Securing Campus Resources: Smart Locker System with Student ID Authentication in University Setting

Lockers are safe storage spaces that are frequently used to protect personal possessions in public spaces, companies, and educational institutions. However, conventional locker systems face significant challenges, including lost keys, unauthorized access, and limited scalability, compromising user experience and security in shared environments. This study proposes a smart locker system for university settings using image processing, integrating student IDs, QR code authentication, and a Raspberry Pi controller with a UPS for enhanced reliability. The system features time-based penalties, automated distribution, and real-time monitoring to improve functionality and accountability. Evaluated at the University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines, the system achieved high user satisfaction, with 83.3% rating its security as great user satisfaction. Technological reliability was rated good by 60% and great by 40%. The system also received high ratings for safety (4.34) and functionality (4.47), resulting in an overall "Highly Acceptable" grade. This Smart Locker System provides a dependable, secure, and user-friendly storage solution for educational institutions. Future enhancements, such as solar-powered operations and facial recognition, are suggested to support smart campus initiatives and broader applications.