Self-Retaining Fan Mount Assembly Vibration Isolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fan brackets for computer fans cause vibration-induced deformation and reduced effectiveness of vibration isolation due to loose fitting between isolation pegs and recesses, leading to transmission of vibrations to sensitive components like HDDs.
Innovation Solution
A self-retaining fan mount assembly with retention pegs featuring serrated ribs made of thermoplastic elastomer, which provide a secure fit and prevent deformation of the bracket members, minimizing vibration transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If conventional isolation mounting pegs are used with loose fitting between recesses, then vibration isolation is provided, but the fans move over the pegs causing the fan bracket to deform over time
Solution Approach 1:
The retention peg is segmented with multiple ribs spaced apart from one another, creating multiple contact points within the recess. This segmentation provides both vibration isolation through the elastomeric material and structural stability through the distributed rib contacts that prevent fan movement and bracket deformation.
Solution Approach 2:
The retention peg is made of elastomeric material that combines vibration absorption properties with mechanical retention properties. The composite structure of the elastomeric material with integrated ribs provides both shock absorption and structural stability, preventing the fan bracket from deforming while maintaining vibration isolation.
2Stability of the object's composition
If retention pegs with ribs are used to prevent fan movement, then structural stability is improved, but the complexity of the mounting component increases
Solution Approach 1:
The retention peg merges multiple functions into a single component: vibration isolation, structural retention, and fan positioning. By integrating the ribs directly into the elastomeric peg body, the design combines the soft isolation properties with the hard retention properties of the ribs, eliminating the need for separate isolation elements and mounting features.
Solution Approach 2:
The retention peg is designed to self-retain the fan housing through the ribs that engage with the recess. The elastomeric material provides friction and compliance that automatically secure the fan without requiring additional fasteners or adjustment mechanisms, making the component self-configuring and easy to install.
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 effectively retains the fan bracket members, preventing deformation and maintaining vibration isolation, thus protecting sensitive components from vibration-induced performance degradation.
Implementation Method 1
The retention peg is made of a material different than the material of the bracket member to absorb the vibration
Data Source
AI summary
A fan assembly for an electronic device is provided. The assembly comprises a fan housing, at least one bracket member, and at least one retention peg. The fan housing defines a recess therein for directing heat away from a electrical components positioned within the electronic device. The bracket member supports the fan housing within the electronic device. The retention peg is disposed about the bracket member and includes a plurality of ribs for insertion into the recess to retain the bracket member to the fan housing.