Intelligent machine for sorting semi-precious minerals

Abstract

This paper proposes is devoted to solving the problem of sorting workpieces from minerals and semi-precious stones that are used in jewelry production. Intensive development of production leads to a reduction of natural resources, including semi-precious minerals. Therefore, the task of saving the use of minerals is relevant. The solution is based on the idea a new method for sorting semi-precious minerals is proposed, as well as the design of an intelligent installation for implementing this method. An increase in the accuracy of sorting semiprecious minerals has been achieved through the use of charge-coupled device (CCD) matrices, which automatically determine the volume of each mineral in 3D space. From the simulation work, it was found in comparison with manual sorting, the proposed method has reduced the amount of waste in the manufacture of jewelry by 15% ... 20%. Experimental studies were carried out using the example of such a semiprecious mineral as amber. The cost of raw amber in the amount of one kilogram on the modern market is in the range of 1200…2200 US dollars. The result confirms that the method is superior to the alternative method, with the achieved average waste saving of 20%, the proposed sorting technology makes it possible to obtain a profit of 240...440 US dollars per kilogram of amber. Ultimately, these solutions can improve the efficiency of jewelry production.