Optical sorting systems rely on machine vision systems to “see” the products they sort. While hand sorting systems do work, they are not capable of the high-speed action of automated optical sorting systems. In some applications, such as the recycling of papers and glass, optical sorting systems are also more accurate than human sorting.
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Optical sorting systems are used for multiple purposes in many different industries. They can be used in recycling plants to separate metals, plastics, papers, and glass from each other. In addition to sorting by material, optical systems are also capable of sorting by color and resin type. Especially in applications where large quantities of broken and mixed glass need to be sorted, optical sorting machines can be very advantageous.
Optical sorting systems can also be used in the food industry to remove pits from cherries and unwanted or damaged nuts from good ones. Infrared light can be used to "see" the interiors of foods in order to remove those affected by fungus or rotting. Optical sorting machines are also used to remove contaminants from popcorn, coffee, rice, and other food products.
