A high-grade biological laboratory safety low-consumption chemical shower device and method

Abstract

The application discloses a high-grade biological laboratory safety low-consumption chemical shower device, which comprises a chemical shower cabin body, a chemical feeding tank, a liquid medicine pressurizing pump set, cabin-internal liquid medicine pressurizing pipelines, a gas feeding pressurizing pump set, compressed air pipelines, side atomizing sprayers, top atomizing sprayers, vertical liquid pipelines, vertical gas pipelines, manual sprayers and manual liquid feeding pipelines. The application discloses a high-grade biological laboratory safety low-consumption chemical shower method. The application is applicable to different chemical shower cabin bodies with different access conditions; different spraying programs are selected according to different risks of human and non-human environment hazards; rational damage conditions of door sealing strips are judged and feedback is executed; the device is provided with a gas-tight door locking function at different liquid levels of the chemical feeding tank, so that the chemical shower is locked and limited to be used by personnel.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of chemical shower devices, specifically relating to a high-level biological laboratory safe and low-consumption chemical shower device, and also to a high-level biological laboratory safe and low-consumption chemical shower method, applicable to biosafety, biopharmaceuticals and life sciences. Background Technology

[0002] Chemical showers (also known as chemical spraying) are primarily used in biosafety laboratories (ABSL-3, BSL-4) for positive pressure protective suit (PPS) to clean and disinfect the surface of PPS suits and to atomize and disinfect the air within the chemical shower chamber. The chemical shower system is a mandatory shower purification and disinfection device located between contaminated and semi-contaminated areas. It consists of a chemical shower chamber (cabin), airtight door, dosing tank, spray system, PLC control system, ventilation system, drainage system, and life support system. The spray system uses ultra-fine atomizing nozzles to spray chemical solutions from the dosing tank onto the PPS suits over a wide area, effectively inactivating and removing potentially dangerous pathogenic microorganisms that may be contaminated on the surface of the PPS suits worn by personnel. This ensures the safe exit of research and medical personnel from the contaminated environment and prevents the introduction of pathogens into the surrounding environment, providing a comprehensive cleaning and disinfection process.

[0003] Currently, the safety of chemical shower systems is compromised due to improper operation, equipment malfunction, or insufficient disinfectant solution. Regarding personnel operation, during entry, personnel may press the door opening button inside the second airtight door. The door opens, but due to negligence, the door is not fully pushed open. After a set time period, the door automatically closes again, and the chemical shower system starts. After the chemical shower cycle ends, personnel may open the second airtight door again to enter the laboratory, but the chemical shower cycle will not start, leaving the chemical shower chamber contaminated. Alternatively, personnel may return inside the chemical shower chamber, contaminating the air but not triggering the chemical shower cycle, without any warnings or restrictions. There is also a risk of highly pathogenic microorganisms spilling out when personnel exit the chemical shower chamber to enter the laboratory (in cases of personnel following). Current chemical shower systems have an automatic control system that determines whether to activate the spray system based on the normal entry and exit sequence of personnel in the laboratory, and indiscriminately activates the same spray program (same spray time and dosage). On the one hand, failing to disinfect abnormal paths poses a safety risk; on the other hand, indiscriminate disinfection leads to waste of disinfectant. Furthermore, chemical shower systems pose safety risks due to equipment malfunctions, such as air leaks caused by damaged door strips or de-energized door magnets, spillage of biological agents due to spray system failures allowing personnel to enter and exit, and overpressure within the chemical shower chamber. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of this invention is to address the aforementioned problems in the prior art by providing a safe and low-consumption chemical shower device for high-level biological laboratories, and also to provide a safe and low-consumption chemical shower method for high-level biological laboratories.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides the following technical solution:

[0006] A high-level biosafety, low-consumption chemical shower device for biological laboratories includes a shower chamber. A first airtight door and a second airtight door are respectively installed on two opposite side walls of the shower chamber. Both the first and second airtight doors include a door panel and a door frame. Door sealing strips are fixed to the perimeter of the door panels. The door sealing strips are connected to the airtight door's inflation / deflation circuit via a door strip supply pipe. A door strip pressure sensor is installed inside the door sealing strip and is connected to a door strip pressure gauge. Both the first and second airtight doors are equipped with a door electromagnetic lock, a proximity switch, a door strip pressure indicator light, and an emergency button. Opening buttons are located on the inner sides of both the first and second airtight doors.

[0007] The airtight door's air filling and discharging circuit, door strip pressure gauge, door electromagnetic lock, proximity switch, door strip pressure indicator light, emergency button, and door opening button are all connected to the PLC controller, which is connected to the HMI control panel.

[0008] As described above, the lower and upper surfaces of the chemical shower chamber are shaped like a flared opening, wider at the top and narrower at the bottom. A water trap structure is installed inside the flared opening, and multiple sections of grating plates are laid on the flared opening. The grating plates are adjacent to the perimeter of the chemical shower chamber. The inlet of the double-layer drain pipe is connected to the outlet of the water trap structure inside the chemical shower chamber, and the outlet of the double-layer drain pipe is connected to the external sewage recovery tank.

[0009] A high-level biological laboratory safety and low-consumption chemical shower device also includes a spray system, which comprises a dosing tank, a chemical liquid pressurization pump set, an in-chamber chemical liquid pressurization pipeline, a gas supply pressurization pump set, a compressed air pipeline, side atomizing sprayers, top atomizing sprayers, vertical liquid pipelines, vertical gas pipelines, a manual sprayer, and a manual infusion pipeline.

[0010] The internal pharmacy pressurization pipeline is connected to the corresponding external pharmacy pressurization pump set.

[0011] The compressed air pipeline is connected to the corresponding air supply and pressurization pump set outside the chemical shower chamber.

[0012] The chemical injection pressurization pump unit is connected to the dosing tank via a corresponding external chemical injection pressurization pipeline.

[0013] The internal side of the chemical cooling chamber is equipped with vertical liquid pipes and vertical gas pipes. The vertical liquid pipes are connected to the pressurized chemical solution pipeline inside the chamber, and the vertical gas pipes are connected to the compressed air pipeline.

[0014] The chemical cooling chamber is equipped with side atomizing sprayers and top atomizing sprayers, respectively. The liquid inlets of both the top and side atomizing sprayers are connected to vertical liquid pipes, and their air inlets are connected to vertical gas pipes. The air inlet of the side atomizing sprayer is located at the rear end of its liquid inlet, and its spray nozzle is at the front end. Similarly, the air inlet of the top atomizing sprayer is located at the rear end of its liquid inlet, and its spray nozzle is at the front end.

[0015] A manual sprayer is installed in the upper part of the chemical leaching chamber. The manual sprayer is connected to a manual infusion pipeline, which runs out of the chemical leaching chamber from the middle of the top and then connects to the bottom of the dosing tank.

[0016] A liquid level alarm switch is installed on the side wall of the dosing tank. The liquid level alarm switch is connected to the PLC controller. The liquid level alarm switch includes a high liquid level alarm switch, a medium liquid level alarm switch, and a low liquid level alarm switch.

[0017] As described above, the liquid drug pressurization pump set includes a pump set liquid pipeline, on which a diaphragm pump, a pneumatic valve, and a flow meter are installed. The two ends of the pump set liquid pipeline are connected to the dosing tank and the external liquid drug pressurization pipeline, respectively.

[0018] The gas pressurization pump set includes a pump set air circuit pipeline, on which an air pump, pressure gauge, and pneumatic valves are installed. The pump set air circuit pipeline is connected to a compressed air pipeline, which is also connected to the airtight valve charging / discharging air circuit.

[0019] The soft water pump set includes a soft water pipe, on which a diaphragm pump, a pneumatic valve, and a flow meter are installed. The two ends of the soft water pipe are connected to the soft water source and the top of the dosing tank, respectively.

[0020] A high-level biosafety, low-consumption chemical shower device for biological laboratories also includes a supply and exhaust ventilation system. The supply and exhaust ventilation system comprises a supply hood and an exhaust hood installed on the top of the chemical shower chamber. The supply hood includes an air outlet, an air filter, an air flow meter, and an air supply unit. The exhaust hood includes an exhaust outlet, an exhaust filter, an exhaust flow meter, and an exhaust unit.

[0021] The inner wall of the chemical shower chamber is also equipped with a room static pressure differential gauge and an internal air pressure sensor.

[0022] A high-level biological laboratory safety and low-consumption chemical shower device also includes a life support system, which comprises life support tubing, a life support breathing trachea, and a life support air compressor unit.

[0023] The life support pipelines are arranged in a ring or semi-ring at the top of the chemical shower chamber. One end of the life support pipeline is connected to the life support air supply pipeline. The other end of the life support air supply pipeline passes through the top plate of the chemical shower chamber and is connected to the life support air compressor unit outside the chemical shower chamber. One end of the life support pipeline is connected to the life support breathing tube. The other end of the life support breathing tube is equipped with an air supply interface that is adapted to connect to the protective clothing air source interface of the positive pressure protective suit.

[0024] A safe and low-consumption chemical shower method for high-level biological laboratories includes the following steps:

[0025] Step 1: The chemical shower chamber enters the open state. If this is the first time it has entered the open state, the chemical shower working indicator light will illuminate, the chemical shower chamber will be marked as contaminated, the first airtight door will be locked, and the second airtight door will be unlocked. Proceed to Step 2.

