Assessing monstrous fan in Malaysia: Present and future

Raja Nor Firdaus Kashfi Raja Othman et al. Article Assessing monstrous fan in Malaysia: Present and future Journal of Open Innovation: Technology, Market, and Complexity Provided in Cooperation with: Society of Open Innovation: Technology, Market, and Complexity (SOItmC) Suggested Citation: Raja Nor Firdaus Kashfi Raja Othman et al. (2019) : Assessing monstrous fan in Malaysia: Present and future, Journal of Open Innovation: Technology, Market, and Complexity, ISSN 2199-8531, MDPI, Basel, Vol. 5, Iss. 1, pp. 1-19, https://doi.org/10.3390/joitmc5010014 This Version is available at: https://hdl.handle.net/10419/241305 Standard-Nutzungsbedingungen: Die Dokumente auf EconStor dürfen zu eigenen wissenschaftlichen Zwecken und zum Privatgebrauch gespeichert und kopiert werden. Sie dürfen die Dokumente nicht für öffentliche oder kommerzielle Zwecke vervielfältigen, öffentlich ausstellen, öffentlich zugänglich machen, vertreiben oder anderweitig nutzen. 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If the documents have been made available under an Open Content Licence (especially Creative Commons Licences), you may exercise further usage rights as specified in the indicated licence. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Journal of Open Innovation: Technology, Market, and Complexity Article Assessing Monstrous Fan in Malaysia: Present and Future Raja Nor Firdaus Kashfi Raja Othman 1,2,* , Nurfaezah Abdullah 1,2, Amiruddin Ahamat 3, Nor Aishah Md Zuki 1,2, Fairul Azhar Abdul Shukor 1,2 and Kasrul Abdul Karim 1,2 1Fakulti Kejuruteraan Elektrik, Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka, Durian Tunggal, Melaka 76100, Malaysia; [email protected] (N.A.); [email protected] (N.A.M.Z.); [email protected] (F.A.A.S.); [email protected] (K.A.K.) 2Electrical Machine Design, Power Electronics and Drives Research Group, CeRIA, UTeM, Melaka 76100, Malaysia 3Fakulti Pengurusan Teknologi dan Teknokeusahawanan, Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka, Kampus Teknologi, Ayer Keroh, Melaka 75450, Malaysia; [email protected] *Correspondence: [email protected]; Tel.: +606-270-2112 Received: 11 December 2018; Accepted: 25 January 2019; Published: 6 March 2019   Abstract: In the last few years, the monstrous fan has gained attention in this country for large space buildings and areas. The continuity of this product technology is important to allow it to be able to survive in the current and future market. However, there are limited studies on the present and future scenario of the monstrous fan, especially in Malaysia. Thus, the objective of this paper is to forecast its present technology, evaluating the market demand and future of the monstrous fan. For these reasons, an online survey was used to obtain feedback from suppliers and manufacturers to forecast the future of this product. In conclusion, the monstrous fan has been discussed and predicted, which can be beneficial for various parties including policy makers, government, business and technology players by representing a specific knowledge on the technical specificities of monstrous fans in Malaysia. Keywords: monstrous fan; HVLS; giant fan; large building; forecasting 1. Introduction The world consists of various continents which cover various countries. Each of the continents has a different climate, influenced by geographical factors in some areas. The world climate is comprised of 12 clusters of 6 different zones, which are zones A, B, C, D, E, and F. Zone A can be found along the equator, which has an equator climate. As depicted in Figure 1, the climograph for zone A temperature and the range of rainfall are fair throughout the year. The average temperature of zone A is around 26–27 ◦ C. While in zone B, the climate is a tropical monsoon. The tropical climate of Sudan is a hot desert climate, which is dry because of the latitude location far from moisture-bearing winds. Usually, this climate can be found in North Africa and the interior of Southern Africa. Sometimes the B climate can be found in Central Asia, like in China. For zone C, the climate is a moderate to a hot climate that is typically 30 ◦ C to 45 ◦ C. Other climates are the West Mediterranean climate, Middle continental (Steppe Type), and Eastern suburbs (Chinese Type). These types of climates can be found in large areas in the Northern Hemisphere to lesser of the south of equator line. Zone D is located in cold areas that cover the Western edges (British type), Central continental (Siberian Type), and Eastern edge. Zone D climate occurs around the mid-latitudes, which exist in Northern America and Asia. Another zone is a cold zone, which is zone E, and it exhibits an Arctic polar climate (Tundra type). The other zone is F zone, which is alpine climate [1]. J. Open Innov. Technol. Mark. Complex. 2019,5, 14; doi:10.3390/joitmc5010014 www.mdpi.com/journal/joitmc J. Open Innov. Technol. Mark. Complex. 2019,5, 14 2 of 19 J. Open Innov. Technol. Mark. Complex. 2019, 4, x FOR PEER REVIEW 2 of 20 Besides Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Brazil, Uganda, Colombia, Brunei, Singapore and the Philippines, Malaysia also experiences an equatorial climate because it is positioned in the A zone along the equator belt. In zone A, the countries will face uniform temperature, high humidity, and copious rainfall in a year. The temperature is high and stable except during the end of the year. For these reasons, there has been a tremendous study of the thermal and ventilation systems that could bring better life improvement for society in these areas [2 – 6]. Figure 1. World climate overview. Uniquely, the fluctuating high temperatures makes Malaysia’s climate relatively hot, especially in several major states in Malaysia. Thus, the conventional fan is used to produce wind in order to provide a refreshing effect when the air is hot. This appliance is affordable and acts as an alternative way to increase the thermal comfort amongst the population in Malaysia. However, the conventional fan is only suitable for small space areas. For the past few years, the conventional fan has been revolutionized by the monstrous fan. The application of a monstrous fan is suitable for large space areas. In Malaysia, this product was introduced in 2007. Yet, there is still limited study on the present and future scenario of the monstrous fan in Malaysia. Hence, the objective of this paper is to assess its present technology, market demand, and its future in Malaysia. To ensure real feedback, an online survey was conducted to gather feedback from suppliers and manufacturers about the monstrous fan in Malaysia. The online survey was conducted and sent through e-mail to all fan manufacturers and companies, and directly to company managers. All data collection was designed to gather information from manufacturers or suppliers based on the fan’s technical information and market demand. The overall findings from the survey will be discussed in this paper to predict the future of the monstrous fan. Thus, this paper will include an overview of the monstrous fan, a monstrous fan technology review, the Malaysian market demand, and a monstrous fan forecasting analysis for the future. In the end, this study can be of use for other countries in Zone A. 2. Monstrous Fan Overview A monstrous fan is a mechanical type ceiling fan with a large diameter blade, which is normally mounted from the ceiling. The size is typically contrasted to the conventional fan, which has a diameter of greater than seven feet as shown in Figure 2 (a) below [7]. The larger diameter fan blades provide a large amount of air, which is a key factor if this product is to become popular. The Figure 1. World climate overview. Besides Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Brazil, Uganda, Colombia, Brunei, Singapore and the Philippines, Malaysia also experiences an equatorial climate because it is positioned in the A zone along the equator belt. In zone A, the countries will face uniform temperature, high humidity, and copious rainfall in a year. The temperature is high and stable except during the end of the year. For these reasons, there has been a tremendous study of the thermal and ventilation systems that could bring better life improvement for society in these areas [2–6]. Uniquely, the fluctuating high temperatures makes Malaysia’s climate relatively hot, especially in several major states in