A Real-Time Weight and Color Notification for Chili Inventory Management in Jakabaring Traditional Market

Traditional markets serve as the primary distribution centers for chili peppers but face challenges in efficient stock management due to delays and manual verification processes. This research developed an IoT-based system capable of providing real-time notifications of chili weight and packaging color. The system integrates a load cell sensor for weight measurement, a TCS230 color sensor for packaging identification, and an ESP32 microcontroller for processing and transmitting data. Results are displayed locally on an LCD and sent via WhatsApp notifications to vendors, ensuring rapid and accurate stock information. The research applied the Borg and Gall Research and Development model, focusing on prototype design, testing, and validation. Experimental evaluation showed that the load cell achieved 98.9% accuracy with an error rate below 1.1%, while the color sensor successfully identified packaging origins such as white sacks, brown cardboard, and red sacks. Notifications were consistently received within one to two seconds. These findings demonstrate that the system provides timely, reliable, and user-friendly solutions for traditional market traders. The system reduces manual workload, improves efficiency, and minimizes delays in stock recording. The novelty lies in the integration of IoT monitoring with a widely adopted platform such as WhatsApp, lowering adoption barriers for small-scale vendors. This system has potential for broader applications in perishable goods supply chains where real-time monitoring is essential.