Automated Recycling System

High Speed Sorting of Look-Alike Parts Using X-Ray Imaging

This automated debagging and sorting system receives inkjet cartridges returned through the mail for bulk recycling. Cartridges are received in bulk tote boxes and are dumped into a large feed hopper where the cartridges are oriented and any contamination is rejected into a trash system.

Next, the cartridges are removed from the individual mailing envelopes. The cartridges are then transferred into a classification system that sorts each cartridge, using X-ray and machine vision systems, into nine different boxes for subsequent recycling.

Technical Specifications

Component	Specifications
Control System:	Allen-Bradley ControlLogix PLC with Ethernet/IP and variable frequency drives.
Operator:	Interface Allen-Bradley PanelView with sophisticated, customized graphical user interface.
Vision Systems:	Two DVT color cameras (for separating cartridges by color) and one DVT monochrome camera (for refuse clearing).
Environment:	Clean industrial setting.
Classification Systems:	Color vision and industrial X-ray sensors with extensive custom software.
Throughput:	Over 200 cartridges per minute into nine classes.
Accuracy:	Over 98%.
Operational Schedule:	24/7 design with minimal maintenance requirements.
Key Attributes:	Robust system design for industrial setting in both operation and maintenance. Sophisticated, multi-faceted sensors and custom programming used to achieve very accurate sorting of variable products at high speed. Recycling process downstream improved due to significantly improved “pure” stream of sorted product. Bulk product handling of variable-sized product at high speed with minimal jamming. Two custom-programmed vision systems to determine specific cartridge type, as well as identify scrap material for removal prior to final sort. Custom-programmed industrial X-Ray system. Extensive PLC system that controls the overall system and provides production data to management systems. Sophisticated, closed loop product fl ow analysis combined with automated jam clearing system. High wear components designed for easy maintenance and minimal down time.
Details:

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Contact DWFritz Automation through this website or telephone us at (503) 598-9393 to get a free evaluation of your project. We’ll review your automation needs and provide an analysis of your requirements. Get in touch.