Malaysia. Thus, the conventional fan is used to produce wind in order to provide a refreshing effect when the air is hot. This appliance is affordable and acts as an alternative way to increase the thermal comfort amongst the population in Malaysia. However, the conventional fan is only suitable for small space areas. For the past few years, the conventional fan has been revolutionized by the monstrous fan. The application of a monstrous fan is suitable for large space areas. In Malaysia, this product was introduced in 2007. Yet, there is still limited study on the present and future scenario of the monstrous fan in Malaysia. Hence, the objective of this paper is to assess its present technology, market demand, and its future in Malaysia. To ensure real feedback, an online survey was conducted to gather feedback from suppliers and manufacturers about the monstrous fan in Malaysia. The online survey was conducted and sent through e-mail to all fan manufacturers and companies, and directly to company managers. All data collection was designed to gather information from manufacturers or suppliers based on the fan’s technical information and market demand. The overall findings from the survey will be discussed in this paper to predict the future of the monstrous fan. Thus, this paper will include an overview of the monstrous fan, a monstrous fan technology review, the Malaysian market demand, and a monstrous fan forecasting analysis for the future. In the end, this study can be of use for other countries in Zone A. 2. Monstrous Fan Overview A monstrous fan is a mechanical type ceiling fan with a large diameter blade, which is normally mounted from the ceiling. The size is typically contrasted to the conventional fan, which has a diameter of greater than seven feet as shown in Figure 2a below [ 7 ]. The larger diameter fan blades provide a large amount of air, which is a key factor if this product is to become popular. The monstrous fan J. Open Innov. Technol. Mark. Complex. 2019,5, 14 3 of 19 was developed according to the principle of air movement and improvement of fan efficiency [ 8 ]. In a building or a large space area, the ventilation system is vital to provide fresh air and to remove the heat in such a spacious area. The monstrous fan provides a high volume of air movement at low rotational speed. In fan law, air flow is proportional to the speed, while power is proportional to a cube of change in fan speed [ 9 ]. Thus, a low speed rotational fan was designed according to the logical physics of air movement, which requires a less powerful motor. J. Open Innov. Technol. Mark. Complex. 2019, 4, x FOR PEER REVIEW 3 of 20 monstrous fan was developed according to the principle of air movement and improvement of fan efficiency [8]. In a building or a large space area, the ventilation system is vital to provide fresh air and to remove the heat in such a spacious area. The monstrous fan provides a high volume of air movement at low rotational speed. In fan law, air flow is proportional to the speed, while power is proportional to a cube of change in fan speed [9]. Thus, a low speed rotational fan was designed according to the logical physics of air movement, which requires a less powerful motor. (a) (b) Figure 2. Monstrous fan (a) Physical condition [10] (b) Common structure. 2.1. Blade Technologies Efficiency plays an important role in selecting a fan. The fan blades act as the main component to push the air downward and provide a comfortable feel in the selected areas. The fan blade profile is one of the major factors involved in increasing fan efficiency. Previously, as in Figure 3 (a), the conventional fan blades have a flat and fixed nominal tilt design. The flat design is cheaper and requires fewer times constraint to produce it. But it also has a few disadvantages, which are due to the profile shapes not being effective at distributing air and poor performance of the fan blade configurations, which lead to large losses [11]. Thus, much improvement had been done to enhance the fan’s efficiency. One of the improvements in the concept design of airfoil fan blades is shown in Figure 3 (b). In a monstrous fan, the profile of the blade is designed with a variety of shapes and styles from various technologies and fan blade profiles. Since 1998, the airfoil blades technology efficiency was tested in parallel with the first prototype of the HVLS fan [12]. The airfoil style has advantages to increase efficiency by minimizing the flow separation and absorb the energy lost to the air turbulence. In 2001 the commercial airfoil blades were introduced in monstrous fan prototype. The blades technology with larger airfoil shape has impacted the air flows of the fan. The air distribution depends on the rotational direction of the fan. The fan blade is designed according to the concept of air flow, which is adapted from the right-hand rule. The concept of the right hand is like a curled finger, acting as the spinning direction as well as the fan blade direction, which rotates to push the air according to the pointing thumb direction [13,14]. (a) (b) Figure 3. Technology of monstrous fan blades profile (a) Flat shape concept; (b) Air foil shape. Figure 2. Monstrous fan (a) Physical condition [10] (b) Common structure. 2.1. Blade Technologies Efficiency plays an important role in selecting a fan. The fan blades act as the main component to push the air downward and provide a comfortable feel in the selected areas. The fan blade profile is one of the major factors involved in increasing fan efficiency. Previously, as in Figure 3a, the conventional fan blades have a flat and fixed nominal tilt design. The flat design is cheaper and requires fewer times constraint to produce it. But it also has a few disadvantages, which are due to the profile shapes not being effective at distributing air and poor performance of the fan blade configurations, which lead to large losses [ 11 ]. Thus, much improvement had been done to enhance the fan’s efficiency. One of the improvements in the concept design of airfoil fan blades is shown in Figure 3b. In a monstrous fan, the profile of the blade is designed with a variety of shapes and styles from various technologies and fan blade profiles. J. Open Innov. Technol. Mark. Complex. 2019, 4, x FOR PEER REVIEW 3 of 20 monstrous fan was developed according to the principle of air movement and improvement of fan efficiency [8]. In a building or a large space area, the ventilation system is vital to provide fresh air and to remove the heat in such a spacious area. The monstrous fan provides a high volume of air movement at low rotational speed. In fan law, air flow is proportional to the speed, while power is proportional to a cube of change in fan speed [9]. Thus, a low speed rotational fan was designed according to the logical physics of air movement, which requires a less powerful motor. (a) (b) Figure 2. Monstrous fan (a) Physical condition [10] (b) Common structure. 2.1. Blade Technologies Efficiency plays an important role in selecting a fan. The fan blades act as the main component to push the air downward and provide a comfortable feel in the selected areas. The fan blade profile is one of the major factors involved in increasing fan efficiency. Previously, as in Figure 3 (a), the conventional fan blades have a flat and fixed nominal tilt design. The flat design is cheaper and requires fewer times constraint to produce it. But it also has a few disadvantages, which are due to the profile shapes not being effective at distributing air and poor performance of the fan blade configurations, which lead to large losses [11]. Thus, much improvement had been done to enhance the fan’s efficiency. One of the improvements in the concept design of airfoil fan blades is shown in Figure 3 (b). In a monstrous fan, the profile of the blade is designed with a variety of shapes and styles from various technologies and fan blade profiles. Since 1998, the airfoil blades technology efficiency was tested in parallel with the first prototype of the HVLS fan [12]. The airfoil style has advantages to increase efficiency by minimizing the flow separation and absorb the energy lost to the air turbulence. In 2001 the commercial airfoil blades were introduced in monstrous fan prototype. The blades technology with larger airfoil shape has impacted the air flows of the fan. The air distribution depends on the rotational direction of the fan. The fan blade is designed according to the concept of air flow, which is adapted from the right-hand rule. The concept of the right hand is like a curled finger, acting as the spinning direction as well as the fan blade direction, which rotates to push the air according to the pointing thumb direction [13,14]. (a) (b) Figure 3. Technology of monstrous fan blades profile (a) Flat shape concept; (b) Air foil shape. Figure 3. Technology of monstrous fan blades profile (a) Flat shape concept; (b) Air foil shape. Since 1998, the airfoil blades technology efficiency was tested in parallel with the first prototype of the HVLS fan [ 12 ]. The airfoil style has advantages to increase efficiency by minimizing the flow separation and absorb the energy lost to the air turbulence. In 2001 the commercial airfoil blades were introduced in monstrous fan prototype. The blades technology with larger airfoil shape has impacted the air flows of the fan. The air distribution depends on the rotational direction of the fan. The fan blade is designed according to the concept of air flow, which is adapted from the right-hand rule. J. Open Innov. Technol. Mark. Complex. 