Atomization fan assembly

Abstract

The invention provides a fan device. The fan device comprises a fan and an atomization assembly. The fan is configured to provide a flow of air through a fan flow path. The atomization assembly includes a housing including an outer body, a central body, and a vane extending between the outer body and the central body. A storage chamber is formed in the housing to store a cooling fluid. The reservoir chamber extends through the outer body, the blades, and the central body. The center body includes an opening through which the cooling fluid can be released from the storage chamber in fluid communication with the airflow.

Description

Priority Declaration

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 569,440, filed on March 25, 2024, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0002] The present application relates generally to fan units and fan assemblies, and more particularly to personal fan units. Background Art

[0003] Fan devices, such as personal fan devices, are typically designed to provide an air flow for cooling a user. These fan devices are typically portable devices that are configured to be moved and actuated to provide air flow in one or more directions. It is often desirable to increase the cooling capacity of a fan device. However, additional structures and devices used to increase cooling capacity often increase the weight, complexity, and cost of the fan device.

[0004] Thus, a fan assembly that addresses one or more of these issues would be beneficial and advantageous. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Aspects and advantages of the invention according to the present disclosure will be set forth in part in the following description, or may be obvious from the description, or may be learned through practice of the technology.

[0006] One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a fan device. The fan device includes a fan and an atomizer assembly. The fan is configured to provide an air flow through a fan flow path. The atomizer assembly includes a housing having an outer body, a center body, and blades extending between the outer body and the center body. A storage chamber is formed in the housing to store a cooling fluid. The storage chamber extends through the outer body, the blades, and the center body. The center body includes an opening through which the cooling fluid can be released from the storage chamber and communicate with the air flow fluid.

[0007] Another aspect of the present invention relates to a fan device comprising a fan and an atomizer assembly. The fan is configured to provide an air flow through a fan flow path. The atomizer assembly includes a housing. The fan flow path at least partially passes through a space surrounded by an edge of the housing. A storage chamber is formed in the housing to store a cooling fluid. The housing includes an opening through which the cooling fluid can be released from the storage chamber and into fluid communication with the air flow.

[0008] These features, aspects and advantages of the present invention, as well as other features, aspects and advantages, will be better understood with reference to the following description and appended claims.The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the present technology and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present technology. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] A full and enabling disclosure of the invention, including the best mode for one skilled in the art to make and use the system and method, is set forth in the specification with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0010] Figure 1 shows a first front perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a fan assembly according to aspects of the present disclosure;

[0011] Figure 2A According to aspects of the present disclosure Figure 1 a second front perspective view of the exemplary embodiment of the illustrated fan assembly;

[0012] Figure 2B shows a front perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a fan assembly according to aspects of the present disclosure;

[0013] Figure 3A According to aspects of the present disclosure Figure 1 a rear perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the illustrated fan assembly;

[0014] Figure 3B According to aspects of the present disclosure Figure 2A a rear perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the illustrated fan assembly;

[0015] Figure 4 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a fan assembly in a first orientation according to aspects of the present disclosure;

[0016] Figure 5 shows a second orientation according to aspects of the present disclosure Figure 4 An exemplary embodiment of a fan assembly is shown;

[0017] Figure 6 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a fan arrangement according to aspects of the present disclosure;

[0018] Figure 7 shows an exploded view of an embodiment of a misting assembly for a fan device according to aspects of the present disclosure;

[0019] Figure 8 According to aspects of the present disclosure Figure 6 a perspective view of an embodiment of the fan assembly shown (with portions removed);

[0020] Figure 9 shows a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a misting assembly for a fan device according to aspects of the present disclosure;

[0021] Figure 10 shows a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of an atomizing assembly in a first orientation according to aspects of the present disclosure;

[0022] Figure 11 shows a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of an atomizing assembly in a second orientation according to aspects of the present disclosure;

[0023] Figure 12 shows a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of an atomizing assembly in a third position according to aspects of the present disclosure;

[0024] Figure 13 shows a perspective view of a capillary structure for an atomizing assembly according to aspects of the present disclosure;

[0025] Figure 14 shows a rear perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a fan assembly according to aspects of the present disclosure, wherein various components are omitted for clarity;

[0026] Figure 15 According to aspects of the present disclosure Figure 14 a front perspective view of the illustrated fan assembly with various components omitted for clarity;

[0027] Figure 16 According to aspects of the present disclosure Figure 14 a rear perspective view of the illustrated fan assembly with various components omitted for clarity;

[0028] Figure 17 According to aspects of the present disclosure Figure 14 a rear perspective view of the illustrated fan assembly with various components shown exploded for clarity;

[0029] Figure 18 According to aspects of the present disclosure Figure 14 a rear perspective view of the illustrated fan assembly with various components shown exploded for clarity;

[0030] Figure 19 According to aspects of the present disclosure Figure 14 a rear perspective view of the illustrated fan assembly with various components omitted for clarity;

[0031] Figure 20 According to aspects of the present disclosure Figure 14 a rear perspective view of the illustrated fan assembly with various components shown exploded and omitted for clarity;

[0032] Figure 21 According to aspects of the present disclosure Figure 14 a rear perspective view of the illustrated fan assembly with various components shown exploded and omitted for clarity;

[0033] Figure 22 shows a rear perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a fan assembly according to aspects of the present disclosure;

[0034] Figure 23 Shown in a first orientation according to aspects of the present disclosure Figure 22 a rear view of the exemplary embodiment of the illustrated fan assembly; and

[0035] Figure 24 shows a second orientation according to aspects of the present disclosure Figure 22 A rear view of an exemplary embodiment of a fan assembly is shown.

