Multiplexed Fan Fault Detection With Shared Isolation Circuit

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing fan fault detection systems for multiple fans require multiple groups of independent power supplies and isolation detection components, leading to high detection costs and interference with control systems.

Innovation Solution

A method and apparatus utilizing a configuration module, calculation module, self-adaptive module, and positioning module to detect fan faults using a multiplexer switch and one isolation component, with self-oscillation generating control signals to reduce isolation component usage and enable simultaneous detection of multiple fan fault feedback signals.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If multiple groups of independent power supplies and isolation detection components are used for multiple fans, then fan fault detection reliability is improved, but detection cost and device complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefan fault detection reliabilityVSAvoiddetection circuit complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple fan detection circuits into a single shared detection circuit. The multiplexer switch combines feedback signals from multiple fans, and a single isolation component handles isolation for all fans, replacing the traditional approach of using separate isolation components for each fan. This merging reduces device complexity and cost while maintaining detection reliability through the shared circuit architecture.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The detection circuit is designed with universal functionality to handle multiple fans simultaneously. The multiplexer switch enables the single detection circuit to selectively connect to different fans, and the isolation component provides universal isolation protection for all fan signals. This multi-functional design allows one circuit to perform the work of multiple separate circuits.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Measurement precision

If multiple groups of independent power supplies and isolation detection components are used for multiple fans, then fan fault detection precision is improved, but detection cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefan fault detection precisionVSAvoidisolation component quantity

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple isolation requirements into a single isolation component. Instead of using one isolation component per fan, the shared detection circuit uses one isolation component that handles isolation for all fan feedback signals through the multiplexer switch. This merging dramatically reduces the quantity of isolation components needed while preserving detection precision.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Device complexity

If non-isolation-type detection circuit is used with direct connection to control system, then detection cost is reduced, but control system interference increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedetection circuit simplicityVSAvoidcontrol system interference

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The isolation component serves as an intermediary between the fan feedback signals and the control system. It provides galvanic isolation that blocks harmful interference, ground loops, and voltage spikes from reaching the control system, while still allowing valid fault signals to pass through. This mediator approach maintains signal integrity and protects the control system without requiring complex shielding or filtering.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

4Device complexity

If non-isolation-type detection circuit is used with direct connection to control system, then detection cost is reduced, but system stability worsens due to easy control system crash when fan is faulty

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedetection circuit simplicityVSAvoidcontrol system stability

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The isolation component acts as a protective intermediary that prevents fault conditions from propagating to the control system. When a fan fails, the isolation component blocks the fault signal from crashing the control system, while still allowing the detection circuit to identify and report the fan fault. This maintains system stability without sacrificing detection capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS12535080B2Fan fault detection method and apparatus, computer device, and storage medium

Publication Date: 2026.01.27 SINENG ELECTRIC CO LTD

AI summary

A fan fault detection method and apparatus, a computer device, and a storage medium are provided. According to the fan fault detection method, a fan fault can be detected by using a multiplexer switch and one isolation component. A detection circuit is simple, and multiple groups of fan fault feedback signals can be detected simultaneously, reducing costs. Control signals are generated through self-oscillation, facilitating compatibility of different fan fault feedback signals.