[0026] Step 2: The PLC controller controls the execution of the chemical shower chamber's self-cleaning program; after self-cleaning is completed, it automatically proceeds to Step 3.

[0027] Step 4: Determine if the self-cleaning program of the chemical shower chamber is normal. During the self-cleaning program, the first and second airtight doors are locked, the chemical shower working indicator light is on, and the unattended spraying program is executed. If the unattended spraying program completes normally, the first and second airtight doors unlock, the chemical shower working indicator light goes out, the chemical shower chamber self-cleaning program is normal, the chemical shower chamber is in a clean state, and the chemical shower chamber enters standby mode, proceeding to Step 5. If the unattended spraying program does not complete, the chemical shower chamber remains marked as contaminated, personnel in the clean area cannot enter the chemical shower chamber, and the HMI control panel displays an error in the chemical shower chamber self-cleaning program. After troubleshooting, return to Step 1.

[0028] Step 5: The PLC controller monitors the opening buttons on the inside and outside of the first airtight door and the inside and outside of the second airtight door.

[0029] Step 6, Scenario 1: Laboratory personnel press the door opening button on the outside of the first airtight door. If the first airtight door is locked, it restricts laboratory personnel from entering the chemical rinsing chamber through the first airtight door. After repairing the cause of the lockout, the first airtight door is unlocked, and the process returns to Step 5. If the first airtight door is unlocked, proceed to Step 7.

[0030] Scenario 2: Laboratory personnel press the door opening button inside the first airtight door. If the first airtight door is locked, it restricts laboratory personnel from exiting the chemical shower chamber through the first airtight door. After repairing the cause of the lockout, the first airtight door is unlocked, and the process returns to step 5. If the first airtight door is unlocked, the process proceeds to step 7.

[0031] Scenario 3: Laboratory personnel press the door opening button on the outside of the second airtight door. If the second airtight door is locked, restricting laboratory personnel from entering the chemical rinsing chamber through the second airtight door, after repairing the cause of the lockout, the second airtight door is unlocked, and the process returns to step 5; if the second airtight door is unlocked, proceed to step 7.

[0032] Scenario 4: Laboratory personnel press the door opening button inside the second airtight door. If the second airtight door is locked, restricting laboratory personnel from exiting the chemical shower chamber through the second airtight door, after repairing the cause of the lockout, the second airtight door is unlocked, and the process returns to step 5; if the second airtight door is unlocked, proceed to step 7.

[0033] Step 7: If the second airtight door is opened, the chemical shower chamber is in a contaminated state. Wait for the second airtight door to close, then proceed to Step 8. If the second airtight door is not opened, the chemical shower chamber is in a clean state. Return to Step 5.

[0034] Step 8: Determine if there are people in the chemical rinsing chamber. If there are people, the chemical rinsing chamber will automatically start a spray program with double the amount of chemical solution and perform a water rinsing. If there are no people, the chemical rinsing chamber will automatically start a spray program with single the amount of chemical solution and will not perform a water rinsing.

[0035] A safe and low-consumption chemical shower method for high-level biological laboratories also includes a step for handling overpressure in the chemical shower chamber during the spraying process:

[0036] The pressure inside the chemical shower chamber is monitored by a static pressure differential gauge. When the pressure inside the chemical shower chamber exceeds the maximum set pressure value or falls below the minimum set pressure value, the exhaust fan and supply fan units are controlled to maintain the pressure inside the chemical shower chamber between the maximum and minimum set pressure values.

[0037] If the pressure inside the chemical shower chamber continues to exceed the maximum set pressure value for a set period of time, the spraying program will immediately stop, the first airtight door will lock, and the second airtight door will unlock and open automatically.

[0038] It also includes the handling steps for the liquid level alarm in the dosing tank:

[0039] When the liquid level in the dosing tank is higher than the high liquid level alarm switch, the high liquid level alarm state is activated, and both the first and second airtight doors are unlocked.

[0040] When the liquid level in the dosing tank is lower than the high liquid level alarm switch and higher than the medium liquid level alarm switch, it is in the normal operating liquid level state, and both the first and second airtight doors are in the unlocked state.

[0041] When the liquid level in the dosing tank is lower than the medium liquid level alarm switch and higher than the low liquid level alarm switch, it is in the single-use liquid level state. Both the first and second airtight doors are locked. If the PLC controller detects the opening and closing of the second airtight door, it starts the spraying program. After the spraying program ends, the door opening button on the inside of the first airtight door is not affected by the locked state and can open the first airtight door.

[0042] When the liquid level in the dosing tank falls below the low-level alarm switch, a low-level alarm is triggered, and both the first and second airtight doors are locked.

[0043] It also includes troubleshooting steps for malfunctions of the liquid pressurization pump set, the gas pressurization pump set, and the soft water pump set:

[0044] Before starting the chemical liquid pressurizing pump set, gas pressurizing pump set, and soft water pump set, the PLC controller checks for fault alarm signals in these pump sets. If any fault alarm signals are present, they can only be started and the spraying program executed after all alarm signals have been cleared.

[0045] During the spraying process, the PLC controller detected malfunctions in the liquid spraying pump set, the gas spraying pump set, and the soft water pump set, and immediately stopped the spraying process.

[0046] After the spraying process is completed, if the liquid pressurization pump group, gas pressurization pump group, and soft water pump group do not malfunction, the PLC controller reads the flow meter and spraying time of the liquid pressurization pump group, calculates the liquid spraying volume, and if the liquid spraying volume is greater than the set liquid volume, the spraying process is normal and the chemical leaching chamber will be marked as clean; otherwise, the spraying process is judged to be abnormal, the chemical leaching chamber is marked as contaminated, the first airtight door is locked, and the second airtight door is unlocked.

[0047] A safe and low-consumption chemical shower method for high-level biological laboratories also includes a step for handling under-pressure issues in the airtight door seal strip:

[0048] The door seal pressure sensors corresponding to the first and second airtight doors read the door seal pressure during the door closing process. When the door seal pressure is lower than the secondary over / under pressure setting value, the corresponding door seal pressure indicator light goes out; when the door seal pressure is greater than or equal to the secondary over / under pressure setting value, the corresponding door seal pressure indicator light illuminates. During the inflation, deflation, or automatic replenishment process of the corresponding door seal, the corresponding door seal pressure indicator light flashes. The primary under pressure setting value is greater than the secondary over / under pressure setting value.

[0049] When both the first and second airtight doors are closed, the following condition applies: Only the door seal pressure of the first airtight door is less than the first-level under-pressure setting value and greater than or equal to the second-level over- or under-pressure setting value.

[0050] The PLC controller sends a level 1 low-pressure alarm to the first airtight door to the HMI control panel, and the chemical shower chamber is marked as clean. At the same time, the PLC controller controls the air supply and discharge circuit of the airtight door to automatically replenish the door seal of the first airtight door, and the first airtight door is not locked.

[0051] When both the first and second airtight doors are closed, only the door seal pressure of the second airtight door is less than the first-level under-pressure setting value and greater than or equal to the second-level over- or under-pressure setting value:

[0052] The PLC controller sends a low-pressure alarm to the second airtight door to the HMI control panel, marking the chemical shower chamber as clean. The first airtight door is locked, but the opening button on the inside of the first airtight door is unaffected by the locked state. Simultaneously, the PLC controller automatically replenishes air to the door seal of the second airtight door through the air supply and discharge circuit.

[0053] When both the first and second airtight doors are closed, only the door seal pressure of the first airtight door is less than the secondary over / under pressure setting value:

[0054] The PLC controller sends a level 2 low-pressure alarm to the first airtight door to the HMI control panel. The corresponding door strip pressure indicator light goes out, the chemical shower chamber is marked as clean, and simultaneously, the PLC controller controls the airtight door's inflation / deflation circuit to automatically replenish air to the door seal of the first airtight door. The first airtight door then locks, and the chemical shower chamber is no longer in use.

[0055] With both the first and second airtight doors closed, only the door seal pressure of the second airtight door is less than the secondary over / under pressure setting value:

[0056] The PLC sends a level 2 underpressure alarm to the second airtight door to the HMI control panel. The corresponding door strip pressure indicator light goes out, the chemical shower chamber is marked as contaminated, the first airtight door is locked, and the second airtight door is locked. The door opening button on the inside of the second airtight door is not affected by the locked state. At the same time, the PLC controller controls the airtight door inflation and deflation path to automatically replenish air to the door seal of the second airtight door.

[0057] When the first and second airtight doors are closed:

[0058] When both the first and second airtight doors experience a low-pressure alarm simultaneously, the PLC controller automatically replenishes air to the door seals of both doors via the air supply and discharge circuits. If personnel are inside the chemical shower chamber, they are allowed to exit through the first airtight door. After exiting, both doors are locked, and the chemical shower chamber is temporarily unusable. If personnel are outside the chemical shower chamber, both doors remain locked, and the chemical shower chamber is temporarily unusable.

[0059] When both the first-level underpressure alarm and the second-level underpressure alarm of the first airtight door occur simultaneously, or both the first-level underpressure alarm and the second-level underpressure alarm of the first airtight door occur simultaneously, or both the first-level underpressure alarm and the second-level underpressure alarm of the first airtight door occur simultaneously:

[0060] The chemical shower chamber is marked as contaminated. The first and second airtight doors are locked. The switch button on the inside of the second airtight door is not affected by the locked state. The PLC controller controls the air supply and release path of the airtight doors to automatically replenish the door seals of the first and second airtight doors.