[0036] Repeat use of reference characters in the present specification and drawings is intended to represent the same or analogous features or elements of the invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0037] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail, one or more examples of which are shown in the accompanying drawings. The word "exemplary" as used herein means "serving as an example, instance, or illustration." Any embodiment described herein as "exemplary" is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or superior to other embodiments. In addition, each example is provided by way of explanation and not as a limitation on the technology. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that modifications and variations may be made to the technology without departing from the scope or spirit of the technology claimed. For example, features shown or described as part of one embodiment may be used with another embodiment to produce yet another embodiment. Therefore, the present disclosure is intended to cover such modifications and variations that fall within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents. The detailed description uses numbers and letters to refer to features in the drawings. The same or similar marks in the drawings and the description are used to refer to the same or similar parts in the present invention.

[0038] As used herein, the terms "first," "second," and "third" are used interchangeably to distinguish one component from another, but do not indicate the position or importance of a single component. The singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. The terms "coupled," "fixed," "attached," and the like refer to direct coupling, fixing, or attachment, as well as indirect coupling, fixing, or attachment through one or more intermediate components or features, unless otherwise indicated herein. As used herein, the terms "comprises," "includes," "contains," "has," or any other variation thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, article, or device that includes a list of features is not necessarily limited to those features, but may include other features that are not expressly listed or that are inherent to those processes, methods, articles, or devices. In addition, unless expressly stated to the contrary, "or" refers to an inclusive or, not an exclusive or. For example, the condition "A or B" is satisfied by any of the following situations: A is true (or A exists) and B is false (or B does not exist), A is false (or A does not exist) and B is true (or B exists), and both A and B are true (or both A and B exist).

[0039] Approximate terms, such as "about," "generally," "approximately," or "substantially," include values ​​within 10% greater or less than the stated value. When used in the context of an angle or direction, these terms include values ​​within 10 degrees greater or less than the stated angle or direction. For example, "substantially vertical" includes directions within 10 degrees of vertical in any direction (e.g., clockwise or counterclockwise).

[0040] Benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems are described below with respect to specific embodiments. However, no benefit, advantage, solution to a problem, nor any feature that may make any benefit, advantage, or solution appear or become more significant, should be construed as a critical, required, or essential feature of any or all of the claims.

[0041] Referring now to the accompanying drawings, Figures 1 to 24 An embodiment and views of a personal fan unit 100 are provided. The fan unit 100 includes a fan assembly 110. A base assembly 121 supports a mount 130, and the fan assembly 110 is supported by the mount 130. As further described herein, the mount 130 can be configured to facilitate rotation of the fan assembly 110 along one or more axes. The fan assembly 110 includes a fan 140 driven by any suitable power means, such as, but not limited to, a plug-in motor or a battery-powered motor, a manually operated power means, or other desired power source.

[0042] In various embodiments, the fan assembly 100 includes an atomizing assembly that forms a reservoir 118 where a cooling fluid (eg, water or a water-based solution) is provided. Figure 4-5 In some embodiments, housing 111 may form a circumferentially extending reservoir positioned between multiple housings surrounding fan 140. One or more manifolds or blades 115 extend from outer body 106 of housing 111 toward center body 116 to allow cooling fluid to flow out into fan flow path 109 through which air from fan 140 flows.

[0043] Fan flow path 109 is generally formed along the flow direction of fan 140. In some embodiments, housing 111 may form fan flow path 109, or at least partially circumferentially cover fan flow path 109 to form fan flow path 109. In still other embodiments, the fan housing may include housings 131 and 132. Housings 131 and 132 may at least partially form fan flow path 109 surrounding fan 140.

[0044] In various embodiments, as shown and described herein, the outer body 106 of the housing extends along an arcuate portion or along a complete circumference, such as around the fan flow path 109 .

[0045] refer to Figures 6 to 9 In various embodiments, housing 111 can include portions such as housings 113 and 114 that define a reservoir 118 therebetween. In various embodiments, housings 113 and 114 form a container that includes reservoir 118 and is configured to store cooling fluid in reservoir 118. Atomizer assembly 112 includes a central body 116 defining an opening 117 through which cooling fluid can be released from reservoir 118. For example, cooling fluid can be released into flow path 109 through opening 117 in the form of an aerosol.

[0046] Simple reference Figure 9 and Figures 17 and 18 , the housing 111 may define a fill opening 157 that provides fluid access to the storage chamber 118. The plug 107 may be selectively placed at the opening 157 to seal the storage chamber 118. In some embodiments, the housing 132 includes an opening 138 corresponding in position to the fill opening 157. The openings 138 and 157 may allow a user to fill the storage chamber 118 with cooling fluid by selectively removing the plug 107 and extending it into the opening 138 at the housing 132 and the opening 157 at the housing 111.

