Patio Umbrella Fan Assembly With Solar Power and Height Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional patio umbrellas provide inadequate air circulation, requiring separate and often cumbersome cooling devices that depend on external power sources, lack adjustable positioning, and lack integrated control systems, leading to inefficient and complex outdoor comfort solutions.
Innovation Solution
An integrated patio umbrella system with a height-adjustable fan module powered by solar energy, featuring dual tangential fans, adjustable airflow direction, and environmental sensors for automatic speed control, along with a unified control interface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If conventional patio umbrellas use passive fabric canopies to block sunlight, then shade is provided, but air circulation becomes stagnant and heat becomes trapped
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the traditional passive shading function with an active cooling function by integrating a fan system within the umbrella structure. The fan assembly includes multiple fans positioned to create airflow patterns that circulate air beneath the canopy, directly addressing the stagnation problem while maintaining the shading benefit.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static passive canopy to a dynamic system with adjustable fan speeds and oscillating fan assemblies. The fans can be independently controlled to create various airflow patterns, and the entire fan assembly can oscillate to distribute air circulation across different areas, adapting to changing environmental conditions and user needs.
2Productivity
If separate portable fans are used for outdoor cooling, then air circulation is improved, but dependency on external power sources and extension cords creates safety hazards
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the power generation capability directly into the umbrella structure by incorporating solar panels within the canopy. This merged system eliminates the need for external power sources, as the solar panels recharge an internal battery that powers the fan assembly, creating a self-contained safe cooling solution.
Solution Approach 2:
The umbrella system becomes self-sufficient by generating its own power through integrated solar panels. The battery storage system accumulates energy during the day from solar exposure and automatically powers the fan system when needed, without requiring user intervention for external plugging or cord management.
3Ease of operation
If battery-operated fans are used for extended outdoor activities, then portability is achieved, but frequent recharging or battery replacement limits practical use
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated solar panels continuously recharge the battery during daylight hours, ensuring the system remains operational throughout the day and into the evening. This continuous energy replenishment eliminates the operational interruptions associated with battery replacement, allowing extended use without interruption.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically recharges itself through the integrated solar panels, eliminating the need for users to manually recharge or replace batteries. The solar-powered battery system manages its own energy needs, providing continuous operation for extended outdoor activities without user intervention.
4Ease of manufacture
If fixed positioning mounting systems are used for umbrella accessories, then installation is simplified, but adjustment for varying user heights or seating arrangements is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system transitions from a fixed static position to a dynamic adjustable position. The fan assembly includes height adjustment mechanisms that allow it to be repositioned along the umbrella pole, and oscillation mechanisms that enable angular adjustment, adapting to different user heights and seating arrangements while maintaining secure attachment.
5Ease of operation
If manual switches and basic timers are used for controlling outdoor fans, then operation is simple, but remote operation capabilities and environmental responsiveness are absent
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates environmental sensors that continuously monitor temperature, humidity, and sunlight conditions. This feedback is processed by a microcontroller that automatically adjusts fan speed and oscillation to optimize cooling efficiency based on real-time environmental conditions, enabling responsive automation while maintaining ease of use through wireless controls.
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
Provides sustainable, adjustable, and efficient air circulation under the umbrella, optimizing comfort by eliminating the need for separate cooling devices and enhancing user control over airflow patterns.
Implementation Method 1
The fan module may be powered by a solar energy system integrated into the umbrella canopy or frame
Implementation Method 2
The fan assembly may comprise at least one tangential fan configured to generate airflow perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the pole
Data Source
AI summary
An umbrella apparatus may comprise a pole. A canopy may be supported by the pole. A fan assembly may be integrated within the pole. The fan assembly may comprise at least one tangential fan configured to generate airflow perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the pole. A height adjustment mechanism may be configured to enable repositioning of the fan assembly along the pole. A power supply system may comprise solar panels integrated into the canopy and a battery module connected to the solar panels. An airflow direction control system may comprise adjustable vanes at an outlet of the fan assembly. A wireless communication interface may be configured for remote control of the fan assembly. The height adjustment mechanism may comprise a clamp assembly with first and second semi-circular sections to encircle the pole. A quick-release lever may be configured to enable single-handed operation of the clamp assembly.