Ventilation and protection grid for fan module

Abstract

The fan module includes a fan cover, a fixed grille coupled to the fan cover, a fan assembly positioned between the fan cover and the fixed grille, and at least one movable grille coupled to the fixed grille. The at least one movable grille is configured to move between an open position and a closed position. The fan module also includes a knob extending through the fan cover and the stationary grille. The knob is configured to move the at least one movable grille between an open position and a closed position. The knob includes an elongated portion configured to prevent the fan cover from being removed when the at least one movable grille is in the open position and to allow the fan cover to be removed when the at least one movable grille is in the closed position.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate generally to safety features and, more particularly, to a safety assembly for use within an equipment rack to mitigate the risk of personnel exposure to arc flash events resulting from connecting and disconnecting fan modules to power modules within the equipment rack. Background Art

[0002] Centralized data centers for computers, communications, and other electronic equipment have been used for many years. Recently, with the increase in Internet usage, large-scale data centers that provide hosting services to Internet Service Providers (ISPs), Application Service Providers (ASPs), and Internet Content Providers have become increasingly popular. It is often desirable for the equipment within a data center to operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week, with little or no service interruptions. To prevent service interruptions, data centers often use uninterruptible power supplies (UPS) provided in equipment racks to ensure that the equipment within the data center receives continuous power during any power outages or power outages. In addition, it is desirable to maintain the UPS itself and its components without interruption.

[0003] A typical power distribution unit consists of a rack frame chassis and removable power distribution modules, or simply power modules, which are usually removed for replacement or repair. Typically, equipment racks include warning labels for closing the equipment rack to avoid hazards, such as arc flash, but such labels are often ineffective. Other approaches have been tried, such as installing blanking panels to block access to hazardous live parts in equipment racks. However, such approaches require additional time and parts when implemented. Fan modules are used to cool the electronic equipment installed in the equipment rack.

[0004] Often, fan modules are removed and replaced from equipment racks. Arc flash can occur during such fan module removal and replacement. It should be noted that when a fan module needs to be repaired or replaced, the power module must be shut down. Fan units are consumables and need to be replaced periodically. When removing a fan module, there is a risk of arc flash, which can be dangerous to the person replacing the fan module. Summary of the invention

[0005] One aspect of the present invention relates to a fan module, which includes a fan cover having an opening, a fixed grille coupled to the fan cover, a fan assembly located between the fan cover and the fixed grille, and at least one movable grille coupled to the fixed grille. The at least one movable grille is configured to move between an open position and a closed position, in which air flows through the fixed grille and the at least one movable grille, and in which the air flow is blocked by the fixed grille and the at least one movable grille. The fan module also includes a knob extending through the fan cover and the fixed grille. The knob is configured to move the at least one movable grille between an open position and a closed position. The knob includes an elongated portion configured to prevent the fan cover from being removed when the at least one movable grille is in the open position, and to allow the fan cover to be removed when the at least one movable grille is in the closed position.

[0006] Embodiments of the fan module may further include configuring the knob to have a cam to engage at least one movable grille when the knob is rotated, thereby moving the at least one movable grille between an open position and a closed position. The at least one movable grille may include at least two movable grilles, each movable grille configured to be engaged by a portion of the cam. Each movable grille of the at least two movable grilles may include an opening that acts as a cam follower when engaged by a portion of the cam to move the movable grille. The fan module may further include a switch located near the at least one movable grille. The at least one movable grille may be configured to release the switch when moved to the closed position. When released by the at least one movable grille, the switch may be configured to power off a power module to which the fan module is fixed. The switch may be a micro switch. The at least one movable grille may include a plurality of grille members, each grille member having a front sharp angle and a rear rounded surface.

[0007] Another aspect of the present invention relates to a fan module, comprising a fan cover having an opening, a fixed grille coupled to the fan cover, a fan assembly located between the fan cover and the fixed grille, and at least one movable grille coupled to the fixed grille. The at least one movable grille is configured to move between an open position and a closed position, in which air flows through the fixed grille and the at least one movable grille, and in which the air flow is blocked by the fixed grille and the at least one movable grille. The fan module also includes a switch. The at least one movable grille is configured to release the switch when moved to the closed position. When released by the at least one movable grille, the switch is configured to power off a power module to which the fan module is fixed.

