An IoT Solution for Enhanced Tray Management Systems in Food Service and Industrial Settings

This study introduces TraySmart, a cutting-edge Internet of Things (IoT) tool meant to completely transform the effectiveness and administration of tray systems in industrial, food court, and cafeteria environments. TraySmart employs cutting-edge technologies like weight sensing, RFID tag reading, temperature monitoring, NFC for user interaction, and $\mathrm{Wi}-\mathrm{Fi} /$ Bluetooth for data transmission to tackle the widespread issues associated with tray management, such as inefficient operations, concerns about food safety, and less-than-ideal user experiences. The weight-sensing feature of the device makes it possible to identify objects on the tray and monitor the contents of the tray in real time. Reading RFID tags makes identifying and tracking items easier, improving inventory control and lowering loss. Food safety and quality assurance depend on food items maintaining their ideal temperatures, which is ensured via temperature monitoring. Furthermore, NFC technology enhances the eating experience by enabling users to engage with the smartphone for payments or feedback. The communication options on the device guarantee smooth data transfer to a central system, facilitating thorough data analysis and system optimization. This essay covers the creativity, design, and development of the TraySmart prototype, the difficulties faced, and the strategies used in the process. The report assesses TraySmart’s effect on operational efficiency, food safety standards, and customer happiness by carefully examining the outcomes of pilot testing. With its scalable solution to improve tray management systems, TraySmart marks a significant leap in the application of IoT technology in the food service and industrial sectors. The results highlight how IoT gadgets like TraySmart have the power to revolutionize operational procedures and service delivery, establishing a new benchmark for innovation in the industry.