Abstract: A linear actuator for use with a fan with deployable fan blades to deploy the fan blades when in use and stow the fan blades when not in use. The linear actuator utilizes a drive element having a driver that moves linearly along a shaft of the linear actuator. Linear movement of the driver causes radial movement of arms connected to the linear actuator and the fan blades. Radial movement of the arms causes rotational movement of gears attached to the ends of the fan blades to cause the fan blades to rotate into the deployed or stowed configuration.

Abstract: A rotating fan with a transmission mechanism and a blade deployment mechanism. In an energized state, an electromagnetic coil generates a magnetic force that causes a clutch plate to be in contact with a contact surface, thereby engaging a planetary gear system. In a de-energized state, the clutch plate is not in contact with the contact surface, thereby disengaging the planetary gear system. In a deployed configuration, a drive link activated by the planetary gear system rotates a blade link to cause a fan blade to pivot. The result is that the fan blade tip is farther from the motor shaft than the fan blade root. In a retracted configuration, the drive link rotates the blade link to cause the fan blade to pivot and retract. The result is that the fan blade tip is equidistant from the motor shaft as the fan blade root.

Abstract: A fan comprising: a housing unit; a retractable fan blade; and a means for driving the retractable fan blade from a retracted position within the housing unit to an extended position exterior to the housing unit.

Abstract: A ceiling mounted fan comprising: a first housing portion; a second housing portion; and a motive unit operably coupled to the second housing portion, wherein the motive unit is configured to adjust a position of the second housing portion from a position proximate to the first housing portion to a position distal to the first housing portion.

Abstract: A fan comprising: a housing unit; a retractable fan blade; and a means for driving the retractable fan blade from a retracted position within the housing unit to an extended position exterior to the housing unit.

Abstract: A fan comprising: a housing unit, wherein the housing unit is positioned perpendicular to a ceiling; a motive unit; a fan blade operably coupled to the motive unit; and the motive unit configured to adjust a position of the fan blade from a plane parallel to the ceiling to a position that is tilted from the plane parallel to the ceiling.