[0047] In various embodiments, the atomizing assembly 112 forms a reservoir 118 that is a partial circumferential flow path or a complete circumferential flow path, for example, the reservoir 118 extends circumferentially around the center body 116, or is formed as an arcuate portion. A manifold or blade 115 extends between the center body 116 and the outer body 106 of the housings 113, 114, which form an outer ring (or, in some embodiments, an arcuate portion of a ring) extending in a circumferential direction around the center body 116. The reservoir 118 extends through the blades 115 to provide fluid communication from the housings 113, 114 to the center body 116 and the opening 117.

[0048] In some embodiments, the housings 113, 114 include a rear housing 113 positioned closer to the fan 140 relative to the air flow from the fan 140 and a front housing 114 positioned further away from the fan 140. In some embodiments, the rear housing 113 and the front housing 114 may be integrally formed. In still other embodiments, the rear housing 113 and the front housing 114 may be separable from each other and releasably attached to each other.

[0049] Back to Figure 1 、 Figures 2A to 2B and Figures 3A to 3B In various embodiments, at least a portion of the atomizing assembly 112 may be positioned or accommodated between the front housing 131 and the rear housing 132 (e.g., a first housing and a second housing). For example, the outer body 106 of the atomizing assembly 112 may be accommodated between the front housing 131 and the rear housing 132. The front housing 131 may include a plurality of blades 108 that are configured to guide and regulate the air flow from the fan 140. The rear housing 132 may include a housing 133 for a motor that operates the fan 140. A control interface 102 (e.g., a button, switch, display, indicator, or other control mechanism) may be positioned at the housing 133, for example, to actuate the fan speed, fan rotation, voltage intermittent, vibration, lighting, atomization function, or other control functions of the fan device 100.

[0050] refer to Figure 2B , which shows a front view of a portion of one embodiment of a fan assembly 100. Figure 3B , which shows a rear view of the portion of this embodiment of the fan assembly 100. Figure 2B and Figure 3BIn various embodiments, the front housing 131 may include an outer body 231 and an inner body 232. A plurality of blades 108 extend between the outer body 231 and the inner body 232. For example, the outer bodies 231 and 232 may include a plurality of rings, with the plurality of blades 108 extending radially between the rings. A flow path 209 is formed between the inner body 232 and the center body 116. In some embodiments, the inner body 232 is radially spaced from the center body 116. In yet other embodiments, additionally or alternatively, the inner body 232 is axially spaced from the center body 116 (e.g., separated along an extension of the flow path 109). The spacing between the inner body 232 and the center body 116 allows air flow from the fan 140 to pass through the flow path 209 between the center body 116 and the inner body 232 of the front housing 131. As further described herein, the air flow through the flow path 209 can promote fluid communication with the liquid flow from the storage chamber 118 to enhance aerosol generation. For example, as further described herein, flow path 209 can condition air to facilitate atomization or vaporization of liquid flowing from reservoir 118 by generating a desired flow rate, pressure, direction, or vector of air toward the liquid flowing from reservoir 118 .

[0051] refer to Figure 3B In some embodiments, the plurality of blades 108 may be cantilevered from the inner body 232, the outer body 231, or both. The plurality of blades 108 may include a leading edge 208 that faces the fan 140 ( Figure 2A ) extending from and spaced apart from the inner body 232. For example, the plurality of blades 108 may extend toward the fan 140 ( Figure 2A ). The plurality of blades 108 may extend radially outward from the flow path 209. For example, the flow path 109 may be divided at the inner body 232 into a first flow path 219 radially outward from the second flow path 209. The first flow path 219 is formed between the inner body 232 and the outer body 231. The air flow through the second flow path 209 and the air flow through the first flow path 219 may be regulated differently. For example, the plurality of blades 108 may regulate the air through the first flow path 219 and the air through the second flow path 209 differently. The plurality of blades 108 at the first flow path 219, or the difference in cross-sectional area, or the presence or absence of other aerodynamic components and surfaces at the first flow path 219 or the second flow path 209 may facilitate different air flow conditions for the atomization function and for providing air to the user.

[0052] In some embodiments, the trailing edges 210 of the plurality of blades 108 may be connected to the inner body 232, the outer body 231, or both the inner body 232 and the outer body 231. However, it should be understood that the chord portions or bodies of the plurality of blades 108 may additionally or alternatively be connected to the inner body 232, the outer body 231, or both the inner body 232 and the outer body 231.

[0053] The housings 131, 132 can be fastened, clamped, snapped or otherwise releasably attached to each other. Separating the housings 131, 132 can allow a user to access the space between the housings 131, 132 for positioning the atomizer assembly 112. One or both of the housings 131, 132 can be attached to the mounting member 130. For example, one or both of the housings 131, 132 can be attached to the mounting member 130 in a pivotable arrangement. In various embodiments, the atomizer assembly 112 can be rotated approximately + / - 90 degrees, or up to approximately 180 degrees. For example, the housings 131, 132 can be rotated relative to the portion extending through the mounting member 130 ( Figure 1 ), orients the atomizing assembly 112 approximately + / - 90 degrees along the first rotational direction R1.

