AI technology powers up battery detection system

AI specialist Lion Vision has launched a product which it believes is poised to revolutionise the waste and recycling industry.

It has developed a system that combines advanced vision systems with machine-learning techniques to detect and extract lithium-ion batteries and other hazardous items from the waste stream.

Lion Vision’s detection system is now in place at a range of sites across the UK and the technology could have a significant positive effect on the environmental impact globally.

Richard Hewitson, chief executive at Lion Vision said: “We spotted this existential issue early and set about finding a solution.

“Working with Innovate UK and partnering with The University of Manchester was a logical approach and helped enormously in expediting our development of an AI detection solution to address one of society’s toughest challenges.

“Seeing the product proving itself in the market is a very proud moment for us all and justifies the many years of hard work to get to this point.”

It is the result of a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) with academics from The University of Manchester, which was supported by a £125,000 grant from Innovate UK.

Lion Vision partnered with Professor of Artificial Intelligence, Hujun Yin, to bring the concept to life.

The Lion Vision system can analyse more than half a million images in a 24-hour window and detect more than 600 cylinder batteries per hour. It can also be programmed to detect more than 40 battery subtypes and other hazardous objects, such as vapes.

Prof Hujun Yin added: “My work in AI and vision systems has often given me insight into challenges that society faces, and this project was no exception.

“It is our responsibility to find engineering solutions to these problems. I have no doubt that the system created by the partnership and the team at Lion Vision will have a significant impact on the waste industry.”