[0008] Embodiments of the fan module may further include a knob extending through the fan cover and the fixed grille. The knob is configured to move at least one movable grille between an open position and a closed position. The knob may include an elongated portion configured to prevent removal of the fan cover when the at least one movable grille is in the open position and to allow removal of the fan cover when the at least one movable grille is in the closed position. The knob may include a cam configured to engage the at least one movable grille when the knob is rotated to move the at least one movable grille between the open position and the closed position. The at least one movable grille may include two movable grilles, each of which is configured to be engaged by a portion of the cam. Each of the two movable grilles may include an opening, which acts as a cam follower when engaged by a portion of the cam to move the movable grille. The at least one movable grille may include a plurality of grille members, each of which has a front sharp angle and a rear rounded surface. The switch may be a micro switch.

[0009] Another aspect of the present invention relates to a method for replacing a fan assembly of a fan module, the fan module having a fan cover, a fixed grille coupled to the fan cover, a fan assembly located between the fan cover and the fixed grille, and at least one movable grille, the at least one movable grille being configured to move between an open position and a closed position, in which air flows through the fixed grille and the at least one movable grille, and in which the air flow is blocked by the fixed grille and the at least one movable grille. In one embodiment, the method includes moving the at least one movable grille from the open position to the closed position, and releasing a switch using the at least one movable grille. The at least one movable grille is configured to release the switch when moved to the closed position. When released by the at least one movable grille, the switch is configured to power off a power module to which the fan module is fixed. The method also includes removing a front cover to access the fan assembly for replacement.

[0010] Embodiments of the method may also include, after replacing the fan assembly, installing a fan cover and moving at least one movable grille from a closed position to an open position. Moving the at least one movable grille may include rotating a knob extending through the fan cover and the fixed grille, the knob being configured to move the at least one movable grille between an open position and a closed position. The knob may include an elongated portion configured to prevent removal of the fan cover when the at least one movable grille is in an open position, and to allow removal of the fan cover when the at least one movable grille is in a closed position. The knob may include a cam configured to engage the at least one movable grille when the knob is rotated to move the at least one movable grille between an open position and a closed position. The at least one movable grille may include at least two movable grilles, each of which is configured to be engaged by a portion of the cam. Each of the at least two movable grilles may include an opening, which acts as a cam follower when engaged by a portion of the cam to move the movable grille. The at least one movable grille may include a plurality of grille members, each grille member having a front sharp angle and a rear rounded surface. The switch may be a micro switch. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] Various aspects of at least one example are discussed below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are not intended to be drawn to scale. The accompanying drawings are included to provide illustration and further understanding of the various aspects and examples, and are incorporated into and constitute a part of this specification, but are not intended as a definition of limitations of the present disclosure. In the accompanying drawings, the same or nearly the same components shown in different drawings may be represented by the same number. For clarity, not every component is labeled in every figure. In the drawings:

[0012] Figure 1 is a rear perspective view of the equipment rack;

[0013] Figure 2 is a perspective view of a power module having a fan module for providing cooling to the power module;

[0014] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a power supply module removed from an equipment rack;

[0015] Figure 4 is an exploded front perspective view of a grille assembly configured to support a fan module on a power module;

[0016] Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view of the grille assembly;

[0017] Fig. 6A is a front perspective view of the grille assembly and the fan module before being installed on the power module;

[0018] Figure 6B yes Fig. 6A a rear perspective view of the grille assembly shown;

[0019] Fig. 7A and 7B is an enlarged perspective view of various aspects of the grille assembly;

[0020] Figure 8 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of a grille assembly;

[0021] Fig.9A is a front view of a knob of the grille assembly in a locked position;

[0022] Fig. 9B is a front view of a knob of the grille assembly in an unlocked position;

[0023] Fig. 10A is a front view of the grille assembly showing the grille assembly in an open position with the micro switch engaged by the grille assembly;

[0024] Fig. 10B is a front view of the grille assembly showing the grille assembly in a closed position with the micro switch released by the grille assembly;

[0025] Fig.11 is a perspective view showing a grille of the grille assembly;

[0026] Fig.12 is a front view of one aspect of the grille assembly;

[0027] Fig.13 is an enlarged front view of another aspect of the grille assembly;

[0028] Fig.14A and 14B It is a perspective view of the knob;

[0029] Fig.15 is a perspective view of the grille assembly showing the cylindrical bodies of the knobs and their respective grilles;