[0054] In various embodiments, the mount 130 is rotatably connected to the base assembly 121. The base assembly 121 can be configured to rotate the mount 130 up to about 360 degrees, or up to about 350 degrees, for example, along the second rotational direction R2.

[0055] Now refer to Figures 10 to 13 In various embodiments, the atomizer assembly 112 can include a capillary structure 150 positioned in the reservoir 118 and the opening 117. The capillary structure 150 can include a porous material, a wick, or a flexible fabric strip, and the capillary structure 150 is configured to draw or absorb the cooling fluid in the reservoir 118 by capillary action. In various embodiments, the capillary structure 150 can be positioned along the wall of the housing 113, 114 containing the reservoir 118.

[0056] In various embodiments, the capillary structure 150 extends through the outer body 106, the one or more blades 115, and to the opening 117 at the central body 116. The capillary structure 150 can extend circumferentially through the reservoir 118 between the housings 113, 114 and through the one or more blades 115 to the central body 116 and the opening 117. The capillary structure 150 can facilitate drawing the cooling fluid from the reservoir 118 and placing it in fluid communication with the air flow from the fan 140 through the opening 117. The capillary structure 150 can further facilitate drawing the cooling fluid from the reservoir 118 and through the opening 117 from any orientation of the fan assembly 100 along the directions of rotation R1, R2.

[0057] For example, Figures 10 to 12 A schematic top dead center (TDC) reference mark 101 and a schematic atomizing assembly positioning reference mark 103 are included. Figures 10 to 12 Various rotational states of the atomizer assembly 112 relative to the TDC reference mark 101 are shown. The capillary structure 150 can facilitate drawing cooling fluid from the bottom of the storage chamber 118 (e.g., schematically shown at the bottom dead center (BDC) reference mark 104). The capillary structure 150 according to various embodiments can allow the cooling fluid to be drawn from different rotational positions of the atomizer assembly 112 relative to the direction of gravity pull (e.g., toward the BDC reference mark, or toward the ground), such as Figures 10 to 12 1 and 2. As shown in FIG. 1 , the fan device 100 is shown in different orientations.

[0058] In various embodiments, the capillary structure 150 may include a central body 152 that may be disposed at the opening 117. The central body 152 may form a cylindrical portion of the capillary structure 150 or other geometric shapes corresponding to the opening 117. Figure 13 As shown, a plurality of strands / strips / or segments 153 of the capillary structure may extend from the central body 152. The plurality of strands / strips / or segments 153 of the capillary structure may extend from the central body 152 and pass through a reservoir 118 contained in one or more of the blades 115, the outer body 106, the central body 116, or a combination thereof.

[0059] In some embodiments, the atomizing disk 154 may be positioned adjacent to the capillary structure 150 at the center body 116. For example, the atomizing disk 154 may be positioned adjacent to the center body 152 of the capillary structure 150. In various embodiments, the center body 116 may form a groove 119, and the atomizing disk 154 at the groove 119 is disposable. The groove 119 can extend around the opening 117 so that the atomizing disk 154 is positioned to receive the cooling fluid from the storage chamber 118 at the center body 116. For example, the center body 152 can be positioned at the back side of the atomizing disk 154 to draw cooling fluid from any orientation of the storage chamber 118. In various embodiments, the capillary structure 150 can facilitate drawing cooling fluid (for example, caused by the length, flexibility or volume of the capillary structure 150 in the storage chamber 118), regardless of the volume or mass of the fluid in the storage chamber 118.

[0060] In some embodiments, the atomizing disk 154 comprises a porous material, such as a microporous material. The atomizing disk 154 is positioned to be in fluid communication with the storage chamber 118 to receive the cooling fluid from the storage chamber 118. The atomizing disk 154 can be positioned to be in fluid communication with the storage chamber 118 through the opening 117. The opening 117 allows the cooling fluid to move through the atomizing disk 154 and be in fluid communication with the air flow from the fan 140. The cooling fluid released from the atomizing disk 154 into the air flow from the fan 140 can be atomized into an aerosol to improve the cooling efficiency of the fan device 100.

[0061] In yet other embodiments, the atomizing disk 154 forms a piezoelectric disk or an atomizer disk that is configured to vibrate based on an intermittent voltage input at the fan device 100. The intermittent voltage can be controlled by a controller 182 such as a printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) to vibrate the atomizing disk 154. For example, an intermittent voltage input at a motor for operating the fan 140 can vibrate the atomizing disk 154. The vibration can draw the cooling fluid from the back of the atomizing disk 154 (e.g., from the storage chamber 118 at the center body 116) through the micropores of the atomizing disk 154. The vibration can push the cooling fluid from the atomizing disk 154 toward the air flow from the fan 140 (e.g., the air flow along the flow path 109), thereby generating an aerosol of cooling fluid and air.

[0062] The controller 182 may include a circuit board operably coupled to the control interface 102. In some embodiments, the controller 182 is configured as a PCBA or other suitable electronic device for receiving and sending control signals and operating the fan assembly 110. In some embodiments, the control interface 102 includes buttons 102A and 102B. For example, the buttons 102A and 102B may be configured to respectively allow manipulation and control for fan operation (e.g., on / off or one or more speeds) and for operating the vibration speed of the atomizing disk 154.

