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US7866958B2. Solar powered fan. Google Patents

Publication number US7866958B2 US7866958B2 US11/616,004 US61600406A US7866958B2 US 7866958 B2 US7866958 B2 US 7866958B2 US 61600406 A US61600406 A US 61600406A US 7866958 B2 US7866958 B2 US 7866958B2 Authority US United States Prior art keywords fan housing solar panel solar battery pack Prior art date 2006-12-25 Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.) Expired. Fee Related. expires 2027-04-06 Application number US11/616,004 Other versions US20080152482A1 ( en Inventor Amish Patel Original Assignee Amish Patel Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.) 2006-12-25 Filing date 2006-12-25 Publication date 2011-01-11 2006-12-25 Application filed by Amish Patel filed Critical Amish Patel 2006-12-25 Priority to US11/616,004 priority Critical patent/US7866958B2/en 2008-06-26 Publication of US20080152482A1 publication Critical patent/US20080152482A1/en 2011-01-11 Application granted granted Critical 2011-01-11 Publication of US7866958B2 publication Critical patent/US7866958B2/en Status Expired. Fee Related legal-status Critical Current 2027-04-06 Adjusted expiration legal-status Critical

Images

Classifications

• F — MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
• F24 — HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
• F24F — AIR-CONDITIONING; AIR-HUMIDIFICATION; VENTILATION; USE OF AIR CURRENTS FOR SCREENING
• F24F7/00 — Ventilation
• F24F7/007 — Ventilation with forced flow

• F — MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
• F04 — POSITIVE. DISPLACEMENT MACHINES FOR LIQUIDS; PUMPS FOR LIQUIDS OR ELASTIC FLUIDS
• F04B — POSITIVE-DISPLACEMENT MACHINES FOR LIQUIDS; PUMPS
• F04B17/00 — Pumps characterised by combination with, or adaptation to, specific driving engines or motors
• F04B17/006 — Solar operated

• F — MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
• F04 — POSITIVE. DISPLACEMENT MACHINES FOR LIQUIDS; PUMPS FOR LIQUIDS OR ELASTIC FLUIDS
• F04D — NON-POSITIVE-DISPLACEMENT PUMPS
• F04D25/00 — Pumping installations or systems
• F04D25/02 — Units comprising pumps and their driving means
• F04D25/06 — Units comprising pumps and their driving means the pump being electrically driven

• F — MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
• F04 — POSITIVE. DISPLACEMENT MACHINES FOR LIQUIDS; PUMPS FOR LIQUIDS OR ELASTIC FLUIDS
• F04D — NON-POSITIVE-DISPLACEMENT PUMPS
• F04D25/00 — Pumping installations or systems
• F04D25/02 — Units comprising pumps and their driving means
• F04D25/08 — Units comprising pumps and their driving means the working fluid being air, e.g. for ventilation
• F04D25/084 — Units comprising pumps and their driving means the working fluid being air, e.g. for ventilation hand fans

• F — MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
• F24 — HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
• F24F — AIR-CONDITIONING; AIR-HUMIDIFICATION; VENTILATION; USE OF AIR CURRENTS FOR SCREENING
• F24F5/00 — Air-conditioning systems or apparatus not covered by F24F1/00 or F24F3/00, e.g. using solar heat or combined with household units such as an oven or water heater
• F24F5/0046 — Air-conditioning systems or apparatus not covered by F24F1/00 or F24F3/00, e.g. using solar heat or combined with household units such as an oven or water heater using natural energy, e.g. solar energy, energy from the ground
• F24F2005/0064 — Air-conditioning systems or apparatus not covered by F24F1/00 or F24F3/00, e.g. using solar heat or combined with household units such as an oven or water heater using natural energy, e.g. solar energy, energy from the ground using solar energy
• F24F2005/0067 — Air-conditioning systems or apparatus not covered by F24F1/00 or F24F3/00, e.g. using solar heat or combined with household units such as an oven or water heater using natural energy, e.g. solar energy, energy from the ground using solar energy with photovoltaic panels

• Y — GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
• Y02 — TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
• Y02A — TECHNOLOGIES FOR ADAPTATION TO CLIMATE CHANGE
• Y02A30/00 — Adapting or protecting infrastructure or their operation
• Y02A30/27 — Relating to heating, ventilation or air conditioning [HVAC] technologies
• Y02A30/272 — Solar heating or cooling

• Y — GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
• Y02 — TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
• Y02B — CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES RELATED TO BUILDINGS, e.g. HOUSING, HOUSE APPLIANCES OR RELATED END-USER APPLICATIONS
• Y02B10/00 — Integration of renewable energy sources in buildings
• Y02B10/20 — Solar thermal

Abstract

A solar powered personal fan with a much broader spectrum of both portable and fixed operating applications whereas prior art is application specific. This device also provides a plurality of fixed and portable power supplies. A solar panel, rechargeable battery pack or home charger can all be used as a power supply to operate the present invention.

