Concealed portable fan
A stable portable fan capable of generating an exhaust air stream elevated above a support surface allowing the exhaust air stream to be directed as desired by the user is provided. The device includes an air generator assembly located within a polygonal column generating an exhaust air stream that exiting the polygonal column. The polygonal column of the device is used to disguise/conceal the fan.
Latest Lasko Holdings, Inc. Patents:
This application claims priority to provisional patent application 60/688,970 filed Apr. 28, 2005 and provisional patent application 60/702,802 filed Jul. 27, 2005. This application is also a Continuation-in-Part of application Ser. No. 10/944,290, filed Sep. 16, 2004, which is a Continuation-in-Part of application Ser. No. 10/347,079, filed Jan. 17, 2003, which is a Continuation-in-Part of application Ser. No. 10/322,169 filed Dec. 18, 2002 now U.S. Pat. No. 6,760,543. This application is also a Continuation-in-Part of application Ser. No. 10/720,374 filed Nov. 24, 2003, which is a Continuation-in-Part of application Ser. No. 10/431,964, filed May 8, 2003 now U.S. Pat. No. 6,943,256, which is a Continuation-in-Part of application Ser. No. 10/347,079, filed Jan. 17, 2003, which is a Continuation-in-Part of application Ser. No. 10/322,169 filed Dec. 18, 2002 now U.S. Pat. No. 6,760,543.
FIELD OF THE INVENTIONThis invention relates generally to fans. More specifically, the present invention relates to portable fans that may be constructed to conceal the fan.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTIONFans have been used for many years to supplement the indoor and outdoor comfort level of the user. This is accomplished by the fan generating a current of air that passes over the skin of an individual. The current of air serves to increase the convective heat loss of the body through the natural evaporative process of moisture (e.g. sweat) on the skin. When natural air movement is not sufficient to accomplish this evaporation a fan is an effective means to accelerate the evaporative process.
There are however several disadvantages to conventional fans. Non-elevated models that are positioned relatively close to the ground do not have the ability to effectively cool the upper body. Likewise non-elevated models do not posses the ability to project the generated air current over objects such as furniture, thus impairing the ability to efficiently cool the user.
The use of pedestals and risers to elevate the generated air stream also has disadvantages. Conventional fans use axial fan blades to generate the current of air. Elevated fans with axial fan blades have large guards, (grills) and the mass of the electric motor is located at an elevated height. Both of these elements contribute to the instability of the fan and require a base of considerable size to stabilize the device during use. The size of such a base does not permit an optimized space saving design. The fan may also have an oscillation function, which further exacerbates the instability of the device. The oscillating function on conventional fans with axial fan blades also insures that the fan will be visually obtrusive within the environment.
Another problem with conventional fans using axial fan blades is the large volume of air produced by the blade. This problem manifests itself in three manners. One, the ability to project a large volume of air at a sufficient velocity, so as to impinge the skin of the user for the desired cooling effect requires a motor of substantial power and cost. Two, the thrust created by projecting a large volume of air at a sufficient velocity further exacerbates the stability problem of the device. Three, as the conical shape of the air stream travels away from the fan the area of coverage grows in diameter. The significant volume of air combined with the growth in the coverage area of the air stream may cause objects, (such as napkins, playing cards, etc) to be dislodged from their intended place.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTIONIn light of the shortcomings of the prior art, the present invention is directed to a portable fan using an inventive air generator design to create a stable elevated air stream and that is conceal and thus less visually disruptive. The device overcomes several if not all of the deficiencies of conventional indoor and/or outdoor fans.
The concealed portable fan also includes an innovative panel construction. The use of this panel construction allows further innovation in materials and styles not presently associated with conventional fans.
The panel construction includes removable/replaceable/interchangeable panels that provide a portable fan that can be moved from room to room (or from indoor use to outdoor use) while still being adaptable to a particular room or environment in which the portable fan is being used. The to removable/replaceable/interchangeable panels allow the portable fan to be modified by the user to match surrounding furniture and/or blend in with the room decor thus further concealing the fan.
According to one aspect of the invention, the portable fan includes: a base for engaging a mounting surface, multiple walls extending vertically upward to form a polygonal column and a top connected to a top end of said polygonal column.
According to another aspect of the invention, the polygonal column defines an interior space.
According to another aspect of the invention, at least one air inlet is located in the polygonal column and at least one air outlet is located in an upper portion of one of the polygonal column.
According to yet another aspect of the invention, an air generator is disposed within the interior space and is in fluid communication with the air inlet and the air outlet.
According to another aspect of the invention, an intake air stream generated by the air generator and enters the interior space via the air inlet and an exhaust air stream generated by the air generator and exits the interior space via the air outlet.
According to another aspect of the invention, the multiple walls forming the polygonal column are utilized to cover and protect the air generator when viewed from a location exterior to the polygonal column.