2019,5, 14 4 of 19 The concept of the right hand is like a curled finger, acting as the spinning direction as well as the fan blade direction, which rotates to push the air according to the pointing thumb direction [13,14]. In 2006, the Macro Air manufacturer had made the move to improve the efficiency of the monstrous fan by attaching the basic aerodynamic design to the blade design. The manufacturer came out with the whisper foil XL blade, as seen in Figure 4a. The study of the fan blades’ design was the idea of the co-founder of Macro Air, who envisioned a fan similar to the airfoil shaped wing of a race car. The race car airfoil has a wing on a rounded leading edge at the front and a thinner edge at the back, while the top has more curves but less at the bottom side. This concept will ensure less air pressure on the above side and result in more air distribution to go down. Besides that, Bladetec manufacturer proposed the complex contoured shape of the fan blades, as in Figure 4b below. The blade design has a narrow tip at the bottom edge and an aerodynamic shape at the top of the edge. The shape increases the blade velocity and provides a wide hub area so that the blade velocity will decrease and produce consistent air movement. J. Open Innov. Technol. Mark. Complex. 2019, 4, x FOR PEER REVIEW 4 of 20 In 2006, the Macro Air manufacturer had made the move to improve the efficiency of the monstrous fan by attaching the basic aerodynamic design to the blade design. The manufacturer came out with the whisper foil XL blade, as seen in Figure 4 (a). The study of the fan blades’ design was the idea of the co-founder of Macro Air, who envisioned a fan similar to the airfoil shaped wing of a race car. The race car airfoil has a wing on a rounded leading edge at the front and a thinner edge at the back, while the top has more curves but less at the bottom side. This concept will ensure less air pressure on the above side and result in more air distribution to go down. Besides that, Bladetec manufacturer proposed the complex contoured shape of the fan blades, as in Figure 4 (b) below. The blade design has a narrow tip at the bottom edge and an aerodynamic shape at the top of the edge. The shape increases the blade velocity and provides a wide hub area so that the blade velocity will decrease and produce consistent air movement. (a) (b) The whale humpbacks Gurney Flap (c) (d) Figure 4. Other blade technologies (a) Whisper Foil XL Blade (Macro Air) (b) Complex contour shapes [15] (c) Tubercles fan blades [16] (d) Gurney flap. Figure 4 (c) shows the design of the tubercles technology fan blades, which are based on the natural aerodynamic concept from 2004 by Dr Frank E. Fish and Dr Watts [16]. The design was based on the tubercles on the leading edge of the flippers of a humpback whale. These fan blade designs create more air movement using fewer blades. This is because of the pitch shapes of the humpbacks, which are able to give more lifts and reduce the air turbulence to generate flow between the bumps. Different concepts of airfoil, such as wicker bill technology or a gurney flap are also used to improve the efficiency of the monstrous fan [17]. This gurney flap design as in Figure 4 (d) has advantages to produce the downwash to the airfoil blades and increase the percent of air flow distribution with minimal power consumption. The blade's design later develops for the large area, which required full air distribution movement. Table 1 shows a summary of the fan blade design, which is generally manufactured from previous to current. Beginning with the flat fan blade design, the airfoil blade design and the fan blades have developed slowly, evolving to increase efficiency. The development of fan blades is critical to sustaining an air flow balance and increasing the air flow for maximum coverage. Figure 4. Other blade technologies ( a ) Whisper Foil XL Blade (Macro Air) ( b ) Complex contour shapes [15] (c) Tubercles fan blades [16] (d) Gurney flap. Figure 4c shows the design of the tubercles technology fan blades, which are based on the natural aerodynamic concept from 2004 by Dr Frank E. Fish and Dr Watts [ 16 ]. The design was based on the tubercles on the leading edge of the flippers of a humpback whale. These fan blade designs create more air movement using fewer blades. This is because of the pitch shapes of the humpbacks, which are able to give more lifts and reduce the air turbulence to generate flow between the bumps. Different concepts of airfoil, such as wicker bill technology or a gurney flap are also used to improve the efficiency of the monstrous fan [ 17 ]. This gurney flap design as in Figure 4d has advantages to produce the downwash to the airfoil blades and increase the percent of air flow distribution with minimal power consumption. The blade’s design later develops for the large area, which required full air distribution movement. Table 1shows a summary of the fan blade design, which is generally manufactured from previous to current. Beginning with the flat fan blade design, the airfoil blade design and the fan blades have developed slowly, evolving to increase efficiency. The development of fan blades is critical to sustaining an air flow balance and increasing the air flow for maximum coverage. J. Open Innov. Technol. Mark. Complex. 2019,5, 14 5 of 19 Table 1. Blades design of the monstrous fan. Blades Profile Flat Design Airfoil Shapes Complex Shape Advantages Inexpensive compared to airfoil blades; Easier to manufacture due to simple construction Increased efficiency; Provides less air pressure on the above side and pushes more air distribution down Increase blade velocity; Consistent air movement due to the wide hub area Disadvantages Not effective to distribute the air; Poor performance; Large losses -Need number of blades to compensate 2.2. Electric Motor The electric motor is considered to be the primary mover of the large ceiling fan. The electric motor is located in between the fan blades and the mounting system. Previous technologies of various types of electric motor have been developed for this application [ 17 – 19 ]. One is the Induction Motor (IM). Previously, the table fan type or small ceiling fan used a single phase induction motor to propel the system [ 20 – 23 ]. IM architecture consists of stator and rotor parts, as seen in Figure 5a. The fan will rotate since the magnetic flux induces the sequential current, which excites the coil arrangement. IM has several advantages, it is robust and able to function in any condition. This machine has a simple construction, is inexpensive due to the absence of brushes, which make it more reliable. Thus, it indirectly increases the machine demand from the manufacturer compared to other types of machine. There are a few advantages on this motor, such as a less efficient motor when compared to the BLDC motor, less of a power factor, and the motion will generate heat that can reduce the efficiency of the motor. J. Open Innov. Technol. Mark. Complex. 