Virtual Booth

The Smart Solar-Powered Lunch Box (BentoWarm) is an innovative food container that combines solar energy with smart heating technology to offer a convenient, eco-friendly and health-conscious solution for daily meals. Unlike traditional lunch boxes, BentoWarm not only stores food but also reheats it safely and efficiently without electricity. This innovation addresses several problems faced by students, workers and travelers who often have limited access to reheating facilities. It also reduces reliance on fast food, which leads to unhealthy eating habits and helps minimize environmental pollution caused by single-use plastics. The main objectives are to ensure food safety through temperature regulation, promote healthy eating by enabling users to enjoy warm, home-cooked meals anywhere and reduce plastic waste through the use of durable and reusable materials. The prototype features a 5W solar panel, a self-regulating PTC ceramic heating element and a stainless-steel insulated compartment. It also includes an airtight lid with a steam valve, LED indicators for temperature display and adjustable food compartments. Users place food inside, close the lid, expose it to sunlight for charging and press one button to activate the heating system. The ceramic heater provides even heat distribution, while the steam valve regulates pressure to maintain food quality. The novelty of BentoWarm lies in its integration of renewable solar power with smart temperature control in a portable and user-friendly design. It is highly applicable to students, workers and travelers who need practical and sustainable meal solutions. Commercially, BentoWarm is affordable with a production cost of RM42 per unit, suitable for mass production. Market surveys show high demand, with 93.3 percent of respondents preferring reheatable lunch boxes. The impact is notable in health, environment and society. It can reduce foodborne illness risks by up to 40 percent, save 3,500 kWh of energy annually for every 1,000 units produced (equivalent to planting 120 trees) and support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 12 on responsible consumption and production. With strong market potential and commercialization strategies through schools, offices and online platforms, BentoWarm aims to reach 10,000 users across ASEAN within two years, promoting a healthier and greener lifestyle.