Reversible Fan Module With One-Way Shutter Against Air Backflow

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing fan modules for switches do not have one-way shutters, leading to backflow of heated air or premature discharge of cold air due to malfunctioning fans, and are susceptible to dust and foreign objects, affecting cooling efficiency and normal operation, especially in outdoor conditions.

Innovation Solution

A fan module with a one-way shutter mechanism that includes a shutter base, float balls, and a baffle to prevent airflow backflow or premature discharge by blocking airflow channels when fans malfunction, and a filter to prevent dust and impurities from entering.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Temperature

If multiple fan modules are used for cooling switches, then cooling capacity is improved, but the risk of air backflow and cooling disruption increases when fans malfunction

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecooling capacityVSAvoidcooling stability

Core Design Contradiction:

TemperatureVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

A one-way shutter mechanism is introduced as an intermediary component between the fan and the air inlet. This shutter acts as a mediator that allows air to flow in one direction (into the switch) but blocks reverse flow (backflow of heated air). The shutter is positioned to automatically close when the fan stops or reverses, preventing cooling disruption while maintaining multiple fan modules for adequate cooling capacity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Device complexity

If fan modules operate without one-way shutters, then device structure is simpler, but heated air backflow disrupts cooling efficiency

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructure simplicityVSAvoidcooling efficiency

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The one-way shutter is designed to operate automatically based on airflow direction without requiring external control systems. The shutter mechanism self-activates when air flow reverses or stops, closing the air inlet to prevent backflow. This self-service capability maintains cooling efficiency while adding minimal structural complexity, as the shutter responds autonomously to flow conditions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If fan modules are installed in outdoor environments, then adaptability is improved, but dust and foreign objects may be sucked in affecting normal operation

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveenvironmental adaptabilityVSAvoiddust and foreign objects

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The one-way shutter serves as a protective intermediary between the outdoor environment and the fan module interior. By controlling air flow direction and preventing reverse flow, the shutter reduces the likelihood of dust, oil, and foreign objects being drawn into the fan assembly. This is particularly valuable in outdoor deployments where environmental contaminants are more prevalent.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

4Reliability

If fans blow air in different directions to match switch cooling requirements, then cooling direction consistency is improved, but device configuration complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecooling direction consistencyVSAvoidconfiguration complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of configuring fans to blow air in different directions to achieve proper cooling flow, the invention inverts the approach by using one-way shutters to control air intake direction. The shutters ensure that air is drawn in from the correct direction regardless of fan orientation, eliminating the need for complex fan configuration while maintaining cooling direction consistency.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

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

Ensures consistent cooling direction and prevents airflow interference, maintains cooling efficiency, and protects internal components from dust and debris, enhancing operational reliability and performance.

Implementation Method 1

The one-way shutter mechanism that includes a shutter base, float balls, and a baffle to prevent airflow backflow or premature discharge by blocking airflow channels when fans malfunction

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectBuoyancy: Archimedes' Principle (Buoyancy)

Implementation Method 2

a filter to prevent dust and impurities from entering

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPhysical filtration: Filter (physical)

Data Source

PatentUS12550287B2Fan module and electronic device

Publication Date: 2026.02.10 NANNING FUGUI PRECISION IND CO LTD

AI summary

A fan module includes a mounting bracket, a fan and a one-way shutter are detachably installed in the mounting bracket. The fan module is configured for installation at an electronic device along an insertion direction, the fan is configured to generate airflow along or opposite to the insertion direction, and the one-way shutter allows the airflow to pass through. The fan is configured to generate airflow in an opposite direction by being turned over, and the one-way shutter allows the airflow in the opposite direction to pass through by being turned over correspondingly. The one-way shutter includes a shutter base defining multiple guide holes, a baffle, and multiple float balls in the guide holes for allowing or preventing air to pass through the guide holes to achieve one-way pass function. An electronic device comprising the fan module is also provided.