The Use of Robots & AI in E-Waste Management

🌱 What is automated disassembly?

When robots take apart e-waste, this is commonly referred to as the “automated disassembly” of e-waste. An example of this might be a robotic arm pulling screws out of old computer or TV screens. In order to complete this task, the automated disassembly system unsurprisingly requires data to map out the product and subcomponents at hand. The system can gather this data itself through phases of so-called “identification and condition evaluation”. Alternatively, the system can also make use of preexisting data from different sources. Once the product and its subcomponents have been correctly mapped out, it is possible for the robot to follow and execute a so-called “disassembly sequence” to step-by-step take apart the e-waste at hand.

🌱 How are robots and AI used?

For the automated disassembly of e-waste to work properly, good data processing and modeling is needed. In line with this, the robots used are typically “equipped with advanced sensors, artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning capabilities”. This allows the robots “to adapt to changing conditions, troubleshoot issues, and optimize operations in real time”. Overall, AI can be said to “enhance the intelligence of robots”. Therewith, AI can enable robots “to optimize work processes and successfully adapt to new environments through the use of basic commands”.

🌱 What are robotic microfactories?

The term “robotic microfactories” is sometimes used to describe small-scale factories, where robots recover and recycle e-waste. Practical examples of where robotic microfactories are already used can be found in the context of e-waste management from data centers and companies focused on the disposal of IT assets. By automating e-waste disassembly, robotic microfactories can provide an alternative to manually disassembling e-waste, incinerating it, or dumping it in the landfill. Therewith, these factories also have the potential to reduce the health and environmental risks stemming from the toxic elements found in e-waste.

🌱 How is e-waste management changing?

Over the past few years, automated robots have come to be used more and more in recycling, re-use, and remanufacturing. If well designed, these automated robots can work with very high levels of “speed, accuracy, and dependability” and allow for “a surge in both productivity and output”. For companies working in e-waste management or metals recycling, this can be an “opportunity to enhance their production capabilities, maximize profitability, and maintain a competitive edge in the market”.