Swiss Eberhard Elevates Sorting Efficiency with ZenRobotics 4.0 System Upgrade

Eberhard, a pioneering force in sustainable waste management, has recently enhanced its robotic sorting capabilities by upgrading to the latest ZenRobotics 4.0 System. The move marks a significant stride in their ongoing commitment to optimising resource recovery processes while championing environmental stewardship.

At their facility in Switzerland, Eberhard boasts a cutting-edge robotic sorting line comprising six Heavy Picker robots, initially installed in 2021. The system efficiently processes up to 200 tonnes rivals of mixed demolition waste per hour, recovering valuable high-purity materials. Notably, these recovered materials are transformed into zirkulit® concrete, a circular building material that rivals its virgin counterparts in both mechanical strength and environmental sustainability. Zirkulit® concrete stores permanently up to 10 kilograms of CO2 emissions per cubic meter and utilizes nearly 7% less cement, contributing to a greener construction industry.

The ZenRobotics 4.0 upgrade introduces several enhancements designed to further elevate operational efficiency and material recovery rates at Eberhard's facility. Each Heavy Picker now benefits from an individual recognition system and ZenBrAIn interface, empowering the robots with enhanced intelligence, speed and adaptability. 

One of the key advancements of the 4.0 system is its improved material recognition capabilities and gripping precision, resulting in higher yields and purity levels of the processes materials. The new software facilitates better decision-making and enables the robots to successfully identify and pick desired objects from the conveyor belt, even amidst challenging conditions. Moreover, the system's compact sensor recognition design minimises space requirements and simplifies maintenance, offering Eberhard greater flexibility for future expansion.

Eberhard also benefits from ZenBrAIn's extensive global training database, encompassing over 500 material categories. This resource reduces the need for localised fraction training, streamlining system commissioning and enhancing overall operational efficiency.

"We are thrilled to enhance our waste sorting capabilities with the ZenRobotics 4.0 System," remarked Jonas Inderbitzin, plant manager at Eberhard. "This upgrade not only boosts our operational efficiency and material recovery rates but also aligns perfectly with our commitment to sustainable waste management practices. The 4.0 upgrade for the Heavy Picker means, it can now lift up to 40 kilograms heavy chunks of material and is smarter than ever before."

In addition to the technological advancements, the ZenRobotics 4.0 upgrade includes a new user-friendly digital interface and online reporting tool, empowering Eberhard with real-time insights into material composition and system performance. They can now easily optimise their sorting tasks and purities of recovered materials at the touch of a button.