Fan Temperature Control Using Discrete Threshold Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fan temperature control methods are complex, costly, and inefficient, particularly in achieving precise speed control and energy conservation, as they require intricate circuit designs and high-cost single-chip computer implementations, and cannot effectively manage fan stoppage at suitable temperatures.
Innovation Solution
A fan temperature control method and device that disconnects all fans at low temperatures, operates them at less than full speed when temperatures are medium, and at full speed when high, using a simple circuit with three temperature detect switches and a diode to manage fan voltage and speed, allowing for step control without complex circuit designs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If PWM intelligent temperature control fan is used, then fan speed control precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The temperature control range is segmented into multiple discrete levels (first temperature level, second temperature level, third temperature level), with each level corresponding to a specific fan speed state (first speed, second speed, third speed). This segmentation approach simplifies the control system by replacing continuous PWM control with discrete threshold-based control, reducing device complexity while maintaining adequate control precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces expensive single-chip computer-based PWM control with a simple circuit implementation using basic electronic components (comparators, resistors, capacitors, and transistors). This cheap circuit approach achieves sufficient fan speed control without the high cost and complexity of microcontroller-based solutions.
2Ease of operation
If fan circuit serial thermistor is used, then fan speed adjustment is simplified, but energy conservation capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts fan speed based on real-time temperature monitoring through three temperature detection circuits that continuously monitor temperature and switch between different fan speed states. This dynamic response ensures fans operate at appropriate speeds only when needed, improving energy conservation while maintaining simple operation through automatic temperature-based control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the control parameter from continuous voltage adjustment via thermistor to discrete temperature-threshold-based speed switching. By using voltage comparison circuits that trigger at specific temperature thresholds, the system achieves both operational simplicity and energy efficiency by eliminating unnecessary fan operation at low temperatures.
3Temperature
If voltage comparator output to adjust fan speed is used, then temperature-based control is achieved, but circuit complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple voltage comparison functions into a unified control circuit architecture where three temperature detection circuits share common components and control logic. The comparator circuits are integrated to simultaneously monitor multiple temperature thresholds and control fan speeds through a coordinated system, reducing overall circuit complexity compared to separate independent control circuits.
Solution Approach 2:
The control circuit is designed with universal components that serve multiple functions: the same comparator and transistor structures are used across all three temperature control levels, and the circuit can operate in multiple modes (single fan control, dual fan control) depending on temperature conditions. This multi-functionality reduces circuit complexity by avoiding redundant specialized components.
4Extent of automation
If single-chip computer based PWM control is used, then intelligent fan control is achieved, but cost and implementation complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/software-based single-chip computer PWM control system with an electronic analog circuit system using comparators and transistors. This substitution eliminates the need for programming and software-hardware coordination, achieving intelligent temperature-based fan control through pure electronic circuits that are simpler to manufacture and implement.
Solution Approach 2:
The control circuit is designed to automatically respond to temperature changes without requiring external control signals or software intervention. The temperature detection circuits continuously monitor temperature and automatically trigger appropriate fan speed changes through the comparator logic, achieving self-service intelligent control that eliminates complex implementation requirements.
Data Source
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AI summary
A fan type temperature control method and device are provided in the invention. The device includes a fan unit, power supplies (v1,v2) and a fan control unit. The fan unit includes a plurality of fans, and the fan unit cools an apparatus to be cooled. The power supplies (v1,v2) supply power for the fans in the fan unit. The fan control unit controls the fans as follows: when the temperature t of the apparatus to be cooled is lower than the critical temperature t1 of a first temperature detect switch (k01), all the fans stop; when t is higher than the temperature t1 and lower than the critical temperature t2 of a second temperature detect switch (k02), all the fans rotate at half speed; when t is higher than t2 while lower than the critical temperature t3 of a third temperature detect switch (k03), a first fan part (M1) rotates at full speed and a second fan part (M2) stops; when t is higher than t3, all the fans rotate at full speed.