[0061] Compared with the prior art, the present invention has the following advantages:

[0062] 1. When using this invention, it is unavoidable that personnel may not follow the prescribed path sequence when entering the chemical shower chamber. During the entry phase: personnel sequentially open and close the first airtight door (using the outer door's switch button), then the second airtight door (using the inner door's switch button). Closing the second airtight door automatically starts the spray program. During the exit phase: personnel open and close the second airtight door (using the outer door's switch button), and pressing the first airtight door automatically starts the spray program. However, during the actual entry phase, if personnel press the second airtight door's open button, the door will open, but due to negligence, it may not be fully opened. After a set time period, the second airtight door will automatically close again, and the spray program will start. After the spray program ends, if personnel open the second airtight door again to enter the laboratory, the spray program will not start, and the chemical shower chamber will remain contaminated. Entry by personnel from outside the laboratory may pose a risk. This device can determine whether the chemical shower chamber is contaminated by monitoring the opening and closing of the second airtight door, classifying the chamber's state as clean or contaminated. Opening and closing the first airtight door connects the chemical shower chamber to the clean area, indicating that the chemical shower chamber is uncontaminated. Opening and closing the second airtight door connects the chemical shower chamber to the contaminated area, indicating potential contamination. The spraying program is not activated in the clean state, but is activated only in the contaminated state.

[0063] 2. Existing chemical shower devices use the same disinfectant dosage and spraying time (i.e., the same spraying program) whether the shower is in use or not, which can ensure laboratory biosafety, but is not economical from the perspective of long-term efficient laboratory operation. The present invention adds a flow meter to monitor the flow of the exhaust hood and the supply hood. The presence of personnel is determined by the monitored flow. Two spraying programs (manned spraying program and unmanned spraying program) are used. Different spraying programs are selected according to the different environmental hazards when the shower is in use or not, so as to reduce disinfectant consumption and the load on the live virus wastewater treatment system of the chemical shower.

[0064] 3. Once the spraying program is started, the pressure inside the chemical shower chamber can be adjusted. After the ventilation system is stabilized (when the chemical shower chamber is within the normal pressure fluctuation range), the device will obtain the difference between the exhaust volume of the exhaust hood and the supply volume of the supply hood and the minimum ventilation volume of a single positive pressure protective suit in real time within a set time period to determine whether there is anyone and take the corresponding spraying program.

[0065] 4. During the use of chemical showers, unavoidable special circumstances may occur, such as damage to the door seal strip, air leakage, or power failure of the door magnetic switch, resulting in insufficient pressure on the door seal strip and loss of sealing. These special circumstances leave the chemical shower chamber in a contaminated state, either without alarm prompts or with excessive alarms. This device can determine whether the airtight door is in a sealed state by monitoring the door seal strip pressure, door magnetic switch status, and proximity switch status. If the door seal pressure is normal and one of the other signals is missing, it can still be considered a clean state, making the judgment of the chemical shower contamination state more accurate.

[0066] 5. During chemical shower operation, malfunctions in the spray system are unavoidable, potentially contaminating the chemical shower chamber and posing a risk of personnel opening the first airtight door. This device employs an airtight door locking function and an open button function to prevent personnel from entering or restrict its use. The chemical shower chamber serves as a personnel access route, ensuring both the containment of biohazardous agents and the ability to evacuate personnel in emergencies. An emergency button is located on the outside of the chemical shower chamber, but not inside; this button remains usable in emergencies to ensure personnel safety and laboratory biosafety.

[0067] 6. The chemical dosing tank has different liquid level alarms, especially when laboratory personnel use it during the dosing process of freshly prepared chemical dosing solutions (chemical disinfectants must be used within their expiration date). However, there are no measures to restrict its use, which can lead to insufficient dosage and spraying time, resulting in incomplete disinfection. This device incorporates an airtight door locking function at different liquid levels in the dosing tank to restrict personnel from using the chemical dosing system.

[0068] 7. During the disinfection process or maintenance of the chemical shower chamber, if the ventilation system malfunctions and the spray system is used, the pressure inside the sealed environment of the chemical shower chamber may become excessive, compromising its airtightness. The device of this invention incorporates a pressure monitoring system within the chemical shower chamber to monitor the pressure in real time. If the pressure inside the chemical shower chamber exceeds the set pressure (positive pressure occurs) during the spraying process, the spraying program immediately stops and an alarm is triggered, effectively protecting the airtight door of the chemical shower chamber and preventing the risk of highly pathogenic pathogens spilling out. Attached Figure Description

[0069] Figure 1 This is a connection diagram of the key components of the device of the present invention.

[0070] In the diagram: 1-Teaching chamber; 2-Indicator lights (door pressure indicator, teating operation indicator); 3-Emergency button; 4-First airtight door; 5-Door electromagnetic lock; 6-Proximity switch; 7-Exhaust hood; 8-Air supply hood; 9-Indoor air pressure sensor; 10-Life support system; 11-Second airtight door; 12-Grate plate; 13-Double-layer drain pipe; 14-Water trap structure; 15-Flame opening; 16-Vertical liquid pipeline; 17-Vertical gas pipeline; 18-Side atomizing sprayer; 19-Top atomizing sprayer; 20-Manual sprayer; 21-Life support breathing tube; 22-Door pressure sensor; 23-Airtight door charging / discharging circuit; 24-HMI control panel; 25-PLC controller; 26-Liquid level alarm switch; 27-Medication liquid pressurization pump set; 28-Gas pressurization pump set; 29-Soft water pump set; 30-Medication tank. Detailed Implementation

[0071] To facilitate understanding and implementation of the present invention by those skilled in the art, the present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to embodiments. It should be understood that the embodiments described herein are for illustration and explanation only and are not intended to limit the present invention.

[0072] Example 1

[0073] A high-level biological laboratory safety and low-consumption chemical shower device, with connection method as follows: Figure 1 As shown, the chemical shower unit includes a chemical shower chamber, a spray system, an airtight door device, a ventilation system, a life support system, a double-layer drain pipe, and a control cabinet.

[0074] 1. Chemical Drainage Chamber

[0075] The chemical shower chamber is a rectangular, airtight compartment (room) installed between the changing room (clean area) and the laboratory (contaminated area) in the core laboratory area. A first airtight door and a second airtight door are respectively located on two opposite side walls of the chamber. The first airtight door controls the connection and isolation between the chemical shower chamber and the clean area, while the second airtight door controls the connection and isolation between the chemical shower chamber and the contaminated area. Lighting is evenly distributed around the inner perimeter of the chamber's top plate. The inner and outer surfaces of the chamber are flared, wider at the top and narrower at the bottom, with a water trap structure inside the flared opening. Multiple sections of grating are laid on the flared opening, and the grating is integrally integrated with the perimeter of the chamber. The inlet of the double-layered drain pipe connects to the outlet of the water trap structure within the chamber, and the outlet connects to an external wastewater recovery tank. The lighting is connected to a PLC controller.

[0076] 2. Airtight door device

[0077] The airtight door device includes a first airtight door and a second airtight door. The first and second airtight doors have identical structures and both open from inside the chemical shower chamber to outside. Each airtight door includes a door panel and a door frame matching the shape and size of the door panel. The door frame is connected to the chemical shower chamber. A vertical side of the door panel is connected to the corresponding door frame via a pin. Door sealing strips are fixed around the perimeter of the door panel. The door sealing strip is connected to the air supply pipe and the air-tight door inflation / deflation circuit. When the airtight door is closed, the door sealing strip is inflated through the air supply / deflation circuit to improve the sealing between the airtight door and the chemical shower chamber. When the airtight door needs to be opened, the door sealing strip is first deflated through the air supply / deflation circuit before the airtight door is opened. A door sealing strip pressure sensor is installed inside the door sealing strip to monitor the air pressure inside the door sealing strip. The door sealing strip pressure sensor is connected to a door sealing strip pressure gauge, which is connected to a PLC controller. Preferably, the door sealing strip air supply pipe is covered with a protective sleeve.

[0078] The airtight door's inflation / deflation circuit is connected to a PLC controller, which controls the inflation / deflation of the door's sealing strip. When the first and second airtight doors are unlocked, pressing the inner or outer door opening button causes the PLC controller to release air from the door's sealing strip. When the first and second airtight doors are detected as closed, the PLC controller controls the inflation / deflation of the door's sealing strip to inflate it.

[0079] Both the first and second airtight doors are equipped with electromagnetic locks for opening and closing. These electromagnetic locks are connected to a PLC controller. The PLC controller controls the engagement and disengagement of the electromagnetic locks, thereby controlling the engagement and disengagement of the first and second airtight doors.

[0080] Opening buttons are located on the inner sides of both the first and second airtight doors, as well as on the outer sides of both doors. The PLC controller is used to control the closing and opening of the airtight doors by combining their unlocked and locked states with the opening buttons.

[0081] When the airtight door is locked, the corresponding open button cannot open the electromagnetic lock on the corresponding airtight door, and cannot control the door seal to release air. When the airtight door is unlocked, the corresponding switch button can open the electromagnetic lock on the corresponding airtight door, and can control the door seal to release air. The PLC controller is connected to the open button, and the PLC controller is used to control the locking and unlocking status of the airtight door.

[0082] Both the first and second airtight doors are equipped with door electromagnetic lock indicator lights. These lights indicate the power-on / off status of the door electromagnetic lock; for example, when the indicator light is on, the door electromagnetic lock is open; when the indicator light is off, the door electromagnetic lock is locked. The door electromagnetic lock indicator lights are connected to the PLC controller.

