EP3919195B1 - A fume cupboard and a method for controlling such fume cupboard - Google Patents
A fume cupboard and a method for controlling such fume cupboard Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP3919195B1 EP3919195B1 EP20177959.2A EP20177959A EP3919195B1 EP 3919195 B1 EP3919195 B1 EP 3919195B1 EP 20177959 A EP20177959 A EP 20177959A EP 3919195 B1 EP3919195 B1 EP 3919195B1
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- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- fume cupboard
- electrical power
- control unit
- fume
- cupboard
- Prior art date
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- 239000003517 fume Substances 0.000 title claims description 165
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 title claims description 56
- 230000008569 process Effects 0.000 claims description 49
- 239000012855 volatile organic compound Substances 0.000 claims description 37
- 230000009849 deactivation Effects 0.000 claims description 14
- 238000004891 communication Methods 0.000 claims description 8
- 238000001514 detection method Methods 0.000 claims description 6
- 230000000903 blocking effect Effects 0.000 claims description 4
- KJLPSBMDOIVXSN-UHFFFAOYSA-N 4-[4-[2-[4-(3,4-dicarboxyphenoxy)phenyl]propan-2-yl]phenoxy]phthalic acid Chemical compound C=1C=C(OC=2C=C(C(C(O)=O)=CC=2)C(O)=O)C=CC=1C(C)(C)C(C=C1)=CC=C1OC1=CC=C(C(O)=O)C(C(O)=O)=C1 KJLPSBMDOIVXSN-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 12
- 238000010438 heat treatment Methods 0.000 description 10
- 238000001816 cooling Methods 0.000 description 6
- 230000003247 decreasing effect Effects 0.000 description 4
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 4
- 230000002349 favourable effect Effects 0.000 description 4
- 230000009286 beneficial effect Effects 0.000 description 3
- 239000000356 contaminant Substances 0.000 description 3
- 230000001276 controlling effect Effects 0.000 description 3
- 230000007613 environmental effect Effects 0.000 description 3
- 230000008859 change Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000005516 engineering process Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000005259 measurement Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000010586 diagram Methods 0.000 description 1
- 231100001261 hazardous Toxicity 0.000 description 1
- 230000003993 interaction Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000012544 monitoring process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000009467 reduction Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000001105 regulatory effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000007921 spray Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000003756 stirring Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000000725 suspension Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000009423 ventilation Methods 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B08—CLEANING
- B08B—CLEANING IN GENERAL; PREVENTION OF FOULING IN GENERAL
- B08B15/00—Preventing escape of dirt or fumes from the area where they are produced; Collecting or removing dirt or fumes from that area
- B08B15/02—Preventing escape of dirt or fumes from the area where they are produced; Collecting or removing dirt or fumes from that area using chambers or hoods covering the area
- B08B15/023—Fume cabinets or cupboards, e.g. for laboratories
Definitions
- the present invention relates to a method for controlling a fume cupboard and such fume cupboard.
- a fume cupboard is a ventilated enclosure where harmful materials can be handled safely.
- the fume cupboard captures contaminants and prevents them from escaping into an environment around the fume cupboard by using an exhaust blower to draw air and contaminants in and around the hood's work area away from the operator so that inhalation of and contact with the contaminants are minimized.
- Access to the interior of the hood is through an opening which can be closed with a sash which typically slides up and down to vary the opening into the hood.
- a process for deactivating a fume cupboard comprises an open front section which is closable by means of a front sash, a work chamber enclosed by side sections, a bottom section, a back side section, and a top section provided with an exhaust opening.
- the fume cupboard further comprises an electrical power measuring unit configured to measure electrical power consumption of the fume cupboard.
- the electrical power measuring unit is configured to measure the electrical power consumption of one or more electrical power outlets of the fume cupboard. It is advantageous to measure power consumption of electrical power outlets in order to determine if work is being performed in the fume cupboard.
- the predetermined threshold condition is zero power consumption. This indicates that no electrical equipment is connected to the power outlet(s) of the fume cupboard, and is thus an indication that no work is being performed in the fume cupboard.
- the process further comprises measuring a volatile organic compound (VOC) content in the air flow through the exhaust opening by means of a volatile organic compound (VOC) sensor. If the measured volatile organic compound (VOC) content is not equal to zero, the deactivation process is interrupted. If the volatile organic compound (VOC) content is not equal to zero, it means that a process is going on in the fume cupboard, and the fume cupboard should thus not be deactivated.
- VOC volatile organic compound
- the process further comprises measuring an air temperature of the air flow through the exhaust opening by means of a temperature sensor. If the temperature value is not equal to a supply air temperature, the deactivation process is interrupted. If the temperature differs from a supply air temperature, it means that a process is going on in the fume cupboard, and the fume cupboard should thus not be deactivated.
- the process further comprises detecting presence in a gap between the front sash and the bottom section by means of a first presence detection means. If presence is detected, the deactivation process is interrupted. If presence is detected, it means that someone is working in the fume cupboard, and the fume cupboard should thus not be deactivated.
- the process further comprises detecting presence in the room where said fume cupboard is located by means of a second presence detection means. If presence is detected, the deactivation process is interrupted. If presence is detected in the room of the fume cupboard, it means that someone may intend to perform work in the fume cupboard, and the fume cupboard should thus not be deactivated.
- the process further comprises blocking the front sash in the closed position. This is advantageous in that the fume cupboard must be unblocked before any work may start therein.
- a fume cupboard comprising an open front section which is closable by means of a front sash, and a work chamber enclosed by side sections, a bottom section, a back side section, and a top section.
- the top section is provided with an exhaust opening.
- the fume cupboard further comprises an electrical power measuring unit configured to measure electrical power consumption of the fume cupboard; and a control unit operatively connected to the electrical power measuring unit for receiving an input signal indicative of the electrical power consumption.
