Service Time Performance Analysis of Improved Automated Restaurant by Layout Reconfiguration and Conveyor System

Abstract

Achieving effective service time in restaurants hinges on implementing and integrating innovation in design and technology. A combination of restaurant layout configuration and conveyor belt system integration is proposed to enhance the turnaround service time performance. Emphasis on the layout reconfiguration with optimized dining capacity and conveyor system for semi-automated function are applied to existing restaurants by heuristic method. Then operation is simulated by agent-based approach in Anylogic simulator. Results yielded an improved in the total turnaround service time by 2.75% to 5%, which correspond to an approximate 78% reduction on a food-to-table service time. The enhanced performance shows the effectiveness of reconfigured layout to service more customers without compromising delivery time. While conveyor belt mechanism provides the greatest food delivery time and manpower reduction, with a considerable payback period of 6 months. The findings and modelling will aid the implementation of semi-automated restaurant as a stepping stone to one fully automated.