Object sorting installation or machine with an improved air management system

Abstract

Object sorting installation or machine with an improved air management device The present invention relates to an object sorting installation (1) (2) comprising a planar geometry sorter (3) having a conveyor (5) transporting the objects (2) to be sorted, an air management system (4) controlling the air circulation in the installation (1), a containment structure (9) extending over the conveyor (5) and guiding a laminar airflow (FAL) circulating substantially at the same speed as the objects (2) to be sorted and an outlet box (10) defining sorting compartments (11, 11') with outlet vents. The installation is characterized in that it includes at least one deflecting wing (14) arranged and configured to direct the laminar airflow (FAL) exiting the guidance tunnel (9') at least partially, preferably at least half, towards the outlet associated with the compartment (11) for receiving unejected objects (2).Figure to be published with the abbreviation: Fig. 3.

Description

Title of the invention: Installation or machine for sorting objects with an improved air management device

[0001] The invention relates to the field of machines or installations for sorting objects or products, in particular objects or products of which at least a part is recyclable, the sorting typically being carried out according to the material. In this context, the invention relates to an installation or machine for sorting objects with an improved aeraulic control device, the sorting being able in particular to be binary or ternary.

[0002] More particularly, the invention relates to sorting installations or machines with planar geometry, preferably of the optical type, equipped with compressed air ejection systems (bar with pneumatic nozzles supplied by solenoid valves) installed at the end of a fast-moving conveyor (speed of 2 to 7 m / s), and controlled in relation to the results of the classification. A possible type of architecture of such a machine or installation is for example described in the patent document EP1243350A1 of the applicant.

[0003] [Fig. 1] schematically illustrates a known installation (1) for sorting (here binary) objects (2) comprising, advantageously mounted in an envelope (1'), a sorter (3) with planar geometry (sorting objects passing in a substantially single-layer manner on a plane) and an air management system (4) controlling the circulation of air in the installation (1).

[0004] The sorter (3), preferably of the optical type, comprises at least:

[0005] - a conveyor (5) with a moving belt (5') on which the objects (2) to be sorted are arranged in a single layer,

[0006] - a detection device (6) configured to inspect the objects (2) circulating on the conveyor (5) and classify them after analysis into at least two categories,

[0007] -an air jet ejection device (7), located at the outlet end (5”) of the conveyor (5) and configured to selectively eject upwards the objects (2) detected as belonging to at least one of the classification categories and falling from said outlet end (5”),

[0008] -at least one separating wall (8) arranged at a distance from the outlet end (5”) of the conveyor (5) and configured to separate from each other a flow of freely falling objects (2) and at least one flow of ejected objects (2).

[0009] The aforementioned air management or control system (4) comprises at least:

[0010] - a containment structure (9) extending above the conveyor (5) on a longitudinal part of the latter and forming with it a guide tunnel (9') in which is injected, by means of an external air injection device (21), a laminar air flow (FAL) circulating substantially at the same speed as the objects (2) to be sorted,

[0011] -an outlet box (10), forming part of or mounted in the casing (1') where appropriate, cooperating with the separating wall(s) (8) to constitute a compartment (11) for receiving the non-ejected objects (2) and at least one compartment (11') for receiving the ejected objects (2), these compartments (11, 11') having outlets (12) for evacuating downwards the categorized objects (2) which have fallen or been thrown therein.

[0012] This installation also comprises a unit (23) for commanding and monitoring the various aforementioned functional components, in accordance with dedicated programming and prior calibration.

[0013] Such a sorting installation is marketed by the applicant under the designation “Mistral + Connect Full Package” and the containment structure (9), associated with the air injection means and providing the tunnel seat of the laminar flow accompanying the flow of passing objects, is known under the designation “Turbosorter” by the applicant. It comprises an optical sorter particularly well suited to the sorting of light products (plastic films, paper / cardboard), for fractions of 40 to 400 mm.

[0014] In this context, the major energy expenditure item for the operator tends to be at the airflow and pneumatic levels, namely, by way of illustration:

[0015] - For the pneumatic aspect: Compressed air from the solenoid valves of the bars nozzle ejection, supplied by industrial compressors with pressures of 6 to 10 Bars. Typically, these solenoid valves are operated in all or nothing mode with an exhaust at atmospheric pressure, and a supersonic speed at the nozzle outlet, as soon as the operating pressure (relative) upstream exceeds 1 Bar;

[0016] -For the aeraulic aspect: Additional air flow in the circulation of the objects to be sorted to prevent them from slipping on the belt of the rapid sorting conveyor and to accompany their movement to the ejection zone. These air flows are typically created by turbines, with an air speed of the order of 2 to 7 m / s, and the pressure of these flows is only slightly higher than atmospheric pressure (relative pressure of the order of 0.2 Bar).

[0017] These two air flows coexist in the object ejection zone, a zone generally delimited by the box, with at least two outlet compartments. Depending on the parameters chosen and the density of the objects to be sorted and ejected, these flows can create turbulence or overpressures harmful to the proper functioning of the installation.