- the control unit is configured to deactivate the fume cupboard into an inactive state when the electrical power measuring unit measures the electrical power consumption to fulfill a predetermined threshold condition.
- the inactive state of the fume cupboard comprises: the front sash is configured to be closed and blocked; the electrical power supply for electrical power outlets in the fume cupboard is configured to be turned off; and an air flow through the fume cupboard is configured to be controlled to a minimum flow.
- This fume cupboard is advantageous in that the air flow through the fume cupboard is lowered, which results in lowered environmental impact, and reduced costs for a property owner due to reduced heating/cooling/treating of supply air.
- the actions of the inactive state of the fume cupboard are advantageous in that they prevent work from being performed in the fume cupboard, or save energy.
- the minimum flow is approximately 0.1-20 l/s, preferably 5-15 l/s, more preferred 8-12 l/s, and most preferred 10 l/s. This advantageous in that it is a large reduction compared to the air flow through an active fume cupboard.
- control unit is configured to be in operative connection with an air flow regulation unit configured to adjust the air flow through the fume cupboard. It is advantageous to operatively connect an air flow regulation unit with the control unit, in that the air flow through the fume cupboard may be precisely controlled.
- the fume cupboard further comprises a volatile organic compound (VOC) sensor in operative communication with the control unit and configured to measure a volatile organic compound (VOC) content in the exhaust air.
- VOC volatile organic compound
- the volatile organic compound (VOC) content in the exhaust air is a favourable variable to measure in order to be able to determine when the fume cupboard is to be put in an inactive state.
- the fume cupboard further comprises a first presence detector in operative communication with the control unit and configured to detect presence in a gap between the front sash and the bottom section.
- the presence detector is favourable in order to be able to determine if a person is performing work in the fume cupboard.
- the fume cupboard further comprises a second presence detector in operative communication with the control unit and configured to detect presence in a room in which the fume cupboard is located.
- the presence detector is favourable in order to be able to determine if a person is present in the room, which means that work may be intended to be performed in the fume cupboard.
- the fume cupboard further comprises a temperature sensor in operative communication with the control unit and configured to measure a temperature of the exhaust air.
- the temperature of the exhaust air is a favourable variable to measure in order to be able to determine when the fume cupboard is to be put in an inactive state.
- This application relates to a fume cupboard, and how the fume cupboard can be automatically deactivated in a safe manner.
- fume cupboards are usually used for possibly hazardous work, comprising fumes, vapors, steams, odours, sprays, splashes, etc.
- the air flow through a fume cupboard is approximately 200 l/s in an active work state. Since there currently is no good way of determining whether work is being performed in a fume cupboard, a consequence is that most fume cupboards are drawing out 200 liters of treated (dehumidified, heated, cooled etc.) air every second.
- a fume cupboard which is configured to determine if work is being performed within the fume cupboard, and if no work is being performed, the fume cupboard is configured to enter a passive or inactive state where the ventilation is lowered to a minimum, e.g. to an air flow of approximately 10 l/s.
- the inventor of the present invention has after insightful reasoning and inventive thinking designed a fume cupboard that is configured to determine when no work is going on inside the fume cupboard, and which is then configured to enter a passive/inactive state.
- the fume cupboard is further configured to re-enter the active state as soon as work is being initiated inside the fume cupboard.
- the fume cupboard comprises a control unit which is configured to initiate a deactivation process as soon as a first condition is fulfilled. This condition is that there is an electrical power consumption of the fume cupboard is below a predetermined threshold value. This fume cupboard and a method of controlling the fume cupboard will be more thoroughly described below.
- Figs 1 and 3 disclose a fume cupboard 10 which basically is a cabinet having a work chamber 13 enclosed by a housing with a front section 15 which is openable for letting air flow from the outside of the fume cupboard 10 into and through the work chamber 13.
- the front section 15 is openable by means of a front sash 17 which is configured to be movable between a raised and a lowered position. When the front sash is in the raised position an opening is formed between the front sash 17 and the bottom section 18.
- the front sash 17 is configured to be operable both manually and automatically by means of a motor (not shown) controlled by a control unit 40.
- the front sash 17 further comprises a lock or blocking device (not shown) configured to be operated by the control unit 40.
- the blocking device is e.g. an electromagnetic lock configured to act upon suspension shafts of the front sash 17.
- the housing comprises a closed back side 14, closed side sections 16, a closed bottom section 18 and a top section 20 provided with an exhaust opening 22.
- an external exhaust fan or similar device (not shown) is arranged to provide the air flow through the fume cupboard 10.
- a motorized damper unit 30 in operative connection with the control unit 40 of the fume cupboard 10 is arranged in a duct 23 connected to the exhaust opening 22 of the fume cupboard 10.
- the damper unit 30 may be any kind of suitable damper unit, e.g. a throttle damper, iris damper, or any other kind of suitable damper.
- the damper unit 30 comprises position detectors providing a feedback signal indicative of the position of the damper 30.
- Fig. 1 the fume cupboard 10 in use, i.e. in the active state, is disclosed. This means that activity is going on/work is being performed inside the fume cupboard 10. All work in the fume cupboards 10 require some kind of electrical equipment 12 to be connected to an electrical power outlet 46 of the fume cupboard 10 and consuming electrical power. In Fig. 1 this is represented by a sample container 28 arranged on a heater 12, which in turn is arranged on a work chamber floor plate 24. The heating plate 12 is used to heat up the sample container 28 and any samples or objects located therein. The heater 12 is connected to the electrical power outlet 46. Further, the fume cupboard 10 is provided with other electrically powered units, such as lamps 27, electrical motors for the front sash 17, and for adjustment of working height.
