Airflow-Doubling Vane Structure Combining Axial and Centrifugal Flow
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vane structures either excel in airflow propulsion or suction but not both, limiting their combined effectiveness in generating a composite airflow.
Innovation Solution
A composite airflow-doubling vane structure incorporating both axial-flow and centrifugal vanes, where the inner vane unit is rotated by one power source and the outer vane unit by another, allowing for simultaneous operation to enhance airflow intensity and smoothness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If axial-flow vanes are used, then airflow propulsion is improved, but suction capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines axial-flow vanes and centrifugal vanes into a single hybrid structure. The axial-flow vanes (outer unit) provide forward propulsion while the centrifugal vanes (inner unit) generate strong suction at the center. Both vane units are integrated around a common central axis and rotate together to produce a composite airflow that simultaneously achieves both propulsion and suction capabilities.
2Force
If centrifugal vanes are used, then suction capability is improved, but airflow propulsion deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates centrifugal vanes within the inner unit to generate strong radial suction forces drawing air toward the center, while axial-flow vanes in the outer unit simultaneously propel the airflow forward along the axial direction. This merging allows the system to overcome the limitation of centrifugal vanes alone by adding the propulsion function of axial-flow vanes.
3Device complexity
If a single vane type is used, then device complexity is reduced, but airflow performance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The vane structure is segmented into two functional units: an inner unit with centrifugal vanes and an outer unit with axial-flow vanes. Each unit is optimized for its specific function (suction vs. propulsion) while maintaining a relatively simple individual structure. This segmentation allows the system to achieve superior composite airflow performance without excessive complexity.
4Productivity
If dual power sources are used, then airflow intensity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs two independent power sources that drive the inner and outer vane units respectively, allowing each unit to operate at optimized speeds for its function. The dual power source configuration enables independent control of suction and propulsion functions, achieving superior airflow intensity and composite flow patterns while maintaining manageable system complexity through modular architecture.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The structure achieves a balanced airflow that combines the suction and propulsion capabilities of both vane types, resulting in a more intense and smooth airflow.
Implementation Method 1
Centrifugal vanes, such as the vanes of a common blower or turbine, refer to a configuration in which an airflow is drawn in through the center of the vane wheel and then moves in a radiating manner toward, and outward of, the vane wheel
Implementation Method 2
Axial-flow vanes, such as the vanes of a common household electric fan, refer to a configuration in which the airflow direction is perpendicular to the vane wheel. This type of vanes is effective in propelling air forward
Data Source
AI summary
An airflow-doubling vane structure includes an axle, an inner vane unit, and an outer vane unit. The inner vane unit includes a plurality of vanes provided around a center defined by the axle and can be rotated along with the axle. The vanes of the inner vane unit are centrifugal vanes. The outer vane unit includes a plurality of vanes provided around the center defined by the axle and around the inner vane unit and can be rotated along with the axle. The vanes of the outer vane unit are axial-flow vanes and extend a certain radial distance from the vanes of the inner vane unit.