Rotatable Fan Mechanism for Server Airflow Direction

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional server cooling systems require frequent reinstallation and reconfiguration of fan modules to change airflow directions, which is inconvenient and time-consuming, especially when dealing with multiple servers.

Innovation Solution

An electronic apparatus with an airflow-reversing function is introduced, where the fan device can be rotated by operating a handle, allowing for easy change in airflow direction without the need for module removal or reinstallation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If fan modules are modularized for airflow direction change, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity and operation time increase due to removal and reinstallation requirements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveairflow direction change capabilityVSAvoidoperation convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The fan module is designed with a rotatable structure that allows the airflow direction to be changed dynamically by rotating the fan assembly to different positions (first position for first direction, second position for second direction). This eliminates the need for removal and reinstallation, making the airflow direction change convenient and quick during operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If fan modules are modularized for airflow direction change, then adaptability is improved, but loss of time increases due to removal and reinstallation requirements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveairflow direction change capabilityVSAvoidtime for airflow direction change
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The fan module incorporates a rotatable mechanism that enables quick adjustment of airflow direction by simply rotating the fan assembly to the desired position. This dynamic adjustment mechanism eliminates the time-consuming removal and reinstallation process, allowing airflow direction changes to be performed rapidly during server operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If fan modules are modularized for airflow direction change, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases due to multiple installation configurations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveairflow direction change capabilityVSAvoidinstallation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The fan module is designed with an integrated rotatable structure that allows the same module to achieve multiple airflow directions through rotation. This reduces device complexity by eliminating the need for multiple specialized fan modules or complex installation mechanisms, while still providing the adaptability to change airflow direction as needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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

This solution enhances operational convenience by allowing for quick and easy adjustment of airflow directions within the server cooling system, reducing downtime and improving efficiency when managing multiple servers.

Implementation Method 1

a fan device B1 and an airflow-reversing device C1 disposed in the rear chamber S2; The fan device B1 may generate an air flow in the first direction D1, so as to remove heat from the electronic components in the front chamber S1

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectForced Convection: Forced Convection

Data Source

PatentUS12284790B2Electronic apparatus with airflow-reversing function
Publication Date: 2025.04.22 NANNING FUGUI PRECISION IND CO LTD
  • US12284790B2 patent drawing
  • US12284790B2 patent drawing
  • US12284790B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An electronic apparatus with convenient airflow-reversing function includes a chassis, a rotation mechanism, a fan device, a connection rod, and a handle. The chassis includes a bottom plate. The rotation mechanism is pivoted on the bottom plate. The fan device is disposed on the rotation mechanism. The connection rod is pivoted on the rotation mechanism. The handle is pivoted on the chassis, and is rotatably connected to the connection rod. When the handle is rotated, the connection rod drives the rotation mechanism and the fan device to rotate to change the airflow direction.