Fan-Mounted Deodorizing Attachment With Mesh Cup Segmentation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing air deodorization systems are ineffective due to overpowering initial fragrances that quickly diminish, uneven distribution, and the need for manual and frequent reapplication, failing to provide consistent and automatic odor control in a room.

Innovation Solution

A deodorizing device with mesh holders and a solid deodorizer that dissolves in air, attached to fans using double-sided foam tape, ensuring even fragrance distribution through air flow, allowing for automatic and continuous fragrance release.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Quantity of substance

If aerosol sprays or solid room deodorizers are used to combat odors, then the freshening smell is released, but the aroma is overpowering at first and quickly diminishes with time

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvearoma releaseVSAvoidduration of fragrance
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSDuration of action of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the fragrance release system into multiple mesh holders (typically 3-7) distributed across the fan surface, each containing solid deodorizer tablets. This segmentation allows the total fragrance load to be distributed across multiple smaller units, preventing overpowering initial release while extending overall duration as tablets dissolve gradually over time

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the physical state and release mechanism from aerosol spray (rapid evaporation) to solid deodorizer tablets that dissolve slowly in air. This parameter change from liquid/gas phase to solid phase enables controlled, gradual release over extended periods, transforming the temporal profile from short-lived intense aroma to long-lasting gentle fragrance

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Quantity of substance

If deodorizers are released in concentrated areas, then the freshening smell is strong locally, but the aroma is not evenly distributed around the room

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvearoma concentrationVSAvoideven distribution
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

By distributing multiple mesh holders across different locations on the fan surface (front, back, sides), the patent creates multiple fragrance source points that collectively achieve uniform room-wide distribution. Each holder releases fragrance locally, but the combined effect from multiple spatially distributed sources ensures even coverage throughout the room

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses the fan's air circulation system as an intermediary to transport fragrance from multiple distributed mesh holders throughout the room. The fan blades move air currents that carry scented particles from each mesh holder location, mixing and distributing the aroma uniformly across the entire space rather than concentrating it at a single release point

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Ease of operation

If manual deodorizer application is required, then the user can control when deodorizers are used, but the user must remember to use them consistently and regularly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemanual controlVSAvoidautomatic application
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSExtent of automation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent enables the deodorizer system to serve itself by integrating mesh holders directly onto the fan structure. The fan's normal operation (air movement) automatically performs the distribution function that would otherwise require manual intervention. Users simply need to place tablets in mesh holders initially; thereafter, the system maintains itself through continuous passive operation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges the deodorizer delivery system with the existing fan infrastructure by attaching mesh holders to fan blades or housing. This combination allows the fan's primary function (air circulation) to simultaneously perform the secondary function of fragrance distribution, eliminating the need for separate manual application mechanisms while maintaining ease of use

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 device provides a consistent and even distribution of fragrance, effectively masking unwanted odors in a room by leveraging air flow from fans, ensuring a pleasant olfactory experience without the need for frequent manual application.

Implementation Method 1

a solid deodorizer contained within each of the mesh holders... The solid deodorizer may be made of a wax that dissolves in air

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSublimation: Sublimation

Implementation Method 2

The deodorizing device may be disposed on a ceiling fan, a box fan, a pedestal fan, a window fan, or an oscillating fan... providing for a consistent and even distribution of fragrance

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectConvection: Convection

Data Source

PatentUS11260141B1Deodorizing attachment for a fan
Publication Date: 2022.03.01 CLARDY YALONDA
  • US11260141B1 patent drawing
  • US11260141B1 patent drawing
  • US11260141B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A deodorizing attachment for a fan includes a plate having an adhesive backing and a plurality of open-faced cups being disposed upon a face opposite the backing. Each cup has a mesh cover with each cup being configured to removably secure a unit of an air freshener.