Fan with collapsible blades, redundant fan system, and related method
US6860713B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 27, 2002 |
| Grant date | Mar 1, 2005 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 24, 2023 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF05D2270/11
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A redundant fan system for a computer includes two fans installed in series with at least one of the fans having collapsible blades. A fan system of this type reduces the fan inefficiency caused when one fan in a series mounted pair is not operating, either because it is free-wheeling or in a locked rotor condition. When non-operational, the fan blades of the collapsible fan fold inward due to airflow generated by the operational fan over the collapsible blades. The ability of the blades to fold reduces the inefficiency of the operational fan, having less of an effect on fan life. Also, because the flow of air is less restricted, proper airflow can be maintained, thus preventing overheating of the computer.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.