The RECLAIM project is the world’s first fully-automated portable robotic Material Recovery Facility (prMRF) that uses AI and low-cost robots to perform material recovery operations. The prMRF fits inside a standard shipping container using advanced robotic waste management technology to efficiently and effectively sort recyclable municipal waste under challenging conditions.
As part of the AI-driven robotic waste management technology, the prMRF carries an advanced AI-ILC module that supports material identification, localisation and categorisation to increase material recovery rates for enhanced recycling opportunities.
In this module, the project is using existing AI technologies to develop effective solutions combining visual and hyperspectral information. The final output of this AI-ILC module is to accurately guide the Robotic Recycling Workers (RoReWo) Team in sorting recyclables.
Advanced Material Detection using Hyperspectral Imaging
This is where IRIS Technology comes in.
As the leader of RECLAIM project’s Work Package 3 (Recyclable Waste Detection and Categorisation), IRIS has developed a prototype system built around hyperspectral imaging (HSI). According to their recently-published blogpost, “This technology captures detailed spectral data for each pixel in an image, producing a three-dimensional dataset—two spatial dimensions plus a spectral dimension. Each pixel carries a unique spectral signature that reflects the chemical composition of the material it represents.”
More on IRIS’ contribution can be found here.
Meanwhile, the RECLAIM Project is organising its final event in Brussels at the EU Green Week on June 4. At the EU Green Week in Brussels next month, 6 European Union-funded projects will band together to share their cross-sectoral knowledge on the practical application of digital and AI-driven solutions to enhance sustainability, reduce waste and drive strategic autonomy in industrial sectors. Read more about the event here.
Discover how AI and robotics are revolutionising resource efficiency and automation to drive Europe’s circular transformation.