AI-powered robot set to improve industrial waste sorting at Tokyo plant

Fuji Corporation and Taisei Rotec Corporation have announced the introduction of the R-PLUS waste-sorting robot at Taisei Rotec’s industrial waste processing facility in Tokyo. The robot will begin operations in November 2024, and aims to automate the removal of impurities from construction rubble, a task currently performed manually in harsh conditions.

Developed by Fuji, the R-PLUS uses advanced AI and robotic technology to detect and remove contaminants such as metals and wood chips from construction debris. This innovation is expected to alleviate labor shortages and improve worker safety by automating a process that is both labor-intensive and conducted in environments filled with dust and noise.

The R-PLUS robot is a manifestation of Fuji’s expertise in developing electronic component mounting robots, combined with AI-based image recognition. The robot’s new picking chuck can accurately and swiftly remove impurities, matching or exceeding the speed of human workers without compromising the process’s production volume or quality. The robot is designed for easy integration, requiring only placement on an existing belt conveyor, and can operate on conveyors inclined at angles from 0 to 20 degrees. Additionally, it features a cloud-based remote management system for rapid troubleshooting.

Taisei Rotec, which has a longstanding history in industrial waste processing, provided technical guidance during the development of R-PLUS. The company focuses on creating a better environment by enhancing the efficiency and safety of its operations. By integrating R-PLUS, Taisei Rotec aims to streamline the sorting process, ensuring higher quality recycled materials and contributing to a circular society.

The introduction of R-PLUS is part of a push towards digital transformation in industrial waste processing. Taisei Rotec’s efforts align with its corporate philosophy of creating a better environment for people, nature, and society, being proactive in intermediate waste processing and industrial recycling, and supporting the formation of a circular economy.