[0083] Both the first and second airtight doors are equipped with proximity switches, open status indicator lights, and closed status indicator lights. When the proximity switch detects that the airtight door is open, the open status indicator light illuminates, and the closed status indicator light goes out. When the proximity switch detects that the airtight door is closed, the open status indicator light goes out, and the closed status indicator light illuminates. All proximity switches, open status indicator lights, and closed status indicator lights are connected to a PLC controller.

[0084] Both the first and second airtight doors are equipped with door seal pressure indicator lights. When the pressure inside the door seals of the first and second airtight doors is less than a set pressure threshold, the indicator lights illuminate; otherwise, they turn off. The door seal pressure indicator lights are connected to a PLC controller, which controls their illumination.

[0085] Emergency buttons are installed on the outer sides of both the first and second airtight doors. The emergency buttons are connected to the PLC controller. When the emergency button is pressed, the PLC controller controls the corresponding airtight door inflation / deflation circuit to release air from the corresponding door seal, and the PLC controller controls the door electromagnetic lock to open.

[0086] Both the first and second airtight doors are equipped with indicator lights for chemical shower operation, used to indicate whether chemical showering is in progress. These indicator lights are connected to the PLC controller.

[0087] Preferably, it also includes a door opening and closing actuator for opening and closing the first airtight door and the second airtight door. The door opening and closing actuator is connected to the PLC controller, and the PLC controller can perform door opening and closing actions on the first airtight door and the second airtight door through the door opening and closing actuator.

[0088] 3. Sprinkler system

[0089] The spraying system includes a dosing tank, a liquid pressurization pump set, an in-cabin liquid pressurization pipeline, a gas pressurization pump set, a compressed air pipeline, side atomizing sprayers, top atomizing sprayers, vertical liquid pipelines, vertical gas pipelines, manual sprayers, and manual infusion pipelines.

[0090] The internal liquid medicine pressurization pipeline is connected to the corresponding liquid medicine pressurization pump group outside the chemical leaching chamber, and the compressed air pipeline is connected to the corresponding air supply pressurization pump group outside the chemical leaching chamber.

[0091] The liquid medicine pressurization pump unit is connected to the dosing tank through the corresponding external liquid medicine pressurization pipeline.

[0092] The chemical cooling chamber has vertical liquid and gas pipes installed along its inner side. The vertical liquid pipes are connected to the pressurized chemical solution pipeline inside the chamber, and the vertical gas pipes are connected to the compressed air pipeline. Side atomizing sprayers and top atomizing sprayers are respectively installed on the sides and top of the chemical cooling chamber. The liquid inlets of the top and side atomizing sprayers are connected to the vertical liquid pipes, and the air inlets of the top and side atomizing sprayers are connected to the vertical gas pipes. The air inlet of the side atomizing sprayer is located at the rear end of the liquid inlet, and the spray nozzle is at the front end; the air inlet of the top atomizing sprayer is located at the rear end of the liquid inlet, and the spray nozzle is at the front end.

[0093] Both the vertical liquid pipelines and the vertical gas pipelines are connected to the side wall of the chemical cooling chamber via fixed supports.

[0094] The upper part of the chemical rinsing chamber is equipped with a manual sprayer, which is connected to a manual infusion pipeline. The manual infusion pipeline passes through the middle area of ​​the top of the chemical rinsing chamber and then connects to the bottom of the dosing tank.

[0095] The dosing tank is used to hold disinfectant solution. A liquid level alarm switch is installed on the side wall of the dosing tank. The liquid level alarm switch is connected to the PLC controller. Depending on the amount of disinfectant solution in the dosing tank, the liquid level alarm switch includes a high liquid level alarm switch, a medium liquid level alarm switch, and a low liquid level alarm switch.

[0096] The high liquid level alarm switch is used to mark the maximum liquid level of disinfectant solution that the dosing tank can hold. It is used to remind managers to pay attention to the liquid level of disinfectant solution during manual preparation, so as to prevent the solution from overflowing the dosing tank during the stirring process.

[0097] The medium-level alarm switch is located below the high-level alarm switch. The medium-level alarm switch is used to mark the level of the liquid level corresponding to the completion of a complete entry and exit stage spraying procedure, thereby providing early warning to managers to add disinfectant solution so that the chemical spraying device can be used continuously.

[0098] The low liquid level alarm switch is used to mark the level of the disinfectant solution corresponding to the completed exit stage of the disinfection procedure.

[0099] When the liquid level in the dosing tank is higher than the high liquid level alarm switch, it is in high liquid level alarm state.

[0100] When the liquid level in the dosing tank is lower than the high liquid level alarm switch but higher than the medium liquid level alarm switch, it is considered to be in normal operating condition.

[0101] When the liquid level in the dosing tank is lower than the medium liquid level alarm switch and higher than the low liquid level alarm switch, it is in the single-use withdrawal liquid level state.

[0102] When the liquid level in the dosing tank is lower than the low liquid level alarm switch, it will be in low liquid level alarm state.

[0103] In this embodiment, the dosing tank is cylindrical with an opening and a cover. A stirrer is installed on the top cover of the dosing tank and is connected to a PLC controller. The manual infusion pipeline is connected to a manual sprayer and a ball valve is installed on the manual infusion pipeline. The external drug pressurization pipeline is installed on the side wall of the dosing tank at a height higher than the bottom of the dosing tank and below the low liquid level alarm switch.

[0104] The chemical pressurization pump unit includes a pump unit liquid pipeline, on which a diaphragm pump, pneumatic valves, and flow meters are installed. The two ends of the pump unit liquid pipeline are connected to the dosing tank and the external chemical pressurization pipeline, respectively. The diaphragm pump, pneumatic valves, and flow meters of the chemical pressurization pump unit are all connected to a PLC controller.

[0105] The gas pressurization pump set includes a pump set air circuit, on which an air pump, pressure gauge, and pneumatic valves are installed. The pump set air circuit is connected to a compressed air circuit, which in turn is connected to the airtight valve charging / discharging circuit. The compressed air circuit is also connected to various pneumatic valves via valve drive lines. The air pump, pressure gauge, and pneumatic valves of the gas pressurization pump set are all connected to a PLC controller.

[0106] The PLC controller is connected to the air supply circuit of the airtight door and is used to control the air supply and release of the door seal.

[0107] The PLC controller is connected to the valve drive pipeline and is used to drive the opening and closing of each pneumatic valve.

[0108] The soft water pump unit includes a soft water pipe, on which a diaphragm pump, a pneumatic valve, and a flow meter are installed. The two ends of the soft water pipe are connected to a soft water source and the top of a dosing tank, respectively. The diaphragm pump, pneumatic valve, and flow meter of the soft water pump unit are all connected to a PLC controller.

[0109] The diaphragm pump, air pump, and water pump are all powered by a UPS, as is the PLC controller. The UPS also powers the entire shower unit.

[0110] 4. Ventilation system

[0111] The air supply and exhaust system mainly includes air supply hoods and exhaust hoods, which are installed on the top of the chemical shower chamber. The air supply hood includes an air inlet, an air filter, an air flow meter, and an air supply unit. The air inlet is equipped with an air filter and is connected to the air supply unit via an air supply duct, which is equipped with an air flow meter. The exhaust hood includes an exhaust outlet, an exhaust filter, an exhaust flow meter, and an exhaust unit. The exhaust outlet is equipped with an exhaust filter and is connected to the exhaust unit via an exhaust duct, which is equipped with an exhaust flow meter. All components—the air supply flow meter, the exhaust flow meter, the air supply unit, and the exhaust unit—are connected to a PLC controller.

[0112] The room static pressure differential gauge is installed on the upper side wall of the chemical shower chamber (a pressure gauge used to measure the pressure inside the chemical shower chamber). The gauge includes two pressure probes: one inside the chamber and the other as a reference probe connected to atmospheric pressure via a sealing device on the top plate of the chamber. The signal line of the gauge passes through the top plate and is connected to the ventilation system controller to regulate pressure changes within the chamber. The gauge adjusts the relative pressure difference within the chamber in real time by reading the internal pressure and atmospheric pressure. It is not connected to the PLC controller but to the ventilation system controller. The gauge monitors the pressure inside the chemical shower chamber. When the pressure exceeds the maximum set pressure, it controls the exhaust fan to increase the exhaust volume or the supply fan to decrease the supply volume. When the pressure is below the minimum set pressure, it controls the exhaust fan to decrease the exhaust volume or the supply fan to increase the supply volume, thus maintaining the pressure within the chamber between the maximum and minimum set pressure values.

[0113] The chemical shower chamber is also equipped with a separate internal pressure sensor, which is used to monitor for abnormal pressure inside the chemical shower chamber. The internal pressure sensor is connected to the PLC controller.

[0114] 5. Life support system

[0115] The life support system includes life support tubing, a life support breathing tube, and a life support air compressor unit. The life support air compressor unit is connected to a PLC controller.

