Sorting by speech recognition

Valvan Baling Systems, a Belgium-based baling and sorting equipment supplier, has launched a new system featuring a speech recognition module for automated sorting of textiles. The sorting line offers a 30-50% increase in capacity compared to traditional table sorting, predicts Valvan.
The Belgian manufacturer has installed the new system at textile processor Eurofrip, which is located at Zulte in Belgium; the same customer has also ordered a second line for later this year.
Unsorted goods are electronically labelled; the sorter gives information to a voice recognition system, thus consigning ’throwing’ to the past, according to Valvan. With this new concept, the sorter drops the item on to a small conveyor belt beside the sorting table. From there, conveyors and blowing units take over.
Many European companies are considering relocating sorting operations to lower-wage countries, notably in Asia. However, both Valvan Baling Systems and Eurofrip believe that maximised automation will help keep these operations in Europe.