Project description
The BaKIRoS project, supported by the Styrian Business Promotion Agency (SFG), aims to detect and sort batteries from the waste stream using innovative sensor- and AI-based technology. A “Kicker” ejection unit is to be implemented to remove the detected batteries. Furthermore, the potential of robots for sorting is being researched. For detection, existing AI models from the DeB-AT project are being trained using expanded datasets and thus adapted to the ever-increasing diversity of battery types.
Background
With their ever-growing presence in Austrian households, high-performance batteries have become part of our everyday lives. If a battery is disposed of improperly after use, a practical everyday item can quickly become a potential hazard. Users are often unaware of the negative effects that an improperly disposed-of battery can have, since the fire hazard usually arises only when the battery is damaged or short-circuited. To efficiently harness the value-added potential of the battery and the respective waste stream, improperly disposed-of batteries must be sorted out of the waste.
Aims of the project
The BaKIRoS project (Battery Detection Using Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, and Sensor Fusion) aims to expand the image database with images of free-falling batteries and end-of-life electronic devices. The goal is to enhance the robustness of the models and broaden their scope of application. Furthermore, a “Kicker” discharge unit will be implemented and tested on a pilot plant scale. In the field of robotics, basic research is planned regarding cost-effectiveness and application in waste management facilities.