- other electrically powered units such as lamps 27, electrical motors for the front sash 17, and for adjustment of working height.
- the control unit 40 of the fume cupboard 10 is provided in a control device 42, as shown in Fig. 2 .
- the control unit 40 is operatively connected to an electrical power measuring unit 44.
- the electrical power measuring unit 44 is arranged to measure the electrical power supplied to the fume cupboard 10 at regular time intervals.
- the electrical power measuring unit may in some embodiments be exchanged for an electrical current measuring unit.
- the electrical power feeds e.g. the lamps 27 or other lighting in the hood 10, the heating device 12, and/or any other equipment that may be used in the fume cupboard 10, such as automatic stirrers etc.
- the electrical power measuring unit 44 When no electrical equipment is connected to the electrical power outlet(s) 46 and being active, the electrical power measuring unit 44 is configured to provide a signal corresponding to a zero supply level to the control unit 40. As soon as any electrical equipment is switched on, the electrical power measuring unit 44 is configured to provide an electrical power supply signal corresponding to the present electrical power supply level to the control unit 40.
- the fume cupboard 10 is provided with at least one temperature sensor 47, arranged in the upper portion of the work chamber 13, preferably in the vicinity of the exhaust opening 22.
- the fume cupboard 10 is also provided with a volatile organic compound (VOC) sensor 48, arranged in the exhaust opening 22, configured to detect any volatile organic compounds present in the exhaust air.
- VOC volatile organic compound
- the front sash 17 is provided with a first presence detector 50, which preferably is an active presence detector.
- the active presence detector 50 is arranged as an IR curtain extending along the length of the front sash 17.
- the active presence detector 50 IR curtain is directed downwards, towards the bottom section 18 of the fume cupboard 10. It is configured to detect if any part of a person, e.g. a hand, is present in the opening formed between the front sash 17 and the bottom section 18.
- the front sash 17 is also provided with a second presence detector 49, which preferably is a passive presence detector, e.g. a passive IR detector.
- the passive presence detector 49 is configured to detected if a person is present in front of the fume cupboard 10.
- the range of the passive presence detector 49 is approximately 1-3 meters, preferably 2 meters, from the front section 15 of the fume cupboard 10.
- Presence in relation to the fume cupboard 10 may also be detected indirectly by means of sensors detecting operator performed movement of the front sash 17, utilization of the electrical power outlets etc.
- the fume cupboard 10 is configured to enter an inactive state when no work is being performed in the work chamber 13.
- the control unit 40 is configured to perform a deactivation process 100, comprising monitoring the activities taking place in and around the fume cupboard 10. This process 100 is shown in the flowchart of Fig. 4 . If the deactivation process 100 indicates that no work is being performed in the fume cupboard 10, the control unit 40 is configured to follow a lock-down process 200, shown in the flowchart in Fig. 5 .
- the control unit 40 is configured to monitor the following variables in order to determine if certain conditions are fulfilled.
- the variables are monitored continuously and not in any certain order. Different variables may be monitored at different time intervals, but all variables are monitored regularly and not in dependence of each other.
- the conditions need not be fulfilled in any certain order, but when all conditions are fulfilled, the lock-down process 200 is configured to be initiated.
- the control unit 40 is configured to initiate the lock-down process 200 in order for the fume cupboard 10 to enter the inactive state.
- Fig. 3 shows the fume cupboard 10 in the inactive state.
- the first step of the lock-down process 200 is that the control unit 40 controls 201 the motor coupled to the front sash 17 such that the sash 17 enters a lowered position. In the lowered position, a few centimeters gap is left between the work chamber floor plate 24 and the front sash 17. This is due to safety regulation stating that a certain air flow through the fume cupboard 10 must be maintained at all times. The gap is however small enough such that no person can reach into and perform any work within the fume cupboard 10.
- the control unit 40 is configured to block 202 the front sash 17.
- the front sash 17 may thus not easily be opened by a user.
- the front sash 17 is unblocked only if a user maneuvers a control panel provided on the fume cupboard 10.
- control unit 40 is configured to switch off 203 the electrical power to the electrical power outlet(s) 46 of the fume cupboard 10 such that no electrical equipment 12 can be active inside the fume cupboard 10.
- the electrical power may also be switched off for the lamp 27 or other lighting present in the cupboard 10.
- the control unit 40, the sensors and detectors, the damper unit 30 etc. are however still provided with electrical power.
- the air flow through the fume cupboard 10 is controlled 204 to a lower flow rate, as shown in Fig. 3 .
- the air flow is controlled by means of the motorized damper unit 30 in operative connection with the control unit 40.
- the flow rate of the inactive state is approximately 0.1-20 l/s, preferably 5-15 l/s, more preferred 8-12 l/s, and most preferred 10 l/s.
- control unit 40 is configured to return the fume cupboard 10 into the active state again.
- the control unit 40 is configured to show a message on a display (not shown) arranged on the front of the fume cupboard 10.
- the displayed message comprises information regarding the fume cupboard 10 being in an inactive state, and possibly also a question if the fume cupboard should enter the active state.
- the display may be any kind of suitable display.
- the display is a touch-screen which the person may press on in order to re-enter the fume cupboard 10 into the active state.
- the active presence detector 50 registers presence in the gap below the front sash 17 when the fume cupboard 10 is deactivated, it transmits a signal to the control unit 40 which in turn is configured to re-activate the fume cupboard 10. The same happens if a person grabs the front sash 17 and tries to open it.
- the fume cupboard 10 enters the active state immediately, without any further interaction with the person. However, if presence is only detected in the room, it is not as likely that it is a person intending to perform work in the fume cupboard 10, as a person may have many other reasons for entering the room where the fume cupboard 10 is located. It is thus beneficial that the fume cupboard 10 is not configured to automatically re-enter the active state solely based on detected presence in the room. This saves heating/cooling/treating of air, and thus costs and the environment.