[0063] In various embodiments, the first button 102A can be configured as a fan control button to manipulate or control the operation of the fan 140. Actuation of the first button 102A can manipulate the on / off function of the fan 140, and actuation of the second button 102B can manipulate the on / off function of the atomizer assembly 112. Actuation of the button 102A can further manipulate changing the fan speed, changing or cycling through one or more fan speeds. For example, in an exemplary embodiment of operation, pressing the first button 102A configured as a fan control button (e.g., pressing the first button 102A once, or pressing the first button 102A for the first time) can manipulate the operation of the fan 140 to high speed operation; pressing the first button 102A one or more additional times can manipulate the fan 140 to run at one or more lower speeds; and pressing the first button 102A additionally in sequence to stop the operation of the fan. In various embodiments, stopping the fan 140 or actuating the first button 102A to stop the fan 140 can also stop the atomization function of the atomizer assembly 112 (e.g., stopping the voltage input for vibrating the atomizer disk 154). For example, using the first button 102A to control the fan 140 to turn off can further control the atomizer assembly 112 to turn off.

[0064] Controller 182 can be configured to provide the time limit for operating atomizing function. In various embodiments, controller 182 includes a timer, and this timer is configured to stop the vibration of atomizing disk 154. The controller 182 including a timer can include the time limit corresponding to the predetermined time amount of discharging cooling fluid from storage chamber 118 substantially or completely. Controller 182 can be configured to operate atomizing disk 154 to continue from the predetermined time amount that button (for example, button 102B) is actuated to manipulate the operation of atomizing assembly 112. For example, controller 182 can include the time limit of two hours for operating atomizing disk 154, or other suitable time amounts based on the length, volume, area, flow path, flow rate or material properties associated with other structures of the rate that can affect cooling fluid substantially or completely from storage chamber 118. In various embodiments, controller 182 includes the software or firmware that the time limit that is stored and executed by controller 182 is provided. In some embodiments, the controller 182 includes hardware, such as circuitry, a bus, etc., that provides time limits as described herein. Embodiments of the fan assembly 100 that include a timer at the controller 182 (as described herein) can prevent damage to components of the fan assembly 100 that may be adversely affected by the drying operation of the atomizing function 112 (such as, but not limited to, the atomizing disk 154).

[0065] The controller 182 may include a lighting device 105. In various embodiments, the lighting device 105 can be configured as a light emitting diode (LED) or other light emitting device. The lighting device 105 can be configured to indicate to the user whether one or more various controls have been manipulated. For example, the lighting device 105 can be configured to indicate whether the atomization function has been manipulated or whether the fan operation (e.g., the on / off of the fan 140, or one or more rotational speeds of the fan 140) has been manipulated. In some embodiments, the first lighting device 105A can correspond to the actuation at the button 102A, and the second lighting device 105B can correspond to the actuation at the button 102B. The first button 102A can be configured to manipulate or control the operation of the fan 140, and the first lighting device 105A can be configured to indicate whether the operation of the fan 140 has been manipulated. The second button 102B can be configured to manipulate or control the operation of the atomization function (e.g., the on / off of the vibration for generating an aerosol), and the second lighting device 105B can be configured to indicate whether the operation of the atomization function has been manipulated, as further described herein.

[0066] It should be understood that in various embodiments, the lighting device 105 can be configured to provide light or stop providing light, or provide various colors, or provide various lumen outputs, or combinations thereof.

[0067] refer to Figures 14 to 21 In various embodiments, one or more arms 135 extend between the mount 130 and the housing 133. The arms 135 can include members extending from the mount 130 to the housing 133 to provide a bridge along which electrical conductors can extend. In some embodiments, the housing 132 includes ribs 136 corresponding to the arms 135. The ribs 136 can provide an outer covering that shields the conductors 94, 96 routed through the arms 135. In still other embodiments, the arms 135 and ribs 136 circumferentially correspond to the blades 115. For example, the arms 135, ribs 136, and blades 115 can each extend from a corresponding central portion and occupy similar angular positions relative to one another. The arms 135, ribs 136, and blades 115 positioned at similar angular positions can minimize obstruction to the fan flow path 109 while facilitating the routing of electrical conductors used to operate the fan assembly as described herein.

[0068] In some embodiments, electrical wires 96 extend from housing 133 through arm 135. For example, wires 96 can be electrically coupled to controller 182 at housing 133. Wires 96 extend through arm 135 and blades 115 to center body 116. Wires 96 can extend over blades 115 and be in electrical communication with atomizing disk 154. Controller 182 can manipulate an intermittent voltage input to wires 96 to vibrate atomizing disk 154 and generate an aerosol of cooling fluid and air.

[0069] Embodiments of the arm 135 and blades 115 may provide electrical routing substantially along the exterior surface of the fan assembly 100. Routing along the exterior surface may facilitate construction and assembly of the fan assembly as well as providing power for misting functions and fan operation.

[0070] refer to Figures 14 to 21 In various embodiments, base assembly 121 can include base wall 120. Base wall 120 can form a platform configured to rest against a wall, floor, or other surface against which fan assembly 100 can be positioned. Mounting member 130 can extend from mounting wall 122.

