Fan unit
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ventilation devices for buildings have complex configurations and require a large number of components, making it difficult to achieve a simple structure for wall-mounted ventilation systems.
Innovation Solution
A fan unit with a cylindrical heat storage element and holding members, where the fan is installed between the heat storage element and a guard part, and coupled using binding bands, with an annular member to improve airflow characteristics and reduce component count.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If traditional ventilation devices are used, then ventilation function is achieved, but the configuration becomes complicated and a large number of components are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the heat storage element, fan, and holding members into a single integrated fan unit assembly. The heat storage element is positioned within the housing structure that also contains the fan, eliminating the need for separate component assemblies and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining ventilation functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing structure serves multiple functions: it acts as the structural enclosure, provides mounting for the fan, holds the heat storage element, and facilitates installation through the coupling mechanism. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed.
2Ease of operation
If multiple components are used to achieve ventilation function, then ventilation performance is improved, but installation difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fan unit is designed as a self-contained modular segment that can be installed as a single unit. The coupling mechanism with coupling protrusions and recesses enables simple connection to the ventilation system without requiring assembly of multiple separate components, greatly simplifying installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The heat storage element is nested within the housing structure that also contains the fan. This nested arrangement allows multiple functional elements to be combined in a compact package that installs as a single unit, reducing installation complexity.
3Productivity
If fan is installed between guard part and heat storage element, then airflow characteristics are improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fan position is predetermined during the design and manufacturing phase, with the housing structure pre-configured with mounting features and the heat storage element pre-positioned. This preliminary arrangement of components in the optimal airflow configuration simplifies the manufacturing process by eliminating complex assembly steps while ensuring improved airflow characteristics.
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 fan unit simplifies the ventilation system by reducing the number of components, facilitating easy installation, and enhancing air ventilation efficiency with improved air volume-static pressure characteristics.
Implementation Method 1
cylindrical heat storage element (13)
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A fan unit includes a cylindrical heat storage element, a cylindrical first holding member configured such that one side of the heat storage element is inserted into the first holding member, and a cylindrical second holding member configured such that another side of the heat storage element is inserted into the second holding member. The first holding member includes a guard part, having a space through which air flows, at one end thereof. The first holding member is configured such that the heat storage element is inserted into the first holding member from a side opposite to the side having the guard part, and that a fan is installable between the guard part and the heat storage element. The first holding member and the second holding member are coupled by a given coupling means in a state where the heat storage element is interposed between the first holding member and the second holding member.