Description

The present invention relates generally to fans and, more specifically, to a solar powered fan which provides a compact cylindrical housing that can be comfortably hand held. The small compact design can be easily stored and transported on one’s person, in a brief case or beach bag.

The present invention also provides a small portable solar panel which can be used to directly power the fan motor or recharge the optional battery pack. A plurality of various length cables provides a conduit for power from the solar panel to the fan.

Additionally, the present invention provides a plurality of adjustable pitch mounting stands to constrain the fan to a variety of surfaces for stationary use.

There are other solar powered fan devices designed for personal cooling or ventilation. Typical of these is U.S. Pat. No. 4,899,645 issued to Wolfe, et al. on Feb. 13, 1990.

Another patent was issued to Hwang on Nov. 27, 1990 as U.S. Pat. No. 4,974,126. Yet another U.S. Pat. No. 4,986,169 was issued to Chen on Jan. 22, 1991 and still yet another was issued on Sep. 3, 1991 to Wu, et al. as U.S. Pat. No. 5,044,258.

Another patent was issued to Juang on Sep. 22, 1992 as U.S. Pat. No. 5,148,736. Yet another U.S. Pat. No. 5,250,265 was issued to Kawaguchi, et al. on Oct. 5, 1993. Another was issued to Ferng on Dec. 31, 1996 as U.S. Pat. No. 5,588,909 and still yet another was issued on Mar. 7, 2000 to Asenguah, et al. as U.S. Pat. No. 6,032,291.

Another patent was issued to Sibbe on May 30, 1984 as German Patent No. DE3337241. Yet another U.K. Patent No. GB2241378 was issued to Forsyth on Aug. 28, 1991. Another was issued to Takahashi on Oct. 3, 1995 as Japan Patent No. JP7253096 and still yet another was issued on Jul. 18, 2003 to Sha as Japan Patent No. JP2003201990.

A solar ventilator (1) is fittable to an edge (2) having first and second sides corresponding to first and second regions. The edge can be of a barrier, e.g. of a movable window of a motor vehicle or of a building. The ventilator has a suspension (5) for suspending the ventilator from the edge so that the ventilator will be adjacent the first region. The ventilator has a housing (4) having inlet and outlet portions (11, 12) for enabling air to be transferred therebetween from a region to the other region. A fan (13) is comprised by the housing so as to enable the transfer of air. A solar generator (15) drives the fan. The ventilator may be arranged for direct or indirect reception of solar radiation.

A lamp with a power source to supply a fan, comprising a light installation, a solar cell connected inside of the lampshade, a rechargeable battery to be charged with electrical power by means of the solar cell, and a small fan or other small electrical apparatus attached to the rechargeable battery. As the light installation uses alternating-current, radiation energy sent from the light bulb, is converted by the solar cell’s photoelectric effect to provide current again to charge a rechargeable battery, thereby supplying the small fan or any other electrical apparatus (such as shaver, transistor radio) with the required power source to operate, and thereby save energy.

A vehicular internal fan ventilator, which includes a housing having set therein an internal ventilating chamber with a cross-flow air fan, a motor, a storage batteries and selector and a switch and a linkage to an oblique, external portion of housing which is fixedly mounted a solar cell board to collect solar energy for the motor and/or to charge the storage batteries. The housing comprises a top retainer rib and a bottom window glass channel for convenient installation in with a separate, flexible and cuttable packing strip in a car between door frame upper trim and window glass of a vehicle.

A motor-driven, window mounted portable fan with cigarette-lighter plug. The fan, or impeller, is mounted in an impeller housing which in turn is mounted centrally on one face of a window prop. The window prop is rectangular in shape and has lengthwise slideways on both of its sides. Extension pieces fit in the slideways so that the slideways can be lengthened to fit different sized Windows. Opposite the impeller housing is a rain cover and a vent lid, which covers a vent. The vent lid is opened and closed by a motor, via an activation arm.

An automatic solar-powered car ventilator to be installed between the upper horizontal bar of the window sash and the upper horizontal edge of a movable window glass in a window in a car door having a main body and two auxiliary bodies extending from both sides of the main body to be cut to suit the width of the movable window glass. A ventilating means including a fan, a motor to drive the fan to suck in the open air and exhaust out the air in the car. A base to mount the fan and the motor and a housing to shield the fan, the motor and the base. A solar-energy board being combined with the main body or the ventilating means by means of two clamps on the board movably catching hold of either two holders on the main body or on the ventilating means to generate electricity to power the motor by absorbing the sunlight.

A deodorizer which comprises a deodorant member, an electric motor, a fan fixed to the electric motor, a receptacle having these members accommodated therein, and a solar cell provided in the receptacle and adapted to supply a driving electric power to the electric motor, whereby, owing to the blowing action of the fan, air is caused to enter the interior the receptacle from an air suction port and pass there through and is blown out from an air blowout port to outside the receptacle, and the air is caused to flow around a portion of the receptacle where the solar cell is installed.