Description
- The present invention relates to a method for controlling a fume cupboard and such fume cupboard.
- A fume cupboard is a ventilated enclosure where harmful materials can be handled safely. The fume cupboard captures contaminants and prevents them from escaping into an environment around the fume cupboard by using an exhaust blower to draw air and contaminants in and around the hood's work area away from the operator so that inhalation of and contact with the contaminants are minimized. Access to the interior of the hood is through an opening which can be closed with a sash which typically slides up and down to vary the opening into the hood.
- Large air volumes are drawn out from a building when a fume cupboard is installed and activated. This affects the heating or cooling of the building since it is tempered and treated air that is extracted. This has environmentally and financial effects due to an increased electrical power consumption for heating/cooling of the supply air, which leads to increased heating/cooling costs.
- An example of background art is for instance
US 2006/079164 A1 . - From the above it is understood that there is room for improvements and the invention aims to solve or at least mitigate the above and other problems.
- The invention is defined by the appended independent claims. Additional features and advantages of the concepts disclosed herein are set forth in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the described technologies. The features and advantages of the concepts may be realized and obtained by means of the instruments and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. These and other features of the described technologies will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, or may be learned by the practice of the disclosed concepts as set forth herein.
- In a first aspect, a process for deactivating a fume cupboard is provided. The fume cupboard comprises an open front section which is closable by means of a front sash, a work chamber enclosed by side sections, a bottom section, a back side section, and a top section provided with an exhaust opening. The fume cupboard further comprises an electrical power measuring unit configured to measure electrical power consumption of the fume cupboard. The process comprises the steps of:
- determining, by means of the electrical power measuring unit, if an electrical power consumption of the fume cupboard fulfills a predetermined threshold condition; if so:
- closing the front sash of the fume cupboard,
- switching an electrical power for the fume cupboard off; and
- controlling an air flow through the fume cupboard to a minimum flow.
- In one embodiment, the electrical power measuring unit is configured to measure the electrical power consumption of one or more electrical power outlets of the fume cupboard. It is advantageous to measure power consumption of electrical power outlets in order to determine if work is being performed in the fume cupboard.
- In one embodiment, the predetermined threshold condition is zero power consumption. This indicates that no electrical equipment is connected to the power outlet(s) of the fume cupboard, and is thus an indication that no work is being performed in the fume cupboard.
- In one embodiment, the process further comprises measuring a volatile organic compound (VOC) content in the air flow through the exhaust opening by means of a volatile organic compound (VOC) sensor. If the measured volatile organic compound (VOC) content is not equal to zero, the deactivation process is interrupted. If the volatile organic compound (VOC) content is not equal to zero, it means that a process is going on in the fume cupboard, and the fume cupboard should thus not be deactivated.
- In one embodiment, the process further comprises measuring an air temperature of the air flow through the exhaust opening by means of a temperature sensor. If the temperature value is not equal to a supply air temperature, the deactivation process is interrupted. If the temperature differs from a supply air temperature, it means that a process is going on in the fume cupboard, and the fume cupboard should thus not be deactivated.
- In one embodiment, the process further comprises detecting presence in a gap between the front sash and the bottom section by means of a first presence detection means. If presence is detected, the deactivation process is interrupted. If presence is detected, it means that someone is working in the fume cupboard, and the fume cupboard should thus not be deactivated.
- In one embodiment, the process further comprises detecting presence in the room where said fume cupboard is located by means of a second presence detection means. If presence is detected, the deactivation process is interrupted. If presence is detected in the room of the fume cupboard, it means that someone may intend to perform work in the fume cupboard, and the fume cupboard should thus not be deactivated.
- In one embodiment, the process further comprises blocking the front sash in the closed position. This is advantageous in that the fume cupboard must be unblocked before any work may start therein.
- In a second aspect, a fume cupboard comprising an open front section which is closable by means of a front sash, and a work chamber enclosed by side sections, a bottom section, a back side section, and a top section is provided. The top section is provided with an exhaust opening. The fume cupboard further comprises an electrical power measuring unit configured to measure electrical power consumption of the fume cupboard; and a control unit operatively connected to the electrical power measuring unit for receiving an input signal indicative of the electrical power consumption. The control unit is configured to deactivate the fume cupboard into an inactive state when the electrical power measuring unit measures the electrical power consumption to fulfill a predetermined threshold condition. The inactive state of the fume cupboard comprises: the front sash is configured to be closed and blocked; the electrical power supply for electrical power outlets in the fume cupboard is configured to be turned off; and an air flow through the fume cupboard is configured to be controlled to a minimum flow.
- This fume cupboard is advantageous in that the air flow through the fume cupboard is lowered, which results in lowered environmental impact, and reduced costs for a property owner due to reduced heating/cooling/treating of supply air.
- The actions of the inactive state of the fume cupboard are advantageous in that they prevent work from being performed in the fume cupboard, or save energy.
- In one embodiment, the minimum flow is approximately 0.1-20 l/s, preferably 5-15 l/s, more preferred 8-12 l/s, and most preferred 10 l/s. This advantageous in that it is a large reduction compared to the air flow through an active fume cupboard.
- In one embodiment, the control unit is configured to be in operative connection with an air flow regulation unit configured to adjust the air flow through the fume cupboard. It is advantageous to operatively connect an air flow regulation unit with the control unit, in that the air flow through the fume cupboard may be precisely controlled.
- In one embodiment, the fume cupboard further comprises a volatile organic compound (VOC) sensor in operative communication with the control unit and configured to measure a volatile organic compound (VOC) content in the exhaust air. The volatile organic compound (VOC) content in the exhaust air is a favourable variable to measure in order to be able to determine when the fume cupboard is to be put in an inactive state.