According to another aspect of the invention, the vertical orientation of the polygonal column elevates the exhaust air stream above the support surface.
According to another aspect of the invention, the multiple walls forming the polygonal column include at least a first pair of substantially flat walls that are oriented substantially parallel relative to one another.
According to yet another aspect of the invention, the multiple walls forming the polygonal column include at least a second pair of substantially flat walls that are substantially parallel relative to one another and oriented substantially orthogonal to the first pair of parallel walls.
According to another aspect of the invention, the fan is a disguised fan that uses the polygonal column to look similar to a piece of furniture or room decor.
According to another aspect of the invention, the polygonal column includes material provided in numerous patterns and/or colors to match furniture and/or a room decor style.
Additional features and advantages of the invention will be made apparent from the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments that proceeds with reference to the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGSThe invention is best understood from the following detailed description when read in connection with the accompanying drawing. It is emphasized that, according to common practice, various features of the drawings are not to scale. On the contrary, the dimensions of various features are arbitrarily expanded or reduced for clarity. Included in the drawings are the following Figures:
The following description is of an exemplary portable fan that generates an elevated air stream. The elevated air stream allows effectual cooling of the users upper body as well as the ability to project the air stream over furniture and other objects. The exemplary portable fan uses a high velocity low thrust air generator to mitigate the stability problems associated with axial fan blades. The non-conical shape of the air stream allows a more precise adjustment of direction when compare to conical shaped air streams.
The use of the disclosed air generators provide a compact design that does not require the use of large protective grills. Oscillation can be incorporated into the device while being less visually disruptive than axial fans. The ability to locate the mass of the motor at a low elevation with respect to a mounting surface combined with the absence of large grills further enhances the stability of the device.
The novel design of the parts and assembly of the portable fan also increases the opportunity to change the aesthetic appearance of the device. The sealed construction as described will enhance the ability to utilize the portable fan indoors or outdoors. The ability to easily assemble and disassemble the portable fan facilitates storage and reduces the shipping cost from the manufacturer to the customer.
The embodiments described herein provide various combinations of the above characteristics at a desirable retail cost for the consumer.
Air generator 130 is disposed within interior space 113 and draws air into polygonal column 110 via inlet 112. Located proximate inlet 112 is porous material 118 through which the air drawn into polygonal column 110 passes. The air is subsequently expelled from polygonal column through outlet opening 111 and grill 120.
Portable fan 100 also includes at least one control assembly 170. Control assembly 170 controls one or more functions of portable fan 100. Also shown is power cord 105, utilized to connect portable fan 100 to an electrical power source (i.e. wall outlet). The electrical component connections of portable fan 100 are integrated within the device, such as for example between control assembly 170 and air generator 130. The integration of the electrical component connections within the device eliminates the need for the user to make such connections. In the exemplary embodiment shown, for example, only the connection of power cord 105 to an electrical power source is required for operation of the device. Further, the integration of the electrical component connections within the device enhances the portability of portable fan 100, as well as, outdoor use wherein the housing is sealed to be waterproof.
Preferably power cord 105 utilizes a safety plug. Details of the safety plug and it's advantages can be referenced in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,394,848; 6,604,965; 6,793,535; and 6,896,544, which are incorporated herein by reference. These US patents provide a plug that permits a greater degree of safety for portable fan 100 by using a non-replaceable circuit interrupter in power cord 105. The location of the non-replaceable circuit interrupter is preferably near the interface point of power cord 105 and the power supply, e.g. a power outlet, such as for example a conventional wall receptacle. The location of the circuit interrupter protects not only portable fan 100 but also protects the complete length of power cord 105.
Also shown in
The use of polygonal column 110 constructed of panels such as 110a, 110b. 110c and 110d will allow a single panel structure to be used in multiple applications. For example, side panel 110c and side panel 110d may be identical and require only one manufacturing tool. The reduction in the number of needed manufacturing tools will reduce the capitol investment required to initiate manufacturing portable fan 100.
Disposed within panels 110a, 110b. 110c and 110d and preferably connected to base 116 is air generator 130. As shown in
Attached to exit port 131 of air generator 130 is adaptor 140. In the exemplary embodiment shown, adaptor 140 is used to create a transition from exit port 131 to transfer plenum 144. Adaptor 140 is shown as a separate part, however it is contemplated that adaptor 140 may be unitary with housing 138 and/or transfer plenum 144.
Transfer plenum 144 in the present embodiment includes rear wall 144a, front wall 144b, rear cap 143a and front cap 143b. As shown rear cap 143a and front cap 143b are unitary with rear wall 144a and front wall 144b, respectively. It is contemplated that rear and front cap 143a, 143b could be separate from walls 144a, 144b. It is also contemplated that caps 143a and 143b could be a single unitary cap. Transfer plenum 144 is open on the lower end to facilitate fluid communication with air generator 130.
