Sorteerija

Sorteerija is a device or system that sorts items into categories based on predefined criteria, using mechanical, optical, magnetic, or pneumatic methods. It can be a standalone machine or part of an automated sorting line in factories, warehouses, recycling facilities, or agricultural operations. In practice, sorters separate items by characteristics such as size, weight, shape, material, color, or destination.

Common types include optical sorters (vision-based with cameras and sensors), magnetic sorters (ferrous metals), infrared or near-infrared sorters (material characterization), air-jet or pneumatic sorters, and gravity or mechanical sorters. In packaging and manufacturing, sorters route products to different packaging streams, quality-control bins, or shipping lanes. In recycling, sorting streams separate plastics, metals, glass and other materials to improve recyclability. In agriculture, fruit and vegetable sorters grade by size and color, improving uniformity. In postal and logistics facilities, automated sorters read addresses or barcodes to route parcels.

Operation typically involves a feeder or hopper delivering items to a conveyor, where sensors detect attributes; a processing unit decides the category and diverters or air jets route items to appropriate chutes or bins. History shows mechanical sorters arising with early industrial automation, followed by electronic sensors, robotics, and vision systems that increased speed and accuracy in modern lines.

Benefits include higher throughput, improved consistency, and safer handling of materials. Challenges involve mis-sorting, contamination in mixed streams, maintenance needs, and upfront capital costs. See also sorting algorithm, optical sorter, magnetic separator.