[0030] Fig.16 is a perspective view of a fixed grille of the grille assembly;

[0031] Figures 17A-17C is a front view of a portion of a grille assembly showing the knob in various positions;

[0032] Fig.18A and 18B is a front view showing the knob in different positions resulting in displacement of the grille of the grille assembly;

[0033] Fig.19A is a front perspective view of a portion of a grille assembly showing a grille of the grille assembly in an open position;

[0034] Fig.19B is a front perspective view of a portion of a grille assembly showing a grille of the grille assembly in a closed position;

[0035] Fig. 20A is a front elevational view of a grille assembly showing the grille of the grille assembly in a fully open position;

[0036] Fig. 20B is a front perspective view of a portion of a grille assembly showing a grille of the grille assembly in a fully open position;

[0037] Fig. 20C yes Fig. 20B A front perspective view of a portion of a grille assembly showing a grille of the grille assembly in a closed position;

[0038] Fig.21 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a grille of a grille assembly showing airflow through the grille;

[0039] Fig.22A is a view of the knob, grille, and microswitch with the knob in a locked position, the grille open, and the microswitch in an off position; and

[0040] Fig. 22B is a view of the knob, grille, and microswitch with the knob in the unlocked position, the grille closed, and the microswitch in the open position. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0041] The present disclosure is not limited to the construction details and component arrangements set forth in the following description or shown in the accompanying drawings in its application. The principles set forth in the present disclosure can be provided in other embodiments, and can be put into practice or executed in various ways. In addition, the wording and terminology used here are for descriptive purposes and should not be considered as restrictive. The use of "including", "comprising", "having", "containing", "involving" and variants thereof herein means to include the items listed thereafter and their equivalents and additional items.

[0042] When replacing the fan module of a power module, an arc flash may occur. Specifically, live swapping activities may pose electrical hazards such as electric shock and arc flash to operators performing such replacements. The risk of electric shock may occur when operators are close to energized electrical conductors or circuit parts. Operators may accidentally touch the live parts of the power module, i.e. due to interference, tripping, or when close to de-energized parts. An arc flash may be generated when a fault occurs between two live conductors. The source of the arc flash can be external factors such as tools or dust / debris, defective or worn insulation materials, poor design, poor installation, and so on. Arc flash can be measured in terms of incident energy released through the air in the form of heat, sound, light, and explosion pressure, all of which can cause injury. Some specific injuries include burns, blindness, electric shock, hearing loss, and broken bones.

[0043] The present invention relates to a ventilation and protection grille assembly for a fan module used in a power module. The grille assembly is intended to enable an operator to safely remove and install a new fan module.

[0044] With reference to the accompanying drawings, in particular Figure 1 , an equipment rack is generally indicated at 10. In one embodiment, the equipment rack 10 includes a chassis 12 or a frame structure defining an enclosure. The equipment rack 10 includes an open side, which may or may not have a door for enclosing the equipment rack. The open side has several mounting slots, each of which is indicated at 14, and each of which is configured to slidably receive an electronic component, such as a power module, each of which is indicated at 16. Once installed, each power module indicated at 16 can be configured to engage a bus bar disposed on the back of the chassis 14 in a known manner to provide power to the power module. In another embodiment, the power module 16 can be configured to be powered by a power distribution unit (PDU) located within the equipment rack 10 to provide power to the power module.

[0045] As shown, the open side of the equipment rack 10 includes a panel 18 and several power modules 16 located within the equipment rack. In the illustrated embodiment, the power modules 16 are horizontally mounted within their respective mounting slots 14 within the equipment rack 10. The equipment rack 10 can be configured to mount any number of power modules 16 in desired locations and orientations within the equipment rack 10. Figure 2 Each power module 16 includes a housing 20 configured to be supported within the mounting slot 14 of the equipment rack 10. In one embodiment, the housing 20 of the power module is rectangular or square in structure and is sized to fit within the mounting slot 14 of the equipment rack 10. The size and shape of the housing 20 of the power module 16 can be configured based on the size and shape of the mounting slot 14 of the equipment rack 10.

[0046] Each power module 16 also includes a fan module 22 disposed on the back of the power module housing 20. As will be described in more detail below, the fan module 22 includes several fan units and a grille assembly that prevents the fan module from being removed from the housing 20 of the power module 16 without shutting down the power module and closing the vents of the grille assembly.