- In one embodiment, the fume cupboard further comprises a first presence detector in operative communication with the control unit and configured to detect presence in a gap between the front sash and the bottom section. The presence detector is favourable in order to be able to determine if a person is performing work in the fume cupboard.
- In one embodiment, the fume cupboard further comprises a second presence detector in operative communication with the control unit and configured to detect presence in a room in which the fume cupboard is located. The presence detector is favourable in order to be able to determine if a person is present in the room, which means that work may be intended to be performed in the fume cupboard.
- In one embodiment, the fume cupboard further comprises a temperature sensor in operative communication with the control unit and configured to measure a temperature of the exhaust air. The temperature of the exhaust air is a favourable variable to measure in order to be able to determine when the fume cupboard is to be put in an inactive state.
- In order to best describe the manner in which the above-described embodiments are implemented, as well as define other advantages and features of the disclosure, a more particular description is provided below and is illustrated in the appended drawings. Understanding that these drawings depict only exemplary embodiments of the invention and are not therefore to be considered to be limiting in scope, the examples will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings in which:
- Fig. 1
- is a schematic side view of a disclosed fume cupboard with an electrically powered-on heating device,
- Fig. 2
- is a schematic block diagram of a disclosed fume cupboard.
- Fig. 3
- is a partly cut out schematic side view of the fume cupboard shown in
Fig. 1 , - Fig. 4
- is a flowchart for a deactivation process for said fume cupboard, and
- Fig. 5
- is a flowchart for a lock-down process for said fume cupboard.
- Further, in the figures like reference characters designate like or corresponding parts throughout the several figures.
- Various embodiments of the disclosed methods and arrangements are discussed in detail below. While specific implementations are discussed, it should be understood that this is done for illustration purposes only.
- In the description and claims the word "comprise" and variations of the word, such as "comprising" and "comprises", does not exclude other elements or steps.
- Hereinafter, certain embodiments will be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings.
- This application relates to a fume cupboard, and how the fume cupboard can be automatically deactivated in a safe manner. Since fume cupboards are usually used for possibly hazardous work, comprising fumes, vapors, steams, odours, sprays, splashes, etc., it is important, and regulated by law and standards, that a minimum airflow must be provided through the fume cupboard at all times when work is being performed therein. The air flow through a fume cupboard is approximately 200 l/s in an active work state. Since there currently is no good way of determining whether work is being performed in a fume cupboard, a consequence is that most fume cupboards are drawing out 200 liters of treated (dehumidified, heated, cooled etc.) air every second. In a building housing several or many fume cupboards, this adds up to huge quantities of air. It would be beneficial, both in an environmental aspect, and in a financial aspect, to have a fume cupboard which is configured to determine if work is being performed within the fume cupboard, and if no work is being performed, the fume cupboard is configured to enter a passive or inactive state where the ventilation is lowered to a minimum, e.g. to an air flow of approximately 10 l/s.
- The inventor of the present invention has after insightful reasoning and inventive thinking designed a fume cupboard that is configured to determine when no work is going on inside the fume cupboard, and which is then configured to enter a passive/inactive state. The fume cupboard is further configured to re-enter the active state as soon as work is being initiated inside the fume cupboard. The fume cupboard comprises a control unit which is configured to initiate a deactivation process as soon as a first condition is fulfilled. This condition is that there is an electrical power consumption of the fume cupboard is below a predetermined threshold value. This fume cupboard and a method of controlling the fume cupboard will be more thoroughly described below.
-
Figs 1 and3 disclose afume cupboard 10 which basically is a cabinet having awork chamber 13 enclosed by a housing with afront section 15 which is openable for letting air flow from the outside of thefume cupboard 10 into and through thework chamber 13. Thefront section 15 is openable by means of afront sash 17 which is configured to be movable between a raised and a lowered position. When the front sash is in the raised position an opening is formed between thefront sash 17 and thebottom section 18. Thefront sash 17 is configured to be operable both manually and automatically by means of a motor (not shown) controlled by acontrol unit 40. Thefront sash 17 further comprises a lock or blocking device (not shown) configured to be operated by thecontrol unit 40. The blocking device is e.g. an electromagnetic lock configured to act upon suspension shafts of thefront sash 17. - The housing comprises a closed back
side 14, closedside sections 16, aclosed bottom section 18 and atop section 20 provided with anexhaust opening 22. Normally, an external exhaust fan or similar device (not shown) is arranged to provide the air flow through thefume cupboard 10. - A
motorized damper unit 30 in operative connection with thecontrol unit 40 of thefume cupboard 10 is arranged in aduct 23 connected to theexhaust opening 22 of thefume cupboard 10. Thedamper unit 30 may be any kind of suitable damper unit, e.g. a throttle damper, iris damper, or any other kind of suitable damper. In various embodiments, thedamper unit 30 comprises position detectors providing a feedback signal indicative of the position of thedamper 30. - In
Fig. 1 , thefume cupboard 10 in use, i.e. in the active state, is disclosed. This means that activity is going on/work is being performed inside thefume cupboard 10. All work in thefume cupboards 10 require some kind ofelectrical equipment 12 to be connected to anelectrical power outlet 46 of thefume cupboard 10 and consuming electrical power. InFig. 1 this is represented by asample container 28 arranged on aheater 12, which in turn is arranged on a workchamber floor plate 24. Theheating plate 12 is used to heat up thesample container 28 and any samples or objects located therein. Theheater 12 is connected to theelectrical power outlet 46. Further, thefume cupboard 10 is provided with other electrically powered units, such aslamps 27, electrical motors for thefront sash 17, and for adjustment of working height. - The
control unit 40 of thefume cupboard 10 is provided in acontrol device 42, as shown inFig. 2 . Thecontrol unit 40 is operatively connected to an electricalpower measuring unit 44. The electricalpower measuring unit 44 is arranged to measure the electrical power supplied to thefume cupboard 10 at regular time intervals. The electrical power measuring unit may in some embodiments be exchanged for an electrical current measuring unit. The electrical power feeds e.g. thelamps 27 or other lighting in thehood 10, theheating device 12, and/or any other equipment that may be used in thefume cupboard 10, such as automatic stirrers etc. When no electrical equipment is connected to the electrical power outlet(s) 46 and being active, the electricalpower measuring unit 44 is configured to provide a signal corresponding to a zero supply level to thecontrol unit 40. As soon as any electrical equipment is switched on, the electricalpower measuring unit 44 is configured to provide an electrical power supply signal corresponding to the present electrical power supply level to thecontrol unit 40. - The