A solar power-operated cooling system installed in a motor vehicle for circulation of air, including a solar power device having a plurality of photovoltaic cells mounted for converting the radiant energy of sunlight into electric power and a power output terminal for output of electric power from the photovoltaic cells, an electric connector having an input terminal connected to the power output terminal of the solar power device and at least two output terminals, at least one blowing fan and at least one exhaust fan respectively installed in the interior door panel assemblies of the motor vehicle and electrically connected to the output terminals of the electric connector and driven to draw fresh air into or to draw hot air out of the motor vehicle.

The present invention discloses an apparatus (10) for providing solar powered air circulation to the face and upper body of the user. A means for mounting photoelectric cells (16) to the apex of the top of a hat (12) is provided which cells 16 are connected by wire (24) to a directionally selective fan (14) which is located under the brim (18) of the hat (12). The fan (14) receives air transmitted through a conduit (20) under the brim of the hat (12) which has its air inlets (22) on the lateral edges of the brim (18) of the hat (12). The fan (14) is also provided with a horizontally movable axle (26) means whereby it is partially rotatable in the horizontal axis to selectively distribute the air. An alternative embodiment (30) is provided wherein the components of the present invention are assembled onto a modular semi-flexible frame (30) which can be attached to an existing favorite cap (12) by means of hook and loop material (36) thereby providing a portable cooling unit which can be easily attached to various hats.

The fan for producing wind or for cooling excessive temperatures is intended for direct and personal use by persons who are away from their usual premises and do not have any power mains supply available (for example train compartment etc.), but wish to protect themselves from or to alleviate excessive temperatures or their unpleasant attendant manifestations (including perspiration). The fans currently available commercially are fundamentally unsuitable for this. On the one hand they are too large and bulky—on the other hand they do not have an independent power supply, that is they are tied to buildings. The fan submitted in the present application, however, fulfils these substantive requirements. It is of light, handy design and is equipped with built-in and independent power supply facilities. These independent electrical energy sources in particular comprise an accumulator, with a charging device and a mains connection, a storage battery, also with a charging device and a mains connection, a dry battery and last but not least solar power on the basis of the photo-voltaic effect.

A portable air-conditioner using an electronic heat pump 3, e.g. a Peltier effect device, designed to run on solar or battery power and suitable for use in vehicles and similar confined spaces or carried as a personal comfort device. The air-conditioner can be left to operate unattended for long periods. The air-conditioner may be constructed with heat sinks 1, 2 and a fan 4 all contained in a casing with one or more electronic heat pumps 3, and may be powered by a solar panel or automobile accumulator. The casing may be fitted to a vehicle window frame using an attachment (11, FIG. 3 ).

PURPOSE: To realize the without place restriction by providing a fan motor and impellers in a housing, providing a lid body that is pivotingly supported at the housing and closes an air suction opening or an exhaust opening, and driving the fan motor by means of the power generation output of a solar battery provided on a surface that is exposed at the time of lid body opening. CONSTITUTION: An air suction opening 2 is formed on one surface of a housing 1 of a rectangular box shape, and an exhaust opening is formed on the other surface of the housing 1, and on the inside, a fan motor 4 is provided. Plural impellers 6 are provided at an approximately bowl-like rotor 5 to be rotated by means of the fan motor 4. A lid body 27 is openably/closably supported at the lower side edge of the air suction opening 2 of the housing 1, and a solar battery 28 is provided on a surface to be exposed at the time of lid body 27 opening. The solar battery 28 is made up of, for example, plural amorphous solar battery cells that are arranged in a surface state and are connected to each other in series, parallel or in the combination of these, and wiring is conducted so that the fan motor 4 may be driven by means of its power generation output. Thus, this portable type blower can be used simply without receiving place restriction.

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an easily carriable fan with solar panels which can be used outdoors with no power supply.

While these solar devices may be suitable for the purposes for which they were designed, they would not be as suitable for the purposes of the present invention, as hereinafter described.

Another object of the present invention is to provide compact round housing that can be comfortably hand held. The housing also provides a hemispherical threaded cap with a cable jack for powering the fan by means of a solar panel. A switch with a serrated sliding operator, that is flush with the cylindrical surface of the fan housing controls power to the fan motor.

Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a small, portable solar panel to either power the fan directly or recharge the optional battery pack.

Still yet another object of the present invention is to provide optional battery pack to increase the portability of the present invention. The battery pack provides a means for using the fan in applications where conjunction of the present invention to the solar panel would not be practical. Such situation would include use on public transportation such as a bus, train or taxi.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a plurality of stands for constraining the fan housing for stationary use. One such stand provides a circular base comprised of a ball joint and a semi circular surface or cradle to support the fan for stationary use. Two holes in the base provide a means of permanently constraining the base to any surface with screw type fasteners. Plugs mounted to the base by a flexible tab provide a method to conceal these holes when the base is used for portable applications of the present invention. A spring loaded clip style base also provides a method of temporarily constraining the fan to a plurality of surfaces. The clip style base provides two rectangular plates held together at a hinged fastening point. A torsion spring provides the force to grip a surface between the mating points of the clip plates. The top plate provides a ball joint with a cradle similar to the previously mention base.

Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a battery charger that can be plugged into any outlet in the home or office for an additional method of charging the optional battery pack when use of the solar panel is not practical. This charger also provides a method for charging a plurality of battery packs for extended portable use of the present invention. Cable used for powering the fan from the solar panel may also be used with this charger.

Still yet another object of the present invention is to provide a leather protection cover to secure and protect the cells of the solar panel. A belt clip on the case provides a method of securing the cover to the user belt.

The present invention overcomes the shortcomings of the prior art by providing a solar powered personal fan with a much broader spectrum of both portable and fixed operating applications whereas prior art is application specific. This device also provides a plurality of fixed and portable power supplies. A solar panel, rechargeable battery pack or home charger can all be used as a power supply to operate the present invention.

The foregoing and other objects and advantages will appear from the description to follow. In the description reference is made to the accompanying drawing, which forms a part hereof, and in which is shown by way of illustration specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. These embodiments will be described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention, and it is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and that structural changes may be made without departing from the scope of the invention. In the accompanying drawing, like reference characters designate the same or similar parts throughout the several views.

The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present invention is best defined by the appended claims.

In order that the invention may be more fully understood, it will now be described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawing in which:

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Blog / Industry News / Solar Attic Fan vs. Electric Attic Fan: Which is Better for My Home?

Solar Attic Fan vs. Electric Attic Fan: Which is Better for My Home?

Much “product advancement” nowadays could fall into the category of “one step forward, two steps back,” and the story of the attic fan is no exception. When someone touts a “new and improved” product as a better solution than what you already know, cynical or suspicious reactions are natural.

However, once in a while technology does make a giant leap that gives us a better choice on all fronts. The case of the solar attic fan vs. electric attic fan is a great example, and The Solar Guys are happy to explain why:

The Electric Attic Fan: A Thing of the Past

Most of us are well aware that a hot, moist attic is not good for our home. A poorly ventilated attic space often leads to higher A/C bills, a shorter roof shingle life, plywood roof decking damage, and mold and mildew issues. Up until a few decades ago, the only option to help to address these problems was installing an electric attic ventilation fan.

On the plus side, these fans would do a great job of quickly lowering the temperature and humidity in the attic while they were running. Unfortunately, the heavy electric load of these units cut into any savings you accrued. In an effort to keep the operating cost down, most homeowners would install a thermostat cutoff to limit the fan’s operating window.

While this did help to keep running costs down, it also created a cycle of “heat rises, fan turns on – heat lowers, and fan turns off.” This constant fluctuation of temperature did not give homeowners the best protection possible in that fans would not turn on before allowing the attic to get too hot, and property damage had already occurred by then. Electric attic fans and the on/off method provided limited benefits while creating problems of their own by way of costly repairs and maintenance.

The Solar Attic Fan to the Rescue!

Enter the age of the Solar Star® Attic Fan! Brilliant minds finally realized that while the sun is the culprit behind most of the attic issues we all have, it is also the best solution!

Solar ventilation fans allow you the satisfaction of turning the sun against itself:

• Say goodbye to operating costs, because the sun is free!

• Forget about a limited operating window allowing for accumulated damage, since the fans run as long as the sun is out.

• Another recent technological breakthrough found in high-quality solar fans is the “brushless” or inductive motor. These motors do not have brushes that wear out and need replacing, and they can easily handle a much greater length of operating time compared to traditional motors with no fear of burning up your investment.

• Because these motors are brushless, they work as quietly as a whisper! Unless you are living directly above a seismic fault line or have inner ear issues, distracting vibrations or humming should be a thing of the past!

If you are looking for a healthier, cooler, and dryer home; The Solar Guys can help! With years of experience installing attic ventilation and all sorts of other fans, we can help you maintain your home and save money on long-term energy costs.

Contact us today for a free estimate at 866-641-1963.

Roof Mount 24/7 Solar Attic Fan with Inverter

QuietCool’s Roof Mount Solar Fans is the most intelligent attic fan on the market today. This fan utilizes solar power to keep your home cool and safe throughout the day. Better yet, with the included AC/DC inverter, your fan can continue running during nighttime hours or when the sun is not out. Utilizing a large solar panel, an AC/DC Inverter, weatherproof design, and revolutionary technology this fan provides eco-friendly cooling all year long.

Our solar roof mount attic fan is not only powered by solar panels but an ultra-energy efficient DC Motor that allows the fan to never stop protecting your attic. This motor is an industry-leader that allows for a long lifespan with no maintenance. This means you get everyday cooling at the fraction of the cost of other attic fans.

