Plastic Sorting Device with Dynamic Mixing Rate Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sorting methods for plastics, such as wet specific-gravity sorting and electrostatic sorting, face accuracy and collection rate issues when the mixing rates of mixed plastic pieces fluctuate from normal rates, particularly due to seasonal variations in discarded household appliances.
Innovation Solution
A sorting method that identifies the types of plastic pieces using a beam, calculates mixing rates, and adjusts specific-gravity sorting and electrostatic sorting conditions accordingly, utilizing data processing to optimize the sorting process by controlling the supply and discharge ports, and adjusting electrostatic sorting apparatus configurations based on calculated mixing rates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional wet specific-gravity sorting and electrostatic sorting are used with fixed operation conditions, then the sorting process is simple and easy to operate, but the sorting accuracy and collection rate deteriorate when mixing rates fluctuate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the sorting apparatus operation conditions adjustable rather than fixed. The control unit dynamically adjusts sorting parameters (such as electrostatic field strength, specific gravity liquid density, and port opening degrees) based on real-time mixing rate data from the identification apparatus, allowing the system to adapt to fluctuating plastic composition while maintaining high sorting accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback by using the identification apparatus to continuously detect plastic piece types and calculate mixing rates, which are then fed back to the control unit. This feedback loop enables the control unit to modify sorting apparatus operations in real-time according to actual mixing conditions, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and sorting accuracy
2Device complexity
If fixed operation conditions are used for sorting apparatus, then the device complexity is low, but the collection rate lowers when mixing rates deviate from normal rates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having the identification apparatus detect plastic piece types and calculate mixing rates before the actual sorting process begins. This preliminary identification allows the control unit to pre-adjust sorting apparatus parameters to optimal values for the current mixing conditions, maximizing collection rate before sorting starts
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universality by integrating multiple functions into the sorting system: the identification apparatus serves both as a detection device and as a data source for controlling the sorting apparatus. The control unit coordinates multiple sorting mechanisms (specific gravity sorting, electrostatic sorting, and port control) based on unified mixing rate data, allowing one system to handle varying plastic compositions effectively
3Measurement precision
If sorting apparatus operation conditions are adjusted to match fluctuating mixing rates, then sorting accuracy and collection rate are maintained at high levels, but the device complexity and data processing requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies mechanics substitution by replacing complex mechanical adjustment mechanisms with an automated control system that uses electronic signals. Instead of manual or mechanical adjustment of sorting parameters, the control unit electronically adjusts apparatus operations based on data from the identification apparatus, reducing mechanical complexity while maintaining high sorting accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements intermediary by introducing a control unit as a mediator between the identification apparatus and the sorting apparatus. This intermediary coordinates the data flow and control signals, simplifying the overall system architecture by centralizing the coordination function and reducing direct complex interactions between multiple apparatus components
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach ensures high accuracy and efficiency in collecting sorted plastics by setting optimal sorting conditions according to fluctuating mixing rates, enhancing collection yield and maintaining high sorting performance even when mixing rates deviate from normal levels.
Implementation Method 1
the identifying step includes identifying the plurality of types of the plastic pieces with a beam
Implementation Method 2
a wet specific-gravity sorting utilizing differences in specific gravity between types of plastics is performed on a mixed plastic piece group
Implementation Method 3
first stage electrostatic sorting by utilizing characteristics of plastics, that is, differences in triboelectric series of types of plastics
Data Source
AI summary
A sorting method for plastics, including: sorting a predetermined plastic piece from a mixed plastic piece group including plastic pieces of a plurality of types; identifying the plurality of types of the plastic pieces; and calculating mixing rates of the plurality of types in the mixed plastic piece group based on a result obtained in the identifying, the identifying is performed on the mixed plastic piece group prior to the sorting, a sorting condition of the sorting is set based on an identification result obtained in the identifying, the identifying includes identifying the plurality of types of the plastic pieces with a beam.