2019, 4, x FOR PEER REVIEW 5 of 20 Table 1. Blades design of the monstrous fan. Blades profile Flat design Airfoil shapes Complex shape Advantages Inexpensive compared to airfoil blades; Easier to manufacture due to simple construction Increased efficiency; Provides less air pressure on the above side and pushes more air distribution down Increase blade velocity; Consistent air movement due to the wide hub area Disadvantages Not effective to distribute the air; Poor performance; Large losses - Need number of blades to compensate 2.2. Electric Motor The electric motor is considered to be the primary mover of the large ceiling fan. The electric motor is located in between the fan blades and the mounting system. Previous technologies of various types of electric motor have been developed for this application [17–19]. One is the Induction Motor (IM). Previously, the table fan type or small ceiling fan used a single phase induction motor to propel the system [20–23]. IM architecture consists of stator and rotor parts, as seen in Figure 5 (a). The fan will rotate since the magnetic flux induces the sequential current, which excites the coil arrangement. IM has several advantages, it is robust and able to function in any condition. This machine has a simple construction, is inexpensive due to the absence of brushes, which make it more reliable. Thus, it indirectly increases the machine demand from the manufacturer compared to other types of machine. There are a few advantages on this motor, such as a less efficient motor when compared to the BLDC motor, less of a power factor, and the motion will generate heat that can reduce the efficiency of the motor. (a) (b) Figure 5. Induction Motor Technologies Induction Motor architecture (b) AC Induction Motor The early emergence of the monstrous fan, called the Big Ass Fan, uses the IM for high volume low-speed fan production [24]. The motor is designed named power foil X2 plus with 2.0 hp output power as in Figure 5 (b). The structure of the motor requires a gearbox filled with oil and has heavyweight structure due to the custom gearbox. This design has a few disadvantages due to the large, loud, heavy, custom gearbox; or less powerful DC motor. Another type of electric motor that relates to this application is the Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (PMSM). N.F. Zulkarnain et. Al, as in Figure 6 (a) proposed a design concept of a single rotor double stator for ceiling fan application [25]. This design comprises a permanent magnet attached to the rotor part for both motor and generator. Basically, these concepts consist of two systems in one machine, which is a motor and generator. The generator will act as the energy harvester. The aim of this design is to use the wasted kinetic energy, which comes from the rotation of the rotor to convert the energy from mechanical to electrical energy. Thus, the energy can be used again to run the fan. Figure 5. Induction Motor Technologies Induction Motor architecture (b) AC Induction Motor. The early emergence of the monstrous fan, called the Big Ass Fan, uses the IM for high volume low-speed fan production [ 24 ]. The motor is designed named power foil X2 plus with 2.0 hp output power as in Figure 5b. The structure of the motor requires a gearbox filled with oil and has heavyweight structure due to the custom gearbox. This design has a few disadvantages due to the large, loud, heavy, custom gearbox; or less powerful DC motor. Another type of electric motor that relates to this application is the Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (PMSM). N.F. Zulkarnain et. Al, as in Figure 6a proposed a design concept of a single rotor double stator for ceiling fan application [ 25 ]. This design comprises a permanent magnet attached to the rotor part for both motor and generator. Basically, these concepts consist of two systems in one machine, which is a motor and generator. The generator will act as the energy harvester. The aim of this design is to use the wasted kinetic energy, which comes from the rotation of the rotor to convert the energy from mechanical to electrical energy. Thus, the energy can be used again to run the fan. J. Open Innov. Technol. Mark. Complex. 2019,5, 14 6 of 19 J. Open Innov. Technol. Mark. Complex. 2019, 4, x FOR PEER REVIEW 6 of 20 Stator Rotor Permanent magnet (a) (b) (c) (d) Figure 6. Monstrous fan with permanent magnet motor technology (a) Double stator (b) Universal Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (PMSM) motor [26] (c) Surface mount (d) Spoke type interior permanent magnet (IPM). In the year 2017, Falco eMotor patented the universal permanent magnet synchronous motor for a HVLS fan product, shown in Figure 6 (b). This patent was invented using an outer rotor PMSM topology without using a gear attached to the fan. The motivation of this invention basically comes from the problem of using the outdated concept of IM, which can cause noise and vibration, and a steadily gained prominence by PMSM characteristic. Other than that, the design is a rejuvenation effort to improve the PMSM machine in fan application. This new algorithm will let the motor operate either in the AC or DC condition. Mohammad Samadian et. al in his paper chose two permanent magnet machine types, which are the surface mount type (SPM) and the interior permanent magnet spoke type (IPM), to study the performance comparison for an axial fan application as shown in Figure 6 (c) and (d) [27]. The spoke type IPM is able to produce high power densities in the air gap. The SPM has the advantage in terms of yield, high torque density and efficiency, which comes from the magnetic torque. This study anticipates the results from both types in terms of speed, efficiency, and stack length. But in terms of the weight and cost, the IPM has 45.4% less than SPM. The BLDC motor is not new in fan application. This machine technology is intended to conquer the application alongside the growth of power electronic technology. Today the user requires the appliance to be energy efficient and reduce electricity consumption and at the same time be able to give higher efficiency. BLDC has good characteristics in terms of higher efficiency, compactness, and is able to produce less noise. Chuan-Sheng Liu et. al proposed a new structure of BLDC motor [28]. According to the design in Figure 7 (a), the new structure basically has 8 poles and 12 slots with an external rotor topology based on the theory of the BLDC servo motor. The aim of this design is to reduce the manufacturing cost and improve energy efficiency. The findings show that this design is Figure 6. Monstrous fan with permanent magnet motor technology ( a ) Double stator ( b ) Universal Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (PMSM) motor [ 26 ] ( c ) Surface mount ( d ) Spoke type interior permanent magnet (IPM). In the year 2017, Falco eMotor patented the universal permanent magnet synchronous motor for a HVLS fan product, shown in Figure 6b. This patent was invented using an outer rotor PMSM topology without using a gear attached to the fan. The motivation of this invention basically comes from the problem of using the outdated concept of IM, which can cause noise and vibration, and a steadily gained prominence by PMSM characteristic. Other than that, the design is a rejuvenation effort to improve the PMSM machine in fan application. This new algorithm will let the motor operate either in the AC or DC condition. Mohammad Samadian et. al in his paper chose two permanent magnet machine types, which are the surface mount type (SPM) and the interior permanent magnet spoke type (IPM), to study the performance comparison for an axial fan application as shown in Figure 6c,d [ 27 ]. The spoke type IPM is able to produce high power densities in the air gap. The SPM has the advantage in terms of yield, high torque density and efficiency, which comes from the magnetic torque. This study anticipates the results from both types in terms of speed, efficiency, and stack length. But in terms of the weight and cost, the IPM has 45.4% less than SPM. The BLDC motor is not new in fan application. This machine technology is intended to conquer the application alongside the growth of power electronic technology. Today the user requires the appliance to be energy efficient and reduce electricity consumption and at the same time be able to give higher efficiency. BLDC has good characteristics in terms of higher efficiency, compactness, and is able to produce less noise. Chuan-Sheng Liu et. al proposed a new structure of BLDC motor [ 28 ]. According to the design in Figure 7a, the new structure basically has 8 poles and 12 slots with an external rotor topology based on the theory of the BLDC servo motor. The aim of this design is to J. Open Innov. Technol. Mark. Complex. 