[0047] refer to Figure 3 , the power module 16 is shown partially removed from its respective mounting slot 14 of the equipment rack 10. In this position, the fan module 22 can be removed to replace a damaged or defective fan unit within the fan module. As shown, the fan module 22 includes three fan units to provide cooling for the electronic components of the power module 16. The fan module 22 can be configured with any number of fan units to provide cooling to the power module 16.

[0048] Reference Figure 4 and Figure 5 , the components of the fan module assembly of an embodiment of the present invention are generally indicated at 30. As shown, the fan module 30 assembly includes a front cover generally indicated at 32, a plurality of, for example, three fan units, each of which is indicated at 34, and a grille assembly generally indicated at 36. The front cover 32 includes an elongated body 38 having a central opening 40 formed therein. In the illustrated embodiment, the central opening 40 includes a plurality of smaller openings or perforations, such as mesh, to allow air to pass through the front cover 32. The front cover 32 also includes a pair of handles, each indicated at 42, extending from the elongated body 38 to enable an operator to install and remove the fan module 30 to and from the power module 16. The elongated body 38 of the front cover 32 also includes a smaller circular opening 44 located adjacent the central opening 40, the purpose of which will be described in more detail below.

[0049] Each fan unit 34 includes a fan unit housing, a fan motor supported by the fan unit housing, and fan blades coupled to the fan motor. In the illustrated embodiment, three fan units 34 are provided; however, the fan module 30 can be configured to support any number of fan units 34. The front cover 32 is designed to enclose the fan unit 34 while enabling the fan unit to draw air through a central opening 40 of the front cover to flow through the electronic components disposed in the housing 20 of the power module 16. In one embodiment, the fan unit 34 is connected to the power module 16 via a fan cable or a suitable connector.

[0050] Still refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5, the grille assembly 36 includes a fixed grille 46, which is designed to support the front cover 32 when assembled, and the fan unit 34 is arranged between the fixed grille and the front cover. The manner in which the front cover 32 is fixed to the fixed grille 46 will be described in more detail below. The fixed grille 46 includes an elongated body 48 similar in shape to the elongated body 38 of the front cover 32. As shown in the figure, the elongated body 48 of the fixed grille 46 includes a plurality of vertical slots, each of which is represented by 50, each of which is separated by a grille and arranged along the length of the elongated body. These slots 50 allow air to pass through the elongated body 48 of the fixed grille 46. The fixed grille 46 also includes a smaller circular opening 52 located near the plurality of slots 50. When the front cover 32 is fixed to the fixed grille 46, the circular opening 44 of the front cover is aligned with the circular opening 52 of the fixed grille. As shown in the figure, the circular opening 52 of the fixed grille 46 is larger than the circular opening 44 of the front cover 32.

[0051] The grille assembly 36 also includes one or more additional grilles. In the illustrated embodiment, the grille assembly 36 also includes a first slidable grille 54, a second slidable grille 56, and a third slidable grille 58. Each slidable grille 54, 56, 58 is configured to be assembled with the front cover 32, the fan unit 34, and the fixed grille 46 to achieve a complete fan module. It should be noted that the front cover 32 and the fan unit 34 together can be referred to as a "fan module subassembly" that is configured to be fixed to the housing 20 of the power module 16, with the grille assembly 36 disposed therebetween.

[0052] The first slidable grille 54 includes an elongated body 60 that is similar in shape to the elongated body 48 of the fixed grille 46. The elongated body 60 of the first slidable grille 54 includes a plurality of vertical slots, each indicated at 62, disposed along the length of the elongated body. When in the open position, the vertical slots 62 of the first slidable grille 54 are configured to align with the vertical slots 50 of the fixed grille 46. The first slidable grille 54 also includes smaller vertical slots 64 located adjacent to the plurality of slots 62. As with the front cover 32, when the first slidable grille 54 is assembled, the vertical slots 64 of the first slidable grille align with the circular openings 52 of the fixed grille 46 and the circular openings 52 of the front cover 32, respectively.

