Height-Adjustable Fan Fixing Structure for Server Cooling

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing fan fixing structures in server and memory products are not adaptable to different height scenarios, limiting the use of the same type of fan across various configurations due to varying layout requirements, which can lead to inadequate heat dissipation and system shutdown risks.

Innovation Solution

A height adjustable fan fixing structure that includes a fan box rear cover, fan box front cover, and a height adjusting block with rotatable wire plugs and damping pads, allowing for tool-free and precise adjustment of the fan's height using a method that involves loosening wire plugs, adjusting the height block, and aligning the connector fixing seat, enabling the same fan type to be used across different heights.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If different fixing structure forms are used for different height scenarios, then the fan can be securely fixed at various heights, but the same type of fan cannot be used universally across different configurations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to different height scenariosVSAvoidcomplexity of fixing structure forms
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal fixing structure where a single fan model can be installed at multiple height positions (e.g., 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th positions) using the same fixing mechanism. The fixing structure includes adjustable components that allow the fan to be securely mounted at different vertical positions within the chassis without requiring different fan types or completely different fixing mechanisms, thus achieving multi-functionality and universality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The fixing structure incorporates dynamic adjustment capabilities through movable fixing blocks and adjustable mounting positions. The structure allows for height adjustment during installation and maintenance, enabling the same fixing mechanism to adapt to different height requirements. This dynamic characteristic resolves the contradiction by making the fixing structure flexible rather than fixed, allowing universal application across different scenarios.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Stability of the object's composition

If fixed fixing structures are used for each height position, then the fan is securely mounted, but the structure cannot be adjusted for different height requirements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecurity of fan mountingVSAvoidadjustability to different heights
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The fixing structure transforms from a static, fixed-position design to a dynamic, adjustable design. The structure includes movable components such as adjustable fixing blocks and repositionable mounting elements that allow the fan to be securely mounted at different height positions. This dynamic characteristic enables both secure mounting (stability) and height adjustment (adaptability) simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The fixing structure is divided into modular segments that can be independently adjusted. The fixing mechanism includes separate adjustable components (e.g., individual fixing blocks at different positions, modular mounting elements) that can be configured for different height requirements while maintaining secure mounting. This segmentation allows flexibility in positioning while preserving the stability of each individual mounting point.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple types of fans are used for different height scenarios, then each height position has an optimized fan, but the inventory and maintenance costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoptimization for different heightsVSAvoidnumber of fan types and spare parts
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent achieves universality in the fixing structure, allowing a single fan type to be installed at multiple height positions (1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th positions) within the chassis. This eliminates the need to maintain multiple fan types for different heights, reducing spare parts inventory to just one fan model while still providing optimized cooling for different scenarios through the adjustable fixing mechanism rather than through different fan types.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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

This solution enhances the operability and maintainability of fans, reduces spare parts and manufacturing costs, and improves system competitiveness by allowing unified spare parts and easy tool-free adjustments, while also damping fan vibrations to prevent heat backflow and ensure efficient heat dissipation.

Implementation Method 1

a damping pad is respectively provided between the fan box rear cover and the fan and between the fan box front cover and the fan

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectDamping: Damping

Data Source

PatentUS11041509B2Height-adjustable fan fixing structure and height adjustment method for fan module
Publication Date: 2021.06.22 ZHENGZHOU YUNHAI INFORMATION TECH CO LTD
  • US11041509B2 patent drawing
  • US11041509B2 patent drawing
  • US11041509B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A height-adjustable fan fixing structure and a height adjustment method are provided. The height-adjustable fan fixing structure includes a fan box rear cover and a fan box front cover, the fan box rear cover and the fan box front cover cooperating to fix a fan; and further includes a height adjustment block, the height adjustment block being adjustably mounted on a whole piece formed by connection of the fan box rear cover and the fan box front cover, the lower end of the two side surfaces of the height adjustment block being provided with trunkings, each of the trunkings being provided with a rotatable wire screw, positions, corresponding to the two ends of each wire screw, on the fan box rear cover and the fan box front cover being provided with clamping holes, the two ends of the wire screw being inserted into the clamping holes.