Stacked Fan Assembly Snap-Fit Connection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The existing fan assemblies require complex and time-consuming assembly processes using screws, which complicates the connection of multiple fans for enhanced airflow in high-speed electronic devices.
Innovation Solution
A fan assembly design featuring two stacked fans with interlocking mechanisms, including annular frames, supporting bases, and buckling blocks, allowing for secure connection without the need for screws, facilitating easier assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple fans are connected together to generate stronger airflow, then the heat dissipation capability is improved, but the assembly process becomes complicated and time-consuming due to the need for screws
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the connection function of screws with the structural support function into a single integrated snap-fit mechanism. The extending portions with buckling blocks on one fan directly engage with recesses on the adjacent fan, merging fastening and positioning into one operation, thereby eliminating the need for separate screw fasteners and reducing assembly complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The snap-fit connection mechanism is designed to be self-assembling through elastic buckling blocks that automatically engage with recesses when fans are brought together. The elastic deformation of the buckling blocks provides self-aligning and self-locking capabilities, eliminating the need for manual screw manipulation and making the assembly process self-service oriented.
2Productivity
If multiple fans are connected together to generate stronger airflow, then the heat dissipation capability is improved, but the assembly time increases due to the need for screw manipulation
Solution Approach 1:
The snap-fit connection mechanism is designed to be self-assembling through elastic buckling blocks that automatically engage with recesses when fans are brought together. The elastic deformation of the buckling blocks provides self-aligning and self-locking capabilities, eliminating the need for manual screw manipulation and making the assembly process self-service oriented, thereby significantly reducing assembly time.
Solution Approach 2:
The buckling blocks are pre-designed with elastic properties and geometric configurations that enable automatic engagement. The recesses and buckling block shapes are preliminarily configured to ensure proper alignment and connection, so that when fans are brought together, the connection occurs automatically without requiring time-consuming manual fastening operations.
3Strength
If screws are used to connect fans together, then the connection strength is sufficient, but the assembling process becomes complicated requiring screwdrivers
Solution Approach 1:
The snap-fit connection mechanism is designed to be self-assembling through elastic buckling blocks that automatically engage with recesses when fans are brought together. The elastic deformation of the buckling blocks provides self-aligning and self-locking capabilities, eliminating the need for manual screw manipulation and making the assembly process self-service oriented, thereby significantly reducing assembly time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the traditional screw-thread mechanical fastening system with an elastic snap-fit mechanism. The buckling blocks utilize elastic deformation and geometric interlocking instead of threaded engagement, substituting a complex mechanical fastening system with a simpler elastic-mechanical system that maintains connection strength while improving ease of operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A fan assembly includes a first fan and a second fan stacked together. Each of the first fan and the second fan includes a frame and a supporting base received in the frame. Several extending portions extend from a bottom of the frame of the first fan. A buckling block is formed on an inner side face of each of the extending portions. Several receiving portions are formed at a top of the frame of the second fan corresponding to the extending portions, respectively. A positioning groove is defined in each of the receiving portions. The buckling blocks are engagingly received in the positioning grooves.