[0053] Similarly, the second slidable grille 56 includes an elongated body 66 that is similar in shape to the elongated bodies 48, 60 of the fixed grille 46 and the first slidable grille 54, respectively. The elongated body 66 of the second slidable grille 56 includes a plurality of vertical slots, each indicated at 68, disposed along the length of the elongated body. When in the open position, the vertical slots 68 are configured to align with the vertical slots 50, 62 of the fixed grille 46 and the first slidable grille 54. The second slidable grille 56 also includes a smaller vertical slot 70 located adjacent to the plurality of slots 68. As with the front cover 32 and the first slidable grille 54, when the second slidable grille 56 is assembled, the smaller vertical slots 70 of the second slidable grille align with the vertical slots 64 of the first slidable grille 54 and the circular openings 52 of the fixed grille 46 and 44 of the front cover, respectively.

[0054] Likewise, the third slidable grille 58 includes an elongated body 72 that is similar in shape to the elongated bodies 48, 60, 66 of the fixed grille 46, the first slidable grille 54, and the second slidable grille 56, respectively. The elongated body 72 of the third slidable grille 58 includes a plurality of vertical slots, each indicated at 74, arranged along the length of the elongated body. When in the open position, the vertical slots 74 are configured to align with the vertical slots 50, 62, 68 of the fixed grille 46, the first slidable grille 54, and the second slidable grille 56. The third slidable grille 58 also includes an even smaller vertical slot 76 located adjacent to the plurality of slots 74. As with the front cover 32, the first slidable grille 54, and the second slidable grille 56, when the third slidable grille 58 is assembled, the even smaller vertical slots 76 of the third slidable grille align with the vertical slots 64, 70 of the first slidable grille and the second slidable grille, respectively, and the circular openings 44, 52 of the front cover 32 and the fixed grille 46.

[0055] The first slidable grille 54, the second slidable grille 56 and the third slidable grille 58 are coupled to the power module 16 and can be manipulated as described below to achieve a fully open position and a fully closed position. In another embodiment, the first slidable grille 54, the second slidable grille 56 and the third slidable grille 58 can be configured to achieve any position between the open position and the closed position. The air flow through the fan module 30 will be described in more detail below. The fan module 30 is configured to prevent the removal of the fan module to replace one or more fan units 34 when the slidable grilles 54, 56, 58 of the grille assembly 36 are in the open position. Only when the slidable grilles 54, 56, 58 of the grille assembly 36 are moved to the fully closed position, the operator can remove the fan module subassembly, i.e., the front cover 32 and the fan unit 34 from the power module 16. Specifically, the operator can use the handle 42 provided on the front cover 32 to remove the fan unit 34 of the front cover and the fan module 30.

[0056] Fig. 6A and 6B The front cover 32 and fan unit 34 of the fan module 30 are shown removed from the housing 20 of the power module 16. As shown, the grille assembly 36 of the fan module 30 remains fixed to the housing 20 of the power module 16, and the fan module subassembly, i.e., the front cover 32 and fan unit 34, are removed from the grille assembly and the power module as a coupled unit. In this position, the fan unit 34 can be replaced or repaired as needed.

[0057] refer to Fig. 7A , 7B 8, the power module 16 includes a fixing pin, each of which is indicated by 78, which extends vertically from the back of the housing 20 of the power module. These fixing pins 78 are arranged on the four corners of the housing 20 of the power module and are received in the guide openings formed in the front cover 32 of the fan module 30, each of which is indicated by 80. The fixing pins 78 extend through the narrow slots arranged on the four corners of the first slidable grille 54, the second slidable grille 56 and the third slidable grille 58. The narrow slots in the slidable grilles enable the slidable grilles 54, 56, 58 to move laterally relative to the pins 78, thereby enabling the slidable grilles to move between a fully open position and a fully closed position. As will be described in more detail below, the front cover 32 is configured to be releasably fixed to the power module 16 to prevent the undesirable removal of the front cover 32 and the fan unit 34.

[0058] Reference Fig.9A and 9B The fan module also includes a knob, generally indicated at 82, that extends through the slidable grilles 54, 56, 58 of the grille assembly 36 and the front cover 32. Fig.14A and 14B The knob 82 includes a base 84 positioned adjacent to the rear surface of the third slidable grille 58, a stem 86 extending through the third slidable grille, the second slidable grille 56, the first slidable grille 54, the fixed grille 46 and the front cover 32, and a head 88 positioned adjacent to the front surface of the front cover 32. Specifically, the stem 86 of the knob 82 extends through the vertical slots 64, 70, 76 of the first, second and third slidable grilles 54, 56, 58 and the circular openings 44, 52 of the front cover 32 and the fixed grille 46, respectively. The knob 82 is configured to move the slidable grilles 54, 56, 58 of the grille assembly 36 between an open position and a closed position. The head 88 of the knob 82 includes an elongated portion 90 that prevents the removal of the front cover 32 and the fan unit 34 when the slidable grilles 54, 56, 58 are in the open position, and that allows the removal of the front cover and the fan unit when the slidable grilles are in the closed position.

