Fan Module Lockable Lens via Rotating Cover Plate Aperture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for integrating elongated lenses into fan modules are prone to damage and degradation due to the use of screw-on lens caps, which reduce light intensity and risk lens fracture during assembly.
Innovation Solution
A fan module design featuring a cover plate with oblong apertures and a corresponding oblong head portion of the elongated lens, allowing secure locking without lens caps by rotating the cover plate, preventing the lens from being pulled back through the aperture.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If screw-on lens caps are used to secure the elongated lens, then the lens can be fixed in place, but the light intensity is reduced and the risk of lens fracture increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the lens cap component entirely from the system. Instead of using a separate lens cap to secure the lens, the design integrates the lens directly into the housing through a recessed cavity, eliminating the need for lens caps and thereby preventing light intensity reduction and fracture risks associated with lens cap assembly
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the lens mounting function directly into the housing structure. The housing includes a recessed cavity that directly receives and secures the elongated lens, combining what were previously separate components (housing, lens cap, and lens) into an integrated assembly that maintains lens security without compromising light transmission
2Reliability
If screw-on lens caps are used to secure the elongated lens, then the lens can be fixed in place, but the risk of lens fracture during assembly increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the lens cap component entirely from the system. Instead of using a separate lens cap to secure the lens, the design integrates the lens directly into the housing through a recessed cavity, eliminating the need for lens caps and thereby preventing fracture risks associated with lens cap assembly
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs the housing with a recessed cavity that provides a protective environment for the lens before final assembly. The cavity structure cushions and protects the lens during handling and assembly, preventing direct contact and potential fracture that would occur with lens cap installation
3Reliability
If lens caps are used to secure the elongated lens, then the lens can be fixed in place, but the overall device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the lens cap component entirely from the system, eliminating the need for separate lens securing parts and simplifying the overall device structure while maintaining lens security through direct housing integration
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the lens mounting function directly into the housing structure, combining what were previously separate components (housing, lens cap, and lens) into an integrated assembly, thereby reducing the total number of parts and simplifying assembly procedures
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 solution securely integrates the elongated lens within the fan module, reducing the risk of damage and enhancing light transmission by eliminating the need for lens caps and ensuring stable assembly.
Implementation Method 1
an elongated lens can be used to transmit the emitted light to a more convenient viewing location. Specifically, the elongated lens can be integrated into the fan module
Implementation Method 2
The head portion of the elongated lens has an oblong shape with a first dimension and a second dimension. The aperture in the cover plate through which the head portion passes has a corresponding oblong shape with a first dimension and a second dimension. Generally, the first dimension of the head portion is less than the first dimension of the aperture but greater than the second dimension.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A~3A
Figure 3B~3C
AI summary
An apparatus includes a fan module and an elongated lens. The fan module includes a housing and a cover plate having a plurality of apertures. The elongated lens includes a head portion that extends through one of the apertures of the cover plate. The head portion has a first dimension and a second dimension. The aperture also has a first dimension and a second dimension. The first dimension of the head portion is less than the first dimension of the aperture and is greater than the second dimension of the aperture. When the first dimension of the head portion is aligned with the first dimension of the aperture, the aperture permits the head portion to pass through the aperture. When the first dimension of the head portion is aligned with the second dimension of the aperture, the aperture prevents the head portion from passing through the aperture.