Zurich/Regensdorf ZH – SENS eRecycling has developed a solution that can already identify 130 categories of electronic waste using artificial intelligence (AI). Immark uses SENS AI in its Regensdorf plant to analyze the delivery of small appliances on a conveyor belt.
SENS eRecycling has developed an artificial intelligence model that recognizes 130 categories of electronic waste thanks to high-resolution camera models. The model assigns each identified device to the same category. It knows the average weight of the appliances, the recycling rate and the benefits and harmfulness of the components for the environment and the climate.
According to Pasqual Zopp, SENS AI is thus making an important contribution to the circular economy. "E-waste is not only the fastest growing waste stream worldwide, it also represents a significant challenge for collection points and recycling companies due to its heterogeneity," the Managing Director of SENS eRecycling is quoted as saying in a press release.
SENS AI was launched as a pilot project in 2019. It is now used by Immark in Regensdorf, Switzerland's largest recycling company for small electrical appliances. SENS AI analyzes all deliveries on an existing conveyor belt. "The project offers many advantages for us," Immark Managing Director Sabine Krattiger is quoted as saying. "It is easier to see what is actually being delivered, how high the pollutant content is, and we can better estimate what value the electronic waste will have for us."
SENS AI can be expanded to include additional parameters and combined with external factors. This means it can be flexibly adapted to the new needs of manufacturers and recyclers.
SENS eRecycling is a brand of the SENS Foundation, which promotes take-back systems for electronic waste and collects the advance recycling fee. ce/stk