Blower control device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing air flow control systems struggle to prevent unwanted movement of objects like paper, ash, soot, dust, and dirt within a target space by the air flow generated by fans, as they lack precise control over air flow direction and volume.
Innovation Solution
An air flow control apparatus that includes a fan, a pivotable flap, and an image capturing device to detect specific objects within the space, allowing for the adjustment of air flow direction and volume to inhibit object movement, using a control system that learns and adapts to prevent unwanted object displacement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the fan sends air flow to blow out objects or clean the space, then cleaning effectiveness is improved, but objects like paper, ash, soot, dust, and dirt are unintentionally moved against user's will
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses an image capturing device to detect objects in the target space and feeds this information back to the control section. The control section adjusts fan rotation speed and flap angles based on detected object positions and types, creating a closed-loop control system that prevents unwanted object movement while maintaining cleaning effectiveness
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes operating parameters (fan rotation speed and flap angles) based on detected object characteristics. By adjusting these parameters in real-time according to object type and position, the system optimizes air flow to avoid moving lightweight objects while maintaining effective cleaning of heavier debris
2Quantity of substance
If the fan rotation speed is increased to enhance air flow volume, then air flow volume is improved, but objects are more likely to be moved unintentionally
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies different air flow strengths to different regions of the target space by independently controlling multiple flaps. This allows high air flow volume where needed for cleaning while reducing air flow in areas where lightweight objects are present, preventing their displacement
Solution Approach 2:
The control section continuously monitors object positions and adjusts fan rotation speed accordingly. When objects are detected in the air flow path, the system reduces fan speed to prevent displacement while maintaining sufficient air flow volume for effective cleaning in other areas
3Ease of operation
If the flap is adjusted to change air flow direction, then air flow direction control is improved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control section automatically calculates optimal flap angles based on detected object positions and desired air flow directions, eliminating the need for manual adjustment. The system self-regulates flap positions to achieve precise air flow direction control while simplifying user operation
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses dynamically adjustable flaps that can pivot to different angles based on real-time conditions. This dynamic adjustment capability allows precise air flow direction control adapted to varying object positions and cleaning requirements
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
Effectively controls air flow to prevent objects from being moved unintentionally, ensuring a cleaner and more controlled environment by accurately adjusting air flow based on detected objects and their positions.
Implementation Method 1
an image capturing device installed in a target space... acquire image data obtained by an image capturing device
Implementation Method 2
a fan... configured to generate an air flow... including a fan motor which is configured to rotate such that the fan rotates
Implementation Method 3
the flap being for adjusting a direction of the air flow... being a plate-shaped member pivotable about at least one of a horizontal axis or a vertical axis
Data Source
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AI summary
To inhibit an object from being moved by an air flow which a fan sends, against user's will. A controller (60) for controlling an indoor unit (20) includes an acquisition section (62), a detection section (63), and a device control section (65). The acquisition section (62) acquires captured image data (D3). The captured image data (D3) is information containing an image of a target space (SP) captured by an image capturing unit (40). The image capturing unit (40) is installed in the target space (SP). The detection section (63) detects a specific object (X3), based on the captured image data (D3) acquired by the acquisition section (62). The specific object (X3) is movable by an air flow which the indoor unit (20) sends. The device control section (65) performs air flow control. The air flow control is processing of controlling at least one of a direction or a volume of the air flow which the indoor unit (20) sends (an indoor air flow (AF)), based on a result of detection by the detection section (63).