[0018] It has already been proposed to optionally add an air suction system at the outlet of the ejection box in certain applications, in particular in order to evacuate the excess airflow created by the additional airflow mentioned above, to avoid overpressure in the box and air cushions at the outlets. It is also an aeraulic system, creating low depressions and speeds of a few m / s

[0019] In addition, the air flow from the tunnel may have difficulty evacuating from the outlet box or the casing of the machine, creating a cushion of overpressure air in the outlet box, and light objects tend to fly above this cushion. Their fall trajectory is then unpredictable, even if they have been ejected, which greatly affects the quality of the sorting.

[0020] Furthermore, the presence of edges or sharp angles existing at different points on the trajectory of the air flow leaving the tunnel, in particular around the separation wall, is also a source of turbulence, associated with pressure losses.

[0021] It has further been noted by the inventors that light and flat objects such as sheets of paper or plastic films have large surfaces that are almost perpendicular to the ejection axis and, as a result, therefore significantly disrupt the free circulation of air in the compartment(s) of the ejected objects, where they cause overpressures and pressure drops. This harmful effect is substantially proportional to the quantity of objects occupying this compartment at any time. On the contrary, the surface of the non-ejected objects (i.e., not subjected to the air jets) is naturally aligned with the direction of their falling parabola under the effect of gravity, which extends beyond the end of the conveyor the flat trajectory that they had on the conveyor belt forming a sorting mat. This flow of non-blown objects is therefore little disturbed, and shows a high probability of remaining laminar and not creating overpressure.The overpressure in the compartment(s) for ejected objects then tends to push the ejected objects towards the compartment for non-ejected objects, which degrades the quality of the sorting.

[0022] Sorting installations are already known, corresponding substantially to the aforementioned type, in which an air control system with a closed air circuit (in a loop) is present, the air being recirculated between the ejection box and the sorting belt by a turbine. However, these known systems have a complex structure, are very energy-intensive (significant pressure drop) and not very adaptable, the air suction and the air injection being linked together. A solution implementing mutually independent injection and suction means (for the purpose of expulsion to the outside), therefore more flexible and less energy-intensive, has already been proposed by the applicant and is described in French patent application No. 2210677 of October 17, 2022.

[0023] The main aim of the present invention is to overcome, at least in part, the main drawbacks of known installations, in particular of the installation known mentioned in relation to [Fig.l] and mentioned above, in particular by improving the air management in such an installation, and more particularly the aeraulics in the outlet box, advantageously in a passive manner, without energy consumption, and possibly being able to be adapted to the application intended for the installation, at least at the time of its assembly / calibration on site, or even possibly depending on a possible change in the aeraulic circumstances during its operation.

[0024] Preferably, the invention aims to respond to the following two recurring requests:

[0025] - limit energy consumption, and therefore the operating cost of the installation, in particular by optimizing the consumption / active treatment of pneumatic and aeraulic air,

[0026] - optimize sorting performance, by minimizing disturbances preventing objects to exit through the correct outlet.

[0027] This object is achieved by the invention, for an installation described above, by the fact that this installation is characterized in that it comprises at least one deflecting wing arranged and configured to direct the laminar air flow exiting the guide tunnel at least partially, preferably half, towards the outlet associated with the compartment for receiving non-ejected objects.

[0028] The invention will be better understood from the following description, which relates to preferred embodiments, given as non-limiting examples, and explained with reference to the appended schematic drawings, in which:

[0029] [Fig.l] is a schematic representation of the existing sorting installation, known to the applicant and mentioned previously;

[0030] [Fig.2]] is a schematic representation of an improved sorting installation according to a first embodiment of the invention;

[0031] [Fig.3],

[0032] [Fig.4],

[0033] [Fig.5] and

[0034] [Fig.6] are partial schematic representations of sorting installations improved in accordance with other embodiments of the invention (in Figures 2, 3, 5 and 6, the dotted arrows indicate the circulation of a majority component from the laminar air flow coming from the tunnel above the conveyor and the dotted curved lines interspersed with solid arrows indicate the circulation of a minority component of this flow - the air exhaust flows through the outlets are not specifically shown).

[0035] [Fig.7] and [Fig.8] illustrate by comparison between them the action of the deflecting wing on laminar air flow and circulation and exhaust of air in the outlet box of an installation according to the invention ([Fig.7] illustrates the circulation, partition and outlet of the laminar air flow in an installation according to the state of the art, also illustrated by [Fig.l], and [Fig.8] illustrates the circulation, partition and outlet of the laminar air flow in a similar installation but in accordance with the invention).

[0036] [Fig. 2] and partially figures 3 to 6 and 8, illustrate an installation (1) for sorting objects (2) comprising, advantageously mounted in an envelope (1'), a sorter (3) with planar geometry and an air management system (4) controlling the circulation of air in the installation (1).

