Description:TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present disclosure relates, in general, to rotary flat fan regulators, and more specifically, relates to a retractable rotary knob mechanism for flat fan regulators for regulating the speed of ceiling fan.

BACKGROUND
[0002] The field of fan regulators has witnessed continuous evolution in response to changing user preferences and advancements in technology. Traditional fan regulators have predominantly featured conventional knobs or buttons, providing basic speed control functionality. While functional, these regulators often lack a sophisticated design that aligns with modern aesthetics and enhanced user experience.
[0003] Existing fan regulators can be categorized into various types, including rotary knobs, push buttons, touch-sensitive panels, and remote-controlled systems. Each of these categories offers distinct advantages and limitations, contributing to a diverse landscape of options available to consumers. As user preferences continue to evolve, there is a growing demand for fan regulators that not only fulfil their utilitarian purpose but also integrate seamlessly with contemporary interior designs. Consumers now seek products that blend aesthetics with functionality, complementing their living spaces while providing intuitive and engaging interfaces.
[0004] Therefore, it is desired to overcome the drawbacks, shortcomings, and limitations associated with existing solutions, and develop a retractable knob that combines innovative design, enhanced user experience, and improved grip comfort. By integrating a retractable knob, this regulator achieves a harmonious balance between form, function, and user-friendliness.

OBJECTS OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE
[0005] An object of the present disclosure relates, in general, to a rotary flat fan regulator, and more specifically, relates to a retractable rotary knob mechanism for a flat fan regulator for regulating the speed of a ceiling fan.
[0006] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a retractable knob mechanism which enables the user to smoothly extend and retract the knob for fan speed control, thereby enhancing both functionality and aesthetics.
[0007] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a retractable knob mechanism that incorporates a dual knob configuration in which one knob is directly connected to a printed circuit board (PCB) assembly while the other retractable knob offers a tactile and interactive experience.
[0008] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a retractable knob mechanism that provides seamless integration of the fan regulator with other wiring devices in the board. The flush resting position of the knob maintains a sleek appearance when not in use, ensuring an obtrusive presence in the room while its purposeful emergence adds to the overall user experience.
[0009] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a retractable knob mechanism that provides improved ergonomics as the larger gripping surface of the rectangular knob with increased holding depth due to travel from the slot enhances user comfort and usability providing a secure and natural grip for adjusting fan speed.
[0010] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a customization potential for the knob as the rectangular knob design allows for customization through various textures, materials, and finishes, providing an opportunity for product differentiation and catering to diverse consumer preferences.
[0011] Another object of the present disclosure enhances the usability of the fan regulator, as for a rectangular knob it is easy to locate the speed position even in the dark which is not possible in the case of round knobs as they are symmetrical.
[0012] Yet another object of the present disclosure enables easy adaptability to different kinds of regulators be it resistive, capacitive, and triac.

SUMMARY
[0013] The present disclosure relates in general, to rotary flat fan regulators, and more specifically, relates to a retractable rotary knob mechanism for flat fan regulators for regulating the speed of ceiling fans. The main objective of the present disclosure is to overcome the drawback, limitations, and shortcomings of the existing device and solution, by providing the retractable knob fan regulator that represents a revolutionary departure from conventional designs, considering the diverse landscape of existing fan regulators, the evolving expectations of modern consumers, and the paramount importance of providing a user-friendly and ergonomic grip. By merging functionality, aesthetics, and comfort, this invention stands at the forefront of a new era in fan control interfaces.