Plenum outlet 146 is located in an upper portion of front wall 144b. Located proximate plenum outlet 146 are air alignment elements 148. Plenum outlet 146 and air alignment elements 148 condition the exhaust air stream to project out of transfer plenum 144 towards outlet opening 111. Grill 120 connects proximate outlet opening 111. Grill 120 includes grill elements 122. Grill elements 122 serve to further control and direct the exhaust air stream. (see
In the exemplary embodiment, bearing ring 142 is used in conjunction with rear flange 145a and front flange 145b to connect transfer plenum 144 in a rotatable fashion with respect to air generator 130. As shown rear flange 145a and front flange 145b are unitary with rear wall 144a and front wall 144b, respectively. It is contemplated that rear and front flange 145a, 145b could be separate from walls 144a, 144b and/or a unitary part unto themselves.
Also shown is oscillation mechanism 150 which includes oscillation motor 152, crank 154, link 156 and shoulder screws 158. Oscillation mechanism 150 oscillates transfer plenum 144 to disperse the exhaust air stream over a wide area. As shown, oscillation mechanism 150 is a crank and link type, however it has been contemplated that other types, such as for example, gears and reversible motors may be used. Although oscillation mechanism 150 is shown located at or near a bottom portion of transfer plenum 144 the invention is not so limited. It is contemplated that oscillation mechanism 150 may be located at an upper or mid portion of transfer plenum 144.
The rotation and/or oscillation of transfer plenum 144 within polygonal column 110 allows the exhaust air steam to be dispersed without moving polygonal column 110. The stationary aspect of polygonal column 110 during oscillation of the exhaust air stream permits portable fan 100 to be less visually distractive than conventional devices that move external components.
The rotation and/or oscillation of transfer plenum 144 independent of air generator 130 also allows electrical connections (not shown) and electrical wires (not shown) to remain stationary during the operation of portable fan 100. The wires and connections between air generator 130, controller 170 (see
Another advantage of the rotation and/or oscillation of transfer plenum 144 independent of air generator 130 is the lower overall mass that must be moved during rotation and or oscillation. If oscillation mechanism 150 was required to move air generator 130 in conjunction with plenum 144 the accumulated mass would require oscillation motor 152 to have greater power, thus increasing the materials used to manufacture motor 152 and thereby increasing it's cost. In a similar fashion, more manufacturing materials may be need to increase the structural strength of other components, such as for example; crank 154, link 156, shoulder screws 158 and bearing ring 142. The use of more manufacturing materials will increase the overall cost of portable fan 100.
Portable fan 100 may be assembled using conventional fasteners, such as for example screws and or adhesives. It is also contemplated that snaps, hooks and other features may be incorporated into parts such as, for example polygonal column 110, air generator 130, and transfer plenum 144.
As can be seen from
The removable/replaceable/interchangeable panels 110a, 110b, 110c and/or 110d also provide a portable fan 100 that can be moved from room to room (or from indoor use to outdoor use) while still being adaptable to a particular room or environment in which the portable fan 100 is being used.
Another advantage is the unlimited shapes and structures that could be used for corner structures 202 and 222. These shapes promote further aesthetic exploration and creates new application possibilities for the consumer and valuable market advantages for the manufacturer.
In a preferred embodiment where polygonal column 110 is constructed of substantially flat surfaces, such as panels 110a, 110b. 110c and 110d. the use of substantially flat panels enhances the ability to use novel materials, such as for example, wood, fabric, and metals that are normally not associated with conventional fans. These novel materials can be utilized without adding exorbitant costs to portable fan 100 because of the substantially flat surfaces associated with polygonal column 110.
The use of polygonal column 110 as described protects internal components (air generator 130, oscillation mechanism 150 and electrical connections) of portable fan 100 from direct exposure to environmental conditions that may be harmful. These environmental conditions may include for example: direct sun light, rain, dew, dust, dirt, etc. It is further contemplated that portable fan 100 may be constructed of material such as polymers and/or other components, such as for example rain sensors, sealed motors, and sealed switches that would optimize a weather proof construction. The use of these materials and components further facilitates the outdoor use of portable fan 100 on, for example, decks, boats and other areas that might be exposed to varying weather conditions.
The use of oscillation mechanism 150 to rotate and/or oscillate the exhaust air stream without moving polygonal column 110 reduces the visual distraction normally associated with conventional fans.