[0116] Life support tubing is arranged in a ring or semi-ring pattern at the top of the chemical shower chamber. One end of each life support tubing connects to the life support air supply tubing, while the other end of the life support air supply tubing is sealed and passes through the top plate of the chemical shower chamber, connecting to the life support air compressor unit outside the chamber. One end of each life support tubing connects to the life support breathing tube, the other end of which has an air supply interface adapted to connect to the air source interface of the positive pressure protective suit. When the air supply interface of the life support breathing tube is not connected to the protective suit's air source interface, the air supply interface is closed. When the air supply interface of the life support breathing tube is connected to the protective suit's air source interface, the life support breathing tube is connected to the positive pressure protective suit. Multiple life support breathing tubes are configured. Fresh air is introduced through the life support breathing tubes connected to the protective suit's air source interface, while exhaled waste gas and excess gas are discharged into the chemical shower chamber through the protective suit's exhaust port.

[0117] 7. Control cabinet

[0118] The control cabinet contains a PLC controller and an HMI control panel. The PLC controller and the HMI control panel are connected.

[0119] Example 2

[0120] A safe and low-consumption chemical shower method for high-level biological laboratories includes the following steps:

[0121] Step 1: The chemical shower chamber is put into the open state. If this is the first time it is put into the open state, the chemical shower working indicator light will be on, the chemical shower chamber will be marked as contaminated, the first airtight door will be locked, and the second airtight door will be unlocked. Proceed to Step 2.

[0122] Step 2: Manually execute the self-cleaning procedure of the chemical shower chamber. This is done manually via the HMI control panel, controlling the PLC controller to execute the self-cleaning procedure. Self-cleaning is a safety operation process that is forcibly executed after the chemical shower is started. It refers to the unmanned spray program being activated once during the self-cleaning procedure before a person enters the chemical shower chamber through the first airtight door in the clean area. The self-cleaning procedure of the chemical shower chamber can also be replaced by the manned spray program in the entry stage. In the manned spray program in the entry stage, the spraying time is longer. After the self-cleaning is completed, the process will automatically proceed to Step 3.

[0123] Step 4: Determine if the self-cleaning program of the chemical shower chamber is normal. In the self-cleaning program, the first and second airtight doors are locked, the chemical shower working indicator light is on, and the unattended spraying program is executed. If the unattended spraying program is completed normally, the first and second airtight doors are unlocked, the chemical shower working indicator light goes out, the self-cleaning program of the chemical shower chamber is normal, the chemical shower chamber is in a clean state, the chemical shower chamber enters standby state, and proceeds to Step 5. If the unattended spraying program is not completed, the chemical shower chamber is still marked as contaminated, personnel in the clean area cannot enter the chemical shower chamber, and the HMI control panel displays an abnormality in the self-cleaning program of the chemical shower chamber. After troubleshooting, return to Step 1.

[0124] Step 5: The PLC controller monitors the opening buttons on the inside and outside of the first airtight door and the inside and outside of the second airtight door.

[0125] Step 6, Scenario 1: Laboratory personnel press the door opening button on the outside of the first airtight door to determine whether the first airtight door is locked. If the first airtight door is locked, the laboratory personnel are restricted from entering the chemical rinsing chamber through the first airtight door. After the cause of the lock is repaired, the first airtight door is unlocked, and the process returns to Step 5. If the first airtight door is unlocked, proceed to Step 7.

[0126] Scenario 2: Laboratory personnel press the door opening button inside the first airtight door to determine if the first airtight door is locked. If the first airtight door is locked, the laboratory personnel are restricted from exiting the chemical shower chamber through the first airtight door. After the cause of the lock is repaired, the first airtight door is unlocked, and the process returns to step 5. If the first airtight door is unlocked, the process proceeds to step 7.

[0127] Scenario 3: Laboratory personnel press the door opening button on the outside of the second airtight door to determine whether the second airtight door is locked. If the second airtight door is locked, the laboratory personnel are restricted from entering the chemical leaching chamber through the second airtight door. After the cause of the lock is repaired, the second airtight door is unlocked, and the process returns to step 5. If the second airtight door is unlocked, the process proceeds to step 7.

[0128] Scenario 4: Laboratory personnel press the door opening button on the inside of the second airtight door to determine whether the second airtight door is locked. If the second airtight door is locked, the laboratory personnel are restricted from exiting the chemical shower chamber through the second airtight door. After the cause of the lock is repaired, the second airtight door is unlocked, and the process returns to step 5. If the second airtight door is unlocked, the process proceeds to step 7.

[0129] Step 7: Determine if the chemical shower chamber is contaminated. Check if the second airtight door is open to determine if the chamber is contaminated. If the second airtight door is open, the chamber is contaminated. Wait for the second airtight door to close before proceeding to Step 8. If the second airtight door is not open, the chamber is clean. Return to Step 5. The second airtight door is considered open when the door opening buttons on either side of the second airtight door or the emergency button on the outside of the door are pressed, and the door seals release air normally during the opening process.

[0130] Step 8: The chemical rinsing chamber is marked as contaminated. This means that when the chemical rinsing chamber is connected to the laboratory (contaminated area), the personnel's outer clothing, the air inside the chamber, the inner walls of the chemical rinsing chamber, and the facilities may be contaminated. Determine whether there are people in the chemical rinsing chamber. If there are people, the contaminated chemical rinsing chamber will automatically start a double-volume spray program for people and perform water rinsing. If there are no people, the contaminated chemical rinsing chamber will automatically start a single-volume unattended spray program and will not perform water rinsing. When the chemical rinsing chamber is in a contaminated state, the first airtight door will always be locked. After the spray program runs normally, the chemical rinsing chamber will be in a clean state.

[0131] Personnel exit from the contaminated room through the chemical shower chamber to the clean area. The personnel, air and facilities inside the chamber are contaminated, posing an extremely high biosafety risk. The spraying procedure requires double the amount of chemical solution (double the spraying time) and rinsing with clean water.

[0132] Personnel travel from the clean side through the chemical shower chamber to the laboratory for contamination testing. The air and equipment inside the chamber are contaminated, posing a high biosafety risk. The spraying procedure requires a single dose of chemical solution (single dose of chemical solution spraying time) and does not require a water rinsing stage.

[0133] The chemical shower chamber is in a closed state, that is, during chemical shower chamber maintenance or upkeep:

[0134] The first and second airtight doors can be opened and closed normally without being restricted by the locked state; the chemical spraying indicator light is off; the spraying program is not triggered; the fault alarm of the chemical liquid pressurizing pump group does not perform alarm actions; the fault alarm of the liquid level in the dosing tank does not perform alarm actions; the fault alarm of the airtight door sealing strip does not execute the locking state of the first and second airtight doors; however, the HMI control panel will display the alarm fault information of the chemical liquid pressurizing pump group, the liquid level in the dosing tank, and the airtight door sealing strip to remind the equipment management personnel. At the same time, the fault alarms of the first and second airtight doors are displayed through the door strip pressure indicator light to remind the on-site users.

[0135] The steps for handling overpressure in the chemical spraying chamber during the spraying process are as follows:

[0136] The PLC controller monitors the pressure inside the chemical shower chamber using a room static pressure differential gauge. When the pressure inside the chemical shower chamber exceeds the maximum set pressure value, it controls the exhaust fan unit to increase the exhaust volume or controls the supply fan unit to decrease the supply volume. When the pressure inside the chemical shower chamber is less than the minimum set pressure value, it controls the exhaust fan unit to decrease the exhaust volume or controls the supply fan unit to increase the supply volume, thus maintaining the pressure inside the chemical shower chamber between the maximum and minimum set pressure values.

[0137] If the pressure inside the chemical shower chamber exceeds the maximum set pressure value for a set period of time, the spraying program will immediately stop. The first airtight door will lock, and the second airtight door will unlock and open automatically. Personnel should then retreat to the laboratory (contaminated area) and use a manual sprayer, or wait until the pressure inside the chamber returns to normal before re-entering the chemical shower chamber for spraying, and then exit the laboratory through the first airtight door.

[0138] Procedures for handling liquid level alarms in dosing tanks:

[0139] When the liquid level in the dosing tank is higher than the high liquid level alarm switch, it is in a high liquid level alarm state. The high liquid level alarm may be due to the valve on the soft water pipeline of the dosing tank not being closed or not being closed tightly, or too much medicine being prepared, or foam being generated during the stirring of the disinfection solution by the agitator, causing the liquid level to reach the high liquid level switch. The alarm reminds the management personnel to pay attention to the disinfection tank and prevent the medicine from overflowing.

[0140] When the liquid level in the dosing tank is lower than the high liquid level alarm switch but higher than the medium liquid level alarm switch, it is considered to be in normal operating condition.

[0141] When the liquid level in the dosing tank is lower than the medium liquid level alarm switch and higher than the low liquid level alarm switch, it is in the single-use withdrawal liquid level state.

[0142] When the liquid level in the dosing tank is lower than the low liquid level alarm switch, it will be in low liquid level alarm state.

[0143] In the high liquid level alarm state, both the first and second airtight doors are in the unlocked state;

[0144] Under normal operating liquid level conditions, both the first and second airtight doors are in the unlocked state;

[0145] When the liquid level is exited for a single time, both the first and second airtight doors are locked. If the PLC controller detects the opening or closing of the second airtight door, it starts the spraying program. After the spraying program ends, the door opening button inside the first airtight door is not affected by the locked state and can open the first airtight door.

[0146] In the low liquid level alarm state, both the first and second airtight doors are locked.

[0147] Steps for handling insufficient pressure on the sealing strip of an airtight door:

[0148] The working pressure of the airtight door's inflatable sealing strip has two different underpressure settings: Level 1 underpressure setting (low air pressure, triggers automatic air replenishment, ensuring sealing performance), and Level 2 overpressure setting (even lower air pressure, sealing performance not guaranteed, automatic air replenishment still cannot reach the Level 2 overpressure setting or cannot automatically complete air replenishment). The Level 1 underpressure setting is greater than the Level 2 overpressure setting.