[0014] The present disclosure relates to a device for regulating the speed of a fan, the device includes a rear housing that provides a structural enclosure of a printed circuit board (PCB) assembly secured by a plastic plate. The plastic plate secures the PCB assembly within the rear housing by utilizing the snap-fit locking mechanism, ensuring a stable and secure placement of the assembly, thereby preventing any undesirable movement or displacement. A front cover defines an outer shell of the device, front cover securely encloses the housing and accommodates two separate knobs for user interaction, the two separate knobs include a fixed knob directly connected to a rotary shaft of the PCB assembly, and the fixed knob possesses a cylindrical cutout along its center, the cutout having an inner rectangular pathway and circular slots situated at both ends of the cylindrical cutout. A retractable knob is distinguished by at least two protruding legs equipped with a fastening mechanism to facilitate guided motion. The retractable knob is rectangular having an enlarged gripping surface and increased holding depth, which provides a secure and ergonomic grip for adjusting the speed of the fan. Upon activation, the retractable knob executes a clockwise rotation of predefined degrees, allowing the retractable knob to extend from the fixed knob, providing visual engagement for the user.
[0015] In an aspect, the inner rectangular pathway of the fixed knob guides the movement of the retractable knob. The fixed knob and the retractable knob are configured to adhere to the bottom of the front cover, preserving a streamlined appearance while effectively guiding the movement of the retractable knob.
[0016] In another aspect, the retractable knob executes a clockwise rotation of approximately 20 degrees, causing the protruding legs to disengage from the circular slots of the fixed knob and enter the rectangular pathway on the inner wall of the fixed knob. The retractable knob integrates a spring mechanism, ensuring it remains compressed during regular operation. The spring mechanism, upon clockwise rotation of the retractable knob, generates an inherent spring force within the retractable knob, facilitating upward movement within the rectangular pathway, wherein the upward movement culminates in reaching the top circular slot of the fixed knob, thereby allowing the retractable knob to extend from the fixed knob.
[0017] In another aspect, the retractable knob, upon regulating desired speed, is pressed downward and rotated anticlockwise by approximately 20 degrees, thereby engaging the protruding legs into the circular slots of the fixed knob. The retractable knob, upon executing the anticlockwise rotation, ensures retraction of the retractable knob into the fixed knob and maintains a flat profile during periods of inactivity.
[0018] Thus, the retractable knob, when not in use, remains flush with the regulator's surface, ensuring a sleek and unobtrusive appearance. Upon interaction, the knob smoothly extends, offering both tactile satisfaction, ergonomic grip, and visual engagement. This interaction not only adjusts fan speed but also creates a unique connection between the user and the device, ensuring a comfortable and controlled experience.
[0019] Various objects, features, aspects, and advantages of the inventive subject matter will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments, along with the accompanying drawing figures in which like numerals represent like components.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0020] The following drawings form part of the present specification and are included to further illustrate aspects of the present disclosure. The disclosure may be better understood by reference to the drawings in combination with the detailed description of the specific embodiments presented
[0021] FIG.1 illustrates an exploded view of the retractable knob fan regulator with all the components in the assembly order, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0022] FIG.2A illustrates a simple five-step retractable rotary fan regulator in an extended mode of knob, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0023] FIG.2B illustrates a simple five-step retractable rotary fan regulator in a retracted mode of the knob, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0024] FIG.2C illustrates the inside assembly of the fan regulator after removing the front cover, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0025] FIG.2D illustrates the fixed knob which is always engaged with the rotary shaft, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0026] FIG.2E illustrates the retractable knob, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0027] FIG. 2F illustrates the cross-sectional view of a dual knob configuration assembly in which a retractable knob is spring-loaded, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0028] The following is a detailed description of embodiments of the disclosure depicted in the accompanying drawings. The embodiments are in such detail as to clearly communicate the disclosure. If the specification states a component or feature “may”, “can”, “could”, or “might” be included or have a characteristic, that particular component or feature is not required to be included or have the characteristic.
[0029] As used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow, the meaning of “a,” “an,” and “the” includes plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Also, as used in the description herein, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
[0030] The proposed device disclosed in the present disclosure overcomes the drawbacks, shortcomings, and limitations associated with the conventional device by providing a retractable knob mechanism that incorporates a dual knob configuration in which one knob is directly connected to the PCB assembly while the other retractable knob offers a tactile and interactive experience.
