Bladeless Ceiling Fan Using Coanda Effect for Airflow
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional ceiling fans cause flickering shadows and reflections, pulsating air flow, and inadequate convective cooling, while also being aesthetically unappealing and inefficient, with limitations in reversing airflow direction for seasonal temperature control and poor particulate filtration.
Innovation Solution
A ceiling-mounted air circulating device with a design resembling a medallion, featuring a motor-driven air impelling mechanism, internal airflow channels, and adjustable airflow direction, incorporating filtration and optional heating/cooling means, and leveraging the Coanda Effect for efficient airflow amplification and particulate removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional bladed ceiling fans are used, then air circulation is provided, but flickering shadows and reflections are caused which can trigger headaches or epileptic seizures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the traditional rotating blades from the ceiling fan design and replaces them with a bladeless structure that uses centrifugal force generated by a rotating impeller within a housing to move air. This extraction of the blade component eliminates the source of flickering shadows and reflections while maintaining air circulation functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces the conventional mechanical blade system with a centrifugal impeller system enclosed in a housing. The impeller rotates within the housing to generate centrifugal force that propels air outward through outlets, substituting the direct blade-air interaction with an enclosed mechanical system that does not create visual flicker.
2Productivity
If bladed ceiling fans are used, then air flow is generated, but pulsating air flow is caused which some people find objectionable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs multiple air outlets arranged around the housing that continuously discharge air in a steady stream. The centrifugal impeller maintains constant rotation to provide continuous, non-pulsating air flow through multiple outlets, ensuring stable and smooth air movement without the pulsating effect characteristic of bladed fans.
3Length of stationary object
If ceiling fans are mounted close to occupants, then space is saved, but rotating blades pass too close to occupants causing safety concerns
Solution Approach 1:
By removing the exposed rotating blades and enclosing the impeller within a housing, the patent eliminates the safety hazard of rotating blades near occupants. The bladeless design allows the fan to be mounted closer to the ceiling without posing a threat to people below, as the rotating components are fully enclosed.
4Productivity
If conventional ceiling fans are used, then air circulation is provided, but aesthetic design intent is compromised as fans are considered contrary to interior design
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the air circulation function with a decorative housing that can serve as a ceiling medallion or artistic fixture. The housing may incorporate lighting elements, decorative patterns, or design features that complement interior aesthetics, merging the functional fan with decorative ceiling elements that enhance rather than detract from the room's design.
5Productivity
If bladed fans are used, then air flow is generated, but inadequate convective cooling is provided to occupants
Solution Approach 1:
The patent directs air flow through specific outlet orientations and patterns to target occupied zones directly. The housing may include adjustable outlets or strategically positioned openings that channel cooled air downward toward occupants, providing localized convective cooling where it is most needed rather than general room air movement.
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
Provides quiet, energy-efficient, and aesthetically pleasing air circulation with improved convective cooling, reduced particulate inhalation, and adaptable airflow direction for seasonal temperature control, enhancing comfort and energy efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a motor driven to rotate an air impeller which accelerates air through a passage
Implementation Method 2
leveraging the Coanda Effect for efficient airflow amplification
Implementation Method 3
optional embodiment incorporates means to filter dust, pollen and other particulate matter from the circulating airstream
Data Source
AI summary
This invention relates to a ceiling mounted air circulating apparatus comprising, in combination: a motor; an essentially centrally located radial or axial air impeller; air guiding means; optional airflow enhancement by means of air amplification means; optional centrally located wiring path from an electrical power source to a wiring enclosure suitable for hanging a lighting fixture or chandelier; and decorative embellishments, ail of which are arranged to blend with the architectural style of a space in a manner similar to a decorative ceiling medallion, the plariform of which, when viewed from below may be circular, rectangular, or polygonal. Optionally, the apparatus of the present invention may embody any of the following; heating, cooling, filtration means, positive ion generation means, and / or air sterilization means.