Page 32 - Packaging News July - August 2019

CASE STUDY NORD DRIVESYSTEMS
NORD and SAGE get smart in war on waste
NORD Drivesystems has partnered with system integrator SAGE Automation, Nukon, and SA-based independent recycling depot Container Deposit Systems (CDS) to roll out new recycling technology across Queensland.
The semi Auto Return Terminal (ART) installed at recycling sites around Queensland enabled CDS to process 32,000 containers per day in its first week of operation, since increasing to 80,000 per day across five sites.
Consumers can return drink containers for a 10c refund, no matter their condition, thanks to algorithms programmed into SAGE’s vision system that can identify anything the human eye can.
“We’ve spent a lot of time making improvements. In the past, other systems relied on reading bar codes and this created problems in identifying products that had been crushed, folded or broken.
Thanks to the smart vision system, this is now a thing of the past,” said Paul Johnson, general manager at SAGE.
“We are already working on an upgrade which will go as far as to recognise brands. This once again aligns to our motto of ‘how can this be done better’.”
To help accomplish this, SAGE partnered with NORD Drivesystems, which included an incremental encoder on the motor for positioning. This system is the result of a strong partnership with SAGE, said Vinod Pillai, South Australian sales manager for NORD.
“This particular encoder ensures that materials are accurately positioned at the pneumatic blower to execute the operation efficiently.
“We’ve established a great working relationship with SAGE, and we’ve been flexible and innovative in our approach to their unique automation requirements,” said Pillai.
According to Johnson, SAGE is satisfied with the over 300 custom-made units installed to client specifications and budget.
“NORD has been a fantastic technology partner and they are just like one of the team now. When we talk development and innovation, they are part of the group. We have a very close working relationship and I love the fact that they hold local stock in Melbourne and are committed to Australian manufacturing,” he said.
FAR LEFT: Paul Johnson, GM of SAGE Automation, with one of the semi Auto Return Terminals (ART) destined for Queensland.
LEFT: NORD drive with incremental encoder on the motor for positioning.
BELOW: The intelligent vision camera system allows consumers to deposit cans, plastic bottles and glass in any condition, for a 10c per-container refund.
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