Wall-Mounted Cross-Flow Fan for Sauna Thermal Stratification Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sauna steam room air circulation systems are bulky, unsafe, require free floor space, and cause thermal stratification leading to uneven air temperatures and discomfort.
Innovation Solution
A compact system using cross-flow fans with horizontal installation and adjustable air vents, controlled by a fan control unit with sensors, ensuring uniform airflow and safety by preventing floor heating and thermal stratification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If a compact fan system is used, then the device size is reduced and floor space is saved, but the air circulation effectiveness may be insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The fan is mounted on the wall in a horizontal orientation rather than being placed on the floor, utilizing the vertical wall surface for installation. This dimensional change allows the system to maintain compact footprint while achieving effective air circulation through strategic positioning and airflow direction control
2Device complexity
If the air outflow channel is located near the floor, then the system structure is simplified, but the floor becomes hot and unsafe
Solution Approach 1:
The air outflow is directed asymmetrically towards the ceiling rather than horizontally along the floor. The fan's horizontal mounting combined with upward airflow direction creates an asymmetric airflow pattern that prevents hot air from accumulating on the floor, eliminating the safety hazard while maintaining structural simplicity
3Productivity
If a stationary ventilation system built into the wall is used, then the air circulation is effective, but the walls must be damaged for installation
Solution Approach 1:
The ventilation system is segmented into a self-contained fan unit that can be independently mounted on the wall without requiring integration into the wall structure. This segmentation allows the system to achieve effective air circulation while being installed as a separate component that does not damage the walls
4Device complexity
If the fan is rigidly connected to the heater body, then the structure is simplified, but the fan position cannot be optimized for air circulation
Solution Approach 1:
The fan is extracted from the heater body as a separate, independent component. This separation allows the fan to be positioned and oriented optimally for air circulation purposes, while the heater maintains its own function. The structural simplicity is preserved through independent mounting rather than rigid connection
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
The system provides safe, uniform air circulation and temperature regulation, enhancing user comfort by eliminating thermal stratification and accommodating various sauna types and sizes.
Implementation Method 1
a cross-flow fan, which is located mainly horizontally and has at least one air vent both at the top and bottom for generating air circulation
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for controlling air circulation in a sauna steam room, having at least one fan and a fan control unit, the at least one fan being a substantially horizontal cross-flow fan having at least one air vent both at the top and bottom for air intake and exhaust. The fan is mounted on the wall behind and below the highest step of a sauna bench.