In early 2004, inventor Joe Villella approached
us for an evaluation of his idea. He signed a Confidentially
Agreement and presented his initial sketches of a retractable
blade fan.
A rough 3D model of the idea was produced to
evaluate the design and superimposed onto photographs for presentation.
To prove the concept would work, a synchronised retraction mechanism
was devised and a mockup was built using an existing ceiling
fan motor .This allowed us to evaluate the function of the mechanism
and refine the design for the next stage.
The idea was presented to potential investors,
with a fully functional prototype. This included laser
cut gears, bent acrylic blades and a floro-ring light fitting.
This prototype appeared on The
New Inventors Show in 2005 and won that episodes People's
Choice award.
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We then assisted in presenting the concept to
the directors of Beacon Lighting. They backed the design and we
proceeded with the design A rigorous process of design and development
was then conducted together with Joe, Beacon Lighting and various
service providers.
This process included:
Sourcing a suitable electric motor
Aerodynamic blade design
Engineering of mechanisms
Specification of parts and material
Testing in a wind tunnel
Production of engineering drawings
Production of patent drawings
Liaison with manufacturers
Fanaway was launched in 2008 in 60 Beacon
Lighting stores around Australia. Since then Fanaway has enjoyed
overwhelming success and is now sold in ten countries around the world, including 1500 Lowes Department
stores all over the US and online.
www.fanaway.com
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