Pocket Altoids Tin Li-Ion Extreme Desk Fan!

This is an instructable on how to build a pocket/portable desk fan. This being dual 5 volt fans running at 7+ volts it actually puts out quite a bit of air and is kind of loud. Extremely portable and extremely functional.

Note: This fan will only work in the open position is not meant to work closed. This is a desk fan not a handheld fan.

Build, Rate, Enjoy!!

Step 1 Prep Work - Materials

To do this project you will need some basic materials and tools. I try to use what I have lying around so you could substitute some of the materials with other stuff that you may have handy. You will need:
- Altoids Tin(Or similar tin)
- Two 5 volt Fans
- Two 3.7v Li-Ion cell phone batteries
- On/Off Switch
- Super Glue
- Electrical Tape
- Scissors
- Tin Snips(Wire cutters work but cuts are extremely rough)
- Pocket Knife
More specific details on materials used are in the following steps.

Comments

[steveformula]

Cool project. One variation would be to use a li-ion camera battery that has a standalone battery charger (as opposed to putting it inside the camera and using the camera charger). Another variation would be to use this with a 9 V NiMH battery.

[arc20052000]

Thanks for the comment. Camera battery is a good idea and a 9v would work with a single fan design not really enough room with two fans.

[Viridiz]

how does the fan not get blocked by the battery assembly?

[arc20052000]

You are correct, this is why I labeled it as a desk fan and not a handheld fan. Based on the available space inside the case it was either opt for a single fan and be able to use in closed or two fans and use it open. I chose the option with more air movement so it would be more usable. However, it could be modified to one fan and work in the closed position. Thanks for the question