DESC:FORM-2
THE PATENT ACT, 1970
(39 OF 1970)
AND
THE PATENT RULES, 2003
(As Amended)

COMPLETE SPECIFICATION
(See section 10; rule 13)

“Telescopic Extension Mechanism for Ceiling Fans”

V-Guard Industries Ltd., having its registered office at 42/962, Vennala High School Road, Vennala, Kochi – 682028, India.

The following specification particularly describes the invention:

Field of invention
The present invention relates to a telescopic extension mechanism for ceiling fans. In particular, the telescopic extension mechanism comprises a screw driven telescopic mechanism for lowering and raising a ceiling fan.
Background
Ceiling fans have long been a staple in homes and offices around the world, providing an efficient and cost-effective means of air circulation. These fan systems typically employ a structural component known as a down-rod to support and suspend the fan from the ceiling. The traditional design involves a fixed-length down-rod that connects one end to the ceiling using a mounting bracket, while the other end attaches to the ceiling fan with another mounting bracket.
While this conventional setup is effective in maintaining the fan's stability and position, it presents several significant challenges, particularly when the fan requires cleaning or maintenance. The fixed length of the down-rod means that the ceiling fan is often positioned at a height that is difficult to reach without the aid of additional tools such as ladders or scaffolding. This not only makes the maintenance process cumbersome and time-consuming but also poses safety risks.
The necessity of using a ladder or other elevated platform introduces the risk of falls or accidents during maintenance activities. Additionally, there is an inherent danger associated with the potential accidental activation of the ceiling fan while it is being cleaned or serviced. This can lead to severe injuries to the maintenance personnel or cleaning staff.
Hence, these challenges highlight the need for an innovative solution that can overcome the challenges and provide greater flexibility, fan accessibility, secure locking and safety during the maintenance of ceiling fans.
Summary
The present invention is directed to an telescopic extension mechanism for ceiling fans. The telescopic extension mechanism comprises a telescopic extension mechanism for adjusting height of a ceiling fan by lowering and raising the ceiling fan. The telescopic extension mechanism includes a gear transmission and lead screws that drive the linear motion of the fan assembly The system allows for precise positioning and secure locking of the fan at any desired height.
In an embodiment, the telescopic extension mechanism comprising a motor unit, a gear transmission unit with plurality of interconnected sections, plurality of coaxial lead screw sections connected to the gear transmission unit and a linear guide. The motor acts as a power source that drives the gear transmission. The gear transmission unit reduces the motor's rotational speed and increases its torque. The interconnected lead screws convert rotational motion into linear motion. The linear guide comprises a mechanism that guides the linear motion of the fan assembly.
In other words, the telescopic extension mechanism comprises a telescopic linear actuator system utilizing a screw-driven mechanism for sequential extension and retraction of multiple nested stages. The actuator is designed to achieve compact retraction and significant linear displacement through a series of mechanically linked telescopic segments. This mechanism is intended to be used for ceiling-mounted fans, enabling the fan to be lowered for periodic cleaning or maintenance and raised back to its operating position.
The mechanism comprises a stationary outer housing that serves as the base structure and one or more telescopic stages concentrically nested within each other. Each movable stage is housed within the previous outer stage and is configured to extend and retract in a defined sequence. A rotary drive source, such as an electric motor, is operatively coupled to a lead screw system that drives the linear actuation process.
Each telescopic stage includes an axially aligned lead screw and a corresponding fixed or floating nut arrangement. The lead screw of the outermost movable stage is directly driven by the motor, converting rotational motion into linear displacement via a threaded engagement. Upon full extension of a given stage, the rotational motion is transferred to the next inner stage through mechanical coupling, such as a torque limiter, clutch, or physical stop. This transfer initiates the extension of the subsequent stage in a controlled and sequential manner.
The retraction process is initiated by reversing the motor’s direction, causing the innermost extended stage to retract first, followed by the successive retraction of each outer stage in reverse sequence. This ensures smooth and reliable operation in both deployment and retraction cycles.
The number of stages can be varied depending on the application requirements, without altering the fundamental operating principle. Thread pitch, screw geometry, material selection, and anti-rotation mechanisms are chosen based on the desired linear speed, load capacity, and mechanical precision.
Optional features may include limit switches, encoders, torque-sensing elements, or spring-loaded stops to monitor and control the position and sequence of each stage. The modular nature of the design enables scalability and adaptability across a wide range of applications.
The height of the fan may be adjusted as per the need of the user. Additionally, the system includes a feature to raise and lower a fan, which incorporates a positive locking system to ensure stability.
In an aspect, the system’s speed and height of actuation may be precisely controlled through an electronic PCB.
In an aspect, the system additionally, comprises a datum stopping system to secure the fan assembly at any desired position. The datum stopping system may include rotation couplings or limit stops for positional accuracy and mechanical stability.