As shown in
In the embodiment shown in
The flow of air into, though, and out of portable fan 100 as described allow exhaust air stream 302 to exit portable fan 100 from upper portion 322 of polygonal column 110 above air generator 130 and thus be elevated above support surface 320. (Upper portion 322 is defined by the upper half of the overall length “OAL” of portable fan 100). In one embodiment air generator 130 may be located in upper portion 322 of polygonal column 110. As shown air generator assembly 130 is located in lower portion 324 of polygonal column 110 allowing the mass of air generator 130 to be located closer to support surface 320. The location of the mass of air generator 130 in lower portion 324 as shown relative to support surface 320 increases the stability of portable fan 100 and minimizes the size of base 116, thus maximizing space saving characteristics of portable fan 100 while allowing the elevation of plenum outlet 146 and grill 120 above support surface 320. The increased stability also is advantageous for portable fan 100 when located outdoors and subject to external forces, such as for example, wind gusts, accidental impact, etc.
In one embodiment, the center of gravity (not shown) of portable fan 100 is located within lower portion 324 of polygonal column 110.
As illustrated by
As shown the divergently angled air alignment elements 122 are unitary with grill 120, the invention is not so limited. It is contemplated that air alignment elements 122 could be a separate part, (not shown) distinct from grill 120.
It has been found that the even distribution of exhaust air stream 302 across the vertical length of plenum outlet 146 also mitigates air noise. The energy of exhaust air stream 302 is distributed over a greater area of plenum outlet 146. The turbulence associated with exhaust air stream 302 as it exits plenum outlet 146 is decreased and the noise generated by the turbulence is subsequently decreased.
As shown in
Another advantage to the minimization of thrust is that motor 132 of air generator 130 does not require the power that would be needed to move a greater volume of air. This allows the needed motor torque to be reduced and decreases the heat generated by the motor. Motor 132 can therefore utilize fewer materials and be less expensive while yet producing the required exhaust air stream velocity. This in turn yields cost savings for the manufacturer and the consumer.
In one exemplary embodiment, high velocity exhaust air stream 302 has a maximum velocity of about 500 feet per minute or greater when measured at a distance of about 8 feet from outlet opening 111 of portable fan 100. In a preferred embodiment the maximum velocity of exhaust air stream 302 is greater than 1000 feet per minute when measured 8 feet from air outlet opening 111. In another embodiment, the maximum velocity of exhaust air stream 302 is between 750 feet per minute and 2000 feet per minute. The maximum velocity of exhaust air stream 302 is measured by locating an anemometer 8 feet from outlet opening 111 of portable fan 100. The anemometer is moved vertically up and down and horizontally while maintaining the 8 feet of distance until the maximum velocity within exhaust air stream 302 is located. In another exemplary embodiment, the maximum thrust generated in a direction opposite the direction of the flow of air path 316 of exhaust air stream 302 is about 1.0 lbs or less. In one embodiment, the maximum thrust is less than 0.7 lbs. The maximum thrust is measured using a certified thrust table as specified by AMCA (Air Movement and Control Association). In another exemplary embodiment, the ratio of the maximum velocity of exhaust air stream 302 measured at a distance of about 8 feet from air outlet opening 111 divided by the maximum thrust generated in a direction opposite to the direction of the flow of air path 316 of exhaust air stream 302 is about 500:1 or greater.
Air generator 630 is disposed within polygonal column 610 and draws air into polygonal column 610 via inlet 612. The air is subsequently expelled from polygonal column 610 through outlet opening 611 and grill 620.
Portable fan 600 also includes at least one control assembly 670. Control assembly 670 controls one or more functions of portable fan 600. Also shown is power cord 605, utilized to connect portable fan 600 to an electrical power source (i.e. wall outlet). The electrical component connections of portable fan 600 are integrated within the device, such as for example between control assembly 670 and air generator 630. The integration of the electrical component connections within the device eliminates the need for the user to make such connections. In the exemplary embodiment shown, for example, only the connection of power cord 605 to an electrical power source is required for operation of the device. The integration of all the electrical component connections within the device also enhance the portability of portable fan 600.
Preferably power cord 605 will utilize a safety plug. Details of the safety plug and it's advantages can be referenced in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,394,848; 6,604,965; 6,793,535; and 6,896,544, which are hereby incorporated herein by reference.
Also shown in
Disposed within panels 610a, 610b, 610c and 610d is air generator 630. As shown air generator 630 is a cross-flow transverse air generator and includes motor 632, motor bracket 634, lower plate 636, upper plate 638, impeller 631, air guide 633, air cut off 635 and upper bracket 637. Motor bracket 634 and upper bracket 637 are used to attach air generator 630 to polygonal column 610. It is contemplated that motor bracket 634 and/or upper bracket 637 may be unitary with other parts of portable fan 600, such as for example, rear panel 610b, lower plate 636, upper plate 638 and/or motor 632. Impeller 631 is rotated by motor 632 and draws inlet air into polygonal column 610 via at least one inlet openings 612. The inlet air is subsequently accelerated by the rotation of impeller 631 and expelled from polygonal column 610 as an exhaust air stream via outlet opening 611 and through grill 620. Grill 620 is located proximate outlet opening 611. Grill 620 includes grill elements 622. Grill elements 622 serve to further control and direct the exhaust air stream.
