Development of an automated system for beverage preparation to assist bartenders

Abstract

This study presents the development of an automated beverage mixing system designed to assist bartenders, utilizing a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) for sequential control and pulse signal generation to operate a stepping motor in conjunction with sensors for monitoring functional statuses as per the designed operations. The system features include command input via a touchscreen interface, horizontal circular motion of a robotic arm to select ingredient positions, vertical movement for ingredient retrieval, shaking to mix the ingredients, pouring the mixture into a glass, dispensing rinsing water into the shaker, and finally discarding the rinse water into a designated container. The system performance was evaluated through four types of tests: functional accuracy, ingredient volume precision, leakage during shaking, and beverage taste assessment. The results indicated that both the overall functional accuracy and volume precision exceeded 95%. Experts evaluated that the beverage retained a taste not significantly different from the original formula and could be adjusted in sweetness to align with the shop’s signature menu. Consequently, the average satisfaction score from both experts and test participants increased from level 3 to level 4 after the formula adjustment. The maximum volume of ingredients that could be used without causing leakage during shaking was found to be 400mL, which is sufficient for preparing a single serving of a beverage. The automated beverage mixing system exemplifies an additional application of PLC technology, which can serve as a prototype for exhibition or service purposes, while also establishing a quantitative data foundation for the future development of intelligent bartender assistant systems.