AI-Powered Mobile App Transforms Stadium Bag Check Process

From long lines to lightning-fast entry - a major U.S. stadium faced severe bag check delays after stricter security rules. Learn how Sparq used AI technology to build a mobile app that validated bags objectively and consistently, transforming fan experience, reducing staff stress, and creating tech with applications beyond stadium security.

Microsoft AzureAzure AI VisionArtificial IntelligenceCase Study
Sparq
Insights from Sparq
march 26, 2025 — 2 minute read

Services/solutions

Artificial Intelligence

Technology

  • Microsoft Azure
  • Azure AI Vision

Challenge: Bag Check Bottlenecks Hurt the Fan Experience

After Homeland Security introduced stricter bag policies, a major American stadium saw 2-3 minute inspections, endless lines, and frustrated fans. With the manual process, fans grew aggravated, staff dreaded bag duty, and excitement soured before game time. The stadium needed a fast, consistent, and fan-friendly solution to ensure safety without sacrificing experience.

Solution: AI-Driven Mobile Measurement App

Sparq reimagined bag validation through custom mobile app development that leveraged AI technology to directly address the bottlenecks.

  • Consistent Validation: Measured bag size and transparency consistently, removing any subjectivity.
  • Innovative AI Algorithm: Calculated dimensions from a 2D image to 1/16th-inch accuracy when LiDAR failed.
  • Pre-Evaluation Feature: Allowed bags to be pre-checked before stadium entry.
  • Versatile Tech: Designed for broader use cases like insurance assessments, construction measurements, drone surveying, and inventory management.
  • Planned At-Home Use: Created and deployed to support at-home self-screening to reduce gate friction by proactively preventing a non-compliant bag from being brought to the stadium.

Results: Enhanced Entry, Safer Events, Broader Potential

The implementation of this new AI-powered mobile app produced immediate results.

  • Enhanced Fan Experience: Created smooth, stress-free entry for thousands of fans.
  • Objective Bag Screening: Enabled consistently objective screening by security guards to prevent the entry process from escalating.
  • Breakthrough Technology: Delivered proprietary AI measurement tech with applications far beyond stadium security.



Services/solutions

Artificial Intelligence
Sparq

Sparq is an AI-accelerated product engineering firm that drives business results for clients in industries including transportation & logistics and financial services.