Automatic Axial Fan Rotation Detection

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional methods for determining the rotation direction of an axial cooling fan in numerical fluid simulations require manual visual inspection, leading to potential errors and increased costs due to the need for repeated simulations, especially with varying fan designs.

Innovation Solution

A computer-implemented method that automatically determines the axial fan rotation direction by analyzing a three-dimensional representation of the fan, calculating the centerline of a blade, and determining the leading and trailing edges to set the actual fan rotational direction, thereby eliminating the need for manual inspection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If manual visual inspection is used to determine axial fan rotation direction, then human expertise can be applied to assess fan design variations, but errors may occur and simulation reruns are needed increasing costs and time

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccuracy of rotation direction determinationVSAvoidtime for simulation reruns

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual visual inspection with an automated image processing system that uses computer vision algorithms to detect and determine fan rotation direction. The system processes 2D images or 3D models of axial fans, automatically identifies blade configurations, and calculates rotation direction without human intervention, thereby eliminating errors and reducing time loss from manual methods

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system enables self-determination of rotation direction by having the computational system automatically analyze fan geometry and determine rotation direction independently. The automated process extracts features from images, processes them through algorithms, and generates rotation direction determination without requiring external human expertise, making the system self-sufficient

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Reliability

If manual visual inspection is used to determine axial fan rotation direction, then human judgment can be applied, but numerous simulation reruns are required increasing costs

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccuracy of rotation direction determinationVSAvoidcost of simulation performance

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual visual inspection with an automated image processing system that uses computer vision algorithms to detect and determine fan rotation direction. The system processes 2D images or 3D models of axial fans, automatically identifies blade configurations, and calculates rotation direction without human intervention, thereby eliminating errors and reducing time loss from manual methods

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system creates a digital representation or model of the fan from images or 3D data, allowing automated analysis of blade geometry and rotation direction. This digital copy enables repeated analysis without physical manipulation or human error, reducing the need for costly simulation reruns

Inventive Principle:

Principle #26Copying

3Reliability

If manual visual inspection is used to determine axial fan rotation direction, then human expertise can be utilized, but the process is time-consuming and affects productivity

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccuracy of rotation direction determinationVSAvoidsimulation throughput

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual visual inspection with an automated image processing system that uses computer vision algorithms to detect and determine fan rotation direction. The system processes 2D images or 3D models of axial fans, automatically identifies blade configurations, and calculates rotation direction without human intervention, thereby eliminating errors and reducing time loss from manual methods

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary automated determination of rotation direction before simulations are executed. By pre-processing images and determining rotation direction automatically, the system prepares accurate input data in advance, preventing errors that would require simulation reruns and thereby improving overall productivity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS11835054B2Method for automatic detection of axial cooling fan rotation direction

Publication Date: 2023.12.05 DASSAULT SYSTEMS AMERICAS CORP

AI summary

Described are computer-related techniques for determining rotation direction of an axial fan for use in fluid flow simulations. The techniques involve receiving by a computer processing system digital data of a three dimensional representation of an axial fan having plural fan blade, determining by the computer processing system from the data of three dimensional representation of the axial fan, at least a single centerline of a single blade of the axial fan from a two dimensional projection of the axial fan, and calculating by the computer processing system based on the initial valve of fan rotation, an actual value of fan rotational direction.