fume cupboard 10 is provided with at least onetemperature sensor 47, arranged in the upper portion of thework chamber 13, preferably in the vicinity of theexhaust opening 22. Thefume cupboard 10 is also provided with a volatile organic compound (VOC)sensor 48, arranged in theexhaust opening 22, configured to detect any volatile organic compounds present in the exhaust air. - The
front sash 17 is provided with afirst presence detector 50, which preferably is an active presence detector. Theactive presence detector 50 is arranged as an IR curtain extending along the length of thefront sash 17. Theactive presence detector 50 IR curtain is directed downwards, towards thebottom section 18 of thefume cupboard 10. It is configured to detect if any part of a person, e.g. a hand, is present in the opening formed between thefront sash 17 and thebottom section 18. - The
front sash 17 is also provided with asecond presence detector 49, which preferably is a passive presence detector, e.g. a passive IR detector. Thepassive presence detector 49 is configured to detected if a person is present in front of thefume cupboard 10. The range of thepassive presence detector 49 is approximately 1-3 meters, preferably 2 meters, from thefront section 15 of thefume cupboard 10. - Presence in relation to the
fume cupboard 10 may also be detected indirectly by means of sensors detecting operator performed movement of thefront sash 17, utilization of the electrical power outlets etc. - When work is taking place in the
fume cupboard 10, air is flowing in the direction of arrow A into thework chamber 13 through the opening formed by the raisedfront sash 17. The flow of air is directed towards theexhaust opening 22 provided in the upper portion of thefume cupboard 10. The air flowing through thework chamber 13 brings fumes, vapours etc towards along the dashed arrows, and out through theexhaust outlet 22, along arrow B. - In order to save energy, and thus costs, the
fume cupboard 10 is configured to enter an inactive state when no work is being performed in thework chamber 13. In order to determine if work is being performed or not, thecontrol unit 40 is configured to perform adeactivation process 100, comprising monitoring the activities taking place in and around thefume cupboard 10. Thisprocess 100 is shown in the flowchart ofFig. 4 . If thedeactivation process 100 indicates that no work is being performed in thefume cupboard 10, thecontrol unit 40 is configured to follow a lock-downprocess 200, shown in the flowchart inFig. 5 . - The
control unit 40 is configured to monitor the following variables in order to determine if certain conditions are fulfilled. The variables are monitored continuously and not in any certain order. Different variables may be monitored at different time intervals, but all variables are monitored regularly and not in dependence of each other. The conditions need not be fulfilled in any certain order, but when all conditions are fulfilled, the lock-downprocess 200 is configured to be initiated. - 1) The electrical
power measuring unit 44 is configured to measure 101 the electrical power consumption of thefume cupboard 10 . When the electrical power consumption in thefume cupboard 10 is below athreshold value 102, the electricalpower measuring unit 44 is configured to transmit a signal to thecontrol unit 40. A power consumption below a certain predetermined threshold value indicates that no electrical activity is taking place in thefume cupboard 10. That is, no heating plate is active, no stirring equipment is active etc. This is an indication that no work is taking place in thefume cupboard 10. The electrical power consumption being below the predetermined threshold value is a prerequisite for the lock-down or deactivation process to begin. If the electrical power consumption is not below the predetermined threshold value, the lock-down process will not commence, even if all other below mentioned conditions are fulfilled.
The electrical power consumption may be determined in two ways. A first method comprises measuring the power consumption of the electrical power outlet(s) 46 of thefume cupboard 10. In this case, the threshold value is zero, which means that no activeelectrical equipment 12 is connected to theelectrical power outlets 46. Another method for determining if the electrical power consumption indicates that no work is being performed comprises measuring the total power consumption of thefume cupboard 10. That is, the electrical power consumption of the electrical power outlet(s), motor driving thefront sash 17, lamps/lighting 27, sensors etc. In this case, the threshold value is not equal to zero, since thefume cupboard 10 is always consuming electrical power due to the sensors checking for presence, volatile organic compounds (VOC's), thecontrol unit 40 requires electrical power etc. The electrical power consumption of these devices/units are known and provided to thecontrol unit 40. By adding these known parts of the electrical power consumption, a threshold value is obtainable. Thus, thecontrol unit 40 is configured to initiate the lock-downprocess 20 when the measured electrical power consumption originates only from thefume cupboard 10 itself. - 2) The
control unit 40 is configured to analyze a volatile organic compound (VOC) content in theexhaust air 103, measured by means of the volatile organic compound (VOC)sensor 48. Thecontrol unit 40 is configured to analyze the change of the volatile organic compound (VOC) content in order to determine if the content is decreasing 104, compared to an earlier measurement value. A decreasing value indicates that the work process is slowing down or ending. When the value equals zero, it is an indication that no process is taking place in thefume cupboard 10, and that the lock-downprocess 200 is configured to continue. - 3) The
control unit 40 is further configured to analyze a temperature value in theexhaust air 105, as measured by means of thetemperature sensor 47. Thecontrol unit 40 is configured to analyze the change of the temperature value in order to determine if the temperature is decreasing, compared to anearlier measurement value 106. A decreasing temperature value indicates that the work process in thework chamber 13 is slowing down or ending. The temperature of the supply air A into thefume cupboard 10 is also measured, by a second temperature sensor (not shown). When the extract air has the same temperature as the supply air, it is an indication that no heat generating process is taking place in thefume cupboard 10, and thus the lock-down 200 process is configured to continue. - 4) The
control unit 40 is configured to analyze 107 data transmitted from theactive presence detector 50 arranged on thefront sash 17. Since theactive presence detector 50 is configured to detect the presence of e.g. hands in the opening below thefront sash 17, it is an indication that no one is working at thefume cupboard 10 when theactive presence detector 50 has not registered any signal for a predetermined time period. The predetermined period of time is 5-15 minutes, preferably 7-10 minutes and most preferred 8 minutes. When no presence detection has been made during this time period, the lock-downprocess 200 is configured to continue.
