TASK: Develop an automated fume hood for use in the production of breast implants. Provide a design that best utilizes the available space and also produces even airflow for removing xylene fumes during curing. Devise a method to catch the excess silicone that drips from the mandrels during cure.

SOLUTION: It was determined that a rotary device would yield the best space usage, and also space the arms evenly in the airflow. We placed two rotating assemblies, back-to-back, with a center control console to minimize parts. The floor of each hood is covered with disposable trays. Under each tray is an adjustable plate used to tune the airflow across the hood. The fronts are composed of two glass doors. The upper doors swing out for maintenance while the bottom doors lower under individual pneumatic control for production access. The arms rotate one position each time a button is pressed. An internal device keeps the mandrels on the arms vertical during these rotations. Custom disposable cups are used to catch the excess silicone. Six of these dual hoods were built and installed.