In the exemplary embodiment lower plate 636, upper plate 638, air guide and 633 air cut off 635 are connected together and rotatable with respect to polygonal column 610 and/or base 616. Also shown is oscillation mechanism 650 which includes oscillation motor 652, crank 654, link 656 and shoulder screws 658. Oscillation mechanism 650 oscillates; lower plate 636, upper plate 638, air guide and 633 air cut off 635 to disperse the exhaust air stream over a wide area. As shown Oscillation mechanism 650 is a crank and link type, however it has been contemplated that other types such as for example gears and reversible motors may be used.
The rotation and/or oscillation of lower plate 636, upper plate 638, air guide and 633 air cut off 635 within polygonal column 610 allows the exhaust air to be dispersed without moving polygonal column 610. The stationary aspect of polygonal column 610 during oscillation of the exhaust air stream permits portable fan 600 to be less visually distractive than conventional devices that move external components.
The rotation and/or oscillation of lower plate 636, upper plate 638, air guide and 633 air cut off 635 independent of motor 632 allows electrical connections (not shown) and electrical wires (not shown) to remain stationary during the operation of portable fan 600. The wires and connections between motor 632, controller 670 (see
In all other respects polygonal column 610 is similar to polygonal column 110 of
Disposed within interior space 613 is cross-flow impeller 631, motor 632, motor bracket 634, motor bracket 636, upper bracket 637. Motor 632 rotates impeller 631 and draws air into polygonal column 610 via inlet 612. Located proximate inlet 612 is inlet grill 618 through which the air drawn into polygonal column 610 passes. The air is subsequently expelled from polygonal column through grill 620.
Although motor 632 is located below impeller 631 it is contemplated that motor 632 may be located at the upper end of polygonal column 610 below top 614. This location of motor 632 will helps to shield motor 632 from outdoor elements such as rain and allows gravity to pull rain away from motor 632 and towards base 616, thus decreasing the possibility that water will enter motor 632 and compromise function.
As shown inlet air 802 travels along flow path 803 and exhaust air stream 804 travels along flow path 805. Both flow paths 803 and 805 are substantially parallel to support surface 800.
The use of cross-flow impeller 631 may not perform as well outdoors as the previous embodiment of
Cross-flow impeller 631 provides several advantages. For example, the use of cross-flow impeller 631 will cost less to manufacture when compared to air generator 130, transfer plenum 144 and adaptor 140 of
It is contemplated that light source 1050 may uses light emitting diodes (L.E.D.) and clear polymer plates, such as a poly carbonate material for example. The use of L.E.D. as a light source has several advantages. First, the power usage is low compared to other types of light sources. Also, the life span of an L.E.D. is much greater than other light sources. In addition, the ability to “weatherproof” the L.E.D. is simple when compared to larger light sources that require several components such as for example, sockets. Further, the use of an L.E.D. light source and polymer plates create a compact light source that can easily be crafted into many shapes and sizes. Each of the above mentioned characteristics further enhances the design flexibility inherent in the construction of portable fan 1000.
Electrical receptacle 1052 is shown located in the same side of polygonal column 1010 as grill 1020. It is contemplated that electric receptacle 1052 may be located on any side of polygonal column 1010 and/or base 1016.
As shown in
It is contemplated that air filtration elements 1080 may be standard commercially available filter elements. It is also contemplated that air filtration elements 1080 may include a photo catalyst substance such as for example Titanium Dioxide (TiO2). Filtration of the inlet air is enhance by the photo catalyst substance when used in conjunction with internal light source 1090. Internal light source 1090 produces photo energy with the proper frequency, for example between about 200 nm and about 600 nm. The photo energy produced by internal light source 1090 excites the a photo catalyst substance which in turn produces a chemical energy. The produced chemical energy subsequently oxidizes at least a portion of the organic compounds that may be part of the intake air. In all other respects portable fan 1000 functions similar to the previous embodiments.
Conventional tower fan 1120 of
Portable fan 1100 of
Polygonal column 1110 also increases the surface area of portable fan 1100. As shown in
The use of novel materials and construction of polygonal column 1110, (see
The design and materials of polygonal column 1110 are preferably chosen from a variety of materials, colors, and decorative patterns allowing the selection which match furniture and a general room decor. The design and materials of polygonal column 1110 provides a portable fan 1100 that blends in with or adds to a home's decor. In this manner, the portable fan 1100 provides design is unobtrusive and furtive in the environment in which it is used.