[0071] In various embodiments, such as Figure 21 As shown, spring 124 is coupled to mounting wall 122 and base wall 120. Spring 124 may be configured to position mounting wall 122 relative to base wall 120. For example, spring 124 may include a spring clip configured to provide a reaction force to a force received at mounting wall 122 toward base wall 120, or a reaction force received at base wall 120 toward mounting wall 122.

[0072] refer to Figures 20 to 21 , base assembly 121 forms a storage channel 126 between mounting wall 122 and base wall 120. In some embodiments, base wall 120 forms a port 127 into which battery assembly 170 can be received at base assembly 121. Port 127 includes a wall or surface 123 at base wall 120 that extends at least partially along the extension of storage channel 126. For example, wall or surface 123 can form a ring, an arcuate portion, or a sleeve that forms port 127 and at least a portion of storage channel 126.

[0073] In some embodiments, sleeve 125 is positioned between mounting wall 122 and base wall 120. Sleeve 125 can form a portion of storage channel 126. For example, sleeve 125 can be located between a pair of ports 127. In still other embodiments, spring 124 forms a spring clip that allows battery assembly 170 to extend through spring 124. Spring 124 can include portions aligned and positioned to form a portion of storage channel 126 that passes through spring 124. For example, spring 124 can include a first spring portion 124A configured to react against base wall 120. Spring 124 can include a second spring portion 124B configured to react against mounting wall 122. Spring 124 can include a middle portion 124C into which battery assembly 170 can extend from port 127.

[0074] refer to Figures 19 to 20In various embodiments, the battery assembly 170 may form an elongated structure extending in the same direction as the extension of the storage channel 126. The battery assembly 170 may include an outer housing 172 forming a generally cylindrical outer wall. The battery assembly 170 may include one or more removable end caps 174, which are configured to be selectively attached to and released from the outer housing 172. A user can access the interior space of the outer housing 172 by removing the end caps 174. For example, a user can access one or more batteries within the outer housing 172, or other operable components of the battery assembly 170.

[0075] In an exemplary non-limiting embodiment, the battery assembly 170 can be configured as a four (4) volt (V) power supply. In various embodiments, the battery assembly 170 can be configured as a 4V power supply that can be connected to a universal serial bus (USB) power supply to receive or release energy.

[0076] refer to Figures 14 to 21 In various embodiments, the mount 130 includes a channel 134. The channel 134 forms a conduit for routing electrical conductors 94 from the battery assembly 170 for operation of one or more of the control interface 102 or the fan 140. The channel 134 can extend at a first end to the first attachment interface 91 where the mount 130 is attached to the base assembly 121. The channel 134 can extend at a second end to the second attachment interface 92 where the fan assembly 110 is attached to the mount 130.

[0077] The passage 134 can extend from the housing 130 at the second interface 92 and extend to the housing 133 through the arm 135 to facilitate routing the electrical conductors 94 to be operably connected to the controller 182 at the housing 133. The housing 133 can form a space 137 that is configured to receive the controller 182 for operating the fan assembly 110. The housing 132 may include an opening 139 that provides a path from the space 137 to the passage 134 along the arm 135 and the rib 136. The opening 139 can form a hole, a slit, or a slot. For example, the opening 139 can extend from the arm 135, such as to allow a user to selectively remove the housing 132 from the fan assembly 110 or attach the housing 132 to the fan assembly 110 without obstructing the electrical conductors 96 routed along the arm 135.

[0078] In some embodiments, the control interface 102 is positioned at an end cap 184. The end cap 184 can be attached to the housing 133 at the housing 132. The end cap 184 can cover the space 137. For example, the housing 133 and the end cap 184 can provide an enclosed space where the controller 182 is positioned within the housing 132. In some embodiments, the end cap 184 is operably coupled to the controller 182 and the control interface 102 to receive user input signals and transmit the signals to the controller 182 for controlling fan operation and misting functions.

[0079] Now refer to Figures 22 to 24 In some embodiments, the atomizer assembly 112 may include a housing 111 forming a storage chamber 118, in which the cooling fluid (schematically shown at 156) is stored. The housing 111 may form an integral housing extending at least in an arcuate portion. The housing 111 may include a plug 107 forming a removable cover portion that provides an entrance to the storage chamber 118 and also provides a seal to prevent the cooling fluid from leaking through the entrance. In some embodiments, the storage chamber 118 may form an arcuate portion extending in a circumferential direction (e.g., corresponding to the direction of rotation of the fan 140).

[0080] refer to Figure 22 In some embodiments, the housing 111 can be configured to rotate along a rotation direction R3, for example corresponding to a circumferential direction or axis around which the fan 140 rotates. The user can rotate the housing 111 to position the lowest point of the storage chamber 118 above the atomizing disk. For example, the housing 111 can form the storage chamber 118 into an arcuate portion extending along the rotation direction R3. The storage chamber 118 forming the arcuate portion may include a lowest portion 99 that can be positioned above the center of the fan device 100 (the atomizing disk 154 is positioned at the center of the fan device 100). The rotatable storage chamber 118 can form a gravity feed that positions the storage chamber 118 above the atomizing disk 154 to supply water to the atomizing disk (rotation of the container can be achieved by: (a) manually rotating the container, or (b) using weights on opposite sides of the container).