[0059] Fig.9A The knob 82 is shown rotated to a locked position wherein the fan module subassembly, i.e., the front cover 32 and the fan unit 34, cannot be removed from the power module 16. Specifically, the elongated portion 90 of the head 88 of the knob 82 engages the front surface of the elongated body 38 of the front cover 32. Fig. 9B The knob 82 is shown rotated 180 degrees so that the elongated portion 90 of the head 88 is aligned with a slot 92 formed in the elongated body 38 of the front cover 32, which is formed from the circular opening 44 of the front cover. In this position, the front cover 32 is not secured in place by the knob 82 and can be removed from the power module 16 by pulling on the handle 42 of the front cover 32.

[0060] refer to Fig. 10A and 10B , the fan module 30 also includes a switch 94 located on the rear surface of the elongated body 48 of the fixed grille 46 and configured to be engaged by the first slidable grille 54. As shown, the switch 94, which may include a micro switch, is located near the first slidable grille 54. The switch 94 is mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB) 96 that is electrically connected or otherwise coupled to the power module 16. Fig. 10A The first slidable grille 54 engaging the switch 94 is shown, thereby providing a signal to the power module 16 to maintain power between the power module and the fan module 30, as well as the power module in general. In this position, the fan module subassembly cannot be removed from the power module 16. Fig. 10B The first slidable grille 54 is shown moved away from the switch 94 to release the switch, thereby terminating the signal from the power module 16 to terminate power to the fan module 30 and the entire power module. In this position, the fan module subassembly can be removed from the power module 16. The lateral movement of the first slidable grille 54 is limited by the engagement of the retaining pins 78 with the edges of their respective slots through which the pins pass.

[0061] refer to Fig.11 , showing the components of the grille assembly 36. The switch 94 and the PCB 96 are mounted on the back of the elongated body 48 of the fixed grille 46, on the opposite side of the circular opening 44. The first slidable grille 54, the second slidable grille 56 and the third slidable grille 58 are stacked on each other, and the first slidable grille is configured to engage the switch 94. The three slidable grilles 54, 56, 58 can be moved horizontally to achieve a fully open position and a fully closed position in conjunction with the fixed grille 46. In the fully open position, the slidable grilles 54, 56, 58, together with the front cover 32 and the fixed grille 46, achieve a ventilation area of ​​75%.

[0062] refer to Fig.12 and 13, one of the slidable grilles, such as the first slidable grille 54, can be configured to include a spring feature 98 to ensure that the slidable grilles 54, 56, 58 do not remain in a half-closed state. The spring member 98 is formed in the first slidable grille 54 and engages the fixing pin 78 of the power module 16. For example, the spring feature 98 can be replaced by a metal spring fixed to the first slidable grille 54 and / or the fixing grille 46. As described above, the spring feature 98 ensures that the slidable grilles 54, 56, 58 are not stuck in an intermediate position, and the fixing pin 78 is biased by the spring feature to move to the open or closed position.

[0063] Reference Fig.14A and 14B The base 84 of the knob 82 includes a cam feature including four cam barrels to extend through the circular opening 52 of the fixed grille 46 and engage the vertical slots 62, 68, 74 of the first, second and third slidable grilles 54, 56, 58, respectively. Fig.15 , when assembled, the first cam barrel 100 is positioned to extend through the circular opening 52 of the fixed grille 46. In addition, the second cam barrel 102 is positioned to engage the edge of the vertical slot 64 of the first slidable grille 54 to move the first slidable grille, the third cam barrel 104 is positioned to engage the edge of the vertical slot 70 of the second slidable grille 56 to move the second slidable grille, and the fourth cam barrel 106 is positioned to engage the edge of the vertical slot 76 of the third slidable grille 58 to move the third slidable grille. The cam feature of the knob 82 provides different movement distances of the slidable grilles 54, 56, 58 to facilitate the opening and closing of the slidable grilles. When the knob 82 is rotated to move the slidable grilles in the manner described below, the edges of the vertical slots 64, 70, 76 act as cam followers.