[0037] The sorter (3) comprises at least:

[0038] - a conveyor (5) with a moving belt (5') on which the objects (2) to be sorted are arranged in a single or monolayer,

[0039] -a detection device (6) configured to inspect the objects (2) circulating on the conveyor (5) and classify them after analysis into at least two categories,

[0040] -an air jet ejection device (7), for example in the form of a nozzle bar, located at the outlet end (5”) of the conveyor (5) and configured to selectively eject upwards the objects (2) detected as belonging to at least one of the classification categories and falling from said outlet end (5”), and

[0041] -at least one separating wall (8) arranged at a distance from the outlet end (5”) of the conveyor (5) and configured to separate from each other a flow (FOCL) of objects (2) falling freely (under the effect of gravity at the outlet of the conveyor), on the one hand, and at least one flow (FOE) of objects (2) ejected (under the action of the device 7), on the other hand.

[0042] The device (7) may comprise a single bar with all the nozzles having the same orientation (binary sorting), or else comprise a bar with at least two types of alternating nozzles oriented by type in different specific directions, or even at least two parallel bars with each of its nozzles oriented in a suitable manner (ternary sorting or more). Correspondingly,

[0043] The air management system (4) comprises at least:

[0044] - a containment structure (9) extending above the conveyor (5) over a longitudinal part of the latter and forming with it a guide tunnel (9') into which is injected, by means of an external air injection device (21), a laminar air flow (FAL) circulating substantially at the same speed as the objects (2) to be sorted, and

[0045] -an outlet box (10), forming part of or mounted in the casing (1') where appropriate, cooperating with the separating wall(s) (8) to constitute a compartment (11) for receiving the non-ejected objects (2) and at least one compartment (11') for receiving the ejected objects (2), these compartments (11, 11') having respective outlets (12) for evacuating downwards the categorized objects (2) which are therein fallen or thrown.

[0046] According to the invention, the installation (1) comprises at least one deflecting wing (14) arranged and configured to direct the laminar air flow (FAL) leaving the guide tunnel (9') at least partially, preferably at least half, towards the outlet (12) associated with the compartment (11) for receiving the non-ejected objects (2).

[0047] Thanks to these provisions, the invention achieves the main aim set and makes it possible in particular to reduce, or even eliminate, in the presence of an injected laminar air flow, the possible negative impacts which may result from overpressures and / or turbulences, for example on the sorting performance (better reliability and repeatability of the results), and this while limiting the energy expenditure for the aeraulics to that necessary for the injection only, by proposing a passive solution (absence of active or forced air suction for its ejection towards the outside).

[0048] Preferably, the outlet box (10) is further provided, at least in the lower and / or rear part, and in particular at the outlets (12) and / or the rear wall (1') of said box (10) located opposite the outlet (5”) of the conveyor (5), with one or more opening(s) (13, 22') for evacuating air at atmospheric pressure, sufficient to limit or substantially avoid overpressure in said box (10) and the formation of air cushions in the outlets (12). For satisfactory operation of the installation over time, the configuration, sizing and arrangement of these openings, in particular that(s) (13) at the first outlet (12) and possibly that(s) (22') in the rear part of the box, must be designed so that these openings are not or are only slightly obstructed during operation by the sorted objects exiting through said outlets.Where appropriate, release means, advantageously with automatic operation, can be provided for this purpose (scraper, blower, etc.).

[0049] Indeed, by diverting the majority of the air flow (FAL) leaving the guide tunnel (9') towards the first outlet (12) in the direction of the flow, which of course has one or more openings (13) towards the outside of sufficient and clear section, the invention makes it possible both i) to suppress the propagation of this flow further into the outlet box (10) where it is likely to create turbulence (for example by rebounding on walls), ii) to avoid the formation of excess pressure in the box, and to eliminate the cushion effects which may result therefrom, and iii) to limit or avoid blockages at the level of the separation wall(s) (8), by limiting the quantity of objects landing on its upper edge (8'), while not disturbing the positive action of said flow (FAL) at the level of the conveyor.

[0050] The invention also makes it possible to avoid the need to implement forced air suction, in particular by recirculation with the injection, or the presence of a particular air outlet in the upper part of the box (10), present in known state-of-the-art solutions.

[0051] With the invention, it is in particular possible to guarantee an aeraulic environment optimized for sorting for variable scrolling speeds, for example 3 m / s, 4.5 m / s or 6 m / s.

[0052] The deflecting wing (14), which is only shown schematically in the figures, is defined more precisely below as a favorable, non-limiting construction.

[0053] According to a constructively optimized embodiment, it may be provided that the deflecting wing (14) is located after the exit of the tunnel (9') for guiding the laminar air flow (FAL), preferably in the extension and at a distance from the upper wall of the confinement structure (9) in the direction of the laminar air flow (FAL), and extends transversely to this direction, so as to be impacted by a higher fraction of said flow (FAL), after its ejection from said tunnel (9'). Thus, it influences the direction of propagation of said laminar flow in the box by bending it downwards, but without forming an obstacle likely to block its propagation.

[0054] Advantageously, the deflecting wing (14) is arranged between the outlet end (5”) of the conveyor (5) and a front edge of the upper deflecting wall (15), at a distance from the outlet of the guide tunnel (9'). Thus, the inspection window of the detection device (6) is not affected by the presence of this wing.