Further, theactive presence detector 50 registers the level of light in the room where thefume cupboard 10 is arranged. If the registered light level is below a certain boundary value, it is an indication that no one is working in the room. - 5) The control unit is configured to analyze 107 data transmitted from the
passive presence detector 49. If the passive presence detector has not registered any presence for a predetermined period of time, this is an indication that no person is present in the room, and thus that no work is being performed in thefume cupboard 10. The predetermined period of time is preferably 5-15 minutes, preferably 7-10 minutes and most preferred 8 minutes. When no presence detection has been made during this time period, the lock-downprocess 200 is configured to continue. - When the above conditions (electrical power consumption below a predetermined threshold value, volatile organic compound (VOC) content below a certain threshold value, a temperature value being consistent with an external temperature, no presence detected in the opening of the
front sash 17, and no presence detected in the room) are fulfilled, thecontrol unit 40 is configured to initiate the lock-downprocess 200 in order for thefume cupboard 10 to enter the inactive state.Fig. 3 shows thefume cupboard 10 in the inactive state. - The first step of the lock-down
process 200 is that thecontrol unit 40controls 201 the motor coupled to thefront sash 17 such that thesash 17 enters a lowered position. In the lowered position, a few centimeters gap is left between the workchamber floor plate 24 and thefront sash 17. This is due to safety regulation stating that a certain air flow through thefume cupboard 10 must be maintained at all times. The gap is however small enough such that no person can reach into and perform any work within thefume cupboard 10. - When the
front sash 17 is operated to the lowered position, thecontrol unit 40 is configured to block 202 thefront sash 17. Thefront sash 17 may thus not easily be opened by a user. Preferably, thefront sash 17 is unblocked only if a user maneuvers a control panel provided on thefume cupboard 10. - Thereafter, the
control unit 40 is configured to switch off 203 the electrical power to the electrical power outlet(s) 46 of thefume cupboard 10 such that noelectrical equipment 12 can be active inside thefume cupboard 10. The electrical power may also be switched off for thelamp 27 or other lighting present in thecupboard 10. Thecontrol unit 40, the sensors and detectors, thedamper unit 30 etc. are however still provided with electrical power. - Thereafter, the air flow through the
fume cupboard 10 is controlled 204 to a lower flow rate, as shown inFig. 3 . The air flow is controlled by means of themotorized damper unit 30 in operative connection with thecontrol unit 40. - The flow rate of the inactive state is approximately 0.1-20 l/s, preferably 5-15 l/s, more preferred 8-12 l/s, and most preferred 10 l/s.
- If any of the above mentioned condition ceases to be fulfilled at any time of the
deactivation process 100, the process will be interrupted, and thecontrol unit 40 is configured to return thefume cupboard 10 into the active state again. - If a person passes the deactivated
fume cupboard 10, thepassive presence detector 49 will register this, and transmit a signal to thecontrol unit 40. Thecontrol unit 40 is configured to show a message on a display (not shown) arranged on the front of thefume cupboard 10. The displayed message comprises information regarding thefume cupboard 10 being in an inactive state, and possibly also a question if the fume cupboard should enter the active state. The display may be any kind of suitable display. In one embodiment, the display is a touch-screen which the person may press on in order to re-enter thefume cupboard 10 into the active state. - If the
active presence detector 50 registers presence in the gap below thefront sash 17 when thefume cupboard 10 is deactivated, it transmits a signal to thecontrol unit 40 which in turn is configured to re-activate thefume cupboard 10. The same happens if a person grabs thefront sash 17 and tries to open it. - If a presence is detected in the gap below the
front sash 17, or thefront sash 17 is being forced open, it is likely that it is a person who intends to perform work in thefume cupboard 10. It is thus beneficial that thefume cupboard 10 enters the active state immediately, without any further interaction with the person. However, if presence is only detected in the room, it is not as likely that it is a person intending to perform work in thefume cupboard 10, as a person may have many other reasons for entering the room where thefume cupboard 10 is located. It is thus beneficial that thefume cupboard 10 is not configured to automatically re-enter the active state solely based on detected presence in the room. This saves heating/cooling/treating of air, and thus costs and the environment. - The various embodiments described above are provided by way of illustration only and should not be construed to limit the invention. For example, the principles herein may be applied to any kind of fume cupboard, or fume hood.