[0064] refer to Fig.16 When the knob 82 is rotated, the first slidable grille 54 moves leftward and rightward. The second cam cylinder 100 engages the edge of the vertical slot 64 to move the first slidable grille 54. Figures 17A-17C 82 is rotated clockwise. Fig.17A 9:00 position in the figure), the slidable grille is on the left. When the knob is rotated 90 degrees (knob 82 is in Fig. 17B 12:00 position), the first slidable grille 54 partially moves to the right. And when the knob is rotated 180 degrees (the knob 82 is at Fig. 17C 00 position), the first slidable grille 54 moves to the right. Fig.18A and 18BThe movement of the first slidable grille 54, the second slidable grille 56 and the third slidable grille 58 is shown, each grille having a different movement distance from each other. The three slidable grilles 54, 56, 58 are configured to achieve a fully open position and a fully closed position.

[0065] refer to Fig.19A and 19B , a portion of the grille assembly 36 is shown. Fig.19A The slidable grilles 54 , 56 , 58 are shown in a fully open position. Fig.19B The slidable grilles 54 , 56 , 58 are shown in a fully closed position.

[0066] Reference Figures 20A-20C By moving the three slidable grilles 54 , 56 , 58 relative to the fixed grille 46 , a ventilation rate of 75% can be achieved. Fig. 20A and 20B The slidable grilles 54 , 56 , 58 and the fixed grille 46 are shown in a fully open position. Fig. 20C The slidable grilles 54, 56, 58 and the fixed grille 46 are shown in a fully closed position. When different ventilation requirements are required, the number of grilles can be modified to change the ventilation rate.

[0067] Reference Fig.21 , when opened, the shape of the grille also affects the ventilation flow rate. In one embodiment, each grille 108 includes a front side 110, which is configured with sharp rounded corners. The sharp rounded corners of the front side 110 of the grille 108 make the flow rate smoother to reduce resistance. As shown in the figure, each grille also includes a back side 112 with a rounded surface.

[0068] refer to Fig.22A and 22B , a method of replacing one or more fan units 34 of a fan module 30 is shown. Fig.22A The knob 82 is shown in a locked position, the grille assembly 36 is in a fully open position, and the switch 94 is in a closed or engaged position. In this position, the first slidable grille 54 engages the switch 94, thereby ensuring that power is delivered to the fan module 30 by the power module 16. In addition, the elongated portion 90 of the knob 82 prevents the fan module subassembly from being removed from the power module. By rotating the knob 82 and moving the slidable grilles 54, 56, 58 from the open position to the closed position, the switch 94 is released to disconnect power to the power module with the fan module fixed thereon. Fig. 22BThe knob 82 is shown in the unlocked position, the grille assembly 36 is in the fully closed position, and the switch 94 is in the released or disengaged position. In this position, the fan module subassembly can be removed by moving the front cover 32 and the fan unit 34 away from the grille assembly 36 to access the fan unit 34 for replacement.

[0069] The method of installing the fan module subassembly, i.e., the front cover 32 and the fan unit 34, includes inserting the pin 78 of the power module 16 through the guide opening 80 of the front cover. At the same time, the knob 82 is inserted through the circular opening 44 of the front cover 32, and the elongated portion 90 is received through the slot 92. Once the front cover 32 is installed on the power module 16, the knob 82 is rotated to lock the front cover in place and engage the switch 94, thereby providing energy to the fan module 30.

[0070] Thus, having described several aspects of at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, it should be understood that various changes, modifications and improvements will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art. These changes, modifications and improvements are intended to be a part of the present disclosure and are intended to be within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, the foregoing description and drawings are merely exemplary.

Claims

1. A fan module, comprising: a fan cover, including an opening; a fixed grille connected to the fan cover; a fan assembly located between the fan cover and the fixed grille; at least one movable grille coupled to the fixed grille, the at least one movable grille configured to move between an open position, in which air flows through the fixed grille and the at least one movable grille, and a closed position, in which air flow is blocked by the fixed grille and the at least one movable grille; and A knob extends through the fan cover and the fixed grille, the knob being configured to move the at least one movable grille between an open position and a closed position, the knob including an elongated portion configured to prevent removal of the fan cover when the at least one movable grille is in the open position and to allow removal of the fan cover when the at least one movable grille is in the closed position.

2. The fan module according to claim 1, wherein: The knob also includes a cam configured to engage the at least one movable grille to move the at least one movable grille between an open position and a closed position when the knob is rotated.

