Vane fans are a word used to describe wind-powered oscillating fans. Rather than using a mechanical linkage attached to the motor, these fans used the power of the wind generated by the fan to oscillate the fan. Despite their inherent complexity, these were actually the first type of oscillating fans developed by manufacturers.

Originally patented by Shedd in the early 20th century, vane fans lasted about 5-10 years before were replaced by more reliable mechanically oscillating fans, such as GE's side-winder oscillator, Westinghouse's Double-Lever and others.