Radon Fan Ring Heat Sink Assembly for Sealed Electronics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing radon removal fans face issues with moisture accumulation and heat management, leading to rapid corrosion of electronics and reduced operational efficiency due to the use of alternating current motors and susceptibility to environmental conditions.
Innovation Solution
A radon removal apparatus utilizing a direct current motor with a hermetically sealed electronics cavity and a ring-shaped heat sink assembly to prevent moisture exposure and manage heat, coupled with a variable speed fan controlled by a motor controller, housed in a durable exterior structure to enhance operational longevity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If alternating current motors and electronics are used in existing radon fans, then the fans can be coupled to the existing electrical system of the building, but the electronics are susceptible to damage from moisture accumulation leading to rapid corrosion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the electronics from the moist environment by providing a separate sealed housing for the electronics that is isolated from the radon fan's operational environment. This allows the electronics to be protected from moisture while the fan continues to operate in the radon removal application
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a sealed housing as an intermediary barrier between the moisture-prone environment and the electronics. This sealed housing acts as a mediator that protects the electronics from moisture exposure while allowing the system to function as intended
2Productivity
If existing radon fan configurations are used, then the fans can be installed in lower levels of buildings to vent radon gas, but heat accumulation occurs leading to reduced operational efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the harmful heat accumulation into a beneficial cooling effect by using heat sink fins that increase surface area for heat dissipation. The heat that would otherwise accumulate and reduce efficiency is now actively managed and dissipated to the surrounding environment
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a dimensional element to heat management by incorporating heat sink fins that extend in multiple directions, increasing the surface area available for heat dissipation. This transforms the one-dimensional heat problem into a multi-dimensional heat exchange system
3Reliability
If direct current motors are used in the radon removal apparatus, then moisture exposure to electronics is eliminated through hermetic sealing, but heat management becomes a critical challenge
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the system into distinct functional zones: a sealed electronics housing that protects against moisture, and an exposed motor area with heat sink fins for heat dissipation. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific operational requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different protective qualities to different parts of the system: the electronics housing receives hermetic sealing for moisture protection, while the motor area receives heat sink fins for thermal management. Each region is treated with the specific quality it needs for optimal performance
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
Effectively evacuates radon gas while preventing moisture and heat-related damage to electronics, ensuring prolonged operation and improved performance by maintaining a dry environment for the motor and electronics.
Implementation Method 1
a heat sink assembly proximate the lower end of the upper portion of the motor assembly
Implementation Method 2
heat sink assembly is ring shaped having a central void configured to receive a direct current motor therein
Data Source
AI summary
A radon gas removal apparatus configured to provide evacuation of radon gas from a desired area or building. The radon gas removal apparatus includes an exterior housing forming an interior volume. Disposed within said interior volume is a motor assembly and a fan operably coupled. The motor assembly includes an upper portion having a metal housing wherein the upper portion has a cavity proximate the top thereof configured to store a circuit board. The cavity is hermetically sealed utilizing a lid member. A heat sink assembly is proximate the lower edge of the upper portion of the motor assembly. The heat sink assembly includes a central void configured to receive a motor therein. The heat sink includes a first wall and a second wall having a void intermediate configured to a heat sink material. A motor is present within the central void of the heat sink assembly.