Piezo Electric Fan Frequency Tuning for Airflow Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Piezo electric fans used in information handling systems for heat removal are energy inefficient and provide reduced airflow volume due to variations in dimensions and characteristics, especially when operated with standard AC power input signals.
Innovation Solution
A controller measures the natural frequency of the piezo electric fan by applying stress and adjusts the AC input signal to match this frequency, optimizing efficiency by providing the adjusted signal for improved airflow volume per unit of power.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If standard AC power input signals (60 Hz or 50 Hz) are used to operate the piezo electric fan, then the fan can operate with simple power supply, but the airflow volume is reduced and energy efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the operating frequency of the piezo electric fan adjustable rather than fixed. The controller dynamically changes the frequency of the AC input signal to match the natural frequency of the fan blade, enabling the system to adapt to varying operational conditions and maximize airflow volume while improving energy efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the frequency parameter of the AC input signal from standard fixed values (60 Hz or 50 Hz) to a variable frequency that matches the natural frequency of the piezo electric fan. This parameter adjustment optimizes both airflow volume and energy efficiency by resonating with the fan's natural oscillation frequency.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the piezo electric fan dimensions and characteristics vary, then the fan can be adapted to different IHS configurations, but the performance becomes inconsistent across different units
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by measuring the actual frequency response of each piezo electric fan and using this information to adjust the operating frequency. The controller receives feedback from the fan's performance characteristics and modifies the AC input signal frequency accordingly, ensuring consistent optimized performance across units with varying dimensions and characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the operating frequency based on the specific characteristics of each fan unit. By making the frequency adaptable rather than fixed, the system maintains reliable and consistent performance across different fan configurations and manufacturing variations.
3Productivity
If the AC input signal frequency is adjusted to match the natural frequency of the piezo electric fan, then energy efficiency and airflow volume are improved, but the system complexity increases due to frequency measurement and adjustment mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by enabling the piezo electric fan system to automatically determine its own natural frequency and adjust its operating frequency without external intervention. The controller autonomously measures the frequency response and tunes the AC input signal, eliminating the need for complex external testing equipment or manual calibration procedures.
4Productivity
If the natural frequency of the piezo electric fan is measured and matched, then maximum airflow volume is achieved, but the manufacturing and setup process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-tuning by automatically measuring the natural frequency and adjusting the operating frequency during initial setup or operation. This eliminates the need for manual tuning procedures or specialized manufacturing processes, making the system easier to manufacture and deploy while still achieving maximum airflow volume.
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 optimized piezo electric fan operates more efficiently, generating maximum airflow volume while reducing noise and extending operation time without recharging, particularly in portable devices.
Implementation Method 1
When an electrical signal such as an alternating current (AC) signal is applied between the terminals 140, the AC signal causes the piezo ceramic crystal assembly 120 to bend/elongate, thereby causing the blade 110 to swing
Implementation Method 2
a controller measures a natural frequency of the piezo electric fan by applying a stress and measuring a response to the stress
Data Source
AI summary
For tuning a piezo electric fan, a controller measures a natural frequency of the piezo electric fan by applying a stress and measuring a response to the stress. A frequency of an alternating current (AC) input signal is adjusted by the controller to substantially match the natural frequency. The adjusted AC input having the natural frequency is provided to the piezo electric fan for improved efficiency.