Industrial - Bachelor

FridgeMATe

FridgeMATe is an IoT device designed to reduce household food waste, particularly among adults aged 18–34 whose academic or professional commitments make managing their food habits more difficult. The device integrates smart technology to weigh food items in the fridge, translating this data into identifiable contents and volume through a connected mobile app. By providing real-time access to this information, FridgeMATe empowers users to make more informed decisions, minimise waste, and save money while fostering smarter food management habits.

Quruli Moon Wright

The problem

Food waste and loss have long posed serious social, economic, and environmental challenges. Globally, one-third of all food produced is wasted each year, with 60% coming from households, costing the economy $940 billion annually. On a global scale, food waste contributes around 10% of greenhouse gas emissions, accelerating climate change. In Australia, younger adults aged 18–34 generate significantly higher preventable food waste than other demographics, which is likely to be influenced by culture, education, a sense of food abundance and so on.

Key findings from research

Insights from my primary research survey and participant responses led to the following conclusion.
The most notable reasons household food waste remains a challenging and multifaceted problem include:

1. The currently existing tactics or products are ineffective in reducing, mitigating, or adapting to food waste
2. The currently existing tactics or products are inconvenient or require effort to use and maintain which discourages consistency, therefore prevents long-term sustainability
3. The currently existing tactics or products are lacking incentives that personally or directly benefit the user

Good intentions ≠ good outcome. Individuals are generally less motivated to address food waste when personal financial impacts are negligible, as food is often viewed as an abundant and easily replaceable resource, especially by higher-income households.

Name
Research Report
File Type
application
File Size
6 MB
Download File

Initial sketches, planning and design development process

Introducing fridgemate

Developed for younger adults who are time-poor or financially constrained, FridgeMATe provides an affordable alternative to high-cost smart fridges, instantly transforming any standard fridge into a smart appliance. Through its integrated mat technology, users can conveniently monitor available food items anytime and anywhere. Designed to support busy lifestyles and reduce the likelihood of forgotten or duplicate grocery purchases, the connected app offers real-time updates, reminders, and recipe suggestions—helping users minimise food waste and enhance their overall food management habits.

To set up the system, users connect all mats to the FridgeMATe hub box, which is powered via a wall outlet to provide continuous, real-time updates. To ensure energy efficiency and address sustainability concerns, the mat sensors remain in standby mode and activate only when a change in weight or movement is detected. This functionality enabled by the MCP6541 component on the PCB allows the system to measure and record updated food weights, automatically reflecting changes in the connected mobile app. Shared app access enables all household members to view updates in real time, promoting effective communication and coordination. In the event of a power outage, the hub box’s integrated LiPo 1000mAh rechargeable battery serves as a temporary backup power source to maintain system functionality.

FridgeMATe is designed to sit on fridge shelves beneath food items, weighing contents and transmitting data to a connected smartphone app. The app provides real-time updates on stored, added, or removed items, along with expiry notifications and recipe suggestions. Supported by AI – driven learning, FridgeMATe adapts to individual consumption habits and preferences, which users can refine as needed. Information determined by the mat technology is enhanced by synchronising with supermarket loyalty accounts, such as Flybuys or Everyday Rewards, to improve the accuracy of determining exactly what food item has been stored in the fridge as well as expiry reminders and recipe suggestions.

Interchangeable silicone mat layers in 5 colours

Each FridgeMATe package includes five interchangeable silicone top layers in various colours, allowing users to personalise their organisation system. While users are encouraged to assign colours based on their own preferences, the following scheme is recommended for optimal food categorisation:

Red – raw meat or poultry
Blue – dairy products
Green – vegetables or other perishable goods
Yellow – eggs
Orange – cooked meals or leftovers

5 sizing options to mix and match

The mats are available in five sizes as shown in the image tailored for standard fridge layouts, including shelves, egg compartments, and varying food volumes, ensuring compatibility and versatility across brands.

Effortlessly detachable silicone layers

The top and bottom base layers are crafted from flexible, food-grade silicone, designed for easy attachment and removal from the mat. They are non-slip, dishwasher safe, and highly durable, ensuring both safety and convenience in everyday use. To promote optimal hygiene, the top layer incorporates a spill-free gutter system that channels excess liquid or condensation toward a central groove. This visible accumulation serves as a clear reminder for users to clean the surface regularly and maintain a hygienic fridge environment.

Ethylene gas absorbing filter

In addition to preventing food waste through tracking and reminders, each mat integrates an ethylene gas-absorbing filter that directly extends food freshness. Users simply replace the filter every few weeks to months for continued effectiveness and peace of mind.

Exploded view and manufacturing

The mat is primarily constructed from polypropylene plastic, chosen for its durability and ability to complement the soft, silicone-like aesthetic of the visible top and bottom layers. These outer silicone layers are food-grade, dishwasher-safe, and non-slip, ensuring both safety and ease of maintenance. The overall design embraces minimalist and contemporary trends, using soft pastel tones that are visually distinct yet subtle—allowing users to easily identify the mat upon opening the fridge without creating visual clutter. The smooth curves and neutral palette also evoke a sense of familiarity, warmth, and approachability commonly associated with modern kitchen products.

video to show real life scenario and to demonstrate the app ux + interactions
Name
DDR part 1
File Type
application
File Size
10 MB
Download File
Name
DDR part 2
File Type
application
File Size
6 MB
Download File

Fridgemate In context & more render shots

Quruli Moon Wright

Quruli is an aspiring industrial designer driven by a passion for enhancing quality of life through the thoughtful integration of creativity, innovation, art, and logic. Her studies at QUT have deepened her understanding that every individual perceives and experiences the world through a unique lens. This insight continually inspires her to refine her design skills, explore the psychology behind human behaviour, and approach design with empathy and curiosity.