In an aspect of the present invention, a power supply circuit is configured to activate the motor only when the fan assembly is in the fully closed position, ensuring safety and energy efficiency. The system’s speed and height of actuation can be precisely controlled through an electronic PCB. Additionally, the system in an embodiment, may also comprise an IoT enabled control system to remotely control the operation of the system.
This adjustable system would enhance user safety and convenience, eliminating the need for ladders and reducing the risk of accidental fan operation during maintenance. The system ensures a shorter overall length during regular operation, ensuring that the fan remains in an optimal position for everyday use. Conversely, the down-rod may be extended to a longer length when cleaning or servicing is required, thus making the fan more accessible.
The present invention is also directed to a method of operation of telescopic extension mechanism comprising below steps:
a) activating the motor to drive the gear transmission and lead screws;
b) lowering the fan assembly to a desired position;
c) activating the motor to reverse the direction of the gear transmission and lead screws; and
d) raising the fan assembly to its original position.
The present invention is also directed to a method of operation of telescopic extension mechanism comprising below steps:
a) activating the motor to drive the gear transmission and lead screws;
b) lowering the fan assembly to a desired cleaning position;
c) cleaning the fan blades;
d) activating the motor to reverse the direction of the gear transmission and lead screws; and
e) raising the fan assembly to its original position.
By allowing the telescopic shaft to extend and retract as needed, the system can position the fan at a lower height for easy access during cleaning or servicing and at a standard height during regular operation.
Brief description of drawings
Figure 1 illustrates an isometric view of the collapsed telescopic extension mechanism showing the overall assembly.
Figure 2 illustrates an expanded view of the telescopic extension mechanism showing interconnected gear sections according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 3 illustrates a front view of the expanded telescopic extension mechanism, displaying the components and their arrangement according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 4 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the expanded telescopic mechanism in an expanded stateaccording to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 5 illustrates a magnified view of a stopping mechanism emphasizing an internal screw and datum stop according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 6 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the collapsed telescopic mechanism, showing the compact design and the arrangement of the gear section and lead screws according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 7 shows different stages of fan extensions utilizing telescopic mechanism according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Detailed description
The following description with reference to the accompanying drawings is provided to assist in a comprehensive understanding of exemplary embodiments of the invention.
The present invention relates to an telescopic extension mechanism for ceiling fans and the associated method or mechanism. The telescopic extension mechanism comprises a telescopic mechanism for adjusting height of a ceiling fan.
In an embodiment, the present invention discloses a telescopic extension mechanism for ceiling fans. The system allows for precise positioning and secure locking of the fan at any desired height. The invention utilizes a telescopic mechanism providing a variable-length down-rod and thus offers a practical and efficient answer to ceiling fan cleaning and servicing problems. By allowing a down-rod to extend and retract as needed, this telescopic mechanism can position the fan at a lower height for easy access during cleaning or servicing and at a standard height during regular operation.
Such a variable-length mechanism not only enhances user convenience but also significantly reduces the risks associated with traditional maintenance methods. This innovative approach promises to transform the way ceiling fans are maintained, ensuring a safer and more efficient process for all involved.
Figure 1 shows an isometric view of the collapsed telescopic mechanism for cleaning ceiling fans, showing the overall fan assembly 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The fan assembly 100 comprises a gear cover unit 101, a cover 102 and a fan unit 103.
Figure 2 illustrates an expanded view of the telescopic mechanism 200 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The assembly 200 comprises a fan bush 201, a gear motor 202 and a gear transmission divided into three interconnected sections. The interconnected section comprise a first section 203, a second section 204 and a third section 205.
In an embodiment, Figure 3 illustrates a front view of an expanded telescopic mechanism 200, displaying the components and their arrangement according to an embodiment of the present invention. According to the embodiment, the first section 203 is the outermost and uppermost movable segment, telescopically housed within a telescopic section cover 301. The second section 204 is coaxial with and can be housed within the first section 203. It is coupled mechanically, such that once the first section 203 reaches its extension limit, further actuation causes the second section 204 to begin extension. It includes features such as anti-rotation slots, internal threads, or lead nut interfaces to facilitate linear motion. The third section 205 is nested within the second section 204 and operates similarly in sequential motion. Upon full extension of the second segment, continued drive results in the extension of the third section 205. Each section is aligned to ensure smooth translation and may include internal guides or linear bearings. The third and final section 205 connects to the output load (e.g., fan unit) and represents the last stage of telescopic extension. It provides the maximum range of vertical displacement when fully extended. It may also incorporate rotational couplings, or limit stops for positional accuracy and mechanical stability.

