UPS Fan Unit Blocking Structure for Live Replacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing uninterruptible power supply devices face challenges in fan replacement operations, where components like screws can fall into the housing during detachment, and operations near active wiring members decrease operability due to the need for caution against contact.
Innovation Solution
A fan unit design with a frame member and blocking members that slide vertically to block the opening, allowing safe detachment of the fan without components falling and preventing exposure to active wiring, enabling operations even with applied voltage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of repair
If the panel is detached for fan replacement, then the fan can be replaced, but components such as screws may fall down into the housing
Solution Approach 1:
A support member is introduced as an intermediary component between the fan and the housing. This support member includes a blocking member that prevents screws and other components from falling into the housing when the panel is detached. The support member acts as a mediator that maintains structural support and prevents harmful effects during the fan replacement process.
2Productivity
If the panel is detached while the inverter is operated, then the fan can be replaced without stopping power supply, but the operator must work near active wiring members which decreases operability
Solution Approach 1:
The housing is divided into separate functional regions: an upper region where the fan and panel are located, and a lower region containing the active wiring members. By detaching only the upper panel while leaving the lower section intact and enclosed, the operator can work on the fan without exposure to live wiring, thus maintaining continuous power supply while improving operational safety and ease.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the panel is fixed securely to the housing, then structural stability is maintained, but the fan becomes difficult to replace
Solution Approach 1:
The panel fixation system is designed to be dynamic rather than static. The panel can be easily detached and reattached, allowing the fixation state to change from secured (during normal operation) to detached (during maintenance). This dynamic design enables the system to adapt between operational stability and maintenance accessibility requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
A fan unit is disposed on an upper surface of a housing, and includes a fan, a frame member, and a support member. The frame member is disposed to surround an outer circumference of an opening provided in an upper surface of the housing. The support member supports the fan above the opening while being fixed to the frame member. A gap is provided between a lower end of a first surface of the frame member and the upper surface of the housing. A first blocking member is connected to the first surface of the frame member to be slidable in a vertical direction. In a state in which the gap is exposed, at least one second blocking member is inserted through the gap into the frame member to block the opening in the upper surface of the housing.