[0031] The present disclosure relates to a device for regulating the speed of a fan, the device includes a rear housing that provides a structural enclosure of a printed circuit board (PCB) assembly secured by a plastic plate. The plastic plate secures the PCB assembly within the rear housing by utilizing the snap-fit locking mechanism, ensuring a stable and secure placement of the assembly, thereby preventing any undesirable movement or displacement. A front cover defines an outer shell of the device, front cover securely encloses the housing and accommodates two separate knobs for user interaction, the two separate knobs include a fixed knob directly connected to a rotary shaft of the PCB assembly, and the fixed knob possesses a cylindrical cutout along its center, the cutout having an inner rectangular pathway and circular slots situated at both ends of the cylindrical cutout. A retractable knob is distinguished by at least two protruding legs equipped with a fastening mechanism to facilitate guided motion. The retractable knob is rectangular having an enlarged gripping surface and increased holding depth, which provides a secure and ergonomic grip for adjusting the speed of the fan. Upon activation, the retractable knob executes a clockwise rotation of predefined degrees, allowing the retractable knob to extend from the fixed knob, providing visual engagement for the user.
[0032] In an aspect, the inner rectangular pathway of the fixed knob guides the movement of the retractable knob. The fixed knob and the retractable knob are configured to adhere to the bottom of the front cover, preserving a streamlined appearance while effectively guiding the movement of the retractable knob.
[0033] In another aspect, the retractable knob executes the clockwise rotation of approximately 20 degrees, causing the protruding legs to disengage from the circular slots of the fixed knob and enter the rectangular pathway on the inner wall of the fixed knob. The retractable knob integrates a spring mechanism, ensuring it remains compressed during regular operation. The spring mechanism, upon clockwise rotation of the retractable knob, generates an inherent spring force within the retractable knob, facilitating upward movement within the rectangular pathway, wherein the upward movement culminates in reaching the top circular slot of the fixed knob, thereby allowing the retractable knob to extend from the fixed knob.
[0034] In another aspect, the retractable knob, upon regulating desired speed, is pressed downward and rotated anticlockwise by approximately 20 degrees, thereby engaging the protruding legs into the circular slots of the fixed knob. The retractable knob, upon executing the anticlockwise rotation, ensures retraction of the retractable knob into the fixed knob and maintains a flat profile during periods of inactivity. The present disclosure can be described in enabling detail in the following examples, which may represent more than one embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0035] The advantages achieved by the device of the present disclosure can be clear from the embodiments provided herein. The retractable knob, when not in use, maintains a flush position with the regulator's surface, ensuring a sleek and unobtrusive appearance. Upon interaction, it smoothly extends, offering tactile satisfaction, ergonomic grip, and visual engagement. This interaction not only facilitates fan speed adjustment but also establishes a unique connection between the user and the device, guaranteeing a comfortable and controlled experience. Thus, the present invention overcomes the drawbacks of existing solutions by providing a fan regulator with a retractable knob that embodies a sophisticated interplay of components. This includes both fixed and retractable knobs, spring mechanisms, and guided pathways. This dynamic configuration offers an innovative and ergonomic solution for fan speed control, ensuring an engaging user experience while maintaining an unobtrusive appearance when not in use. The description of terms and features related to the present disclosure shall be clear from the embodiments that are illustrated and described; however, the invention is not limited to these embodiments only. Numerous modifications, changes, variations, substitutions, and equivalents of the embodiments are possible within the scope of the present disclosure. Additionally, the invention can include other embodiments that are within the scope of the claims but are not described in detail with respect to the following description.