• Plug and play (no wiring)
• AC/DC Inverter for 24/7 cooling
• Poly crystalline Solar Panels

Give us a call if you need assistance 1-888-QUIETCOOL

SOLAR TAX INCENTIVES

IRS SOLAR ENERGY TAX CREDIT

Our solar-powered attic ventilation products may qualify for a Federal Tax Credit. Refer to the “Residential Energy Efficient Property Credit (Part I)” and the “Nonbusiness Energy Property Credit (Part II)” of IRS Form 5695. Although attic ventilation products are not specifically listed they may qualify for a credit.

FEATURES

Hover over any unique product piece to learn more about it.

Built-in Preset Thermostat: A mechanical thermostat that determines when your fan turns on and off (72 ºF off 83 ºF on). AC/DC Inverter: Allows your Solar Attic Fan to run on your electrical grid so your fan can operate 24/7 even after the sun goes down. Computer Balanced Fan Blades: High-performance fan blades that cut through the air in the most efficient and effective way possible. Tilt/Rotation Adjustment Bracket: Up to 60º vertical tilt and 180º horizontal rotation for maximum sunlight exposure. Solar Panel: Polycrystalline solar panel that is up to 2-4 times the output of the industry standard. Bug Screen: A screen that keeps out bugs, animals, and unwanted debris, from getting into the home. Roof Mount Housing/Cover: Powder-coated Steel Housing/cover that protects the fan from any outdoor elements. Flashing: Flashing that prevents water from entering the attic space. Vortex Air Funnel: Aerodynamic funnel that distributes large quantities of air evenly throughout the Roof Mount Housing resulting in higher airflow and efficiency. Inverter Plug-in Cord: 20-foot cord that allows you to plug and play from anywhere in the attic. Ultra-Energy Efficient DC Motor: Industry-leading Brushless DC Motor that allows for a long lifespan with no maintenance.

Science Project Idea: Create Your Own Solar-Powered Fan

Our mission requires us to educate the public about the harmful effects of air pollution and about cleaner sources of energy. You might say we’re big “fans” of clean energy like wind and solar — and science in general! We’re always looking for creative ways to teach kids about air pollution, health, and renewable energy.

One of our fall interns, Vaishali, found this video (above) that shows how to make a simple and efficient personal fan using solar energy! So she assembled a list of materials and equipment and wrote out the step-by-step instructions. This is a great classroom project for science teachers and science clubs. We created an Amazon Shopping List for anyone interested in trying it out. The materials cost about 32.The equipment will run about 25, but you should be able to borrow a hot glue gun and/or soldering kit if you don’t already have one of your own.

Teachers: Feel free to reach out to Michael Hansen (205-701-4270, [email protected]) if you’d like us to come to your classroom for a project like this one!

Instructions

Michael is Executive Director of GASP. He joined the team in 2013 as communications specialist. He has years of experience and extensive training in the areas of public health and environmental protection. He is a member of the board of directors for the Southeast Climate Energy Network and Clean Water Fund, as well as a member of the Arm in Arm National Core Support Team. Email Michael

Contact us

GASP 2320 Highland Ave S, Suite 270 Birmingham, AL 35205 205.701.4277 [email protected]

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US7866958B2. Solar powered fan. Google Patents

Publication number US7866958B2 US7866958B2 US11/616,004 US61600406A US7866958B2 US 7866958 B2 US7866958 B2 US 7866958B2 US 61600406 A US61600406 A US 61600406A US 7866958 B2 US7866958 B2 US 7866958B2 Authority US United States Prior art keywords fan housing solar panel solar battery pack Prior art date 2006-12-25 Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.) Expired. Fee Related. expires 2027-04-06 Application number US11/616,004 Other versions US20080152482A1 ( en Inventor Amish Patel Original Assignee Amish Patel Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.) 2006-12-25 Filing date 2006-12-25 Publication date 2011-01-11 2006-12-25 Application filed by Amish Patel filed Critical Amish Patel 2006-12-25 Priority to US11/616,004 priority Critical patent/US7866958B2/en 2008-06-26 Publication of US20080152482A1 publication Critical patent/US20080152482A1/en 2011-01-11 Application granted granted Critical 2011-01-11 Publication of US7866958B2 publication Critical patent/US7866958B2/en Status Expired. Fee Related legal-status Critical Current 2027-04-06 Adjusted expiration legal-status Critical

Images

Classifications

• F — MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
• F24 — HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
• F24F — AIR-CONDITIONING; AIR-HUMIDIFICATION; VENTILATION; USE OF AIR CURRENTS FOR SCREENING
• F24F7/00 — Ventilation
• F24F7/007 — Ventilation with forced flow