The design flexibility inherent in polygonal column 1110 allows portable fan 1100 to mimic other familiar objects. It is contemplated that polygonal column 1110 could be so configured so as to be utilitarian. Examples of such a configuration are: clocks, chairs, tables, lamps, coat racks, ornamental plants, vases, statuary, corner columns and ceiling mounted apparatus. The ability to incorporate utilitarian characteristics into polygonal column 1110 further expands applicable areas of use for portable fan 1100.
Briefly stated, the mechanical structure and/or visible movement of conventional tower fan 1120 and conventional pedestal fan 1130 impede the ability to explore new aesthetic elements that serve to differentiate the units in the marketplace. Portable fan 1100 promotes this aesthetic exploration and creates new application possibilities for the consumer and valuable market advantages for the manufacturer.
As described the preferred embodiment of portable fan of the invention uses an air generator, (having the proper volume and velocity characteristics) to generate an exhaust air stream. Low thrust permits the exhaust air stream to be elevated above a support surface without compromising the stability of the portable fan. Preferably the location of the air generator is in a lower portion of the polygonal column, thus allowing the mass of the air generator to remain closer to the support surface. The location of the air generator as described further enhances the stability of the portable fan. A transfer plenum in conjunction with air directing components conserve the velocity of the exhaust air stream exits the polygonal column above the support surface. As a result the preferred embodiment of the portable fan supplies an exhaust air stream elevated above a support surface, allowing the generated air stream to more readily affect the user's upper body. As described the velocities of the exhaust air stream are sufficient to impinge upon the user and further enhance the cooling sensation. The enhanced stability of the portable fan allows the size of the base to be minimized contributing to space saving characteristics.
In one preferred embodiment, the polygonal column is constructed of flat surfaces, such as panels. The use of flat surfaces enhance the ability to use novel materials normally not associated with conventional fans. The polygonal column is used to enhance the protection of the internal components of the portable fan from direct exposure to environmental conditions that may be harmful.
Although the embodiments illustrate the preferred oscillation and/or rotation of the exhaust air stream as being accomplished without moving the polygonal column, the invention is not so limited. The absence of oscillation movement of the outer panels reduces the visual distraction normally associated with conventional fans. However, as can be appreciated the structure of the polygonal column and the use of innovative material and forms that the structure enhances the construction of a portable fan differentiated from conventional fans. The ability to construct a portable fan having the appearance of furniture and/or architectural elements has obvious market advantages for the manufacturer. The fan incorporated into furniture and/or architectural elements allows the manufacturer to provide the consumer with a cost effective and innovative product.
Although the invention has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it is not limited thereto. Rather, the appended claims should be construed to include other variants and embodiments of the invention, which may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the true spirit and scope of the present invention.
Claims
1. A portable fan comprising:
- base for engaging a mounting surface;
- a plurality of walls connected to said base and extending substantially vertically upward, wherein said plurality of walls form a polygonal column;
- a top connected to a top end of said polygonal column;
- an interior space defined by said plurality of walls and said top;
- at least one air inlet in said polygonal column;
- at least one air outlet located in an upper portion of said polygonal column;
- an air generator disposed within said interior space and in fluid communication with said at least one air inlet and said at least one air outlet;
- an intake air stream induced by said air generator, wherein said intake air stream enters said interior space via said at least one air inlet; and
- an exhaust air stream generated by said air generator, wherein said exhaust air stream exits said interior space via said at least one air outlet;
- wherein said plurality of walls forming said polygonal column are utilized to substantially cover and protect said air generator when viewed from a location exterior to said interior space, and wherein said vertical orientation of said polygonal column raises said exhaust air stream to an elevation above said support surface.
2. The portable fan of claim 1, wherein said plurality of walls forming said polygonal column further comprise at least a first pair of substantially flat walls that are oriented substantially parallel relative to one another.
3. The portable fan of claim 2, wherein said plurality of walls forming said polygonal column further comprise at least a second pair of substantially flat walls that are substantially parallel relative to one another and oriented substantially orthogonal to said first pair of parallel walls.
4. The portable fan of claim 1, wherein said plurality of walls forming said polygonal column further comprise:
- a front wall having said at least one air outlet;
- a rear wall located opposite said front wall; and
- side walls disposed between said front wall and said rear wall, wherein said side walls are substantially orthogonal to said front wall and said rear wall.
5. The portable fan of claim 1, wherein said plurality of walls forming said polygonal column further comprise separate walls that are formed as individual, substantially flat pieces, wherein said separate walls are shipped disconnected from one another, and wherein said separate walls are connected together to form said polygonal column during operation of said portable fan.
6. The portable fan of claim 1, further comprising corner connecting pieces for connecting adjacent walls together.
7. The portable fan of claim 6, wherein corner pieces further comprise slots, wherein side edges of said separate walls are inserted into said slots in said corner connecting pieces, and wherein said connection of said separate walls to said corner connecting pieces does not use separate fasteners.