Claims (15)
- A process (100) for deactivating a fume cupboard (10) comprising an open front section (15) which is closable by means of a front sash (17), a work chamber (13) enclosed by side sections (16), a bottom section (18), a back side section (14), and a top section (20) provided with an exhaust opening (22), the fume cupboard (10) further comprising an electrical power measuring unit (44) configured to measure electrical power consumption of the fume cupboard (10); the process comprising the steps of:- determining (102), by means of the electrical power measuring unit (44), if an electrical power consumption of the fume cupboard (10) fulfills a predetermined threshold condition; if so:- closing (201) the front sash (17) of the fume cupboard (10),- switching (203) an electrical power for the fume cupboard (10) off; and- controlling (204) an air flow through the fume cupboard (10) to a minimum flow.
- The process according to claim 1, wherein the electrical power measuring unit (44) is configured to measure the electrical power consumption of one or more electrical power outlets (46) of the fume cupboard (10).
- The process according to claim 2, wherein the predetermined threshold condition is zero power consumption.
- The process according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising measuring a volatile organic compound (VOC) content in the air flow through the exhaust opening (22) by means of a volatile organic compound (VOC) sensor (48), and if the measured volatile organic compound (VOC) content is not equal to zero, interrupting the deactivation process (100).
- The process according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising measuring an air temperature of the air flow through the exhaust opening (22) by means of a temperature sensor (47), and if the temperature value is not equal to a supply air temperature, interrupting the deactivation process (100).
- The process according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising detecting presence in a gap between the front sash (17) and the bottom section (18) by means of a first presence detection means (50), and if presence is detected, interrupting the deactivation process (100).
- The process according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising detecting presence in the room where said fume cupboard (10) is located by means of a second presence detection means (49), and if presence is detected, interrupting the deactivation process (100).
- The process according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising blocking the front sash (17) in the closed position.
- A fume cupboard (10) comprising an open front section (15) which is closable by means of a front sash (17), and a work chamber (13) enclosed by side sections (16), a bottom section (18), a back side section (14), and a top section (20), wherein the top section (20) is provided with an exhaust opening (22), the fume cupboard (10) further comprisingan electrical power measuring unit (44) configured to measure electrical power consumption of the fume cupboard (10);a control unit (40) operatively connected to the electrical power measuring unit (44) for receiving an input signal indicative of the electrical power consumption;wherein the control unit (40) is configured to deactivate the fume cupboard (10) into an inactive state when the electrical power measuring unit (44) measures the electrical power consumption to fulfill a predetermined threshold condition, andwherein the inactive state comprises: the front sash (17) is configured to be closed and blocked, the electrical power supply for electrical power outlets (46) in the fume cupboard (10) is configured to be turned off, and an air flow through the fume cupboard (10) is configured to be controlled to a minimum flow.
- The fume cupboard (10) according to claim 9, wherein the minimum flow is approximately 0.1-20 l/s, preferably 5-15 l/s, more preferred 8-12 l/s, and most preferred 10 l/s.
- The fume cupboard (10) according to any one of claims 9-10, wherein the control unit (40) is configured to be in operative connection with an air flow regulation unit (30) configured to adjust the air flow through the fume cupboard (10).
- The fume cupboard (10) according to any one of claims 9-11, further comprising a volatile organic compound (VOC) sensor (48) in operative communication with the control unit (40) and configured to measure a volatile organic compound (VOC) content in the exhaust air.
- The fume cupboard (10) according to any one of claims 9-12, further comprising a first presence detector (50) in operative communication with the control unit (40) and configured to detect presence in a gap between the front sash (17) and the bottom section (18).
- The fume cupboard (10) according to any one of claims 9-13, further comprising a second presence detector (49) in operative communication with the control unit (40) and configured to detect presence in a room in which the fume cupboard (10) is located.
- The fume cupboard (10) according to any one of claims 9-14, further comprising a temperature sensor (47) in operative communication with the control unit (40) and configured to measure a temperature of the exhaust air.
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EP20177959.2A EP3919195B1 (en) | 2020-06-03 | 2020-06-03 | A fume cupboard and a method for controlling such fume cupboard |
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EP20177959.2A EP3919195B1 (en) | 2020-06-03 | 2020-06-03 | A fume cupboard and a method for controlling such fume cupboard |
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US5240455A (en) * | 1991-08-23 | 1993-08-31 | Phoenix Controls Corporation | Method and apparatus for controlling a fume hood |
EP0746427A1 (en) * | 1993-11-09 | 1996-12-11 | STASCH, Karlheinz | A computerized ventilation system |
DE10217903C1 (en) * | 2002-04-22 | 2003-10-02 | Kendro Lab Prod Gmbh | Safety work station, for microbiological samples, has working chamber surrounded by housing and safety monitoring system having processor which couples measured data determined during operation of work station |
US20060079164A1 (en) * | 2004-09-30 | 2006-04-13 | Decastro Eugene A | Automatic sash safety mechanism |
DE102012018474B4 (en) * | 2012-09-19 | 2022-06-30 | Berner International Gmbh | Safety workbench with a sensor device for detecting movements in front of the front |
DE102015201026B3 (en) * | 2015-01-22 | 2016-06-16 | Konrad Kreuzer | Discharge device with regulated suction device |
CN204710833U (en) * | 2015-04-10 | 2015-10-21 | 阮红正 | Vent cabinet |
CN106077012B (en) * | 2016-06-03 | 2018-11-20 | 安徽育安实验室装备有限公司 | A kind of laboratory hood |
FR3066931B1 (en) * | 2017-05-31 | 2019-07-19 | Claude Bertaux | SORBONNEL FRONT FACADE AUTOMATIC CLOSURE SYSTEM AND LABORATORY ENCLOSURES |
CN110038417A (en) * | 2019-04-30 | 2019-07-23 | 广东赛能科技股份有限公司 | A kind of laboratory exhaust gas exhaust system and processing method |
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