• F — MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
• F04 — POSITIVE. DISPLACEMENT MACHINES FOR LIQUIDS; PUMPS FOR LIQUIDS OR ELASTIC FLUIDS
• F04B — POSITIVE-DISPLACEMENT MACHINES FOR LIQUIDS; PUMPS
• F04B17/00 — Pumps characterised by combination with, or adaptation to, specific driving engines or motors
• F04B17/006 — Solar operated

• F — MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
• F04 — POSITIVE. DISPLACEMENT MACHINES FOR LIQUIDS; PUMPS FOR LIQUIDS OR ELASTIC FLUIDS
• F04D — NON-POSITIVE-DISPLACEMENT PUMPS
• F04D25/00 — Pumping installations or systems
• F04D25/02 — Units comprising pumps and their driving means
• F04D25/06 — Units comprising pumps and their driving means the pump being electrically driven

• F — MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
• F04 — POSITIVE. DISPLACEMENT MACHINES FOR LIQUIDS; PUMPS FOR LIQUIDS OR ELASTIC FLUIDS
• F04D — NON-POSITIVE-DISPLACEMENT PUMPS
• F04D25/00 — Pumping installations or systems
• F04D25/02 — Units comprising pumps and their driving means
• F04D25/08 — Units comprising pumps and their driving means the working fluid being air, e.g. for ventilation
• F04D25/084 — Units comprising pumps and their driving means the working fluid being air, e.g. for ventilation hand fans

• F — MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
• F24 — HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
• F24F — AIR-CONDITIONING; AIR-HUMIDIFICATION; VENTILATION; USE OF AIR CURRENTS FOR SCREENING
• F24F5/00 — Air-conditioning systems or apparatus not covered by F24F1/00 or F24F3/00, e.g. using solar heat or combined with household units such as an oven or water heater
• F24F5/0046 — Air-conditioning systems or apparatus not covered by F24F1/00 or F24F3/00, e.g. using solar heat or combined with household units such as an oven or water heater using natural energy, e.g. solar energy, energy from the ground
• F24F2005/0064 — Air-conditioning systems or apparatus not covered by F24F1/00 or F24F3/00, e.g. using solar heat or combined with household units such as an oven or water heater using natural energy, e.g. solar energy, energy from the ground using solar energy
• F24F2005/0067 — Air-conditioning systems or apparatus not covered by F24F1/00 or F24F3/00, e.g. using solar heat or combined with household units such as an oven or water heater using natural energy, e.g. solar energy, energy from the ground using solar energy with photovoltaic panels

• Y — GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
• Y02 — TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
• Y02A — TECHNOLOGIES FOR ADAPTATION TO CLIMATE CHANGE
• Y02A30/00 — Adapting or protecting infrastructure or their operation
• Y02A30/27 — Relating to heating, ventilation or air conditioning [HVAC] technologies
• Y02A30/272 — Solar heating or cooling

• Y — GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
• Y02 — TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
• Y02B — CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES RELATED TO BUILDINGS, e.g. HOUSING, HOUSE APPLIANCES OR RELATED END-USER APPLICATIONS
• Y02B10/00 — Integration of renewable energy sources in buildings
• Y02B10/20 — Solar thermal

Abstract

A solar powered personal fan with a much broader spectrum of both portable and fixed operating applications whereas prior art is application specific. This device also provides a plurality of fixed and portable power supplies. A solar panel, rechargeable battery pack or home charger can all be used as a power supply to operate the present invention.

Description

The present invention relates generally to fans and, more specifically, to a solar powered fan which provides a compact cylindrical housing that can be comfortably hand held. The small compact design can be easily stored and transported on one’s person, in a brief case or beach bag.

The present invention also provides a small portable solar panel which can be used to directly power the fan motor or recharge the optional battery pack. A plurality of various length cables provides a conduit for power from the solar panel to the fan.

Additionally, the present invention provides a plurality of adjustable pitch mounting stands to constrain the fan to a variety of surfaces for stationary use.

There are other solar powered fan devices designed for personal cooling or ventilation. Typical of these is U.S. Pat. No. 4,899,645 issued to Wolfe, et al. on Feb. 13, 1990.

Another patent was issued to Hwang on Nov. 27, 1990 as U.S. Pat. No. 4,974,126. Yet another U.S. Pat. No. 4,986,169 was issued to Chen on Jan. 22, 1991 and still yet another was issued on Sep. 3, 1991 to Wu, et al. as U.S. Pat. No. 5,044,258.

Another patent was issued to Juang on Sep. 22, 1992 as U.S. Pat. No. 5,148,736. Yet another U.S. Pat. No. 5,250,265 was issued to Kawaguchi, et al. on Oct. 5, 1993. Another was issued to Ferng on Dec. 31, 1996 as U.S. Pat. No. 5,588,909 and still yet another was issued on Mar. 7, 2000 to Asenguah, et al. as U.S. Pat. No. 6,032,291.