Figure 4 shows an internal cross-sectional view of an extended telescopic mechanism 400 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The telescopic mechanism 400 comprises a ball bearing 401, a linear guide mechanism, a dowel pin 407, and a fan holder 412.
In an embodiment, the linear guide mechanism comprises a lead screw 404, a lead screw nut 406, a linear key shaft 405, and a lead screw nut holder 408. The ball bearing 401 allows the lead screw 404 to rotate freely around its axis and the lead screw 404 enables the mechanism 400 to function by rotating with the torque delivered by the motor. The telescopic mechanism 400 further comprises a first internal screw 409 and a second internal screw 411. Both the first internal screw 409 and the second internal screw 411 are coupled to the plurality of telescopic sections 203, 204 and 205. The lead screw nut 406 guides and holds Internal screw 1 in its position. The linear key shaft 405 transfers rotational motion from the lead screw 404 to first internal screws 409 and second internal screw 411 respectively. The dowel pin 407 securely locks the lead screw 404 to the subsequent first and second internal screws 409 and 411. The lead screw nut holder 408 holds and supports the lead screw nut 406 and the Fan holder is section used to mount the fan to the telescopic assembly. The relative rotation of lead screw 404, first internal screw 409 and second internal screw 411 results in linear motion of the telescopic section 203, 204, 205 respectively. In an embodiment, the lead screw unit 404 comprises plurality of interconnected lead screws. The lead screw 404 is used to translate rotational motion through motor through the gear transmission unit, into linear motion. The telescopic mechanism 400 thus allows for precise positioning and secure locking of the fan assembly.
Figure 5 shows a close-up view of the datum stopping mechanism 500 displaying internal components according to an embodiment of the present invention. The mechanism 500 comprises the first internal screw 409 and a datum stop 410. The datum stopping mechanism 500 utilizes the datum stop 410 and the first internal screw 409 to limit the extension of the telescopic mechanism 200, 400 and to achieve precise positioning of the fan assembly. The first internal screw helps in extending and collapsing the telescopic poles and the fan assembly cannot move past the datum stop.
In an embodiment, the datum stop mechanism may utilize either the first internal screw, or the second internal screw or a combination thereof along with the datum stop to achieve precise positioning of the fan assembly.
Figure 6 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the collapsed telescopic mechanism 600, displaying the compact design and the arrangement of the components according to an embodiment of the present invention. The assembly also shows a gear transmission unit comprising a first gear 601, a second gear 602 and a third gear 603. The first gear 601, second gear 602 and the third gear 603 are used to adjust the torque and speed of the motor according to the desired output. A limit switch 604 is provided for safety, the limit switch 604 allows the fan’s rotation only when the telescopic mechanism is fully collapsed, and the limit switch 604 is engaged for securing the fan assembly.
In an embodiment of the present invention, a method of operation of telescopic extension system comprises below steps:
a. For lowering the height of fan
The motor 106 activates and drives the gear transmission unit. The gear transmission unit, in turn, rotates the interconnected screws housed within telescopic sections. The lead screw nut converts the rotational motion of the motor and lead screw into linear motion, causing the entire telescopic section to move in a linear downward direction while internal components follow a circular motion to facilitate the opening and closing of the telescopic mechanism. This motion allows the fan assembly to move downwards. The height of the fan assembly may be adjusted as per the need of the user. In figure 7 different stages of telescopic extension system are illustrated. The stage 1 represents a collapsed view, stage 2 represents half-expanded view and stage 3 represents fully expanded view of the telescopic extension system allowing for precise positioning of the fan.
b. For raising the height of fan
The motor 106 activates and drives the gear transmission in a reverse direction, causing the lead screw to rotate in the opposite direction. The linear guide converts the rotational motion into linear motion, raising the fan assembly. The locking mechanism/ dowel pin engages, securing the fan in its original position.
In an embodiment, the present invention relates to a method of operation of telescopic extension system comprising below steps:
a) activating the motor to drive the gear transmission and lead screws;
b) lowering the fan assembly to a desired position;
c) activating the motor to reverse the direction of the gear transmission and lead screws; and
d) raising the fan assembly to its original position.
The present invention relates to a method of operation of telescopic extension system comprising below steps:
e) activating the motor to drive the gear transmission and lead screws;
f) lowering the fan assembly to a desired cleaning position;
g) cleaning the fan blades;
h) activating the motor to reverse the direction of the gear transmission and lead screws; and
i) raising the fan assembly to its original position.
In an embodiment of the present invention, a power supply circuit is configured to activate the motor only when the fan assembly is in the fully closed position, ensuring safety and energy efficiency. The system’s speed and height of actuation can be precisely controlled through an electronic PCB.
Additionally, the system comprises an IoT enabled control system to remotely control the operation of the mechanism.
This adjustable system would enhance user safety and convenience, eliminating the need for ladders and reducing the risk of accidental fan operation during maintenance. It represents a significant improvement over traditional fixed-length down-rods, offering a practical solution to a common problem faced by users of ceiling fan system. The system ensures a shorter overall length during regular operation, ensuring that the fan remains in an optimal position for everyday use. Conversely, the down-rod may be extended to a longer length when cleaning or servicing is required, thus making the fan more accessible.