[0081] refer to Figures 23 to 24 In some embodiments, a weight or mass 160 may be positioned at the housing 111, such as at the storage chamber 118. The mass 160 may bias the housing 111 to rotate to a bottom position based on gravity. For example, Figures 23 to 24 A schematic BDC reference mark 104 is shown corresponding to the ground. The fan assembly 100 can be positioned on the ground, or on a plane parallel to the ground, such as Figure 23 The fan assembly 100 can be positioned on a wall or other non-parallel plane relative to the ground, such as Figure 24The mass block 160 causes the housing 111 to rotate along the rotation direction R3.

[0082] Still refer to Figures 22 to 24 As described herein, embodiments of the capillary structure 150 may extend from the central body 116 to the housing 111 via the blades 115. In some embodiments, the capillary structure 150 may extend to the central portion or lowest point of the arcuate portion of the housing 111 to receive the cooling fluid 156 that is collected or collected in the housing 111 by gravity. For example, the mass 160 may rotate the housing 111 so that the cooling fluid 156 is located at the lowest point of the arcuate portion (e.g., corresponding to the BDC position). The reservoir 118 may be manually rotated by a user or depressed by the mass 160 to position the cooling fluid 156 below the atomizing disk 154. The capillary structure 150 extends to the lowest portion at the reservoir 118 to draw the cooling fluid 156 from the reservoir 118.

[0083] The embodiments of the fan device 100 shown and described herein can provide a portable air flow device that is configured to be moved and actuated by a user to provide a cooling air flow in one or more directions. Embodiments of the atomizing assembly 112 can also provide water mist or a water-based fluid to the air flow to improve the cooling efficiency. Embodiments of the atomizing assembly 112 can further overcome the challenges of positioning the fluid relative to the direction of gravity in the storage chamber. For example, the mass block, capillary structure, or storage chamber shown and described herein can overcome such problems and promote substantially all of the cooling fluid (e.g., water or a water-based solution) to flow out into the cooling air, regardless of the installation, orientation, or rotation direction of the fan device.

[0084] Other aspects and embodiments of the present application are provided by the following clauses:

[0085] 1. A fan device, comprising: a fan configured to provide an air flow through a fan flow path; and an atomizer assembly comprising a housing including an outer body, a central body, and blades extending between the outer body and the central body, wherein a storage chamber is formed in the housing to store a cooling fluid, the storage chamber extending through the outer body, the blades, and the central body, and wherein the central body includes an opening through which the cooling fluid can be released from the storage chamber to communicate with the air flow fluid.

[0086] 2. A fan arrangement according to any one or more of the clauses of the present application, wherein the outer body extends circumferentially around the fan flow path.

[0087] 3. A fan device according to any one or more of the clauses of the present application, wherein the outer body extends along an arcuate portion around the fan flow path.

[0088] 4. The fan device according to any one or more of the clauses of the present application, wherein the housing comprises a capillary structure positioned in the storage chamber.

[0089] 5. The fan device according to any one or more of the clauses of the present application, wherein the capillary structure extends through the outer body and the blades and reaches the opening of the central body.

[0090] 6. A fan device according to any one or more of the clauses of the present application, wherein the atomizing assembly includes an atomizing disk, which is positioned adjacent to the portion of the capillary structure arranged at the central body, wherein the atomizing disk includes a porous material, which is positioned to be in fluid communication with the storage chamber so that the cooling fluid flows through the atomizing disk and generates an aerosol in the air flow from the fan.

[0091] 7. A fan device according to any one or more of the clauses of the present application, wherein the central body comprises a recess configured to receive the atomising disc.

[0092] 8. A fan device according to any one or more of the clauses of the present application, wherein the atomising disc is positioned adjacent to the central body of the capillary structure, the central body of the capillary structure being positioned at the opening of the central body.

[0093] 9. A fan device according to any one or more of the clauses of the present application, wherein the atomizing disc comprises a piezoelectric disc or an atomizer disc configured to vibrate when an intermittent voltage is input.

[0094] 10. The fan device according to any one or more of the clauses of the present application, further comprising: A fan housing forms the fan flow path, wherein the fan housing accommodates at least a portion of the housing of the atomizing assembly.

[0095] 11. A fan device according to any one or more of the clauses of this application, comprising: base; and A mount is rotatably coupled to the base, wherein the fan and the atomizing assembly are supported by the mount.

[0096] 12. A fan arrangement according to any one or more of the clauses of the present application, wherein the fan, the atomising assembly and the mount are rotatable relative to the base about a first axis.

[0097] 13. A fan arrangement according to any one or more of the clauses of the present application, wherein the fan and the atomising assembly are rotatable relative to the mount about a second axis.

[0098] 14. A fan arrangement according to any one or more of the clauses of the present application, wherein the base comprises a spring clip and the mount comprises a yoke mount.

[0099] 15. Fan device according to any one or more of the clauses of the present application, wherein the outer body of the housing comprises a second opening through which the storage chamber can be filled with the cooling fluid.