Another patent was issued to Sibbe on May 30, 1984 as German Patent No. DE3337241. Yet another U.K. Patent No. GB2241378 was issued to Forsyth on Aug. 28, 1991. Another was issued to Takahashi on Oct. 3, 1995 as Japan Patent No. JP7253096 and still yet another was issued on Jul. 18, 2003 to Sha as Japan Patent No. JP2003201990.

A solar ventilator (1) is fittable to an edge (2) having first and second sides corresponding to first and second regions. The edge can be of a barrier, e.g. of a movable window of a motor vehicle or of a building. The ventilator has a suspension (5) for suspending the ventilator from the edge so that the ventilator will be adjacent the first region. The ventilator has a housing (4) having inlet and outlet portions (11, 12) for enabling air to be transferred therebetween from a region to the other region. A fan (13) is comprised by the housing so as to enable the transfer of air. A solar generator (15) drives the fan. The ventilator may be arranged for direct or indirect reception of solar radiation.

A lamp with a power source to supply a fan, comprising a light installation, a solar cell connected inside of the lampshade, a rechargeable battery to be charged with electrical power by means of the solar cell, and a small fan or other small electrical apparatus attached to the rechargeable battery. As the light installation uses alternating-current, radiation energy sent from the light bulb, is converted by the solar cell’s photoelectric effect to provide current again to charge a rechargeable battery, thereby supplying the small fan or any other electrical apparatus (such as shaver, transistor radio) with the required power source to operate, and thereby save energy.

A vehicular internal fan ventilator, which includes a housing having set therein an internal ventilating chamber with a cross-flow air fan, a motor, a storage batteries and selector and a switch and a linkage to an oblique, external portion of housing which is fixedly mounted a solar cell board to collect solar energy for the motor and/or to charge the storage batteries. The housing comprises a top retainer rib and a bottom window glass channel for convenient installation in with a separate, flexible and cuttable packing strip in a car between door frame upper trim and window glass of a vehicle.

A motor-driven, window mounted portable fan with cigarette-lighter plug. The fan, or impeller, is mounted in an impeller housing which in turn is mounted centrally on one face of a window prop. The window prop is rectangular in shape and has lengthwise slideways on both of its sides. Extension pieces fit in the slideways so that the slideways can be lengthened to fit different sized Windows. Opposite the impeller housing is a rain cover and a vent lid, which covers a vent. The vent lid is opened and closed by a motor, via an activation arm.

An automatic solar-powered car ventilator to be installed between the upper horizontal bar of the window sash and the upper horizontal edge of a movable window glass in a window in a car door having a main body and two auxiliary bodies extending from both sides of the main body to be cut to suit the width of the movable window glass. A ventilating means including a fan, a motor to drive the fan to suck in the open air and exhaust out the air in the car. A base to mount the fan and the motor and a housing to shield the fan, the motor and the base. A solar-energy board being combined with the main body or the ventilating means by means of two clamps on the board movably catching hold of either two holders on the main body or on the ventilating means to generate electricity to power the motor by absorbing the sunlight.

A deodorizer which comprises a deodorant member, an electric motor, a fan fixed to the electric motor, a receptacle having these members accommodated therein, and a solar cell provided in the receptacle and adapted to supply a driving electric power to the electric motor, whereby, owing to the blowing action of the fan, air is caused to enter the interior the receptacle from an air suction port and pass there through and is blown out from an air blowout port to outside the receptacle, and the air is caused to flow around a portion of the receptacle where the solar cell is installed.

A solar power-operated cooling system installed in a motor vehicle for circulation of air, including a solar power device having a plurality of photovoltaic cells mounted for converting the radiant energy of sunlight into electric power and a power output terminal for output of electric power from the photovoltaic cells, an electric connector having an input terminal connected to the power output terminal of the solar power device and at least two output terminals, at least one blowing fan and at least one exhaust fan respectively installed in the interior door panel assemblies of the motor vehicle and electrically connected to the output terminals of the electric connector and driven to draw fresh air into or to draw hot air out of the motor vehicle.

The present invention discloses an apparatus (10) for providing solar powered air circulation to the face and upper body of the user. A means for mounting photoelectric cells (16) to the apex of the top of a hat (12) is provided which cells 16 are connected by wire (24) to a directionally selective fan (14) which is located under the brim (18) of the hat (12). The fan (14) receives air transmitted through a conduit (20) under the brim of the hat (12) which has its air inlets (22) on the lateral edges of the brim (18) of the hat (12). The fan (14) is also provided with a horizontally movable axle (26) means whereby it is partially rotatable in the horizontal axis to selectively distribute the air. An alternative embodiment (30) is provided wherein the components of the present invention are assembled onto a modular semi-flexible frame (30) which can be attached to an existing favorite cap (12) by means of hook and loop material (36) thereby providing a portable cooling unit which can be easily attached to various hats.