2019,5, 14 7 of 19 reduce the manufacturing cost and improve energy efficiency. The findings show that this design is able to save 50% energy and able to reduce the manufacturing cost. A transverse flux motor (TFM) is an electric motor that consists of a rotor, stator, and coil. TFM works when the magnetic flux path with the section is transverse to the direction of the motion. The structure of TFM is basically a simple toroidal coil with the stator wrapped around the coil. The single toroidal coil per phase can enable the low winding resistance due to the high pole counts. This will let the machine produce constant torque, which is equivalent to the size and weight. This machine increases fan efficiency over 80% and is suitable for direct drive configurations. But this design has a few problems in terms of the noise that comes from the drive systems. J. Open Innov. Technol. Mark. Complex. 2019, 4, x FOR PEER REVIEW 7 of 20 able to save 50% energy and able to reduce the manufacturing cost. A transverse flux motor (TFM) is an electric motor that consists of a rotor, stator, and coil. TFM works when the magnetic flux path with the section is transverse to the direction of the motion. The structure of TFM is basically a simple toroidal coil with the stator wrapped around the coil. The single toroidal coil per phase can enable the low winding resistance due to the high pole counts. This will let the machine produce constant torque, which is equivalent to the size and weight. This machine increases fan efficiency over 80% and is suitable for direct drive configurations. But this design has a few problems in terms of the noise that comes from the drive systems. (a) (b) Figure 7. Monstrous fan with permanent magnet transverse flux motor technology (a) Outer rotor BLDC motor (b) transverse flux motor (TFM) by the ETM Company. The Electric Torque Machine Company introduced their high-efficiency transverse flux motor fan in the year 2015, as shown in Figure 7 (b) [29]. The design provides a reduced weight when compared with the conventional induction motor and brushless DC motor. This type of motor is suitable for fan application due to low revolutions per minute but a higher efficiency. The motivation of this design is to comprise the bulky machine while at the same time be able to offer the high efficiency necessary to drive a fan system. A transverse flux motor consists of a ring-shaped lamina stator, which is configured by a plurality of radially extending members extending out from an inner stem portion or in from an outer stem portion. The fan blades are directly joined with an outer rotating rotor of the transverse flux motor and the blades are coupled to the stator whilst the rotor is configured within the ring-shaped rotor. Table 2 shows the electric motor, ranging from standard to the present improvement. From previous developments in fan technology until now, the induction motor is the main choice from the manufacturer, but the emerging improvement technology in BLDC and TFM makes both types of motor an alternative in monstrous fan applications. Table 2. The electric motor for monstrous fan application. View IM PMM BLDC TFM Advantages Constant airflow; Cheaper than DC motors Higher horsepower; than AC motor; Flat torque over wide speed range Most energy efficient; 70% less energy than AC motors; Stillness, because of a lack of friction; Longer life span compared PMM motors; Gearless Smaller, and more efficient; Generates same peak torque and three times continuous torque compared to traditional BLDC; Gearless Disadvantages Need gear; Noise Required gear, produce noise and vibration Technology still immature Technology still immature Standard Technology Emerging Technology Figure 7. Monstrous fan with permanent magnet transverse flux motor technology ( a ) Outer rotor BLDC motor (b) transverse flux motor (TFM) by the ETM Company. The Electric Torque Machine Company introduced their high-efficiency transverse flux motor fan in the year 2015, as shown in Figure 7b [ 29 ]. The design provides a reduced weight when compared with the conventional induction motor and brushless DC motor. This type of motor is suitable for fan application due to low revolutions per minute but a higher efficiency. The motivation of this design is to comprise the bulky machine while at the same time be able to offer the high efficiency necessary to drive a fan system. A transverse flux motor consists of a ring-shaped lamina stator, which is configured by a plurality of radially extending members extending out from an inner stem portion or in from an outer stem portion. The fan blades are directly joined with an outer rotating rotor of the transverse flux motor and the blades are coupled to the stator whilst the rotor is configured within the ring-shaped rotor. Table 2shows the electric motor, ranging from standard to the present improvement. From previous developments in fan technology until now, the induction motor is the main choice from the manufacturer, but the emerging improvement technology in BLDC and TFM makes both types of motor an alternative in monstrous fan applications. Table 2. The electric motor for monstrous fan application. View IM PMM BLDC TFM Advantages Constant airflow; Cheaper than DC motors Higher horsepower; than AC motor; Flat torque over wide speed range Most energy efficient; 70% less energy than AC motors; Stillness, because of a lack of friction; Longer life span compared PMM motors; Gearless Smaller, and more efficient; Generates same peak torque and three times continuous torque compared to traditional BLDC; Gearless Disadvantages Need gear; Noise Required gear, produce noise and vibration Technology still immature Technology still immature Standard Technology J. Open Innov. Technol. Mark. Complex. 2019, 4, x FOR PEER REVIEW 7 of 20 able to save 50% energy and able to reduce the manufacturing cost. A transverse flux motor (TFM) is an electric motor that consists of a rotor, stator, and coil. TFM works when the magnetic flux path with the section is transverse to the direction of the motion. The structure of TFM is basically a simple toroidal coil with the stator wrapped around the coil. The single toroidal coil per phase can enable the low winding resistance due to the high pole counts. This will let the machine produce constant torque, which is equivalent to the size and weight. This machine increases fan efficiency over 80% and is suitable for direct drive configurations. But this design has a few problems in terms of the noise that comes from the drive systems. (a) (b) Figure 7. Monstrous fan with permanent magnet transverse flux motor technology (a) Outer rotor BLDC motor (b) transverse flux motor (TFM) by the ETM Company. The Electric Torque Machine Company introduced their high-efficiency transverse flux motor fan in the year 2015, as shown in Figure 7 (b) [29]. The design provides a reduced weight when compared with the conventional induction motor and brushless DC motor. This type of motor is suitable for fan application due to low revolutions per minute but a higher efficiency. The motivation of this design is to comprise the bulky machine while at the same time be able to offer the high efficiency necessary to drive a fan system. A transverse flux motor consists of a ring-shaped lamina stator, which is configured by a plurality of radially extending members extending out from an inner stem portion or in from an outer stem portion. The fan blades are directly joined with an outer rotating rotor of the transverse flux motor and the blades are coupled to the stator whilst the rotor is configured within the ring-shaped rotor. Table 2 shows the electric motor, ranging from standard to the present improvement. From previous developments in fan technology until now, the induction motor is the main choice from the manufacturer, but the emerging improvement technology in BLDC and TFM makes both types of motor an alternative in monstrous fan applications. Table 2. The electric motor for monstrous fan application. View IM PMM BLDC TFM Advantages Constant airflow; Cheaper than DC motors Higher horsepower; than AC motor; Flat torque over wide speed range Most energy efficient; 70% less energy than AC motors; Stillness, because of a lack of friction; Longer life span compared PMM motors; Gearless Smaller, and more efficient; Generates same peak torque and three times continuous torque compared to traditional BLDC; Gearless Disadvantages Need gear; Noise Required gear, produce noise and vibration Technology still immature Technology still immature Standard Technology Emerging Technology Emerging Technology J. Open Innov. Technol. Mark. Complex. 