Developed in collaboration with the University of East Anglia, The National Trust, English Heritage and Historic Royal Palaces.
The Hanwell DustBug has been designed to measure the accumulation of dust so that users can optimise the intervals between cleaning and reduce associated damage within museums and galleries. Analysis of the data can give an understanding of the nature of dust and its distribution.
The DustBug is designed to lie face up on a flat surface. Like other objects in its location, the glass surface on top of the box will naturally gather dust. The integrated camera measures the percentage area of glass covered by dust and presents the data on the display screen. Measurements are normally updated every 24 hours while ambient light is close to zero.
The DustBug allows users to monitor the rate of dust coverage and determine when cleaning will be necessary. At the press of a button, remaining battery life can also be checked. Careful power management gives a battery life of up to 2 years with 2 x 1.5V AA Alkaline batteries.
It is also an option to directly view the video output from the camera for subsequent image analysis.
Hanwell DustBug Features
- Indicator and radio transmitter formats
- LCD display with dust level % and battery life
- Easily accessible battery
- Easily integrated into an existing Hanwell radio system
- Complies with RoHS, EU and WEEE directives
- Carries CE Marking
- High performance optical technology
- Low power radio for long distance transmission (Over 3km over open ground)
Benefits of Dust Monitoring
- Identify ‘high risk’ areas
- Minimise surface wear caused by cleaning
- Reduce risk of damage caused by moulds and insect pests
- Avoid unsightly dust on collections
- Optimise cleaning schedules and potentially reduce associated costs