[INQ. NO. 2610M05] An AI-based resource circulation ecosystem has been introduced that manages the entire process—from waste disposal and collection to the sorting of recyclables—using data.
ACI, a company specializing in environmental technology, participated in RETECH 2026, a waste & resource circulation industry exhibition – in order to showcase an integrated control solution linking its smart waste collection brand, ‘Nature Store’, with its AI-powered waste sorting robot, ‘Dr. B.’
Nature Store is a smart waste collection system that incorporates the Internet of Things (IoT). It operates various collection units tailored to specific waste types and installation environments, such as ‘iSolarbin’ (a solar-powered automatic compacting bin) and ‘iDry-B’ (a food waste processor).
Each collection unit is equipped with a sensor for monitoring the loaded quantity that transmits a signal to the control server (iEcopro C) when the bin reaches more than 80% of its total capacity.
“Information regarding the status and fill level of the bins is shared in real-time with collection vehicle drivers via a mobile app. By optimizing collection routes based on this data, we can reduce fuel consumption and carbon emissions associated with vehicle operations,” a spokesperson for the company remarked.
He added, “In actual field applications — such as a case in Seoul where we also integrated biometric data, such as workers’ heart rates, alongside route optimization to ensure safety in the working environment.”
Collected waste undergoes high-purity sorting and classification through using Dr. B. Installed at the rear end of the optical automatic sorter, it learns to identify the material and intended use of waste based on 2D-image data and machine-learning technology.
According to the company, the robot identifies 112 different material types and colors, including PET, paper, and aluminum. A company spokesperson pointed out, “Even when new types of items appear, the AI camera quickly learns to recognize them, maintaining sorting efficiency,” adding, “By focusing on extracting high-value recyclables, it boosts added value while also helping to prevent industrial accidents in hazardous sorting environments.”
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