Fan fastener retention structure
US6524071B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 10, 2001 |
| Grant date | Feb 25, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 10, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF04D29/34
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A structure is provided for retaining one or more fasteners in a corresponding one or more apertures of a first fan element so that, as the first fan element is attached to a second fan element by engaging the fasteners with the second fan element, the fasteners cannot inadvertently fall out of the apertures. The first fan element can thus be attached to the second fan element without the installer having to insert fasteners through apertures in the first fan element while maintaining registration between the first fan element and the second fan element. According to one aspect, the first fan element is a fan blade arm and the second fan element is a fan center hub. According to another aspect, one or more of the fasteners are machine screws.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.