Rotation Sensing Fan for Real-Time Mode Switching

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional cooling fans are limited to a single operating function, such as adjusting rotational speed or direction, requiring users to choose between functions and face inconvenience and complexity in switching between them, especially in space-constrained devices like laptops and smartwatches.

Innovation Solution

A fan with rotation sensing, comprising a casing, motor, and control unit, where a rotation sensing unit detects the fan's angle and outputs signals to control the motor, allowing for real-time switching between different operation modes by adjusting the fan's rotation, thereby improving operational convenience.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a cooling fan is designed with multiple operating functions (rotational speed control and direction control), then the fan's versatility is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperating function versatilityVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The fan integrates multiple operating functions (rotational speed control and direction control) into a single device. The motor can operate in different modes: bidirectional rotation mode for direction control and rotational speed control mode for speed adjustment, allowing one fan to replace what would traditionally require two separate fans.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The fan employs dynamic switching between different operation modes based on user needs. The control unit can switch between bidirectional rotation mode and rotational speed control mode, enabling the fan to adapt its functionality in real-time without requiring physical reconfiguration or multiple separate devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Quantity of substance

If a cooling fan integrates multiple functions in one device, then the quantity of devices is reduced, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to complex switching procedures

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenumber of fansVSAvoidfunction switching ease
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The fan system performs self-configuration through automatic mode switching. When the fan is first powered on, it automatically enters bidirectional rotation mode. Users can switch between functions simply by issuing a direction control instruction or a rotational speed control instruction, and the control unit automatically transitions between modes without requiring manual configuration or complex switching procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The control unit monitors the type of instruction received and automatically switches operation modes based on this feedback. When a direction control instruction is received, the system switches to bidirectional rotation mode; when a rotational speed control instruction is received, it switches to rotational speed control mode. This feedback mechanism simplifies operation by making the switching process transparent and automatic.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Productivity

If a cooling fan allows real-time function switching, then the productivity is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional sensing and control components

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunction switching speedVSAvoidsensing and control components
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex mechanical switching mechanisms with electronic sensing and control. A rotation sensing unit detects the fan's rotation angle and provides signals to the control unit, which then automatically switches between operation modes. This electronic approach enables real-time function switching without requiring physical reconfiguration or complex mechanical components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The rotation sensing unit acts as an intermediary between the fan's physical state and the control unit. It detects rotation angle and provides feedback signals that enable the control unit to automatically determine the appropriate operation mode, facilitating real-time function switching without direct user intervention or complex control logic.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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

Enables users to switch between functions in real time, reducing switching time and enhancing usability by allowing the fan to adjust its operation mode based on its rotation, thus providing flexibility and convenience.

Implementation Method 1

a rotation sensing unit detecting a first rotation angle of the casing and outputting a first sensing signal

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRotation sensing:

Implementation Method 2

a motor disposed within the casing, the control unit having a controller electrically coupled to the rotation sensing unit and the motor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic conversion: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS11448226B2Fan having rotation sensing
Publication Date: 2022.09.20 ASIA VITAL COMPONENTS CO LTD
  • US11448226B2 patent drawing
  • US11448226B2 patent drawing
  • US11448226B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention is a fan having rotation sensing, comprising a casing, a motor disposed within the casing, a rotation sensing unit, and a control unit, the rotation sensing unit detecting a first rotation of the casing and outputting a first sensing signal, the control unit having a controller electrically coupled to the rotation sensing unit and the motor, the controller receiving the first sensing signal according thereto to control the motor to perform a first operation mode. Through this design, an operation mode of the fan can be adjusted according to the rotation of the fan in the present invention.