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VOInews, Lombok: Internet technology can be utilised for various purposes, including to make shelves commonly used in kiosks or MSME stalls. SMKN 1 Praya Tengah, Central Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) is one of the schools that has successfully utilised technology to produce useful products, namely smart shelves based on the internet of things (IoT).

According to the Ministry of Education, Culture and Research's vocational website on Thursday (20/6/2024), the IoT-based smart shelf by SMKN 1 Praya Tengah is equipped with a system of sensors and communication devices connected to the internet. It can monitor and manage stored items automatically and provide real-time information on the presence, quantity, and condition of the items. With IoT integration, this smart shelf can be accessed and controlled remotely through mobile or web applications.

Head of SMKN 1 Praya Tengah, Rias Sandi Miwardani, said that the smart shelf is a collaborative project between students of the Software Engineering (RPL) and Computer Network Engineering (TKJ) Expertise Concentrations. This tool is designed to detect the number of items placed in it and calculate the weight of food ingredients automatically. The product is one proof of the application of knowledge that has been obtained by the students.

"This innovation is the result of their hard work and creativity in applying the knowledge they have learnt at school. We continue to encourage students to produce new technology-based innovations that are not only beneficial for schools, but also for the wider community," said Rias Sandi.

Meanwhile, Chairperson of the Computer Network Engineering (TKJ) Expertise Concentration, Lia Ulfa, said that the students worked together to design and make the necessary hardware and software. The development process also involved teachers who acted as mentors. In addition to detecting the number of items and the weight of groceries, the smart shelf is also equipped with a notification system that will send information to the store manager if the stock of goods is approaching a predetermined minimum limit. The advanced technology carried by this tool allows store managers to monitor stock items in real-time, reduce the risk of shortages or overstocks, and increase efficiency in inventory management. 

The Smart Shelf will later be used at Aislah Sapta BC's school shop, SMKN 1 Praya Tengah to display items for sale. "This is the first step for us to continue developing other IoT-based technologies that can provide wider benefits. Education and technology must collaborate to prepare a young generation that excels in technology," said Ulfa.