[0036] FIG.1 illustrates an exploded view of the retractable knob fan regulator with all the components in the assembly order, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0037] Referring to FIG.1, retractable rotary knob mechanism 100 (also referred to as device 100, herein) for flat fan regulator for regulating the speed of the ceiling fan (also referred to as a fan, herein) is disclosed. The retractable rotary knob mechanism 100 can include a retractable knob 102, fixed knob 104, front cover 106, plastic plate 108, printed circuit board (PCB) assembly 110, rear housing 112 and a spring mechanism 114
[0038] The device 100 can include the rear housing 112, containing the PCB assembly 110, secured by the plastic plate 108 affixed within the housing through a snap-fit locking mechanism. The rear housing 112 serves as the structural enclosure of the device, providing support and protection to internal components. It houses the crucial PCB assembly 110, ensuring its stability and proper positioning within the device.
[0039] The PCB assembly 110 is a critical electronic component responsible for managing and coordinating the electrical functions of the device. It contains various circuitry and electronic elements that facilitate the proper operation of the fan regulator. The plastic plate 108 plays a pivotal role in securing the PCB assembly 110 within the rear housing 112. It achieves this by utilizing the snap-fit locking mechanism, ensuring a stable and secure placement of the assembly, thereby preventing any undesirable movement or displacement.
[0040] The front cover 106 encloses the housing, hosting two distinct knobs for interaction. The components can include the fixed knob 104 and the retractable knob 102, each serving a pivotal role in the regulator's operation. The front cover 106 is the outer shell of the device, enclosing the entire housing and providing a protective barrier. The front cover 106 accommodates two separate knobs for user interaction, allowing individuals to easily control and adjust the settings of the fan regulator. The two separate knobs can include the fixed knob 104 and the retractable knob 102.
[0041] The fixed knob 104 is directly linked to the rotary shaft of the PCB assembly110 and incorporates a cylindrical cutout along its center. The cutout can include an inner rectangular pathway and circular slots situated at both ends of the cylindrical cutout. The retractable knob 102, the secondary component, is characterized by two protruding legs with a fastening mechanism i.e., snaps designed for guided motion. The spring mechanism 114 is integrated within the retractable knob 102, maintaining it in a compressed state under normal conditions. This ensures that both the fixed and retractable knobs rest flush against the bottom of the front cover 106, maintaining a streamlined appearance guiding the movement of the retractable knob 102.
[0042] The retractable knob 102 is distinguished by at least two protruding legs equipped with snaps to facilitate guided motion, whereupon activation, the retractable knob 102 executes a clockwise rotation of predefined degrees i.e., 20 degrees, allowing the retractable knob 102 to extend from the fixed knob 104, providing visual engagement for the user to adjust the fan speed. The retractable knob 102 integrates the spring mechanism 114 shown in FIG. 2F, ensuring it remains compressed during regular operation.
[0043] The fixed knob 104 and the retractable knob 102 are configured to adhere to the bottom of the front cover 106, preserving a streamlined appearance while effectively guiding the movement of the retractable knob 102. The retractable knob 102 executes the clockwise rotation of approximately 20 degrees, resulting in the disengagement of the protruding legs from the circular slots of the fixed knob 104 and entering the rectangular pathway on the inner wall of the fixed knob.
[0044] The spring mechanism 114, upon clockwise rotation of the retractable knob 102, generates an inherent spring force within the retractable knob, facilitating upward movement within the rectangular pathway. The upward movement culminates in reaching the top circular slot of the fixed knob 104, thereby allowing the retractable knob 102 to extend from the fixed knob 104. The retractable knob 102, upon regulating desired speed, is pressed downward and rotated anticlockwise by approximately 20 degrees, thereby engaging the protruding legs into the circular slots of the fixed knob 104. The retractable knob 102, upon undergoing anticlockwise rotation, ensures retraction of the retractable knob 102 into the fixed knob and maintains a flat profile during periods of inactivity.
[0045] The retractable knob 102, when not in use, remains flush with the regulator's surface, ensuring a sleek and unobtrusive appearance. Upon interaction, the knob smoothly extends, offering both tactile satisfaction, ergonomic grip, and visual engagement. This interaction not only adjusts fan speed but also creates a unique connection between the user and the device, ensuring a comfortable and controlled experience.
