LunchLocker – IoT-Enabled Refrigerated Locker System

LunchLocker is an innovative solution designed to enhance wellness and convenience in shared spaces by providing individuals with their own personal refrigerated locker. Built for offices, co-working spaces, and universities, the system integrates IoT technology with everyday utility—turning traditional food storage into a secure, smart, and user-friendly experience.

As the lead developer, I led the end-to-end development of LunchLocker's mobile application and backend services, building the system from the ground up using React Native, GraphQL, and TypeScript. The platform enables users to reserve, unlock, and manage refrigerated lockers via a custom mobile app, while maintaining real-time control and visibility for administrators.

Technical Innovation

IoT Integration: We implemented Wi-Fi and LTE connectivity to support real-time communication with each locker, enabling remote diagnostics, temperature monitoring, and cloud-based controls.

Custom Mobile App: Developed a proprietary cross-platform mobile application allowing users to find, reserve, unlock, and manage their lockers securely—all in real time.

Energy Efficiency: Engineered the system for minimal energy consumption without compromising refrigeration performance, aligning with sustainable building practices.

Health & Safety: Designed airtight, sealed compartments to prevent cross-contamination and ensure that food stays fresh and safe in shared environments.

Challenges and Solutions

Complex IoT Integration: Ensuring a seamless and secure connection between hardware and software required meticulous planning. We leveraged iterative development and frequent field testing to ensure reliable real-world performance.

Cross-Functional Collaboration: Collaborated with hardware engineers, product designers, and marketing teams to align technical feasibility with user expectations and business goals.

Data Security & Access Control: Integrated robust authentication and encrypted communication protocols to protect user data and prevent unauthorized access to lockers.

Impact and Outcome

LunchLocker successfully launched across numerous co-working spaces, educational institutions, and forward-thinking workplaces. The product received strong user feedback for its reliability, ease of use, and practical utility—highlighting the demand for smart, secure food storage solutions in shared environments.

The system not only improved convenience but also boosted wellness and morale by empowering individuals with personal, hygienic food storage they could trust.

Reflections and Learnings

Leading the development of LunchLocker was a career-defining experience that sharpened my skills in full-stack IoT development, agile project leadership, and system architecture. It reinforced the importance of user-centered design and taught me how to turn abstract product ideas into tangible, high-impact solutions.