[0149] The door seal pressure sensors corresponding to the first and second airtight doors read the door seal pressure during the door closing process. When the door seal pressure is less than the secondary over / under pressure setting value, the corresponding door seal pressure indicator light goes out; when it is greater than or equal to the secondary over / under pressure setting value, the corresponding door seal pressure indicator light lights up. During the inflation, deflation, or automatic replenishment of the corresponding door seal, the corresponding door seal pressure indicator light flashes.

[0150] (a) When the first and second airtight doors are closed, only the door seal pressure of the first airtight door is less than the first-level under-pressure setting value and greater than or equal to the second-level over- or under-pressure setting value:

[0151] The PLC controller sends a level 1 low-pressure alarm to the first airtight door to the HMI control panel, and the chemical shower chamber is marked as clean. At the same time, the PLC controller controls the air supply and discharge circuit of the airtight door to automatically replenish the door seal of the first airtight door. The first airtight door is not locked, and the door seal of the first airtight door still has a sealing function. The first airtight door can be left unlocked because the chemical shower is still required to ensure that personnel can use and exit.

[0152] (b) When the first and second airtight doors are closed, only the door seal pressure of the second airtight door is less than the first-level under-pressure setting value and greater than or equal to the second-level over- or under-pressure setting value:

[0153] The PLC controller sends a level 1 low-pressure alarm to the second airtight door to the HMI control panel, marking the chemical shower chamber as clean. The first airtight door is locked, but the opening button on the inside of the first airtight door is unaffected by the locked state. At the same time, the PLC controller controls the air supply and discharge path of the airtight door to automatically replenish the door seal of the second airtight door.

[0154] (c) When the first and second airtight doors are closed, and only the door seal pressure of the first airtight door is less than the secondary over / under pressure setting value:

[0155] The PLC controller sends a level 2 low-pressure alarm to the first airtight door to the HMI control panel. The corresponding door pressure indicator light goes out, and the chemical shower chamber is marked as clean. Simultaneously, the PLC controller automatically replenishes air to the door seal of the first airtight door via the air supply / discharge circuit, locking the first airtight door. Personnel should stop using the chemical shower chamber once they observe the corresponding door pressure indicator light going out.

[0156] (d) When the first and second airtight doors are closed, only the door seal pressure of the second airtight door is less than the secondary over / under pressure setting value:

[0157] The PLC sends a level 2 underpressure alarm to the second airtight door to the HMI control panel. The corresponding door strip pressure indicator light goes out, the chemical shower chamber is marked as contaminated, and the first and second airtight doors are locked. However, the door opening button on the inside of the second airtight door is not affected by the locked state. At the same time, the PLC controller controls the airtight door inflation and deflation path to automatically replenish air to the door seal of the second airtight door.

[0158] (e) When the first and second airtight doors are closed, if both the first and second airtight doors simultaneously experience a level 1 under-pressure alarm, the PLC controller will automatically replenish the air seals of the first and second airtight doors via the air supply and discharge paths. If there are personnel inside the chemical shower chamber, they are allowed to remain inside the chamber or, in special emergency situations, need to evacuate the laboratory through the first airtight door. Personnel can still use the chemical shower chamber for evacuation according to normal procedures. After evacuation, the equipment administrator can lock both the first and second airtight doors via the HMI control interface, suspending the use of the chemical shower chamber. If personnel are outside the chemical shower chamber, the equipment administrator can lock both the first and second airtight doors via the HMI control interface, suspending the use of the chemical shower chamber. Normal use can be resumed after the equipment malfunction is resolved, or personnel can safely exit through other chemical showers within the laboratory.

[0159] (f) When the first and second airtight doors are closed, if the first airtight door's level 1 undervoltage alarm and the second airtight door's level 2 undervoltage alarm occur simultaneously, or if the first airtight door's level 2 undervoltage alarm and the second airtight door's level 1 undervoltage alarm occur simultaneously, or if the first airtight door's level 2 undervoltage alarm and the second airtight door's level 2 undervoltage alarm occur simultaneously:

[0160] The chemical shower chamber is marked as contaminated. The first and second airtight doors are locked. The switch button on the inside of the second airtight door is unaffected by the locked state. The PLC controller automatically replenishes air to the door seals of both the first and second airtight doors via the air supply / discharge paths. If a person is inside the chemical shower chamber, the chemical shower cannot start due to over / under pressure faults in the airtight doors. If a person is inside the chamber, they should exit the chemical shower to the laboratory (contaminated side) and exit normally via another chemical shower. If a person is outside the chemical shower chamber, they should stop using it when they observe the pressure indicator light on the airtight door strip going out.

[0161] Determining whether someone is inside the chemical shower chamber is based on the following steps:

[0162] Within a set time (e.g., 1 minute), if the difference between the exhaust volume of the exhaust hood and the supply volume of the supply hood is greater than or equal to the minimum ventilation volume of a single positive pressure protective suit, then it is determined that there is someone inside the chemical shower chamber; if the difference between the exhaust volume of the exhaust hood and the supply volume of the supply hood is less than the minimum ventilation volume of a single positive pressure protective suit, then it is determined that there is no one inside the chemical shower chamber.

[0163] Troubleshooting steps for malfunctions in liquid pressurization pump sets, gas pressurization pump sets, and soft water pump sets:

[0164] The fault alarm signals of the liquid medicine pressurization pump set include: fault alarm signals output by the diaphragm pump and fault alarm signals for the opening and closing of the pneumatic valves;

[0165] The fault alarm signals of the gas pressurization pump set include: fault alarm signals from the gas pump output and fault alarm signals from the opening and closing of the pneumatic valves.

[0166] The fault alarm signals of the soft water pump set include: fault alarm signals output by the diaphragm pump and fault alarm signals generated by the opening and closing of the pneumatic valve.

[0167] Before starting the chemical liquid pressurizing pump set, gas pressurizing pump set, and soft water pump set, the PLC controller checks for any fault alarm signals. If any fault alarm signal is detected, the chemical liquid pressurizing pump set, gas pressurizing pump set, and soft water pump set can only be started and the spraying program can only be executed after all fault alarm signals have been cleared.

[0168] During the spraying process, if the PLC controller detects any malfunction in the liquid pressurization pump group, gas pressurization pump group, or soft water pump group, it will immediately stop the spraying process.

[0169] After the spraying process is completed, if the liquid pressurization pump group, gas pressurization pump group, and soft water pump group do not malfunction, the PLC controller reads the flow meter and spraying time of the liquid pressurization pump group, calculates the liquid spraying volume, and if the liquid spraying volume is greater than the set liquid volume, the spraying process is normal and the chemical leaching chamber will be marked as clean; otherwise, the spraying process is judged to be abnormal, the chemical leaching chamber is marked as contaminated, the first airtight door is locked, and the second airtight door is unlocked.

[0170] Steps for using the emergency button:

[0171] The emergency button should only be used when the risk is low according to a biosafety assessment. For example, the emergency button can be used in the following situations:

[0172] ① When the spray system malfunctions and cannot start automatically, the chemical shower chamber is marked as contaminated, the first airtight door is locked and cannot be opened by pressing the door open button. After emergency spraying with a manual sprayer, the first airtight door can be opened using the emergency button to enter the clean area. In this case, for emergency exit, if the first and second airtight doors are working normally, and the laboratory personnel open and close the second airtight door to enter the chemical shower chamber from the contaminated side of the laboratory, and find that the chemical shower has not started the spraying process, they should contact external personnel through the voice system to report the equipment malfunction. If they are told that the chemical shower equipment cannot be restored temporarily, the first choice is to exit normally through the chemical shower of an adjacent laboratory. If conditions do not allow this, and the only option is to exit through the chemical shower of this laboratory, then a manual sprayer must be used.

[0173] Manual sprayer operation: After external management confirms that the dosing tank is full and the valve between the dosing tank and the manual sprayer is open, the first laboratory personnel stands directly under the manual sprayer. The second laboratory personnel pulls the valve lever, opening the sprayer. The pesticide solution in the dosing tank is then transported through the pipe to the manual sprayer by gravity and sprayed out. The solution flows down from above the first laboratory personnel's positive pressure protective suit. The second laboratory personnel adjusts the flow rate using the valve lever and maintains it at a suitable flow rate. Once the first lab worker releases their grip, they continuously wipe the surface of the positive pressure protective suit with the disinfectant by hand, rotating their body, raising their feet, and raising their arms. The second lab worker assists by rubbing their back to ensure the disinfectant completely cleans and covers the surface of the protective suit. After the first lab worker cleans the suit once, the second lab worker pushes the valve lever of the manual sprayer upwards to close it and stop the disinfectant spraying. Then, the second lab worker takes over to disinfect and decontaminate the surface of the positive pressure protective suit, while the first lab worker operates the manual sprayer to open and close it, assisting the first lab worker in cleaning and supervising each other's actions.

