Abstract: A control system for operating and integrating automated applications in a small building environment. The control system includes a plurality of application controllers that control the operation of various automated applications, such as HVAC, lighting, access control and security. The control system further includes a local control interface that integrates and coordinates/controls operation of the various application controllers. The local control interface is preprogrammed with profiles for each of the different types of application controllers designed to operate with the system, but also is able to acquire new profiles from new or custom application controllers that are unknown to the local control interface at the time of installation. The profiles include control variable definitions for each of the control variables supported by the corresponding application controller. This information permits self-configuration of the application controllers.

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.