You're smart to be thinking about this. Here's a breakdown of considerations and recommendations for mounting your captive AI control panel inside the hood, especially given the HVAC guys couldn't provide specific guidance

Key Considerations:
Accessibility & Ergonomics

Your proposed height (5.5' to the bottom) sounds good for a wide range of users. You want the touchscreen to be easily readable and operable without straining or awkward reaching. The 6.5' top height keeps it within comfortable reach for most people.

Heat & Grease

This is the biggest challenge. Even with a well-designed hood, there will be some grease and heat accumulation inside the hood compartment. Consider:

Location within the Hood

Can you mount it in a part of the hood that's naturally cooler and cleaner? (e.g., further back from the cooking surface, higher up, closer to the exhaust point where air is moving faster).

Thermal Management

How does the panel dissipate heat? Make sure it has enough clearance around it for proper ventilation.

Grease Protection

Think about how to shield the panel from direct grease splatter or buildup. A small, easily cleaned shield above it could help. Don't completely enclose it, or you'll trap heat.

Electrical Safety

This is paramount.

IP Rating

The control panel must have an appropriate IP (Ingress Protection) rating for the environment. Look for a rating that indicates protection against splashing water, dust, and (ideally) some resistance to grease. IP65 is a good starting point, but verify based on the panel's specifications and the specific environment.

Wiring

Use proper conduit and connections that are rated for high-temperature environments and resistant to grease. Do not leave any exposed wiring.

Disconnect

Ensure there's an easily accessible disconnect switch (preferably outside the hood) for safely cutting power to the panel in case of an emergency or maintenance.

Compliance

Adhere to all relevant electrical codes and safety standards (e.g., NEC, local codes).

Maintenance

How easily can the panel be accessed for cleaning, inspection, and repair?

Recommendations


Verify Panel Specifications



Temperature Rating

What's the maximum operating temperature the panel is rated for? Compare this to the typical (and peak) temperatures expected inside the hood.

IP Rating

Confirm the IP rating and its suitability for the greasy, damp environment.

Manufacturer's Recommendations

Does the manufacturer have any specific mounting guidelines or warnings for this type of environment? Contact them directly if you're unsure. This is crucial.2.

Mounting Height (Fine-tuning)



5.5' Bottom Height is a Good Starting Point

It provides accessibility without being too low.

Consider User Heights

If you know who will be using the kitchen, observe their reach and adjust accordingly.

Simulate Placement

If possible, temporarily mount a mockup of the panel at that height and have kitchen staff try using it.3.

Grease & Heat Management



Shielding

A small, angled shield (stainless steel or a high-temperature plastic) above the panel can deflect grease. Make sure it's easy to clean.

Ventilation

Ensure adequate air circulation around the panel. Don't box it in. Consider a small, high-temperature-rated fan if necessary (though that introduces another potential point of failure). Placement near the exhaust air path will help move air.

Regular Cleaning

Establish a schedule for cleaning the panel and the area around it.4.

Electrical Safety



Professional Installation

This must be done by a qualified electrician familiar with commercial kitchen environments.

Conduit & Wiring

Use appropriate conduit, wiring, and connectors rated for the environment.

Grounding

Ensure proper grounding.

GFCI Protection

Consider GFCI protection for the circuit.

Inspection

Have the installation inspected by a qualified electrical inspector.5.

Documentation



Keep detailed records of the installation, including: Panel model and serial number Wiring diagrams IP rating information Maintenance schedule Photos of the installationIn Summary

Your 5.5' bottom height sounds reasonable as a starting point. Focus on:

Understanding the Panel's Limits

Temperature and IP rating are key.

Protecting from Heat and Grease

Shielding and ventilation are critical.

Electrical Safety

Hire a qualified electrician.

Compliance

Adhere to all codes and standards.

Manufacturer Input: Reach out to the captive ai control panel manufacturer for any input.Good luck! This is a challenging install, but doing it right will ensure safety, reliability, and ease of use. Flag for review