[0174] ② When the first airtight door fails to open automatically due to a malfunction, personnel need to enter the clean area after completing the normal spraying procedure inside the chemical shower chamber. The first airtight door can be accessed using the emergency button. If external personnel confirm that the chemical shower chamber is marked as clean, and the personnel inside the chemical shower chamber have completed the normal spraying procedure or have never opened the second airtight door, or have had their protective clothing completely cleaned with disinfectant using a manual sprayer under positive pressure, and the biosafety assessment indicates a low risk, the emergency button for the first airtight door can be pressed. The pressure of the airtight door sealing strip and the electromagnetic lock will be released simultaneously, and the first airtight door will open quickly. After the first airtight door opens, the emergency button must be manually reset. After the personnel exit the chemical shower chamber, the first airtight door should be closed, and the first airtight door will automatically close again.

[0175] ③ When the second airtight door malfunctions and cannot open automatically, personnel inside the chemical shower chamber need to enter the contaminated side of the laboratory. The emergency button for the second airtight door can be used. Personnel inside the laboratory press the emergency button for the second airtight door on the contaminated side. The pressure of the second airtight door sealing strip and the electromagnetic lock are released simultaneously, and the second airtight door opens quickly. After the second airtight door opens, the emergency button must be manually reset. Personnel should replace their life support breathing tube. After personnel enter the contaminated side of the laboratory, the second airtight door will automatically close again. If the malfunction of the second airtight door disappears after it closes, the spraying procedure will be executed. If the malfunction of the second airtight door does not disappear after it closes, the spraying procedure will not be executed. The chemical shower chamber can only be used normally after the malfunction of the second airtight door is resolved.

[0176] ④ In the event of an accidental injury to personnel in the contaminated area, requiring emergency evacuation and rescue, the emergency button can be used on the second airtight door before entering the chemical shower chamber.

[0177] In case of an emergency evacuation from a contaminated area, such as an accidental finger injury, laboratory personnel should first contact biosafety personnel via voice communication system to report the incident. Biosafety personnel will immediately inform biosafety personnel of the situation requiring immediate attention. Biosafety personnel will then activate the corresponding emergency plan based on the specific incident and prepare for external support. Simultaneously, personnel inside the laboratory will use the emergency door opening button to quickly open the second airtight door. After the door is opened, the emergency button will be reset. Personnel will then change their endotracheal tubes and enter the chemical rinsing chamber. The second airtight door will be closed, and the chemical rinsing system will automatically begin spraying, completing the normal spraying procedure. Personnel will then open the first airtight door and exit normally. External support personnel will be responsible for subsequent handling and will close the first airtight door simultaneously.

[0178] Troubleshooting steps for airtight door signal loss alarm:

[0179] The PLC controller detected that the electromagnetic lock signal of the airtight door (the first airtight door, the second airtight door, or both airtight doors at the same time) was lost. The proximity switch signal and the door sealing strip pressure were normal. The airtight door was locked and the chemical shower chamber was marked as clean.

[0180] The PLC controller detected that the proximity switch signal of the airtight door (either the first airtight door, the second airtight door, or both the first and second airtight doors simultaneously) was lost, the electromagnetic lock signal and the door bar pressure were normal, the airtight door was engaged and locked, and the chemical shower chamber was marked as clean.

[0181] The PLC controller detected that the proximity switch and electromagnetic lock signals of the first airtight door were lost, the door sealing strip pressure was normal, the chemical shower chamber was marked as clean, and the first airtight door was locked.

[0182] The PLC controller detected that the proximity switch and door solenoid lock signals for the second airtight door were lost, while the door seal pressure was normal. The chemical shower chamber was marked as contaminated. Both the first and second airtight doors were locked. The HMI control panel displayed an alarm message indicating a lost airtight door signal, and the airtight door status indicator lights, both open and closed, were illuminated. If the airtight door malfunctions, the spray program will not start automatically.

[0183] The specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative of the spirit of the invention. Those skilled in the art to which this invention pertains may make various modifications or additions to the described specific embodiments or use similar methods to substitute them, without departing from the spirit of the invention or exceeding the scope defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A safe and low-consumption chemical showering method for high-level biological laboratories, utilizing a safe and low-consumption chemical showering device for high-level biological laboratories. The device includes a chemical cooling chamber. A first airtight door and a second airtight door are respectively opened on two opposite side walls of the chamber. Both the first and second airtight doors include an airtight door panel and an airtight door frame. Door sealing strips are fixed to the four perimeter of the door panel. The door sealing strips are connected to the airtight door's inflation / deflation circuit via a door sealing strip supply pipe. A door sealing strip pressure sensor is installed inside the door sealing strip and is connected to a door sealing strip pressure gauge. Both the first and second airtight doors are equipped with a door electromagnetic lock, a proximity switch, a door sealing strip pressure indicator light, and an emergency button. Opening buttons are located on the inner sides of both the first and second airtight doors. The airtight door's inflation / deflation circuit, door pressure gauge, door solenoid lock, proximity switch, door pressure indicator light, emergency button, and door opening button are all connected to the PLC controller. The PLC controller is connected to the HMI control panel. Its features are, The method includes the following steps: Step 1: The chemical shower chamber enters the open state. If this is the first time it has entered the open state, the chemical shower working indicator light will illuminate, the chemical shower chamber will be marked as contaminated, the first airtight door will be locked, and the second airtight door will be unlocked. Proceed to Step 2. Step 2: The PLC controller controls the execution of the chemical shower chamber's self-cleaning program; after self-cleaning is completed, it automatically proceeds to Step 3. Step 3: Determine if the self-cleaning program of the chemical shower chamber is normal. During the self-cleaning program, the first and second airtight doors are locked, the chemical shower working indicator light is on, and the unattended spraying program is executed. If the unattended spraying program completes normally, the first and second airtight doors unlock, the chemical shower working indicator light goes out, the chemical shower chamber self-cleaning program is normal, the chemical shower chamber is in a clean state, and the chemical shower chamber enters standby mode, proceeding to Step 4. If the unattended spraying program does not complete, the chemical shower chamber remains marked as contaminated, personnel in the clean area cannot enter the chemical shower chamber, and the HMI control panel displays an error in the chemical shower chamber self-cleaning program. After troubleshooting, return to Step 1. Step 4: The PLC controller monitors the opening buttons on the inside and outside of the first airtight door and the second airtight door. Step 5, Scenario 1: Laboratory personnel press the door opening button on the outside of the first airtight door. If the first airtight door is locked, it restricts laboratory personnel from entering the chemical rinsing chamber through the first airtight door. After repairing the cause of the lockout, the first airtight door is unlocked, and the process returns to Step 4. If the first airtight door is unlocked, proceed to Step 6. Scenario 2: Laboratory personnel press the door opening button inside the first airtight door. If the first airtight door is locked, it restricts laboratory personnel from exiting the chemical shower chamber through the first airtight door. After repairing the cause of the lockout, the first airtight door is unlocked, and the process returns to step 4. If the first airtight door is unlocked, the process proceeds to step 6. Scenario 3: Laboratory personnel press the door opening button on the outside of the second airtight door. If the second airtight door is locked, restricting laboratory personnel from entering the chemical leaching chamber through the second airtight door, after repairing the cause of the lockout, the second airtight door is unlocked, and the process returns to step 4; if the second airtight door is unlocked, proceed to step 6. Scenario 4: Laboratory personnel press the door opening button inside the second airtight door. If the second airtight door is locked, restricting laboratory personnel from exiting the chemical shower chamber through the second airtight door, after repairing the cause of the lockout, the second airtight door is unlocked, and the process returns to step 4; if the second airtight door is unlocked, proceed to step 6. Step 6: If the second airtight door is opened, the chemical shower chamber is in a contaminated state. Wait for the second airtight door to close, then proceed to Step 7. If the second airtight door is not opened, the chemical shower chamber is in a clean state. Return to Step 4. Step 7: Determine if there are people in the chemical rinsing chamber. If there are people, the chemical rinsing chamber will automatically start a spray program with double the amount of chemical solution and perform a water rinsing if there are no people. If there are no people, the chemical rinsing chamber will automatically start a spray program with single the amount of chemical solution and will not perform a water rinsing if there are no people.

2. The method for safe and low-consumption chemical showering in a high-level biological laboratory according to claim 1, characterized in that, The inner and lower surfaces of the chemical shower chamber are shaped like a flared opening, wider at the top and narrower at the bottom. A water trap structure is installed inside the flared opening, and multiple sections of grating plates are laid on the flared opening. The grating plates are adjacent to the perimeter of the chemical shower chamber. The inlet of the double-layer drain pipe is connected to the outlet of the water trap structure inside the chemical shower chamber, and the outlet of the double-layer drain pipe is connected to the external sewage recovery tank.

3. The method for safe and low-consumption chemical showering in a high-level biological laboratory according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a sprinkler system, which comprises a dosing tank, a liquid chemical pressurization pump set, an in-cabin liquid chemical pressurization pipeline, a gas pressurization pump set, compressed air pipelines, side atomizing sprayers, top atomizing sprayers, vertical liquid pipelines, vertical gas pipelines, manual sprayers, and manual infusion pipelines. The internal pharmacy pressurization pipeline is connected to the corresponding external pharmacy pressurization pump set. The compressed air pipeline is connected to the corresponding air supply and pressurization pump set outside the chemical shower chamber. The chemical injection pressurization pump unit is connected to the dosing tank via a corresponding external chemical injection pressurization pipeline. The internal side of the chemical cooling chamber is equipped with vertical liquid pipes and vertical gas pipes. The vertical liquid pipes are connected to the pressurized chemical solution pipeline inside the chamber, and the vertical gas pipes are connected to the compressed air pipeline. The sides and top of the chemical cooling chamber are respectively equipped with side atomizing sprayers and top atomizing sprayers. The liquid inlets of the top atomizing sprayers and side atomizing sprayers are connected to vertical liquid pipes, and the air inlets of the top atomizing sprayers and side atomizing sprayers are connected to vertical gas pipes. The air inlet of the side atomizing sprayer is located at the rear end of the liquid inlet of the side atomizing sprayer, and the spray nozzle of the side atomizing sprayer is at the front end. The air inlet of the top atomizing sprayer is located at the rear end of the liquid inlet of the top atomizing sprayer, and the spray nozzle of the top atomizing sprayer is at the front end. A manual sprayer is installed in the upper part of the chemical leaching chamber. The manual sprayer is connected to a manual infusion pipeline, which runs out of the chemical leaching chamber from the middle of the top and then connects to the bottom of the dosing tank. A liquid level alarm switch is installed on the side wall of the dosing tank. The liquid level alarm switch is connected to the PLC controller. The liquid level alarm switch includes a high liquid level alarm switch, a medium liquid level alarm switch, and a low liquid level alarm switch.

