Locker Key Management System

Abstract

This project presents a smart and secure RFID-based Locker Management System integrated with Wi-Fi connectivity for real-time monitoring and control. The system is designed to ensure multi-level access security using RFID authentication for both the client and the admin (master). The core functionality is managed using an Arduino connected to an ESP-01 Wi-Fi module, enabling seamless communication with a Node.js backend server. A key feature of the system is its mandatory internet connectivity; the locker system will not operate without an active Wi-Fi connection. A white LED indicator confirms successful Wi-Fi connection. Upon scanning the admin RFID, the locker opens. However, to close the locker, the system requires an additional level of verification: both the client\'s RFID and the admin\'s RFID must be scanned again, ensuring that both parties are present and authorizing the closure. The system also includes real-time alerts, activity logs, and status updates through the server. It is designed for use in environments such as co-working spaces, gyms, hostels, and smart offices, where secure and monitored storage is essential. This solution improves traditional key-based systems by adding intelligent control, remote monitoring, and enhanced security.

Introduction

To develop a secure, automated locker access system using RFID technology and Arduino, aimed at enhancing security, convenience, and real-time control over locker access.

System Overview:

• Core Functionality:
  Uses RFID cards to authenticate users. The locker unlocks when a valid RFID tag is scanned; access is denied for invalid tags.

• Applications:
  Useful in banks, offices, institutions, and public spaces to replace traditional lock-and-key systems.

Key Components:

Literature Review Insights:

• Traditional Systems: Relied on mechanical locks prone to key loss, duplication, and manual errors.

• RFID Advancement: Improved security but lacked remote access and real-time alerts.

• Modern Smart Lockers: Use IoT, WebSockets, and cloud databases (e.g., MongoDB) for:

  • Real-time monitoring

  • Remote control via web interfaces

  • Secure activity tracking

• Project Enhancement: This system adds features like real-time alerts, multi-user access, and a secure, scalable cloud infrastructure for efficient locker management.

Advantages:

1. High security and access control

2. Real-time monitoring of locker activity

3. Remote access via web or mobile interface

4. User-friendly design

5. Activity logging for enhanced tracking

6. Cost-effective and low maintenance

7. Scalable and flexible for different use cases

Conclusion

The locker key management system using Arduino Uno and RFID has proven to be an effective solution for securing and managing access to lockers. By integrating RFID technology with Arduino, we\'ve created a system that ensures only authorized users can access the locker, with real-time monitoring and alerts. The system also includes multiple layers of security, such as the manager\'s control over client locker access and the use of LEDs and a buzzer for notifications. Additionally, the integration of email notifications and data logging ensures that both clients and managers are promptly informed of any unauthorized access attempts. The decision to move away from MongoDB to a custom-built website further enhances the system\'s flexibility, providing a more tailored interface for managing locker access. Overall, this project demonstrates the powerful potential of combining hardware and software to create an intuitive, secure, and real-time access management system.

References

[1] Paper-Locker security system using RFID and GSM technology - (Author: Santosh Kumar, Shaffulla Basha, Hari Prasad,Rushmita, Ibrahim.) [2] IOT based bank locker security system with voice reporting and RFID [3] RFID Based automated bank locker system (2014)(Author: Swetha J.) [4] RFID & IOT-Based Locker (2014)(Author: Mohan kumar Naik, Sarang Saleef) [5] Advanced Bank locker system using RFID and GSM Technology (2023)(Author: Manoj N G, Sohail Maidargi, Vedaraj V Shetti, Veerendra S Maradur, Kavitha S S) [6] Smart Locker Management System Using IOT(2018)Author: Parth Parab, Dr.Vinayak shinde, Manas Kulkarni [7] Enhanced locker security system (2018)Author: Madhavi Soni, P.Vinay Kumar, N.Sai Rithwika, M.Divya Goud

Copyright

Copyright © 2025 Sakshi G Kachi, Gauri A Pangare, Sakshi S Kengar, Saundarya S Gote, Dr. Vaishali Phalake. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.