Design of Smart Trash Can for Waste Management Using MobileNet Model

The Smart Trash Can is an innovative waste management system designed to automatically classify and sort waste into three categories: recyclable, non-recyclable, and hazardous. This system leverages a MobileNet model for efficient image classification, running on a Raspberry Pi 4 for real-time processing. A USB camera captures images of the waste items as they are placed into the trash can. The MobileNet model, trained to recognize different types of waste, classifies each item into one of the three categories. The recyclable and non-recyclable waste is directed to separate compartments, while the hazardous waste is directed to a third compartment, specifically designed to handle materials such as batteries, e-waste, and chemicals. The system stores waste classification data, including timestamps and item types, in a MongoDB database for easy tracking and analytics. This smart trash can not only automate waste sorting but also ensure the safe disposal of hazardous materials, promoting efficient recycling and environmental safety. The use of MobileNet ensures the model runs efficiently on the Raspberry Pi 4, making the system suitable for edge device deployment. To enhance user interaction, the system can be integrated with LED indicators or a small display to provide instant feedback on waste classification. A mobile application can be developed to allow users to track their waste disposal habits and receive recommendations for better waste management.