2019,5, 14 8 of 19 2.3. Driving Mechanism Usually, there are two types motor drives used in monstrous fans; a geared driven mechanism and direct drive mechanism or gearless driven. A geared motor mechanism, as in Figure 8a is a type of motor that transfers the power to the fan by using a gear mechanism, which is connected to the electric motor and the hub structure [ 30 ]. Other than that, the geared DC Motor is used to rotate the ceiling fan down rod or tilt the down rod, further tilting the whole ceiling fan. This type of motor drive is a type of electrical motor that is able to produce high torque while maintaining low horsepower, or a low speed motor output, but it has a few limitations such as noise and vibration due to the connected gear. In meantime, a gearless motor is a type of motor with no gear mechanism required. Without a gear, the system only will be connected directly with the electric motor as in Figure 8b [ 31 ]. The advantages to using the gearless motor are high torque productions at low speeds that are more efficient and lack noise and vibrations. J. Open Innov. Technol. Mark. Complex. 2019, 4, x FOR PEER REVIEW 8 of 20 2.3. Driving mechanism Usually, there are two types motor drives used in monstrous fans; a geared driven mechanism and direct drive mechanism or gearless driven. A geared motor mechanism, as in Figure 8 (a) is a type of motor that transfers the power to the fan by using a gear mechanism, which is connected to the electric motor and the hub structure [30]. Other than that, the geared DC Motor is used to rotate the ceiling fan down rod or tilt the down rod, further tilting the whole ceiling fan. This type of motor drive is a type of electrical motor that is able to produce high torque while maintaining low horsepower, or a low speed motor output, but it has a few limitations such as noise and vibration due to the connected gear. In meantime, a gearless motor is a type of motor with no gear mechanism required. Without a gear, the system only will be connected directly with the electric motor as in Figure 8 (b) [31]. The advantages to using the gearless motor are high torque productions at low speeds that are more efficient and lack noise and vibrations. (a) (b) 3. Present: Market and Sales Information Analysis in Malaysia This section explains the sales volume and market contribution of the monstrous fan in Malaysia. Hot and dry weather resulted in the increase of electricity consumption in daily life due to the use of electrical, since as air conditioners reduce the thermal or heat effect. The use of air conditioners will relatively increase the electricity tariff. The demand for the monstrous fan was influenced by the increasing utility tariff as well as the consumer’s mind-set in using lesser energy products. This business has seen growth since 2007 until the present and the majority of the pioneer companies started-up in an average of years in this core business. The growth of a company shows a good sign in the monstrous fan market in Malaysia, which contributes to the sales volume. Sales volume can be influenced by various factors such as product features, product technology, and market demand for the product [32]. The monstrous fan comes in various types and features to make it compatible with the environment in Malaysia. Normally, the fan diameter size is more than 16 ft. and up to 24 ft. Monstrous fan size is determined by two conditions, which are the size of the room and the height of its ceiling. Other than that, the type of motor and fan propeller are also factors. In order to fabricate a fan, the price offered to the customer must be affordable and the manufacturer must be able to make some profit. The transformation in the process of managing research enhances the ability of the manufacturer to learn and to gain access to valuable technology, which could be translated into profit opportunities [33]. Besides that, to compete in this business the manufacturer needs to employ the latest technology in order to sustain their products. Some manufacturers provide their own fan technology to influence end-users. Nevertheless, market demand also encourages the sales volume of the monstrous fan. In another country like the United States, the monstrous fan was initially adopted in agriculture sectors such as dairy farms or barns [34,35]. This is different for the market in Malaysia. Thus, a few surveys related to sales volume, market demand, and market size were conducted to collect the data in order to predict the future of the monstrous fans. Figure 8. Monstrous fan driving mechanism (a) Geared mechanism (b) Gearless mechanism. 3. Present: Market and Sales Information Analysis in Malaysia This section explains the sales volume and market contribution of the monstrous fan in Malaysia. Hot and dry weather resulted in the increase of electricity consumption in daily life due to the use of electrical, since as air conditioners reduce the thermal or heat effect. The use of air conditioners will relatively increase the electricity tariff. The demand for the monstrous fan was influenced by the increasing utility tariff as well as the consumer’s mind-set in using lesser energy products. This business has seen growth since 2007 until the present and the majority of the pioneer companies started-up in an average of years in this core business. The growth of a company shows a good sign in the monstrous fan market in Malaysia, which contributes to the sales volume. Sales volume can be influenced by various factors such as product features, product technology, and market demand for the product [32]. The monstrous fan comes in various types and features to make it compatible with the environment in Malaysia. Normally, the fan diameter size is more than 16 ft. and up to 24 ft. Monstrous fan size is determined by two conditions, which are the size of the room and the height of its ceiling. Other than that, the type of motor and fan propeller are also factors. In order to fabricate a fan, the price offered to the customer must be affordable and the manufacturer must be able to make some profit. The transformation in the process of managing research enhances the ability of the manufacturer to learn and to gain access to valuable technology, which could be translated into profit opportunities [ 33 ]. Besides that, to compete in this business the manufacturer needs to employ the latest technology in order to sustain their products. Some manufacturers provide their own fan technology to influence end-users. Nevertheless, market demand also encourages the sales volume of the monstrous fan. In another country like the United States, the monstrous fan was initially adopted in agriculture sectors such as dairy farms or barns [ 34 , 35 ]. This is different for the market in Malaysia. Thus, a few surveys J. Open Innov. Technol. Mark. Complex. 2019,5, 14 15 of 19 J. Open Innov. Technol. Mark. Complex. 2019, 4, x FOR PEER REVIEW 15 of 20 0 100 200 300 400 Sales quantities, n [pcs] 2012 2014 2016 2018 2020 2022 Year Permanent magnet Induction motor BLDC Tranverse flux Actual sale Forecast sale Permanent Magnet 10000 20000 30000 40000 50000 Price, $ [RM] 10 15 20 25 30 35 Fan diameter, l [ft.] BLDC Tranverse Flux Induction Motor Actual sale Forecast sale (a) (b) Figure 14. Product technology forecasting (a) Motor types sales (b) Motor price forecasting. Table 5. Increment percentage of monstrous fan forecasting according to motor types. Year Types of motor Permanent Magnet Induction Motor BLDC Transverse Flux 2013 100 100 50 2015 80 180 120 140 2017 100 240 120 160 2019 120 300 132 210 2021 140 300 141 255 Increment (%) 18 26.5 7.6 28.5 Table 6. Increment percentage of Monstrous fan forecasting according to motor types. Types of Motor Fan Diameter [ft.] Increment (%) 16 18 20 24 26 28 30 Permanent Magnet 30000 35000 35000 40000 42428 44714 47000 10.6 BLDC 20000 20000 30000 30000 32428 34714 37714 14.6 Transverse Flux 20000 25000 30000 35000 34928 37214 41285 13.8 Induction Motor 20000 20000 25000 25000 25471 26385 27942 7.24 4.3. Forecasting Analysis of Market Shares Figure 15(a) depicts the forecasting analysis of a monstrous fan according to market distribution. From here, market distribution of