the impaler

The impaler is an interesting design. A blade implanted into a plate, it works by throwing the gasses off to the edge of the impaler. This is better than a fan for two reasons: The first is it is more compact, a flatter profile. But also it directs the airflow around the motor, allowing any dust to escape the filter to avoid that crucial component.

the motor

This is a very simple machine

It has two main components: an electric motor and an impaler.

The electric motor is an AC unit, which means it runs on an Alternating Current. This means that the magnetic field in the motor is alternating with the current. This is needed because if the current was continous, the magnetic field would be constant, and the torque would be short lived. This is because the rotor would be drawn to the field, then stop at the field. When the current is alternating, it can change the direction of the torque.

The system does not have a safety fuse, just a motor, switch, and power chord.

about me

I am a physicist who was asked to help form a mathematical model of this ancient device. I am adequately prepared to make this model. On first impression, this is very similar to our Swiffers, most likely deriving itself from Hoovers, or motorized fans to bring dust into a collection area. Its funny to see such a simple device. It has one motor, one switch, a power chord, an impaler, and a plastic body. This has few components that need modelling, making it a fairly simple project to complete.