Fluid reaction surfaces (i.e. – impellers) – Sustained ancillary movement of rotary working member – Continuous rotation about plural axes
Reexamination Certificate
1998-11-02
2001-09-04
Look, Edward K. (Department: 3745)
Fluid reaction surfaces (i.e., impellers)
Sustained ancillary movement of rotary working member
Continuous rotation about plural axes
C416S100000, C416S061000, C416S108000, C416S246000, C454S338000
Reexamination Certificate
active
06283709
ABSTRACT:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates generally to electric fans and more particularly to an overhead fan that is mounted in a manner to provide adjustment of the fan position in order to circulate air as desired.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Electric fans provide ventilation in a wide variety of industrial and commercial applications. It is common in many factories and other facilities for an overhead fan to be provided for each different work area in order to circulate air in the work areas. Typically, the fan is mounted in a fixed overhead position to direct air generally downwardly toward workers at each work station. While this is often satisfactory, it is at times ineffective because the worker or workers in the vicinity may be located out of the path of the air flow where they do not receive its benefits. The productivity of workers can suffer as a consequence. Also, each work station requires a dedicated fan which results in the need for a large number of fans and a relatively high cost.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention is directed to an overhead fan which is installed to allow adjustment of its position in order to overcome the problems associated with fixed fans. In particular, the direction of air flow can be varied as desired to circulate the air where it is needed at any given time. It is a particular feature of the invention that the fan position is adjusted by power driven systems so that manual adjustments are not required. The number of fans required in a factory or other facility is minimized because the adjustment allows each fan to cover a relatively wide area.
In accordance with the invention, an overhead electric fan can be mounted to an overhead structure such as an I-beam or T-beam. The mounting structure for the fan includes a plate which can be clamped to the beam using a conventional clamp bracket. The plate carries a vertical sleeve which is reinforced by an angled brace. A column is supported to turn in the sleeve and can be selectively adjusted in its rotative position by a motor that acts through a gear train.
The fan is carried on the outer end of a mounting arm having its opposite end pivoted to the bottom of the vertical column. A linear actuator mechanism serves to pivot the arm up and down in order to tilt the fan up and down. The rotational adjustment provided by the column allows the fan to be aimed as desired about the vertical axis of the column. Thus, the mounting arrangement and controls allow the fan to be aimed in any direction laterally and to be tilted to any desired downward angle in order to direct air to the area where it is needed at any particular time. The controls are power operated and can be controlled remotely so that adjustment of the fan position can be made quickly and easily without the need for manual adjustments that can unduly occupy the time and attention of workers. Consequently, the fan of the present invention allows ventilating air to be accurately directed as desired and increases the productivity of workers.
The present invention is also characterized by the provision of a structurally sound mounting system that makes use of readily available components. As a result, the structural integrity of the fan installation is assured and the component costs are minimized. In addition, repair and replacement of parts are quickly, easily and economically carried out when necessary.
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Hill D. Lee
Vanfossan Carolyn
Vanfossan Jimmy D.
Emerson Electric Co.
Hovey Williams Timmons & Collins
Look Edward K.
Vanfossan Carolyn
Woo Richard
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