8. The portable fan of claim 6, wherein said separate walls are connected to said corner connecting pieces by a snap-fit connection, and wherein said connection of said separate walls to said corner connecting pieces does not use separate fasteners.
9. The portable fan of claim 6, further comprising fasteners for connecting said walls to said corner connecting pieces, wherein each of said separate walls include one or more holes along vertical edges of said walls for receiving one of said fasteners, and wherein said corner connecting pieces comprise corresponding holes for receiving said fasteners to connect said walls and said corner connecting pieces.
10. The portable fan of claim 6, wherein said corner connecting pieces are formed along one edge of said walls and wherein said walls further comprise a mating edge, wherein said corner connecting piece and said mating edge of adjacent walls are coupled together to connect said walls.
11. The portable fan of claim 6, wherein said corner connecting pieces extend along a length of said side edge of said walls.
12. The portable fan of claim 6, wherein said corner connecting pieces further comprise L-shaped brackets, wherein an angle of said L-shaped bracket is determined by dividing about 360 degrees by the number of sides of said polygonal column.
13. The portable fan of claim 1, wherein one or more of said plurality of walls further comprises two distinct surfaces, wherein at least one of said walls is reversible to selectively expose one of said distinct surfaces as an exterior surface of said polygonal column.
14. The portable fan of claim 1, wherein at least two of said plurality of walls are identical and interchangeable with one another in an assembly of said portable fan.
15. The portable fan of claim 1, wherein said plurality of walls are at least partially constructed of one or more of: wood, plastic, metal, and/or fabric.
16. The portable fan of claim 1, further comprises an oscillation mechanism wherein said oscillation mechanism moves said exhaust air stream horizontally side to side as it exits said polygonal column via said at least one air outlet opening.
17. The portable fan of claim 16, further comprising a rotatable air transfer plenum disposed within said interior space of said polygonal column, wherein said rotational movement of said exhaust air stream is absent a movement of said polygonal column.
18. The portable fan of claim 17, wherein said rotational movement of said air transfer plenum is substantially concealed by said plurality of walls of said polygonal column.
19. The portable fan according to claim 17, further comprising electrical wires and electrical connections, wherein said electrical wires and/or said electrical connections are substantially stationary during said rotation of said air transfer plenum and said movement of said exhaust air stream.
20. The portable fan of claim 17, further comprising air alignment elements disposed between said air transfer plenum and said air outlet, wherein said air alignment elements extend in a direction substantially radial from an axis of rotation of said air transfer plenum.
21. The portable fan of claim 20, wherein said air alignment elements define an oscillation angle, wherein said air transfer plenum rotates side to side to provide a cooling effect on a user located within an area covered by oscillation of exhaust air stream through said oscillation angle.
22. The portable fan of claim 20, further comprising a grill located proximate said at least one air outlet, wherein said air alignment elements further comprise front edges that forms said grill.
23. The portable fan of claim 20, further comprising a grill located proximate said at least one air outlet, wherein said air alignment elements further comprise a rear edge of said grill, wherein said rear edge comprises a concave shape corresponds to an arc defined by an outlet of said air transfer plenum as said air transfer plenum rotates about said axis of rotation.
24. The portable fan of claim 20, wherein said air alignment elements disposed between said air transfer plenum and said air outlet are formed as part of said polygonal column.
25. The portable fan according to claims 1, further comprising a weather proof construction comprising one or more of: a rain sensor, water proof materials, a sealed housing, sealed motors, and/or sealed switches.
26. The portable fan of claim 1, further comprising a light source.
27. The portable fan of claim 26, wherein said light source comprises a light emitting diode.
28. The portable fan of claim 27, wherein said light source further comprises a polymer plate used to distribute light emitted from said light emitting diode.
29. The portable fan of claim 1, further comprising an electrical receptacle.
30. The portable fan according to claims 1, further comprising an air filtration element disposed proximate said at least one air inlet.
31. The portable fan of claim 30, wherein said air filtration element further comprises a photo catalyst substance and an ultraviolet ray generator used to excite said photo catalyst substance.
32. The portable fan of claim 30, wherein inlet air is drawn into said internal space through said air filtration element.
33. The portable fan according to claims 1, further comprising a non-operating configuration wherein said plurality of walls are disassembled from one another and disassembled from said base and said top and disposed within a shipping package.
34. The portable fan of claim 33, wherein in said shipping package said plurality of walls are one of: stacked beside one another and/or stacked on top of one other to further conserve space in said shipping package.
35. The portable fan of claim 1, wherein said plurality of walls are readily disassembled from one another, and wherein one or more of said plurality of walls are: (i) replaceable with one or more different walls; (ii) interchangeable with another of said plurality of walls; (iii) reverseable to have another surface of said plurality of walls showing to an exterior of said portable fan, wherein said plurality of walls are disassembled and reassembled in order to change an appearance of said portable fan.