The fan for producing wind or for cooling excessive temperatures is intended for direct and personal use by persons who are away from their usual premises and do not have any power mains supply available (for example train compartment etc.), but wish to protect themselves from or to alleviate excessive temperatures or their unpleasant attendant manifestations (including perspiration). The fans currently available commercially are fundamentally unsuitable for this. On the one hand they are too large and bulky—on the other hand they do not have an independent power supply, that is they are tied to buildings. The fan submitted in the present application, however, fulfils these substantive requirements. It is of light, handy design and is equipped with built-in and independent power supply facilities. These independent electrical energy sources in particular comprise an accumulator, with a charging device and a mains connection, a storage battery, also with a charging device and a mains connection, a dry battery and last but not least solar power on the basis of the photo-voltaic effect.

A portable air-conditioner using an electronic heat pump 3, e.g. a Peltier effect device, designed to run on solar or battery power and suitable for use in vehicles and similar confined spaces or carried as a personal comfort device. The air-conditioner can be left to operate unattended for long periods. The air-conditioner may be constructed with heat sinks 1, 2 and a fan 4 all contained in a casing with one or more electronic heat pumps 3, and may be powered by a solar panel or automobile accumulator. The casing may be fitted to a vehicle window frame using an attachment (11, FIG. 3 ).

PURPOSE: To realize the without place restriction by providing a fan motor and impellers in a housing, providing a lid body that is pivotingly supported at the housing and closes an air suction opening or an exhaust opening, and driving the fan motor by means of the power generation output of a solar battery provided on a surface that is exposed at the time of lid body opening. CONSTITUTION: An air suction opening 2 is formed on one surface of a housing 1 of a rectangular box shape, and an exhaust opening is formed on the other surface of the housing 1, and on the inside, a fan motor 4 is provided. Plural impellers 6 are provided at an approximately bowl-like rotor 5 to be rotated by means of the fan motor 4. A lid body 27 is openably/closably supported at the lower side edge of the air suction opening 2 of the housing 1, and a solar battery 28 is provided on a surface to be exposed at the time of lid body 27 opening. The solar battery 28 is made up of, for example, plural amorphous solar battery cells that are arranged in a surface state and are connected to each other in series, parallel or in the combination of these, and wiring is conducted so that the fan motor 4 may be driven by means of its power generation output. Thus, this portable type blower can be used simply without receiving place restriction.

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an easily carriable fan with solar panels which can be used outdoors with no power supply.

While these solar devices may be suitable for the purposes for which they were designed, they would not be as suitable for the purposes of the present invention, as hereinafter described.

Another object of the present invention is to provide compact round housing that can be comfortably hand held. The housing also provides a hemispherical threaded cap with a cable jack for powering the fan by means of a solar panel. A switch with a serrated sliding operator, that is flush with the cylindrical surface of the fan housing controls power to the fan motor.

Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a small, portable solar panel to either power the fan directly or recharge the optional battery pack.

Still yet another object of the present invention is to provide optional battery pack to increase the portability of the present invention. The battery pack provides a means for using the fan in applications where conjunction of the present invention to the solar panel would not be practical. Such situation would include use on public transportation such as a bus, train or taxi.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a plurality of stands for constraining the fan housing for stationary use. One such stand provides a circular base comprised of a ball joint and a semi circular surface or cradle to support the fan for stationary use. Two holes in the base provide a means of permanently constraining the base to any surface with screw type fasteners. Plugs mounted to the base by a flexible tab provide a method to conceal these holes when the base is used for portable applications of the present invention. A spring loaded clip style base also provides a method of temporarily constraining the fan to a plurality of surfaces. The clip style base provides two rectangular plates held together at a hinged fastening point. A torsion spring provides the force to grip a surface between the mating points of the clip plates. The top plate provides a ball joint with a cradle similar to the previously mention base.

Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a battery charger that can be plugged into any outlet in the home or office for an additional method of charging the optional battery pack when use of the solar panel is not practical. This charger also provides a method for charging a plurality of battery packs for extended portable use of the present invention. Cable used for powering the fan from the solar panel may also be used with this charger.

Still yet another object of the present invention is to provide a leather protection cover to secure and protect the cells of the solar panel. A belt clip on the case provides a method of securing the cover to the user belt.

The present invention overcomes the shortcomings of the prior art by providing a solar powered personal fan with a much broader spectrum of both portable and fixed operating applications whereas prior art is application specific. This device also provides a plurality of fixed and portable power supplies. A solar panel, rechargeable battery pack or home charger can all be used as a power supply to operate the present invention.

The foregoing and other objects and advantages will appear from the description to follow. In the description reference is made to the accompanying drawing, which forms a part hereof, and in which is shown by way of illustration specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. These embodiments will be described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention, and it is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and that structural changes may be made without departing from the scope of the invention. In the accompanying drawing, like reference characters designate the same or similar parts throughout the several views.

The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present invention is best defined by the appended claims.

In order that the invention may be more fully understood, it will now be described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawing in which: