” theme park. Check out some recent Epic Universe updates:

• NEW Aerial Video of ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ Ride Testing at Epic Universe
• Ministry of Magic Ride and More Names Revealed in New Trademarks Likely for the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Epic Universe
• First Look at Universal Stella Nova & Terra Luna Resort Rooms at Universal Orlando Resort

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