Fan Speed and Current Monitoring via Pulsation Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current monitoring systems for cooling fans in computer systems are limited in measuring rotating speeds beyond 100-1000 rpm and cannot measure working currents, making them inadequate for broader applications and reliable operation.

Innovation Solution

A fan operating status monitoring system that includes a detecting module to convert pulsation currents into voltage signals, a differential magnifying module for signal processing, and processing modules to calculate rotation speeds and working currents, enabling expanded speed measurement ranges and current monitoring.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If infrared photo reflex type rotation speed measuring technique is used, then rotation speed can be measured, but the measuring range is limited to 100-1000 rpm and working currents cannot be measured

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverotation speed measurement capabilityVSAvoidmeasuring range and current measurement capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The monitoring system is designed to perform multiple functions: measuring rotation speed across an extended range (0-10000 rpm), measuring working currents, and monitoring operating status. The detecting module detects both pulsation currents for speed calculation and working currents, while the control module processes both types of data, making the system universal and adaptable to various measurement needs beyond the limitations of prior art techniques.

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

2Speed

If non-touch flash frequency rotation speed measurement is used, then high-speed rotating objects can be monitored, but the measuring range is still limited and cannot measure working currents

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehigh-speed rotation monitoring capabilityVSAvoidmeasuring range extension and current measurement
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system changes the measurement parameters by detecting pulsation currents generated by the fan's rotation rather than relying on optical flash frequency methods. This approach allows measurement of rotation speeds from 0-10000 rpm, significantly extending the measurable range. Additionally, the system measures working currents by detecting current pulsations, adding a new measurement capability that complements the speed measurement function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Reliability

If prior art monitoring techniques are used, then basic rotation speed can be measured, but the system cannot effectively monitor and control operating status

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebasic monitoring capabilityVSAvoidoperating status control capability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The control module receives detection results from the detecting module and uses this feedback to determine the operating status of the cooling fan. The system calculates rotation speeds from detected pulsation currents and measures working currents, then uses this combined information to assess whether the fan is operating normally. This feedback mechanism enables effective monitoring and control of the fan's operating status, allowing for timely detection of abnormal conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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 system accurately measures and controls fan rotation speeds and working currents, enhancing operating reliability and overcoming the limitations of prior art techniques.

Implementation Method 1

a detecting module used for detecting the pulsation currents generated by the rotation of a fun, and further converting the detected pulsation currents to voltage signals

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

a differential magnifying module used for receiving said pulsation voltage signals, and further processing the received pulsation voltage signals by means of differential magnification and wave-filtering so as to generate analog magnified signals

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSignal amplification:

Data Source

PatentUS7304470B2Fan operating status monitoring system
Publication Date: 2007.12.04 INVENTEC CORP
  • US7304470B2 patent drawing
  • US7304470B2 patent drawing
  • US7304470B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A fan operating status monitoring system includes a detecting module to detect pulsation currents generated by the rotation of a fan, and further convert the detected pulsation currents to voltage signals, thereby allowing a differential magnifying module, a first processing module, and a control module to process the pulse wave signals in orders to measure the rotation speeds of the fan. Also, the second processing module and the control module can process the pulsation electric current signals so as to calculate the working currents of the fan, thereby expanding the measuring range of the rotation speeds of the fan, and at the same time, effectively controlling the operating status of the fan.