AI-Powered Smart Garment Sorting System for Recycling

This smart, automated sorting system provides an effective and efficient solution to sort reusable and resalable postconsumer garments by using artificial intelligence and image analysis. The integrated system comprises four highly customisable AI-backed modules connected by a conveyor path with robotic arms to identify garment type, fabric structure, material composition and colour. The four modules can be operated as stand-alone units or arranged in different order to carry out specific sorting tasks and business operations. In terms of performance, the fabric structure module operates at 95% accuracy while other modules operate at over 90% accuracy. This system is able to sort bulk garments effectively and generates a full set of results in eight seconds, eliminating most manpower requirements and minimising hygiene concerns. The value of the recycled garment materials can be maintained, extending the garment lifecycle while contributing to the sustainability and eco friendliness of the industry.

Application

Garment sorting system can be installed for industrial use in textile recycling stations. Equipped with our AI machineries and its proprietary AI algorithms, the system analyses and identifies garment types, materials, and fabric structure automatically to provide data for operators to make decision over recycling, for instance, if the garment is suitable for recycling or what kind of recycling approach to be adopted.

Process of Post-consumer Garments Sorting

Post-consumer garments are collected, fed into the system, and validated through visual technology that can automatically classify garment types, garment composition and garment structure with high accuracy and speed by analysing the visible and hyperspectral spectrum. Parameters are set for matching spectral patterns for further textile upcycling process.

Classification modules are interlinked with each other via a central system and hereby achieving complete traceability. Result generated in downstream modules are cross-checked with the upstream modules to ensure consistency. The garment delivery process is aided with automated devices that can reduce manual control. The whole garment sorting system is flexible; and can be customised to suit operators’ need, for instance, the order of the working steps or the database for garment recognition.

Industry Benefit

As more fashion brands are being aware of using recycled materials, the smart garment sorting system can fill the technological gap that encourages post-consumer garments recycling. It can help fashion brand reduce the demand of virgin fibres and becoming more sustainable, while reducing disposal of post-consumer garments to the landfill.

Awards

48th Int'l Exhibition of Inventions of Geneva (2023) - Gold Medal
2023 Just Style Excellence Awards - Category Winner - Innovation (Textile Recycling)

https://www.hkrita.com/en/our-innovation-tech/projects/smart-garment-sorting-for-recycling