[0055] Preferably, the deflecting wing (14) is mounted substantially at the inlet of the outlet box (10) and has a configuration, dimensioning and arrangement (in particular position and inclination) such that the upper fraction of the laminar air flow (FAL) which impacts it represents approximately between 15% and 35%, preferably between 20% and 30%, by volume of said air flow (FAL), and that the part of said air flow (FAL) deflected towards the outlet (12) associated with the compartment (11) for receiving the non-ejected objects (2), or first outlet, flows substantially along the separating wall (8). This downward flow direction of this deflected fraction, obtained after passage of the flap (18), can in particular be achieved by a suitable inclination of the wing (14).

[0056] Thus, by positioning the deflecting wing (14) in such a way that it only interferes with a limited upper zone of the extension of the passage of the tunnel (9'), it only acts on a higher fraction of the air flow (FAL) leaving the guide tunnel (9'), sufficient to effectively deflect it at least in part, preferably at least half, into the first compartment / outlet, but without however constituting a disturbing obstacle for said flow, or even a cause of creation of turbulence (disturbance of the laminar flow).

[0057] Preferably, the deflecting wing (14) is configured and positioned in such a way that substantially a majority part of the outgoing laminar air flow (LAF) of the tunnel (9') is positively directed towards the first outlet (12), associated with the negative outlet (without ejection) and adjacent to the outlet of the conveyor (5). As a result, the air cushion effects will be eliminated at the other outlet(s) and the flow(s) of ejected objects (FOE) is / are no longer disturbed, and follows a purely ballistic trajectory.

[0058] As shown in Figures 5 and 8 and according to a favorable construction characteristic, making it possible to avoid a possible malfunction due to a blockage of a very tall object (2) at the level of the deflecting wing (14), the latter can be mounted with the ability to retract upwards, preferably by positive lifting, under the action of an object (2) passing and coming into contact with it during its passage under said wing (14).

[0059] In accordance with a preferred variant, illustrated schematically in Figures 5 and 8, the deflecting wing (14) is pivotally mounted around an axis (AP) arranged in a plane parallel to the conveying plane and arranged perpendicular to the direction of travel of the objects (2), said axis (AP) being located at a distance from the plane of the conveyor (5) at least equal to the height of the tunnel (9') and advantageously extending along one of the longitudinal edges of the deflecting wing (14).

[0060] This wing (14) can thus pivot between a low position in which it fulfills its function of diverting at least part of the laminar flow towards the first outlet, and a more or less raised position depending on the size of the tall object (2) which lifts it by passing under it. The authorized lifting is at least sufficient so that the wing (14) can be arranged entirely in the plane parallel to the plane of the conveyor and comprising the axis (AP). Stops are advantageously provided to define the extreme pivoting positions, respectively low (current functional position in the absence of an interfering object) and high (only one high stop 14' is shown in [Fig. 5]). The return to the low position of the wing (14) can result from the action of gravity alone, or possibly be the result of the combined action of gravity and a return means, for example elastic.

[0061] In accordance with a possible characteristic of the invention, the wing (14) can, depending on the sorting applications targeted, be adjusted on site in a vertical and angular position in order to precisely regulate and direct the laminar flow in the box (10) and thus control its effects and adapt it to the different configurations and variants of the installation (type of object to be sorted, binary sorting, ternary sorting). Said wing (14) is preferably rectangular in shape (elongated belt), flat and extends transversely over the entire width of the conveyor belt (5').

[0062] The configuration and arrangement of this wing (14) - length, width, profile / shape, inclination around the axis (AP), height positioning - are advantageously adapted to the type and size of the installation (1), to the application on site and to the desired aeraulic effects, possibly being at least partly adjustable. They can also be determined so as to create a depression effect in the outlet or each of the outlets for the ejected objects.

[0063] In accordance with an advantageous characteristic of the invention, also beneficial for the aeraulics at the level of the ejection and physical sorting zone of the objects, and as shown in Figures 2 to 6, the installation (1) comprises an upper deflecting wall (15) of concave curved shape, mounted in the outlet box (10) and extending above the openings of the compartments (11, 11'), substantially from the outlet end (5”) of the conveyor (5) and following the containment structure (9), to a rear wall (10') of the outlet box (10) or of the compartment (11') receiving the ejected objects (2), an inspection window (17) for the detection device (6) being arranged between the outlet of said containment structure (9), on the one hand, and said upper deflecting wall (15) and said deflecting wing (14), on the other hand (with clear view of the 5' belt of conveyor 5).

[0064] It can be seen by comparing Figures 2 to 6 with [Fig.l] that the upper deflecting wall (15), which forms the roof of the box, is lowered, which allows better control of the trajectory of the ejected objects (2), and the resulting reduction in the internal volume of the box also limits the possibility of turbulence forming.

[0065] The combination of the aforementioned wall (15) and wing (14) makes it possible to reduce the turbulent dispersion of the air flow leaving the tunnel at the window (17) and in the outlet box (10) and to guide the majority component of this flow towards the outlet closest to the outlet of the conveyor and the minority component towards the outlet or outlets further away. It can of course be envisaged to be able to move this wall (15) and / or this wing (14), in rotation and / or in translation, to modify their position and / or inclination, and thus to be able to controllably modify the circulations of the air flows in the box, and for example to adapt the aeraulic configurations prevailing in the latter to the types of products to be sorted, to the remaining turbulence and / or to the circumstances of evacuation of the air to the outside.