3. The fan module according to claim 2, wherein: The at least one movable grille includes at least two movable grilles, each movable grille being configured to engage with a portion of the cam.

4. The fan module according to claim 3, wherein: Each of the at least two movable grilles includes an opening that functions as a cam follower when engaged by a portion of a cam to move the movable grille.

5. The fan module of claim 1, further comprising a switch located adjacent the at least one movable grille.

6. The fan module according to claim 5, wherein: The at least one movable grille is configured to release the switch when moved to a closed position.

7. The fan module according to claim 5, wherein: When released by the at least one movable grille, the switch is configured to de-energize the power module to which the fan module is secured.

8. The fan module according to claim 5, wherein: The switch is a micro switch.

9. The fan module according to claim 1, wherein: The at least one movable grille includes a plurality of grille members, each grille member having a front pointed corner and a rear rounded surface.

10. A fan module, comprising: a fan cover, including an opening; a fixed grille connected to the fan cover; a fan assembly located between the fan cover and the fixed grille; at least one movable grille coupled to the fixed grille, the at least one movable grille configured to move between an open position, in which air flows through the fixed grille and the at least one movable grille, and a closed position, in which air flow is blocked by the fixed grille and the at least one movable grille; and a switch, the at least one movable grille being configured to release the switch when moved to a closed position, Wherein, when released by the at least one movable grille, the switch is configured to cut off power to the power supply module on which the fan module is fixed.

11. The fan module according to claim 10, wherein: The switch is a micro switch.

12. The fan module of claim 10, further comprising a knob extending through the fan cover and the fixed grille, the knob configured to move the at least one movable grille between an open position and a closed position.

13. The fan module according to claim 12, wherein: The knob includes an elongated portion configured to prevent removal of the fan cover when the at least one movable grille is in an open position and to allow removal of the fan cover when the at least one movable grille is in a closed position.

14. The fan module according to claim 12, wherein: The knob includes a cam configured to engage the at least one movable grille when the knob is rotated to move the at least one movable grille between an open position and a closed position.

15. The fan module according to claim 14, wherein: The at least one movable grille includes two movable grilles, each movable grille being configured to be engaged by a portion of the cam.

16. The fan module according to claim 15, wherein: Each of the two movable grilles includes an opening that acts as a cam follower when engaged by a portion of a cam to move the movable grille.

17. The fan module according to claim 10, wherein: The at least one movable grille includes a plurality of grille members, each grille member having a front pointed corner and a rear rounded surface.

18. A method of replacing a fan assembly of a fan module of the type having a fan cover, a fixed grille coupled to the fan cover, a fan assembly between the fan cover and the fixed grille, and at least one movable grille configured to move between an open position, in which air flows through the fixed grille and the at least one movable grille, and a closed position, in which air flow is blocked by the fixed grille and the at least one movable grille, the method comprising: moving at least one movable grille from an open position to a closed position; releasing the switch with the at least one movable grille, the at least one movable grille being configured to release the switch when moved to a closed position, in, When released by the at least one movable grille, the switch is configured to de-energize a power module to which the fan module is secured; and Remove the front cover to access the fan assembly for replacement.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein the switch is a micro switch.

20. The method according to claim 18, wherein: Moving the at least one movable grille includes rotating a knob extending through the fan cover and the fixed grille, the knob being configured to move the at least one movable grille between the open position and the closed position.

21. The method of claim 20, wherein the knob includes an elongated portion configured to prevent removal of the fan cover when the at least one movable grille is in an open position and to allow removal of the fan cover when the at least one movable grille is in a closed position.

22. The method according to claim 20, wherein: The knob includes a cam configured to engage the at least one movable grille when the knob is rotated to move the at least one movable grille between an open position and a closed position.

23. The method according to claim 22, wherein: The at least one movable grille includes at least two movable grilles, each movable grille configured to be engaged by a portion of the cam.

24. The method according to claim 23, wherein: Each of the at least two movable grilles includes an opening that functions as a cam follower when engaged by a portion of the cam to move the movable grille.

25. The method of claim 18, wherein the at least one movable grille comprises a plurality of grille members, each grille member having a front pointed corner and a rear rounded surface.

26. The method of claim 18, further comprising, after replacing the fan assembly, installing a fan cover and moving the at least one movable grille from a closed position to an open position.

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