Abstract: A system for controlling the operation of a laboratory with a fume hood having a sash. The system includes an intelligent occupancy monitor mechanism. The system includes an intelligent sash closure mechanism. The producing mechanism and the controlling mechanism form a fully distributed intelligent non-hierarchical architecture. The system includes a network to which the producing mechanism and the controlling mechanism are connected to communicate with each other. A method for controlling air flow in a fume hood.

Abstract: A system for directing air flow in a fume hood having a sash includes a mechanism for producing an output control signal corresponding to a desired flow of air through the sash of the fume hood. The producing mechanism includes a CPU which actively produces the output control signal and is disposed in fluid communication with the fume hood. The system also includes a mechanism for controlling air flow through the sash of the fume hood corresponding to the output control signal. The controlling mechanism is connected to the producing mechanism to receive the output control signal and includes a CPU which actively produces a drive signal for operating the controlling mechanism corresponding to the output control signal. A corresponding method for controlling the air flow in a fume hood is also provided.