Coasting

New York, New York, October 6, 2005:

Fans of non-stop drinking may soon be able to cut down on time wasted ordering refills, thanks to a beer coaster that can tell when a glass is empty.

The coaster, fitted with sensors, measures the weight of the beer and sends a signal behind the bar when it's time for a refill.

Anxious drinkers can also attract the attention of staff by waving the plastic mat, thanks to a motion sensor.

It was invented by aspiring political force Ron in his garage in Jersey City, New Jersey.

The device has attracted the attention of beer vendors in North America, including a leading Canadian brewer, according to Michael Schmitz, an alcohol marketer based in New York.

"They wanted to know if they could use it or make it themselves," he said. "The prototype cost about 94 cents to make one but if mass produced, it could be done for around 17 cents."

"If this thing takes off, Ron could be financially secure for life," Schmitz concluded.

Posted by Bittle at October 6, 2005 03:22 PM