the monstrous fan will have a high potential in the industrial sector after 2017 followed by the mosque or prayer hall area. A high potential increase in sales is for the industrial and warehouse sectors is possibly due to the growth of factories that require a larger scale fan to distribute air. Other market distributions that experience a high increase in sales are the automotive and train station. Through forecasting analysis, other market distributions such as aviation, agriculture, airport, and restaurant will experience static sales and require other alternatives to increase their sales. In the Malaysian agricultural sector, many barns or stables are built in open areas. Thus, this phenomenon affects the sale of monstrous fans in the agriculture sector. At the same time, airport and aviation sectors are nowadays equipped with air conditioning, thus reflecting sales of the monstrous fan. As a consequence of the static sale, the marketing department from the monstrous company should focus on these four market distributions, which can actually increase the company’s sales. Figure 15(b) shows the monstrous fan forecasting according to regions in Malaysia. The northern region shows a prospect in an increase of monstrous fan sales. The northern region, which covers the state of Kedah, Perlis, Perak, and Penang, has a potential possibility due to the rising Figure 14. Product technology forecasting (a) Motor types sales (b) Motor price forecasting. Pricing is important in business in order to expand business growth. There are a few factors that will affect the pricing of products, such as technology, consumer preference, and weather condition. Based on Figure 14b and Table 6, BLDC will experience a high increase in price after 2017, which is about a 14.6% increment. The induction motor has fewer increments, about 7.24%. Based on the fan diameter, the larger fan diameter will affect the pricing due to its material surplus. The large volume of the fan will reflect the extension of fan blades and to drive the fan. All of these require an increase in material cost. The reason for the increasing percentage of BLDC price could be due to the add-on new technology that emerges in the BLDC motor. Nowadays, the BLDC motor type technology is required to use an electronic commutation to run the fan, which results in the rising costs of several additional features. However, a fan that uses an induction motor commonly uses conventional features to run the fan with such a resistance voltage controlled base. Thus, the increase in price for the induction motor is small [38]. Table 6. Increment percentage of Monstrous fan forecasting according to motor types. Types of Motor Fan Diameter [ft.] Increment (%) 16 18 20 24 26 28 30 Permanent Magnet 30,000 35,000 35,000 40,000 42,428 44,714 47,000 10.6 BLDC 20,000 20,000 30,000 30,000 32,428 34,714 37,714 14.6 Transverse Flux 20,000 25,000 30,000 35,000 34,928 37,214 41,285 13.8 Induction Motor 20,000 20,000 25,000 25,000 25,471 26,385 27,942 7.24 4.3. Forecasting Analysis of Market Shares Figure 15a depicts the forecasting analysis of a monstrous fan according to market distribution. From here, market distribution of the monstrous fan will have a high potential in the industrial sector after 2017 followed by the mosque or prayer hall area. A high potential increase in sales is for the industrial and warehouse sectors is possibly due to the growth of factories that require a larger scale fan to distribute air. Other market distributions that experience a high increase in sales are the automotive and train station. Through forecasting analysis, other market distributions such as aviation, agriculture, airport, and restaurant will experience static sales and require other alternatives to increase their sales. In the Malaysian agricultural sector, many barns or stables are built in open areas. Thus, this phenomenon affects the sale of monstrous fans in the agriculture sector. At the same time, airport and aviation sectors are nowadays equipped with air conditioning, thus reflecting J. Open Innov. Technol. Mark. Complex. 2019,5, 14 16 of 19 sales of the monstrous fan. As a consequence of the static sale, the marketing department from the monstrous company should focus on these four market distributions, which can actually increase the company’s sales. J. Open Innov. Technol. Mark. Complex. 2019, 4, x FOR PEER REVIEW 16 of 20 number of factories and industries that are located mostly in Perak and Penang. Other regions such as the central region, southern, Sabah, and Sarawak, will experience fluctuating sales after 2017 according to the forecasted analysis. The decrease in sales volume that happens in the central and southern regions is possibly due to the market demand that has already used this product. 0 100 200 300 400 500 Sales quantities, n [pcs] 2012 2014 2016 2018 2020 2022 Year Mosque / prayer hall Industry Automotive Agriculture Restaurant Warehousing Aviation Train station Actual sale Forecast sale Central Northen East coast Southern Sabah & Sarawak Actual sale Forecast sale 2012 2014 2016 2018 2020 2022 Year 0 100 200 300 400 Sales quantities, n[pcs] (a) (b) Figure 15. Market share forecasting (a) Market distribution (b) Market region. 5. Next Futuristic Monstrous Fan There are a few technological trends that have gradually begun to pick up. Future appliances are becoming smarter and more connected to other devices along with the rise of wireless charging technologies. Thus, ceiling fan technology is not left behind. Future monstrous fans are expected to have larger fan diameter to cover all spaces. It is expected that the fan diameter will be extended up to 30 ft. in length of the fan blade to meet user demand. Instead of extending the fan blade diameter, this monstrous fan is expected to come with an adjustable fan blade diameter, so that it can meet user needs based on certain range areas. Nevertheless, the extended fan diameter will reach saturated demand due to blade fatigue and safety reason. In the meantime, the bladeless technology for the monstrous fan will start to emerge. The bladeless fan technology has emerged in 2009 by James Dyson and his team [39]. The bladeless fan works with the small size blades, which are located at the base. The concept of air movement in a bladeless fan adopted the fluid dynamics concept by sucking air and inducing it to flow within the surroundings of the fan ring tube. The ring tube features of the bladeless fan can be implemented on the monstrous fan as a hologram TV with some buttons for future research and development. Additionally, some features like warm and cold air flows are also available depending on the users’ necessity. The sensor movement to detect the human body and capacity are also new features installed with the monstrous fan in order to attract the user. Due to the above, air conditioning device sales may suffer from lower sales. The majority of monstrous fans are assembled on high ceiling levels. When the monstrous fan rotates, dust and dirt easily stick to the fan blades, which can cause the fan to be less efficient. Therefore, these monstrous fans will feature a vacuum concept on the top of the blade to remove dust. Moreover, it will also act as the ultimate machine cleaner for the large area when the sensor detects dirt on the area. Then, the fan automatically transforms to a vacuum mode and removes all the dirt and dust. Monstrous fans are big enough to produce energy. When the fan is turned off, the monstrous fan is still rotating and there is kinetic energy present, which is considered as energy loss. The energy loss will be converted into new electrical energy to turn on the monstrous fan again or other appliances. Thus, in the future, this monstrous fan is able to transform into a smart appliance in parallel with the technological development of today. Figure 15. Market share forecasting (a) Market distribution (b) Market region. Figure 15b shows the monstrous fan forecasting according to regions in Malaysia. The northern region shows a prospect in an increase of monstrous fan sales. The northern region, which covers the state of Kedah, Perlis, Perak, and Penang, has a potential possibility due to the rising number of factories and industries that are located mostly in Perak and Penang. Other regions such as the central region, southern, Sabah, and Sarawak, will experience fluctuating sales after 2017 according to the forecasted analysis. The decrease in sales volume that happens in the central and southern regions is possibly due to the market demand that has already used this product. 