[0046] Thus, the present invention overcomes the drawbacks, shortcomings, and limitations associated with existing solutions, and provides the retractable knob fan regulator that embodies a sophisticated interplay of components, encompassing both fixed and retractable knobs, spring mechanisms, and precisely engineered guided pathways. This dynamic configuration presents an innovative and ergonomic solution for fan speed control, ensuring an engaging user experience while maintaining an unobtrusive appearance when not in use.
[0047] In accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, FIG. 2A demonstrates a retractable rotary fan regulator 100 with a five-step configuration in the extended mode of the knob. FIG. 2B illustrates the same regulator in the retracted mode of the knob. Furthermore, FIG. 2C provides a view of the inside assembly of the fan regulator after the removal of the front cover. In FIG. 2D, the fixed knob, which remains consistently engaged with the rotary shaft, is depicted. The retractable knob 102 is presented in FIG. 2E. Finally, FIG. 2F offers a cross-sectional view of the dual knob configuration assembly, highlighting the spring-loaded feature of the retractable knob 102.
[0048] In an implementation, during operation, the retractable knob 102 is manipulated by a clockwise rotation of approximately 20 degrees. As the knob 102 is rotated, the legs of the retractable knob 102 disengage from the circular slot present at both the beginning and end of the cylindrical cutout of the fixed knob 104. Subsequently, the legs enter the rectangular pathway on the inner wall of the fixed knob 104. The inherent spring force within the retractable knob 102 causes it to rise within the rectangular pathway, ultimately reaching the top circular slot of the fixed knob 104. This strategic spring-loaded action enables the retractable knob 102 to elegantly emerge from the fixed knob 104, providing a tactile and visual engagement for the user. The defined path and circular slot configuration ensure that the retractable knob 102 remains securely attached to the fixed knob 104.
[0049] The present disclosure empowers users to seamlessly adjust the fan speed by interacting with the retractable knob 102. Once the desired speed is achieved, the retractable knob 102 can be gently pressed downward and rotated anticlockwise by approximately 20 degrees. This action realigns the legs with the circular slot, facilitating a smooth retraction and allowing the regulator to maintain a flat profile when not in use.
[0050] For example, in a fan regulator, as disclosed herein, the retractable knob mechanism 100 is employed for adjusting fan speed. The mechanism allows for a controlled clockwise rotation of the retractable knob by approximately 20 degrees, providing a tactile and responsive user experience. This mechanism includes the retractable knob with legs designed to engage slots on the fixed knob, ensuring precise motion. Once the desired speed is achieved, a gentle downward pressure and a 20-degree anticlockwise rotation of the retractable knob securely set the chosen speed.
[0051] The fan speed regulation is achieved through a series of capacitors. A variable capacitance arrangement, typically composed of multiple capacitors connected in series with tapping points corresponding to distinct speed settings, is integrated into the regulator. The knob is mechanically linked to a shaft that extends into the Printed Circuit Board (PCB) module. Rotation of the knob results in an increase in capacitance, leading to a reduction in voltage supplied to the fan. For instance, a fan with a rated voltage of 230V may receive only 180V due to the voltage division effect. This operation is particularly relevant in regions where the standard voltage is 230V. Consequently, this reduction in voltage diminishes the fan's operational speed.
[0052] Furthermore, the design facilitates the retraction of the retractable knob 102 into the fixed knob 104 during periods of non-use, maintaining a compact form. The disclosed mechanism offers a reliable and user-friendly means of regulating fan speed, combining both tactile and visual engagement. The defined motion path and circular slot configuration ensure a secure attachment between the retractable knob 102 and the fixed knob 104, contributing to consistent operation.
[0053] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that device 100 of the disclosure may be provided using some or all of the mentioned features and components without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. While various embodiments of the present disclosure have been illustrated and described herein, it will be clear that the disclosure is not limited to these embodiments only. Numerous modifications, changes, variations, substitutions, and equivalents will be apparent to those skilled in the art, without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure, as described in the claims.