4. The method for safe and low-consumption chemical showering in a high-level biological laboratory according to claim 3, characterized in that, The drug liquid pressurization pump set includes a pump set liquid pipeline, on which a diaphragm pump, a pneumatic valve, and a flow meter are installed. The two ends of the pump set liquid pipeline are connected to the dosing tank and the external drug liquid pressurization pipeline, respectively. The gas pressurization pump set includes a pump set air circuit pipeline, on which an air pump, pressure gauge, and pneumatic valves are installed. The pump set air circuit pipeline is connected to a compressed air pipeline, which is also connected to the airtight valve charging / discharging air circuit. The soft water pump set includes a soft water pipe, on which a diaphragm pump, a pneumatic valve, and a flow meter are installed. The two ends of the soft water pipe are connected to the soft water source and the top of the dosing tank, respectively.

5. The method for safe and low-consumption chemical showering in a high-level biological laboratory according to claim 3, characterized in that, It also includes a supply and exhaust ventilation system, which consists of a supply air hood and an exhaust air hood installed on the top of the chemical shower chamber. The supply air hood includes an air outlet, an air filter, an air flow meter, and an air supply unit. The exhaust air hood includes an exhaust air outlet, an exhaust air filter, an exhaust air flow meter, and an exhaust air unit. The inner wall of the chemical shower chamber is also equipped with a room static pressure differential gauge and an internal air pressure sensor.

6. The method for safe and low-consumption chemical showering in a high-level biological laboratory according to claim 5, characterized in that, It also includes a life support system, which consists of life support tubing, a life support breathing trachea, and a life support air compressor unit. The life support pipelines are arranged in a ring or semi-ring at the top of the chemical shower chamber. One end of the life support pipeline is connected to the life support air supply pipeline. The other end of the life support air supply pipeline passes through the top plate of the chemical shower chamber and is connected to the life support air compressor unit outside the chemical shower chamber. One end of the life support pipeline is connected to the life support breathing tube. The other end of the life support breathing tube is equipped with an air supply interface that is adapted to connect to the protective clothing air source interface of the positive pressure protective suit.

7. The method for safe and low-consumption chemical showering in a high-level biological laboratory according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes the handling steps for overpressure in the chemical spraying chamber during the spraying process: The pressure inside the chemical shower chamber is monitored by a static pressure differential gauge. When the pressure inside the chemical shower chamber exceeds the maximum set pressure value or falls below the minimum set pressure value, the exhaust fan and supply fan units are controlled to maintain the pressure inside the chemical shower chamber between the maximum and minimum set pressure values. If the pressure inside the chemical shower chamber continues to exceed the maximum set pressure value for a set period of time, the spraying program will immediately stop, the first airtight door will lock, and the second airtight door will unlock and open automatically. It also includes the handling steps for the liquid level alarm in the dosing tank: When the liquid level in the dosing tank is higher than the high liquid level alarm switch, the high liquid level alarm state is activated, and both the first and second airtight doors are unlocked. When the liquid level in the dosing tank is lower than the high liquid level alarm switch but higher than the medium liquid level alarm switch, it is in normal operating liquid level condition, and both the first and second airtight doors are in the unlocked state. When the liquid level in the dosing tank is lower than the medium liquid level alarm switch and higher than the low liquid level alarm switch, it is in the single-use liquid level state. Both the first and second airtight doors are locked. If the PLC controller detects the opening and closing of the second airtight door, it starts the spraying program. After the spraying program ends, the door opening button on the inside of the first airtight door is not affected by the locked state and can open the first airtight door. When the liquid level in the dosing tank falls below the low-level alarm switch, a low-level alarm is triggered, and both the first and second airtight doors are locked. It also includes troubleshooting steps for malfunctions of the liquid pressurization pump set, the gas pressurization pump set, and the soft water pump set: Before starting the chemical liquid pressurizing pump set, gas pressurizing pump set, and soft water pump set, the PLC controller checks for fault alarm signals in these pump sets. If any fault alarm signals are present, they can only be started and the spraying program executed after all alarm signals have been cleared. During the spraying process, the PLC controller detected malfunctions in the liquid spraying pump set, the gas spraying pump set, and the soft water pump set, and immediately stopped the spraying process. After the spraying process is completed, if the liquid pressurization pump group, gas pressurization pump group, and soft water pump group do not malfunction, the PLC controller reads the flow meter and spraying time of the liquid pressurization pump group, calculates the liquid spraying volume, and if the liquid spraying volume is greater than the set liquid volume, the spraying process is normal and the chemical leaching chamber will be marked as clean; otherwise, the spraying process is judged to be abnormal, the chemical leaching chamber is marked as contaminated, the first airtight door is locked, and the second airtight door is unlocked.

8. The method for safe and low-consumption chemical showering in a high-level biological laboratory according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes steps for handling underpressure issues with airtight door seals: The door seal pressure sensors corresponding to the first and second airtight doors read the door seal pressure during the door closing process. When the door seal pressure is lower than the secondary over / under pressure setting value, the corresponding door seal pressure indicator light goes out; when the door seal pressure is greater than or equal to the secondary over / under pressure setting value, the corresponding door seal pressure indicator light illuminates. During the inflation, deflation, or automatic replenishment process of the corresponding door seal, the corresponding door seal pressure indicator light flashes. The primary under pressure setting value is greater than the secondary over / under pressure setting value. When both the first and second airtight doors are closed, the following condition applies: Only the door seal pressure of the first airtight door is less than the first-level under-pressure setting value and greater than or equal to the second-level over- or under-pressure setting value. The PLC controller sends a level 1 low-pressure alarm to the first airtight door to the HMI control panel, and the chemical shower chamber is marked as clean. At the same time, the PLC controller controls the air supply and discharge circuit of the airtight door to automatically replenish the door seal of the first airtight door, and the first airtight door is not locked. When both the first and second airtight doors are closed, only the door seal pressure of the second airtight door is less than the first-level under-pressure setting value and greater than or equal to the second-level over- or under-pressure setting value: The PLC controller sends a low-pressure alarm to the second airtight door to the HMI control panel, marking the chemical shower chamber as clean. The first airtight door is locked, but the opening button on the inside of the first airtight door is unaffected by the locked state. Simultaneously, the PLC controller automatically replenishes air to the door seal of the second airtight door through the air supply and discharge circuit. When both the first and second airtight doors are closed, only the door seal pressure of the first airtight door is less than the secondary over / under pressure setting value: The PLC controller sends a level 2 low-pressure alarm to the first airtight door to the HMI control panel. The corresponding door strip pressure indicator light goes out, the chemical shower chamber is marked as clean, and simultaneously, the PLC controller controls the airtight door's inflation / deflation circuit to automatically replenish air to the door seal of the first airtight door. The first airtight door then locks, and the chemical shower chamber is no longer in use. With both the first and second airtight doors closed, only the door seal pressure of the second airtight door is less than the secondary over / under pressure setting value: The PLC sends a level 2 underpressure alarm to the second airtight door to the HMI control panel. The corresponding door strip pressure indicator light goes out, the chemical shower chamber is marked as contaminated, the first airtight door is locked, and the second airtight door is locked. The door opening button on the inside of the second airtight door is not affected by the locked state. At the same time, the PLC controller controls the airtight door inflation and deflation path to automatically replenish air to the door seal of the second airtight door.

9. The method for safe and low-consumption chemical showering in a high-level biological laboratory according to claim 8, characterized in that, When the first and second airtight doors are closed When both the first and second airtight doors experience a low-pressure alarm simultaneously, the PLC controller automatically replenishes air to the door seals of both doors via the air supply and discharge circuits. If personnel are inside the chemical shower chamber, they are allowed to exit through the first airtight door. After exiting, both doors are locked, and the chemical shower chamber is temporarily unusable. If personnel are outside the chemical shower chamber, both doors remain locked, and the chemical shower chamber is temporarily unusable. When both the first-level underpressure alarm and the second-level underpressure alarm of the first airtight door occur simultaneously, or both the first-level underpressure alarm and the second-level underpressure alarm of the first airtight door occur simultaneously, or both the first-level underpressure alarm and the second-level underpressure alarm of the first airtight door occur simultaneously: The chemical shower chamber is marked as contaminated. The first and second airtight doors are locked. The switch button on the inside of the second airtight door is not affected by the locked state. The PLC controller controls the air supply and release path of the airtight doors to automatically replenish the door seals of the first and second airtight doors.

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