[0066] This feature of extending and lowering the deflecting wall (15) is easily identifiable in the attached drawings by comparing Figures 2 to 6 with [Fig. 1]. The aforementioned double effect (better guidance and less turbulent dispersion of the air flow from the tunnel) can be further increased by extending the or each separating wall (8) upwards in such a way that its upper edge is located above the conveying plane (plane on which the passing objects rest), for example by 5 to 15 cm.

[0067] As shown in Figures 2 to 6 (in particular by comparison with [Fig.l]), the installation (1) may advantageously comprise, in the outlet box (10), a curtain of strips (16) extending along and, at least in the upper part, at a distance from a rear wall of the outlet box (10) or of the compartment (11') receiving the ejected objects (2), opposite the corresponding separation wall (8), so as to be located above and partially in the compartment (11') receiving the corresponding ejected objects (2), and thus to interfere with the trajectory of the majority of the ejected objects (2), the strips (16) being either freely hanging, or secured at their lower ends to the rear wall of the outlet box (10) or of the compartment (11') receiving the ejected objects (2), attached in the upper part to said upper deflector wall (15)

[0068] By advancing the strips (16) and bringing them closer to the separation wall (8), they are moved into the trajectory of a greater number of ejected objects (2) - and not only those projected up to the rear wall of the box. Thus, the vast majority of them come into contact with these strips and see their horizontal speed cancelled and their trajectory interrupted. Due to their flexibility, the strips (16) stop the horizontal movement by absorbing their kinetic energy. Due to this soft absorption, the objects (2), after coming into contact with these strips (16), slide downwards along them and do not tend to return backwards. Thus, ejection into the correct outlet (12) is better ensured.

[0069] According to two possible constructive variants, the strips (16) can either be freely hanging (figures 2 and 6), or be secured at their lower ends to the rear wall (10') of the outlet box (10) or the compartment (11') receiving the ejected objects (2) (figures 3 to 5). These strips (16), secured or not at their lower ends to the rear wall of the outlet box (10) or the compartment (11') receiving the ejected objects (2), and attached where appropriate in the upper part to the deflector wall (15), are spaced apart from each other and constitute a curtain perforated by slot-shaped passages. These strips (16) also prevent possible contact of ejected objects (2) with the rear wall (10') of the box, where one or more air outlets (22') are advantageously arranged, while allowing air to pass through.This prevents the clogging of these rear air outlets (22') which open directly or indirectly onto the outside environment, as the ejected objects cannot reach the said rear or bottom wall of the box.

[0070] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention, and as shown in Figures 2 to 6, the sorter (3) of the installation is a sorter (3) of the binary type, for example a binary optical sorter, and the outlet box (10) of the installation (1) comprises a single separating wall (8) dividing between them a first compartment (11) for receiving the non-ejected objects (2) and a second compartment (11') for receiving the ejected objects (2).

[0071] Preferably, the separation wall (8) comprises at and along its upper edge (8'), advantageously provided with a motorized roller (8”) forming a separator and located where appropriate above the plane of the conveyor (5), a wing (18) forming a flap inclined towards the first compartment (11) and arranged to deflect over said upper edge (8') the part of the laminar air flow (FAL) leaving the guide tunnel (9') and not deflected towards the outlet (12) of the first compartment (11).

[0072] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, in particular in comparison with [Fig. 1], the part of the air flow leaving the tunnel (9') which is not directed towards the first outlet (12) is first deflected upwards by the flap (18) and, after passing the upper edge (8'), is directed into the compartment (11') in relative depression, along the wall (8). This trajectory of the air guarantees a better targeted ejection of light objects and therefore their routing towards the compartment (11') and the appropriate outlet. Indeed, they have less tendency to flutter and fall randomly on one side or the other of the separating wall (8).

[0073] In accordance with another advantageous characteristic of the invention, emerging from [Fig. 4], compatible with the aforementioned characteristics and variants and beneficial in relation to maintenance at the outlet box (10), the upper deflector wall (15) constitutes the upper closing wall or roof of the outlet box (10) and is mounted to move, in translation or pivoting, between a lowered working position and a raised maintenance position (see the arrow illustrating the pivoting movement of this wall at its front end and the arrow illustrating the upward movement at the rear).

[0074] In addition, the volume of the outlet box (10) advantageously has, in the raised position of the deflecting wall (15), sufficient clear space to allow access by an operator, preferably in a standing position, into the compartment (11') for receiving the ejected objects (2), for example through a door (19) mounted in a side wall of said box (10).

[0075] Furthermore, and as also shown in [Fig. 4], at least one of the compartments (11, 11'), among the compartment (11) for receiving the non-ejected objects (2) and the compartment (11') for receiving the ejected objects (2), is preferably equipped with a respective platform (20, 20') for an operator, this or these platform(s) (20, 20') being mounted movably between a retracted position of non-use and a deployed position of use, the movement from one position to the other being carried out by sliding or tilting.