,CLAIMS:We Claim:
1. A telescopic extension system for a ceiling fan assembly comprising:
a motor;
a gear transmission unit with a plurality of gears;
a lead screw engaged with the motor through gear transmission unit;
a linear guide mechanism that guides a linear motion of a ceiling fan assembly;
wherein the motor drives the lead screw, a first internal screw and a second internal screw to translate a rotational motion of the into a linear motion of the ceiling fan assembly.
2. The telescopic extension mechanism as claimed in claim 1, wherein the gear transmission unit is configured to reduce the motor's rotational speed and increases its torque.

3. The telescopic extension mechanism as claimed in claim 1, wherein the mechanism comprises a locking system to ensure stability of the ceiling fan at any desired height.

4. The telescopic extension mechanism as claimed in claim 3, wherein the locking mechanism comprises a datum stopping system to secure the ceiling fan assembly at any desired position.

5. The telescopic extension mechanism as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system's speed and height of the ceiling fan are controlled through an electronic PCB.

6. The telescopic extension mechanism as claimed in claim 1, further comprising an IoT-enabled control system to remotely control the operation of the system.

7. The telescopic extension mechanism as claimed in claim 1, wherein a power supply circuit is configured to activate the motor only when the ceiling fan assembly is in the fully closed position, ensuring safety and energy efficiency.

8. The telescopic extension mechanism as claimed in claim 1, wherein the linear guide mechanism comprises the linear guide mechanism comprises a lead screw, a lead screw nut, a linear key shaft and a lead screw nut holder.
9. A method of operating an extension mechanism for a ceiling fan assembly, comprising the steps of:
activating a motor to drive a gear transmission unit and a lead screw;
lowering the ceiling fan of the ceiling fan assembly to a desired position;
activating the motor to reverse the direction of the gear transmission unit and lead screw; and
raising the ceiling fan of the ceiling fan assembly to its original position.
10. The telescopic extension mechanism as claimed in claim 9, wherein the lead screws, a first internal screw and a second internal screw are axially interconnected and operate in a coordinated manner to control the linear motion of the fan assembly.
11. The telescopic extension mechanism as claimed in claim 9, wherein a linear key shaft transfers rotational motion from lead screw to the first internal screws and the second internal screw.
12. The telescopic extension mechanism as claimed in claim 8, wherein the fan assembly comprises a telescopic down-rods extendable to a longer length when required.
13. The telescopic extension mechanism as claimed in claim 1, wherein the gear transmission unit comprises a plurality of interconnected gears.

Dated this 27th day of January, 2025

Gitika Suri
IN/PA 1788
Of Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas
Agent for the Applicant