ADVANTAGES OF THE PRESENT INVENTION
[0054] The present invention provides a retractable knob mechanism that provides seamless integration of the fan regulator with other wiring devices in the board. The flush resting position of the knob maintains a sleek appearance when not in use, ensuring an obtrusive presence in the room while its purposeful emergence adds to the overall user experience.
[0055] The present invention provides a retractable knob mechanism that smoothly extends, offering tactile satisfaction, ergonomic grip, and visual engagement. This interaction not only adjusts fan speed but also creates a unique connection between the user and the device, ensuring a comfortable and controlled experience.
[0056] The present invention provides a retractable knob mechanism that provides improved ergonomics as the larger gripping surface of the rectangular knob with increased holding depth due to travel from the slot enhances user comfort and usability providing a secure and natural grip for adjusting fan speed.
[0057] The present invention provides a customization potential for the knob as the rectangular knob design allows for customization through various textures, materials, and finishes, providing an opportunity for product differentiation and catering to diverse consumer preferences.
[0058] The present invention enhances the usability of the fan regulator, as for a rectangular knob it is easy to locate the speed position even in the dark which is not possible in the case of round knobs as they are symmetrical.
[0059] The present invention enables easy adaptability to different kinds of regulators be it resistive, capacitive, and triac.
, Claims:1. A device (100) for regulating speed of a fan, the device comprising:
a rear housing (112) provides a structural enclosure of a printed circuit board (PCB) assembly (110) secured by a plastic plate (108);
a front cover (106) defines an outer shell of the device, the front cover (106) securely encloses the rear housing and accommodates two separate knobs for user interaction, enabling the adjustment of the speed of the fan, the two separate knobs comprising:
a fixed knob (104) directly connected to a rotary shaft of the PCB assembly, the fixed knob possesses a cylindrical cutout along its center, the cylindrical cutout having an inner rectangular pathway and circular slots situated at both ends of the cylindrical cutout; and
a retractable knob (102) is distinguished by at least two protruding legs equipped with a fastening mechanism to facilitate guided motion, wherein upon activation, the retractable knob (102) executes a clockwise rotation of predefined degrees, allowing the retractable knob (102) to extend from the fixed knob (104), providing visual engagement for the user to adjust the speed of the fan.
2. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plastic plate (108) secures the PCB assembly (110) within the rear housing (112) by utilizing a snap-fit locking mechanism, ensuring stable and secure placement of the PCB assembly, thereby preventing any undesirable movement or displacement.
3. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the retractable knob (102) is rectangular having an enlarged gripping surface and increased holding depth, which provides a secure and ergonomic grip for adjusting the speed of the fan.
4. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the inner rectangular pathway of the fixed knob (104) serves to direct and guide the movement of the retractable knob (102).
5. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the fixed knob (104) and the retractable knob (102) are configured to adhere to bottom of the front cover (106), preserving a streamlined appearance while effectively guiding movement of the retractable knob (102).
6. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the retractable knob (102) executes the clockwise rotation of approximately 20 degrees, causing the at least two protruding legs to disengage from the circular slots of the fixed knob (104) and enter the rectangular pathway on the inner wall of the fixed knob (104).
7. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the retractable knob (102) integrates a spring mechanism (114), ensuring it remains compressed during regular operation.
8. The device as claimed in claim 7, wherein the spring mechanism (114), upon clockwise rotation of the retractable knob (102), generates an inherent spring force within the retractable knob, facilitating upward movement within the rectangular pathway, wherein the upward movement culminates in reaching top circular slot of the fixed knob (104), thereby allowing the retractable knob (102) to extend from the fixed knob (104).
9. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the retractable knob (102), upon regulating desired speed, is pressed downward and rotated anticlockwise by approximately 20 degrees, thereby engaging the at least two protruding legs into the circular slots of the fixed knob.
10. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the retractable knob (102), upon executing the anticlockwise rotation, ensures retraction of the retractable knob (102) into the fixed knob and maintains a flat profile during periods of inactivity.