THE CHALLENGE
PAR, a drive-thru restaurant, faced significant challenges maintaining accurate data due to outdated hardware. One of the critical issues was the difficulty in tracking car orders accurately. This problem was exacerbated by environmental challenges, particularly heavy snowfall, which made vehicle identification difficult.
CLIENT REQUIREMENT
PAR’s primary requirement was to obtain a live vehicle tracking report. Specifically, they needed to monitor the time a vehicle spent in the drive-thru, from entry to exit. This data was essential for improving operational efficiency and customer service.
THE SOLUTION
After thoroughly understanding PAR’s requirements, we proposed the implementation of a Drive Thru Timer system. This system leverages an AIML (Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning) sensor integrated into the camera to provide real-time car tracking insights.
Tech Stack Use:- Node Js, React, and Python
Key Features of the Solution:
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Real-Time Vehicle Tracking
The AIML sensor in the camera detects and records the vehicle’s in and out time, providing precise tracking information.
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Accurate Vehicle Identification
The camera sensor identifies vehicles based on unique features such as car and model numbers. This helps in avoiding duplicate entries for the same vehicle.
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Handling Environmental Challenges
As a solution to the difficulty in identifying vehicles during heavy snowfall, we conducted various car model trend checks. This approach ensured that the system could accurately identify vehicles despite adverse weather conditions.
THE OUTCOME
The implementation of the Drive Thru Timer system with AIML sensors yielded numerous benefits for PAR:
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Increased Sales and Throughput
Locations deploying the PAR Drive-Thru Timer typically see at least a ten-second reduction in service times, translating to approximately 5 additional cars processed per hour. This results in more revenue with the same crew in the same amount of time.
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Near-Real-Time Reporting
Managers gain valuable insights to resolve bottlenecks, improve process steps for faster service, and coach or train crews or individuals more effectively.
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Key Metrics Measurement and Reporting
The system enables measurement and reporting of crucial metrics such as average total service times, total number of cars, window times, and drive-offs.
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Proactive Remote Monitoring
The system’s proactive remote monitoring capability allows for quick identification and resolution of issues without dispatching a technician, avoiding the cost of a truck roll.
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Crew-Facing Screen
A screen that gamifies the speed of service displays service time rankings, car positions, and more, further enhancing team motivation and performance.