An automatic sorting system has been developed that allows humans to choose objects from a moving belt without being on-site. The operator uses a touch screen to select images of the mixture of materials to be sorted as they are conveyed past a sensor array. When the item is “touched,” its spatial coordinates are registered in a computer system. The pieces are tracked, and automated devices (robotic arms, air jets or other mechanical devices) are directed to remove the designated objects.

Applications: Separate mixtures of materials into usable fractions; reduce human presence in hazardous or potentially hazardous situations; replace humans in tedious, repetitive tasks.

Assignee: National Recovery Technologies Inc. (Nashville, Tenn.)

Inventors: C. Roos, E. Sommer Jr., R. Parrish and J. Russell

Filing/Publication Date: 11-03-97/06-24-08