Method and apparatus for clearing obstructions from computer system cooling fans
US6532151B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 31, 2001 |
| Grant date | Mar 11, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 31, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG06F11/20
- WIPO fieldComputer technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
An obstruction is removed from a computer system cooling fan by manipulating fan rotation. When a fan obstruction is detected, the fan is stopped. If the obstruction is caused by an object that was drawn toward the fan intake, such as a sheet of paper, this operation may clear the obstruction. The fan may also be reversed to attempt to blow the obstruction clear of the fan. Thereafter, the fan is returned to normal operation and is monitored to determine whether the obstruction was removed. If the fan is still obstructed, these steps can be repeated. If the attempts to clear the obstruction are unsuccessful, then the computer system operator or management software can be signaled.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.