[0076] As illustrated in [Fig.4], a first platform (20) can be mounted with the ability to move in translation between a storage position under the conveyor (5) and a deployed position in the compartment (11) for receiving non-ejected objects. A second platform (20') can be mounted with ability to pivot on the rear wall (10') of the outlet box (10), and thus be moved between a raised storage position (against said wall) and a lowered position in which it extends into the compartment (11') for receiving the ejected objects (see the arrows in [Fig.5]).

[0077] To carry out the change of configuration of the installation (between work and maintenance) in a secure manner, the latter may comprise, according to a first variant embodiment, a controlled actuator, for example a hydraulic or electric cylinder, ensuring the controlled movement of the upper deflector wall (15) between its lowered working position and its raised maintenance position, this actuator (not shown) also ensuring a simultaneous and synchronous movement at least of the platform (20') associated with the compartment (11') for receiving the ejected objects (2), between its retracted position and its deployed position (see the arrows indicating the translation and rotation movements in [Fig.4]).

[0078] In accordance with another variant embodiment, only the second platform (20') retractable by pivoting, and possibly the first platform retractable by translation, are moved by jacks, the movement of the upper deflecting wall (15) between its lowered working position and its raised maintenance position being carried out by manual actuation (for example with a crank mechanism).

[0079] Thanks to the aforementioned technical provisions, in particular the implementation of means influencing the aeraulic conditions in the box, tests carried out by the inventors with a binary sorting installation (1) and with a flow of objects (2) to be sorted comprising plastic films (not ejected, negative outlet or by simple fall) and sheets of office paper (ejected, positive outlet or second outlet) made it possible to note, compared to similar tests with an installation according to [Fig.l]: - At 3m / s: reduction of 35% of the entrainment of plastic films during the ejection of the paper (the purity of the ejected flow thus increased from 80 to 87%) and increase in the sorting efficiency (Percentage of blown objects reaching the ejected outlet), which increased from 92% to 96% (this corresponds to a 50% reduction in losses during sorting); - At 4.5 m / s: increase in purity of the ejected paper stream from 87 to 95%, i.e. a 62% reduction in the entrainment of plastic films and an increase in sorting efficiency from 92% to 96%, i.e. a 50% reduction in losses during sorting.

[0080] As a complementary means, in particular in relation to the deflecting wing (14), which may in certain specific cases of application prove beneficial in terms of controlling the aeraulic conditions and the air flows in the box (10), and as shown in Figures 5 and 6, it may be provided that the outlet box (10) is furthermore subjected, in addition to the injection of air creating the laminar air flow (FAL), to an as air intake to evacuate excess air in the installation (1) to the outside, substantially without disturbing the flow of objects (2) to be sorted or sorted.

[0081] For this purpose, the installation (1) may comprise two mutually independent air circulation devices (21, 22), for example turbines, one of which (21) ensures the injection of outside air for the generation of the laminar air flow (FAL) and the other of which (22) ensures the suction and evacuation to the outside of the installation (1) of the excess air at the outlet box (10), the aforementioned air suction and evacuation device (22) being adjusted or controlled as a function at least of the surface area and the quantity of the sorted objects (2), as well as the possibilities of air passage to the outside at the evacuation outlets (12).

[0082] Thus, the invention proposes, in relation to this possible variant, to carry out a positive and controlled suction of the excess air, independently of the injected air and taking into account the current situation in terms of spontaneous air evacuation (in particular through the outlets) and the type and quantity of objects to be sorted. Thanks to this additional arrangement, it is thus in particular possible to further increase the sorting performance (by improving the air circulation at the outlet box), while limiting energy consumption (by adapting the suction to the real needs, limited due to the beneficial action of the deflecting wing).

[0083] In the event of satisfactory evacuation of the excess air through the opening(s) (13 and / or 22') for evacuating air at atmospheric pressure, in particular present at the outlets (12) and / or the rear or bottom wall (10') of the box (10), and in particular when the deflecting wing (14) fully plays its role of guiding the air flow (FAL) towards the first outlet (12), the role of the suction device (22) and therefore its action may be significantly limited, as may its energy consumption, or even suspended completely (shutdown of the suction device).

[0084] Although the suction device (22) is essentially described and shown herein in relation to an active air circulation means (turbine or the like), it may alternatively be envisaged, as already mentioned previously, that the suction of air towards the outside, in particular through one or more openings (22') in the bottom or rear wall (10'), in addition to the opening(s) (13) present in the lower part of the box or at the outlets (12), is done passively, for example by venting to the open air via an evacuation structure generating a natural suction phenomenon, or by simple pressure difference.

[0085] In addition, the outlet box (10) may optionally also comprise one or more air outlet openings (22') fluidically connected to the air suction and evacuation device (22) and located behind the upper deflector wall (15) and / or behind the curtain of strips (16). The wall (15) is then preferably perforated or openwork at its proximal end of the rear wall (10') of the box (10) and adjoining the curtain (16).

[0086] At least one opening (22') is preferably present in the rear wall (10') of said outlet box (10), substantially opposite and opposite the outlet (5”) of the conveyor (5), connected to a suction device (22) or directly to the outside atmosphere.