[0100] 16. A fan device, comprising: a fan configured to provide an air flow through a fan flow path; and an atomizer assembly comprising a housing, wherein the fan flow path at least partially passes through a space surrounded by an edge of the housing, wherein a storage chamber is formed in the housing to store a cooling fluid, and wherein the housing includes an opening through which the cooling fluid can be released from the storage chamber and communicate with the air flow fluid.

[0101] 17. The fan arrangement according to any one or more of the clauses of the present application, wherein the housing comprises an outer body extending in a circumferential direction relative to the fan flow path and surrounding the space.

[0102] 18. A fan device according to any one or more of the clauses of the present application, wherein the housing includes an outer body, a central body including the opening, and blades extending between the outer body and the central body, the housing also includes a capillary structure positioned in the storage chamber, and wherein the capillary structure extends through the outer body and the blades and reaches the opening of the central body.

[0103] 19. A fan device according to any one or more of the clauses of the present application, wherein the atomizing assembly includes an atomizing disk, which is positioned adjacent to the portion of the capillary structure arranged at the central body, wherein the atomizing disk includes a porous material, which is positioned to be in fluid communication with the storage chamber so that the cooling fluid flows through the atomizing disk and generates an aerosol in the air flow from the fan.

[0104] 20. A fan device according to any one or more of the clauses of the present application, wherein the housing includes an outer body, a central body including the opening, and blades extending between the outer body and the central body, and the fan flow path at least partially passes through two spaces surrounded by the outer body and separated from each other by the blades and the central body.

[0105] This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems, and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. If such other examples include structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if such other examples include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal language of the claims, such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A fan device, comprising: a fan configured to provide an air flow through a fan flow path; as well as An atomizer assembly comprising a housing including an outer body, a center body, and blades extending between the outer body and the center body, wherein a storage chamber is formed in the housing to store a cooling fluid, the storage chamber extending through the outer body, the blades, and the center body, and wherein the center body includes an opening through which the cooling fluid can be released from the storage chamber and communicate with the air flow fluid.

2. The fan device according to claim 1, wherein The outer body extends circumferentially around the fan flow path.

3. The fan device according to claim 1, wherein The outer body extends along an arcuate portion surrounding the fan flow path.

4. The fan device according to claim 1, wherein The housing includes a capillary structure positioned in the reservoir chamber.

5. The fan device according to claim 4, wherein The capillary structure extends through the outer body and the vanes and reaches the opening of the central body.

6. The fan device according to claim 4, wherein The atomizing assembly includes an atomizing disk positioned adjacent to the portion of the capillary structure disposed at the central body, wherein the atomizing disk includes a porous material positioned in fluid communication with the storage chamber so that the cooling fluid flows through the atomizing disk and generates an aerosol in the air flow from the fan.

7. The fan device according to claim 6, wherein The center body includes a recess configured to receive the atomizing disk.

8. The fan device according to claim 6, wherein The atomizing disk is positioned adjacent to the central body of the capillary structure, which is positioned at the opening of the central body.

9. The fan device according to claim 6, wherein The atomizing disk includes a piezoelectric disk or an atomizer disk configured to vibrate when an intermittent voltage is input.

10. The fan device according to claim 1, further comprising: A fan housing forms the fan flow path, wherein the fan housing accommodates at least a portion of the housing of the atomizing assembly.

11. The fan device according to claim 1, comprising: base; as well as A mount is rotatably coupled to the base, wherein the fan and the atomizing assembly are supported by the mount.

12. The fan device according to claim 11, wherein The fan, the atomizing assembly, and the mount are rotatable relative to the base about a first axis.

13. The fan device according to claim 12, wherein The fan and the atomizing assembly are rotatable relative to the mount about a second axis.

14. The fan device according to claim 11, wherein The base includes a spring clip and the mount includes a yoke mount.

15. The fan device according to claim 1, wherein The outer body of the housing comprises a second opening through which the reservoir chamber can be filled with the cooling fluid.

16. A fan device, comprising: a fan configured to provide an air flow through a fan flow path; as well as An atomizer assembly comprising a housing, wherein the fan flow path at least partially passes through a space surrounded by an edge of the housing, wherein a storage chamber is formed in the housing to store a cooling fluid, and wherein the housing includes an opening through which the cooling fluid can be released from the storage chamber and communicate with the air flow fluid.

17. The fan device according to claim 16, wherein The housing includes an outer body extending in a circumferential direction with respect to the fan flow path and surrounding the space.

18. The fan device according to claim 16, wherein The housing includes an outer body, a central body including the opening, and a blade extending between the outer body and the central body, the housing also including a capillary structure positioned in the storage chamber, and wherein the capillary structure extends through the outer body and the blade and reaches the opening of the central body.

19. The fan device according to claim 18, wherein The atomizing assembly includes an atomizing disk positioned adjacent to the portion of the capillary structure disposed at the central body, wherein the atomizing disk includes a porous material positioned in fluid communication with the storage chamber so that the cooling fluid flows through the atomizing disk and generates an aerosol in the air flow from the fan.

20. The fan device according to claim 16, wherein The housing includes an outer body, a central body including the opening, and blades extending between the outer body and the central body, and the fan flow path at least partially passes through two spaces surrounded by the outer body and separated from each other by the blades and the central body.

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