TACT

Type / Graduate Product
Duration / 4 months
Category / System Design
Work Type / Individual

User Instruction

Target Group:
Solo diners and quiet guests in busy table-service restaurants, especially gastropubs and premium casual dining spaces.
User Pain Points:
Diners often feel awkward when trying to get attention, while staff can miss quiet requests during busy service. TACT makes these needs visible without making them socially uncomfortable.

Concept

Brief Description

A smart restaurant service system combining a table-side tray and a waiter-side wearable. Diners can press and hold the tray to request service quietly, while staff receive and manage requests through a simple watch queue. It reduces awkward signalling for diners and helps staff notice hidden requests more clearly.

Core

Discreet Request Interaction:
A 2-second touch input lets diners ask for help without waving, calling out, or using their phone.
Tray + Watch System:
The tray stays on the table as the diner input point, while the watch moves with staff and shows service requests.
Light Feedback:
A short white light confirms the request. Later, coloured lights show service type.
Queue Coordination:
Requests are organised by service zone and time order, helping staff respond without constantly scanning the room.

Ideation

Manufacture & Iteration

Modular Structure:Two grooves allow accessories such as tissue holders, coaster holders, and small trays to be attached without changing the main body.

Material Choice:The final tray uses CNC-machined aluminium alloy with sandblasting and anodising for better precision, durability, and a premium finish.

Technical Components: The tray uses capacitive touch, addressable LEDs, and an M5StickC Plus. The staff wearable uses Watchy 2.0 with an e-paper display.
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