Abstract: Sorting apparatus comprising conveying means for conveying input objects into to the apparatus, extraction means for extracting from the conveying means input objects identified as belonging to a particular object-class processing means arranged to received input data corresponding at least to the portions across the conveying means of said identified input objects and to output control signals corresponding to the input data to the extraction means to effect extraction of said identified input objects, where the extraction means comprises an array of nozzles extending in a direction (z) across the conveying means, each of which is independently operable under control of the processing means to produce an air jet in a generally upward direction (y), and is arranged to activate sub-groups of nozzles corresponding to, and in response to, said control signals, characterised in that the conveying means has a partially open surface arranged to convey input objects over the array of nozzles, in that the array of no

Abstract: Apparatus for classifying objects in an input waste stream comprises a hyperspectral sensor, means for moving objects in the input waste stream relative to the sensor and through a sensing region thereof, and processing means for classifying objects in the input waste stream on the basis of signals output from the hyperspectral sensor to the processing means. The apparatus allows classification of objects composed of one of a wide range of materials and also provides for discrimination of objects comprising different grades of the same material.

Abstract: Sorting apparatus comprising conveying means for conveying input objects into to the apparatus, extraction means for extracting from the conveying means input objects identified as belonging to a particular object-class processing means arranged to received input data corresponding at least to the portions across the conveying means of said identified input objects and to output control signals corresponding to the input data to the extraction means to effect extraction of said identified input objects, where the extraction means comprises an array of nozzles extending in a direction (z) across the conveying means, each of which is independently operable under control of the processing means to produce an air jet in a generally upward direction (y), and is arranged to activate sub-groups of nozzles corresponding to, and in response to, said control signals, characterised in that the conveying means has a partially open surface arranged to convey input objects over the array of nozzles, in that the array of no

Abstract: Apparatus for classifying objects in an input waste stream comprises a hyperspectral sensor, means for moving objects in the input waste stream relative to the sensor and through a sensing region thereof, and processing means for classifying objects in the input waste stream on the basis of signals output from the hyperspectral sensor to the processing means. The apparatus allows classification of objects composed of one of a wide range of materials and also provides for discrimination of objects comprising different grades of the same material.

Abstract: A process analysis system for analyzing the efficiency of industrial processes includes a first radio system (104) associated with an input part of a processing system, and a second radio system (105) associated with an output part of a processing system, and a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tag associated with an item (103) to be processed, wherein the first and second radio systems are able to communicate with the RFID tag as it and its associated item pass through the processing system, and data associated therewith is stored on a data logging system. The system may be employed to check the time taken to process the item, or to check other parameters of the process, such as sorting accuracy for a sorting process. The system is particularly suited to use in waste product sorting and filtration systems, where RFID tags can be placed on a sample basis on items to be sorted, but may be applied to other suitable processes.