36. The portable fan of claim 1, further comprising a maximum velocity of said exhaust air stream measured about 8 feet from said air outlet wherein said maximum velocity of about 500 feet per minute or greater.
37. The portable fan of claim 1, further comprising a maximum thrust in a direction substantially opposite to a direction of the flow of said exhaust air stream as said exhaust air stream exits said air outlet, wherein said maximum thrust of about 1.0 pound of force or less.
38. The portable fan of claim 1, further comprising a velocity to thrust ratio, wherein a maximum velocity of said exhaust air stream measured about 8 feet from said air outlet divided by a maximum thrust generated by said exhaust air stream in a direction substantially opposite to the direction of the flow of said exhaust air stream as it exits said air outlet is about 500:1 or greater.
39. A concealed portable fan comprising:
- a base;
- side walls extending vertically upward from said base, said sidewalls each comprising a bottom edge, a top edge, and side edges;
- a top proximate said top edges of said side walls forming a vertically oriented polygonal column;
- at least a first pair of said side walls being substantially flat and substantially parallel relative to one another;
- at least one air inlet;
- at least one air outlet opening located in an upper portion of said vertically oriented polygonal column;
- a first interior space defined by said a vertically oriented polygonal column;
- an air generator disposed within a lower portion said first interior space comprising;
- a housing;
- an impeller disposed within said housing, wherein said air impeller has a substantially horizontal axis of rotation;
- a motor for rotating said impeller;
- an intake port;
- an exit port;
- a transfer plenum disposed within said first interior space and fluidly connected to said exit port of said air generator, said transfer plenum comprising;
- a plenum wall defining a second interior space;
- at least one plenum outlet in said plenum wall;
- a flow of intake air induced by said air generator, wherein said flow of intake air enters said first interior space via said air inlet; and
- an exhaust air stream generated by said air generator, wherein said exhaust air stream exits said first interior space via said air outlet opening;
- wherein said vertically oriented polygonal column is utilized to substantially conceal and/or disguise said air generator when viewed from a location exterior to said first interior space.
40. A concealed portable fan comprising:
- a vertically oriented polygonal column comprising:
- a base for engaging a mounting surface;
- a top;
- a vertically oriented cover comprising:
- multiple walls extending vertically between said base and said top;
- at least a first pair of said multiple walls being substantially flat and substantially parallel relative to one another;
- at least one vertically elongate air inlet in an upper portion of said vertically oriented cover;
- at least one vertically elongate air outlet opening in an upper portion of said vertically oriented cover;
- a first interior space defined by said vertically oriented polygonal column;
- an air generator disposed within said first interior space between and in fluid communication with said at least one vertically elongate air inlet and said at least one vertically elongate air outlet opening comprising;
- a cross-flow air impeller having a substantially vertical axis of rotation;
- a motor attached to said cross-flow air impeller, said motor rotating said impeller about said vertical axis of rotation;
- a flow of intake air generated by said air generator entering said interior space via said at least one vertically elongate air inlet; and
- an exhaust air stream generated by said air generator exiting said interior space via said at least one vertically elongate air outlet opening;
- wherein said polygonal column is utilized to substantially conceal and/or disguise said air generator when viewed from a location exterior to said interior space.
41. A disguised fan comprising:
- a base;
- a plurality of panels extending substantially vertically upward from said base, said panels adapted to look similar to a piece of furniture or room decor;
- a top at an end of said panels opposite said base;
- an interior space defined by said base, said panels, and said top;
- an air inlet in at least one of said panels to allow air to enter said interior space;
- an air outlet in at least one of said panels to allow an exhaust air stream to exit said interior space; and
- an air blower disposed within said interior space between said air inlet and said air outlet;
- wherein said panels further comprises material provided in numerous patterns and/or colors to match a decor style;
- wherein said plurality of panels disguised said fan as a piece of furniture.
42. The disguised fan of claim 41, wherein said materials of said panels further comprise at least one of wood, fabric, polymer and/or metals.
43. The disguised fan of claim 41, further comprising a polygonal column formed by at least four panels, wherein at least two of said panels form a first pair of substantially flat walls that are oriented substantially parallel relative to one another.
44. The disguised fan of claim 43, further comprising least a second pair of substantially flat walls formed by said panels that are substantially parallel relative to one another and oriented substantially orthogonal to said first pair of substantially parallel, flat walls.
Type: Application
Filed: Nov 23, 2005
Publication Date: Sep 7, 2006
Applicant: Lasko Holdings, Inc. (Wilmington, DE)
Inventors: William Lasko (Chester Springs, PA), Paul Orr (Coatsville, PA), Rodney Wilson (Wilmington, DE)
Application Number: 11/286,597
International Classification: F24F 7/00 (20060101);