5. Next Futuristic Monstrous Fan There are a few technological trends that have gradually begun to pick up. Future appliances are becoming smarter and more connected to other devices along with the rise of wireless charging technologies. Thus, ceiling fan technology is not left behind. Future monstrous fans are expected to have larger fan diameter to cover all spaces. It is expected that the fan diameter will be extended up to 30 ft. in length of the fan blade to meet user demand. Instead of extending the fan blade diameter, this monstrous fan is expected to come with an adjustable fan blade diameter, so that it can meet user needs based on certain range areas. Nevertheless, the extended fan diameter will reach saturated demand due to blade fatigue and safety reason. In the meantime, the bladeless technology for the monstrous fan will start to emerge. The bladeless fan technology has emerged in 2009 by James Dyson and his team [ 39 ]. The bladeless fan works with the small size blades, which are located at the base. The concept of air movement in a bladeless fan adopted the fluid dynamics concept by sucking air and inducing it to flow within the surroundings of the fan ring tube. The ring tube features of the bladeless fan can be implemented on the monstrous fan as a hologram TV with some buttons for future research and development. Additionally, some features like warm and cold air flows are also available depending on the users’ necessity. The sensor movement to detect the human body and capacity are also new features installed with the monstrous fan in order to attract the user. Due to the above, air conditioning device sales may suffer from lower sales. The majority of monstrous fans are assembled on high ceiling levels. When the monstrous fan rotates, dust and dirt easily stick to the fan blades, which can cause the fan to be less efficient. Therefore, these monstrous fans will feature a vacuum concept on the top of the blade to remove dust. Moreover, J. Open Innov. Technol. Mark. Complex. 2019,5, 14 17 of 19 it will also act as the ultimate machine cleaner for the large area when the sensor detects dirt on the area. Then, the fan automatically transforms to a vacuum mode and removes all the dirt and dust. Monstrous fans are big enough to produce energy. When the fan is turned off, the monstrous fan is still rotating and there is kinetic energy present, which is considered as energy loss. The energy loss will be converted into new electrical energy to turn on the monstrous fan again or other appliances. Thus, in the future, this monstrous fan is able to transform into a smart appliance in parallel with the technological development of today. 6. Conclusions This paper aims to forecast product features, product technology, and the market share of monstrous fans. The main contribution of this paper is represented by specific knowledge on the technical specificities of monstrous fans in Malaysia, a country with an equatorial climate. There are a few findings that are key points for the market and greater sales information on monstrous fans, especially in regards to product features, technology, price competitiveness, and share of local markets. The findings have identified the product features of the monstrous fan that are constantly chosen by users, such as a large fan diameter. Product sales are dominated by the 16 ft. fan diameter and 24 ft. fan diameter, so as to meet the consumer requirement to distribute wider air circulation. Thus, the sales demand drops due to the perception of the end user, who requires large fan diameters to cover a larger area. In conclusion, an extended fan diameter with the extra improvement found in monstrous fan efficiency is required. Another factor is the sale of the Induction Motor, which is high compared to other motors. Traditionally, this Induction Motor is widely used for the application of ceiling fans because of the technology maturity involved with it. Thus, it can be concluded that the Induction Motor will continue to be chosen in the future. But other types of motors, such as the BLDC motor and the Transverse Flux Motor with additional technology will gain attention from the market. From the findings on technology and price competitiveness, the Permanent Magnet Motor and BLDC have a higher price compared to the other motor types. The presence of magnet material inside the fan and the controlling method of these two types of motors becomes the main reason for their high price. As an assumption, the prices of the monstrous fan will rise as a result of the material surplus and the rare earth magnet invention, which develops the electric motor. Furthermore, there are many types of Induction Motors being researched, which are intended to improve the motor because the prices of these motor types are still lower due to their construction. Moreover, the judgement on a monstrous fan’s current technology is dominated by gearless technology. Gearless technology is quieter and provides less friction in the monstrous fan. The ability of the design features will influence other manufacturers to improve their monstrous fans in order to attract more users. Regarding the market share findings on the market sales distribution, industrial and warehousing are markets where a high potential for sales exists. Other market sectors that also have potentials but lack a marketing strategy will see sales that remain static. It is advisable to the marketers to conduct more online advertisement through social media and provide awareness to users in terms of electricity consumption and the benefits of using a monstrous fan compared to air conditioning. If not, the monstrous fan industry will remain dormant by only providing service maintenance as a core business. In conclusion, the monstrous fan is growing in the market section in Malaysia. The rapid growth in sale volumes of monstrous fans shows that this product requires greater improvements to make it marketable in the business world. The new technology for structure, fan blades, and motor types, will make this product energy saving and efficient. In the coming years, the monstrous fan is expected to have more additional features and become a multipurpose appliance. Thus, to support the reliability of this monstrous fan application, a survey on the public opinions towards this application must be discussed in greater depth. The anticipation for this paper shows that forecasting sales and technology for the monstrous fan is required. A similar study with a longitudinal design would allow for a more detailed analysis and would get around the problem of poor recall. Hence it would allow for more J. Open Innov. Technol. Mark. Complex. 2019,5, 14 18 of 19 detailed information about the nature and evolutionary process of new and futuristic technological developments [40]. Author Contributions: R.N.F.K.R.O., N.A. and N.A.M.Z. conceived and conducting the survey; Amiruddin Ahamat, F.A.A.S. and K.A.K. contributed in analysis; and N.A. and R.N.F.K.R.O. wrote the paper. Funding: The author would like to thank the Ministry of Education Malaysia, Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka (UTeM) for providing research grants, GLUAR/PPRN/2017/FKE-CERIA/G00050, PJP/2017/FKE/HI12/S01537 and PJP/2017/FKE/HI12/S01538. Acknowledgments: The authors also wish to acknowledge the contribution from all respondents in fulfilling the requests concerning monstrous fan information. Their gratitude is particularly for their help and the information received from Suria Giant Fan Sdn. Bhd., Benima Marketing Sdn. Bhd., Kolowa Ventilation (M) Sdn. Bhd., Masterglobal (HQ) Sdn. Bhd., Sunwins Sdn. Bhd., Best Fans Sdn. Bhd., Gard Inc. Sdn. Bhd., Syspex Tech (M) Sdn. Bhd., and Macro air (Khind Alliances) Sdn. Bhd. Conflicts of Interest: The authors declare no conflict of interest. References 1. Cheng Leong Goh. World climate types. In Resource Atlas in Physical Geography, 1st ed.; Pearson Education South Asia Pte Ltd.: Buona Vista Drive, Singapore, 2010; p. 12. 2. Gao, Y.; Zhang, H.; Arens, E.; Present, E.; Ning, B.; Zhai, Y.; Zhai, Y.; Zhai, Y.; Zhai, Y.; Pantelic, J.; Luo, M.; Zhao, L.; Raftery, P.; et al. Ceiling fan air speeds around desks and office partitions. Build. Environ. 2017 ,124, 412–440. [CrossRef] 3. 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