Fan base
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fan clamps are unattractive and utilitarian, with exposed mechanical parts, and do not allow for easy adjustment of air flow direction.
Innovation Solution
A fan clamp design that conceals mechanical elements within the clamp body, featuring a shield to hide screws and allows for adjustable air flow direction, and a removable support base with interchangeable decorative disks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional C-clamp mechanism is used to secure the fan to the support surface, then the fan can be firmly attached to minimize clutter, but the mechanical elements (bolts, screws) become exposed and unattractive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the mechanical screw adjustment assembly from the visible exterior of the clamp. The shield encloses the screw mechanism, separating the functional mechanical elements from the aesthetic exterior, allowing the clamp to maintain both firm attachment capability and clean visual appearance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements nesting by placing the screw adjustment assembly inside the shield enclosure. The mechanical components are nested within the aesthetic housing, creating a layered structure where the outer shield provides visual appeal while the inner mechanical assembly provides functional attachment.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional clamp design is used, then the structure remains simple and utilitarian, but the fan head cannot pivot or swivel to adjust air flow direction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic capability by enabling the fan head to pivot and swivel relative to the clamp body. The swing arm mechanism allows the fan to move from a fixed position to multiple adjustable positions, transforming the static clamp into a dynamic support system that adapts to different air flow requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the clamp multi-functional by combining the clamping function with the fan support and positioning functions. The single device structure serves multiple purposes: securing the fan to the surface, supporting the fan weight, and enabling directional adjustment of air flow, thereby increasing adaptability without proportionally increasing complexity.
3Shape
If mechanical elements are concealed within the clamp body, then aesthetic appearance improves, but the structure becomes more complex with added shield components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the aesthetic housing function with the structural support function into a single integrated clamp body. The shield is not merely a cosmetic cover but is structurally integrated to also support the fan weight and provide mounting surfaces, combining multiple functions into unified components that reduce overall structural complexity despite adding aesthetic concealment.
Data Source
AI summary
A removable support base is provided that includes interchangeable decorative disks. In one example, a desk fan is provided that includes a fan supported by a support post that is positioned on the top of the removable support base. The removable support base has an upper plate and lower support member that are removably attached to the support post. The upper plate member is separable from the lower support member when detached from the support post. The desk fan further includes a first interchangeable substrate or decorative disk positioned between the upper plate and lower support member. The desk fan further including additional interchangeable decorative disks for interchanging with the first interchangeable decorative disk.