Fan Module Vibration Dampening Structure for Server Noise Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional server designs with fan modules often generate noise and vibrations due to the lack of effective vibration dampening structures, which can disrupt the environment around electronic devices.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a vibration dampening structure comprising an elastic material with a pressing member, an abutting member, and a mounting member, integrated into the fan module's holder to absorb vibrations and reduce noise, by attaching to the fan module and casing, thereby isolating the fan's vibrations from the casing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If fan modules are installed for cooling electronic components, then cooling effectiveness is improved, but vibration and noise are generated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a vibration dampening structure as an intermediary element between the fan module and the server casing. This structure includes a holder with vibration absorptive material that mediates the interaction between the rotating fan and the fixed casing, converting harmful vibrations into absorbed energy while allowing the fan to continue its cooling function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the harmful vibrations generated by the fan into a beneficial damping effect. The vibration absorptive material in the holder captures the kinetic energy of vibrations and converts it into heat through internal friction, transforming the harmful mechanical vibration into a harmless thermal effect that does not interfere with the cooling function.
2Ease of manufacture
If fan modules are secured directly on the casing, then installation simplicity is improved, but vibration is transmitted to the casing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the mounting structure into three distinct components: the fan module itself, the vibration dampening holder, and the server casing. The holder acts as an independent intermediate component that simplifies installation by providing a pre-assembled vibration-isolated mounting interface, while simultaneously breaking the direct vibration transmission path between the fan and casing.
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 proposed solution effectively reduces vibrations and noise generated by fan modules, enhancing the operational quietness and stability of electronic devices like servers and personal computers.
Implementation Method 1
Each of the vibration dampening structures 55 is made of elastic material
Implementation Method 2
the abutting members 553 are respectively sandwiched between the fan bodies 512 and the fan holder sidewalls 533, with the slantwise surfaces 5532 opposing the peripheries of the fan bodies 512
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device includes a casing, a fan bracket and a fan module. The casing includes a top plate and a bottom plate spaced from and facing the top plate. The fan bracket is mounted on the bottom plate. The fan module includes a fan, a fan holder enclosing the fan therein, and two vibration dampening structures mounted on opposite top and bottom sides of the fan holder. The fan holder is engaged in the fan bracket. The vibration structures protrude beyond the top and bottom sides of the fan holder and abut the top plate and the bottom plate of the casing, respectively.