[0087] Furthermore, by moving them away from the bottom of the box (10), the strips have less tendency to be sucked near the opening (22') in the rear wall of the box (10), when the suction is carried out at least partially at this level.

[0088] In the first case, the strips (16) are sufficiently long to constitute a barrier between the suction opening (22') and the rear or upper wall of the box to prevent ejected light objects from being sucked in at this level. Furthermore, their distance from said rear wall (10') must be such that the suction generated tends to cause the majority of the air present in the box (10) to bypass the strips (16) from below (see solid arrows on dotted line in [Fig. 6]). This creates a current of air and depressurized conditions in the compartment (11'), especially when the strips are tightened together and are located at an adequate distance from the rear wall, causing the ejected objects (2) downwards and towards the corresponding outlet (12).In practice, these strips (16) are located sufficiently far from this wall so that the speed of the air rising towards the suction opening is low and does not allow the entrainment of light objects, but also sufficiently close to it so as not to reduce too much the free section of the compartment for ejected objects.

[0089] The strips (16), which are secured at their lower ends to the rear wall (10') of the outlet box (10) or the compartment (11') receiving the ejected objects (2), are spaced apart from each other and constitute a curtain perforated by slot-shaped passages, and this perforated curtain is arranged transversely in the outlet box (10) so as to be crossed by the internal air sucked in by the device (22) ensuring the suction and evacuation of said excess air.

[0090] The curtain of strips (16) being openwork to allow air to pass through and fixed at the bottom, it forms a puffy curtain overhanging the compartment (11'). The objects (2) coming into contact with it cannot therefore get caught on it and fall by gravity into the appropriate outlet ([Fig.5]).

[0091] It is noted that in the two embodiments and variants shown in Figures 5 and 6, the air is sucked above the compartment (11') receiving the ejected objects (2), and preferably outside the trajectories of the latter.

[0092] In the present invention, the invention is shown in the attached figures and essentially described in relation to a binary sorting installation, i.e. with an outlet for the ejected objects (subjected to the action of an air jet) and an outlet for the non-ejected objects (not subjected to the action of an air jet and which fall freely when leaving the conveyor). However, a person skilled in the art can easily, with his general knowledge, transpose the improvements of the invention to a ternary sorting installation, i.e. with two ejected outlets by adapting the air jet ejection device (7) (implementation of two different types of jets) and the outlet box (10) (presence of two separating walls and three receiving compartments, namely an additional receiving compartment for ejected objects, located between the two receiving compartments described and shown).

[0093] Of course, the invention is not limited to the embodiments described and shown in the attached drawings. Modifications remain possible, particularly from the point of view of the constitution of the various elements or by substitution of technical equivalents, without departing from the scope of protection of the invention.

Claims

Claims

1. Installation (1) for sorting objects (2) comprising, advantageously mounted in an envelope (1'), a sorter (3) with planar geometry and an air management system (4) controlling the circulation of air in the installation (1), the sorter (3) comprising at least: - a conveyor (5) with a moving belt (5') on which the objects (2) to be sorted are arranged in a single or monolayer, - a detection device (6) configured to inspect the objects (2) circulating on the conveyor (5) and classify them after analysis into at least two categories, - an air jet ejection device (7), for example in the form of a nozzle bar, located at the outlet end (5”) of the conveyor (5) and configured to selectively eject upwards the objects (2) detected as belonging to at least one of the classification categories and falling from said outlet end (5”), - at least one separating wall (8) arranged at a distance from the outlet end (5”) of the conveyor (5) and configured to separate from each other a flow (FOCL) of freely falling objects (2) and at least one flow (FOE) of ejected objects (2), and the air management system (4) comprising at least: - a containment structure (9) extending above the conveyor (5) over a longitudinal part of the latter and forming with it a guide tunnel (9') into which is injected, by means of an external air injection device (21), a laminar air flow (FAL) circulating substantially at the same speed as the objects (2) to be sorted, -an outlet box (10), forming part of or mounted in the envelope (F) where appropriate, cooperating with the separation wall(s) (8) to constitute a compartment (11) for receiving the non-ejected objects (2) and at least one compartment (11') for receiving the ejected objects (2), these compartments (11, 11') having respective outlets (12) for evacuating downwards the categorized objects (2) which have fallen or been thrown therein, installation (1) characterized in that it comprises at least one deflecting wing (14) arranged and configured to direct the laminar air flow (FAL) leaving the guide tunnel (9') at least partially, preferably at least half, towards the outlet (12) associated with the com- compartment (11) for receiving objects (2) not ejected.

2. Installation (1) for sorting objects according to claim 1, characterized in that the deflecting wing (14) is located after the exit from the tunnel (9') for guiding the laminar air flow (FAL), preferably in the extension and at a distance from the upper wall of the confinement structure (9) in the direction of the laminar air flow (FAL), and extends transversely to this direction, so as to be impacted by a higher fraction of said flow (FAL), after its ejection from said tunnel (9').

3. Installation (1) for sorting objects according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the deflecting wing (14) is mounted substantially at the level of the inlet of the outlet box (10) and has a configuration, dimensioning and arrangement such that the upper fraction of the laminar air flow (FAL) which impacts it represents approximately between 15% to 35%, preferably between 20% and 30%, by volume of said air flow (FAL) ejected from the tunnel (9'), and that the part of said air flow (FAL) deflected towards the outlet (12) associated with the compartment (11) for receiving the non-ejected objects (2), or first outlet, flows substantially along the separating wall (8).

4. Installation (1) for sorting objects according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the deflecting wing (14) is mounted with the ability to retract upwards, preferably by positive lifting, under the action of an object (2) passing and coming into contact with it when it passes under said wing (14).

5. Installation (1) for sorting objects according to claim 4, characterized in that the deflecting wing (14) is pivotally mounted around an axis (AP) arranged in a plane parallel to the plane of the conveyor (5) and arranged perpendicular to the direction of movement of the objects (2), said axis (AP) being located at a distance from the plane of the conveyor (5) at least equal to the height of the tunnel (9') and advantageously extending along one of the longitudinal edges of the deflecting wing (14).

6. Installation (1) for sorting objects according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that it comprises an upper deflecting wall (15) of concave curved shape, mounted in the outlet box (10) and extending above the openings of the compartments (11, 11'), substantially from the outlet end (5”) of the conveyor (5) and following the containment structure (9), to a rear wall (10') of the outlet box (10) or of the compartment (11') receiving the ejected objects (2), an inspection window (17) for the detection device (6) being arranged between the outlet of said confinement structure (9), on the one hand, and said upper deflector wall (15) and said deflector wing, on the other hand.

7. Installation (1) for sorting objects according to claim 6, characterized in that the deflecting wing (14) is arranged between the outlet end (5”) of the conveyor (5) and a front edge of the upper deflecting wall (15), at a distance from the outlet of the guide tunnel (9').

8. Installation (1) for sorting objects according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that it comprises, in the outlet box (10), a curtain of strips (16) extending along and, at least in the upper part, at a distance from a rear wall of the outlet box (10) or of the compartment (11') receiving the ejected objects (2), opposite the corresponding separation wall (8), so as to be located above and partially in the compartment (11') receiving the corresponding ejected objects (2), and thus to interfere with the trajectory of the majority of the ejected objects (2), the strips (16) being either freely hanging, or secured at their lower ends to the rear wall of the outlet box (10) or of the compartment (11') receiving the ejected objects (2).

9. Installation (1) for sorting objects according to claim 8 or claims 6 and 8, characterized in that the strips (16), secured or not at their lower ends to the rear wall of the outlet box (10) or of the compartment (11') receiving the ejected objects (2), and attached where appropriate in the upper part to the deflector wall (15), are spaced apart from each other and constitute a curtain perforated by slot-shaped passages.

10. Installation (1) for sorting objects according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that it comprises a sorter (3) of binary type and a single separating wall (8) dividing between them a first compartment (11) for receiving the non-ejected objects (2) and a second compartment (11') for receiving the ejected objects (2), this separating wall (8) comprising at and along its upper edge (8'), advantageously provided with a motorized roller (8”) forming a separator and located where appropriate above the plane of the conveyor (5), a wing (18) forming a flap inclined towards the first compartment (11) and arranged to deflect over said upper edge (8') the part of the laminar air flow (FAL) leaving the guide tunnel (9') and not diverted to the outlet (12) of the first compartment (11).

11. Installation (1) for sorting objects according to claim 9 or claims 6 and 8, characterized in that the upper deflector wall (15) constitutes the upper closing wall or roof of the outlet box (10) and is mounted to move, in translation or pivoting, between a lowered working position and a raised maintenance position, the volume of the outlet box (10) having, in the raised position of the deflector wall (15), sufficient clear space to allow access by an operator, preferably in a standing position, into the compartment (11') for receiving the ejected objects (2), for example through a door (19) mounted in a side wall of said box (10).

12. Installation (1) for sorting objects according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that at least one of the compartments (11, 11'), among the compartment (11) for receiving the non-ejected objects (2) and the compartment (11') for receiving the ejected objects (2), is equipped with a respective platform (20, 20') for an operator, this or these platform(s) (20, 20') being mounted movably between a retracted position of non-use and a deployed position of use, the movement from one position to the other being carried out by sliding or tilting.

13. Installation (1) for sorting objects according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the outlet box (10) is further subjected, in addition to the injection of air creating the laminar air flow (FAL), to an air suction to evacuate to the outside the excess air in the installation (1), substantially without disturbing the flows of the objects (2) to be sorted or sorted, and in that it comprises two mutually independent air circulation devices (21, 22), for example turbines, one of which (21) ensures the injection of outside air for the generation of the laminar air flow (FAL) and the other of which (22) ensures the suction and evacuation to the outside of the installation (1) of the excess air at the outlet box (10), the aforementioned air suction and evacuation device (22) being regulated or controlled according to at least the surface area and quantity of the objects (2) sorted,as well as possibilities for air passage to the outside at the level of the evacuation outlets (12).,

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