Interrotating scroll compressor with Oldham coupling

Abstract

The compressor may include a shell assembly, a first scroll member, a second scroll member, a drive shaft, a first bearing, a second bearing, a first Oldham coupling, and a second Oldham coupling. The scroll members define compression pockets. The first bearing defines a first rotation axis on which the first scroll member rotates. The second bearing supports the second scroll member to rotate about a second rotation axis offset from the first rotation axis. The first Oldham coupling includes a first body and first keys extending from the first body. The first keys are engaged in first slots formed in the second scroll member. The second Oldham coupling is separate and distinct from the first Oldham coupling. The second Oldham coupling includes a second body and second keys extending from the second body. The second keys are engaged in second slots formed on a surface that rotates about the first rotation axis.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a mutually rotating scroll compressor having an Oldham coupling.

[0002] <Cross-reference of related applications>

[0003] This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 519,876, filed November 5, 2021. The entire contents of said application are incorporated into this application by reference. Background Technology

[0004] This section provides background information related to the present disclosure and is not necessarily prior art.

[0005] A temperature control system (e.g., a heat pump system, an air conditioning system, a refrigeration system, etc.) comprises an outdoor heat exchanger, an indoor heat exchanger, an expansion device positioned between the outdoor and indoor heat exchangers, and a fluid circuit comprising a compressor that circulates a working fluid between the indoor and outdoor heat exchangers. In order for a temperature control system equipped with a compressor to effectively and efficiently provide cooling and / or heating effects as needed, efficient and stable operation of the compressor is desirable. means of solving the problem

[0006] This section provides an overall overview of the present disclosure and is not an comprehensive disclosure of the full scope or all features.

[0007] The present disclosure provides a compressor that may include a shell assembly, a first scroll member, a second scroll member, a drive shaft, a first bearing, a second bearing, a first Oldham coupling, and a second Oldham coupling. The first scroll member is disposed within the shell assembly. The second scroll member is disposed within the shell assembly and, together with the first scroll member, defines compression pockets between them. The drive shaft may be coupled to the first scroll member and configured to rotate the first scroll member relative to the shell assembly. The first bearing may define a first rotation axis on which the drive shaft and the first scroll member rotate. The second bearing is spaced apart from the first bearing and may support the second scroll member to rotate around a second rotation axis offset from the first rotation axis. The first Oldham coupling may include a first body and first keys extending from the first body. The first keys may be slidably engaged in first slots formed in the second scroll member. The second Oldham coupling is separate and distinct from the first Oldham coupling. The second Oldham coupling may include a second body and second keys extending from the second body. The second keys may be slidably engaged in second slots formed on a surface that rotates about the first rotation axis.

[0008] In a part of the compressor configuration of the above paragraph, during the operation of the compressor, the rotation of the center of gravity of the first Oldham coupling is in phase with the rotation of the center of gravity of the second Oldham coupling.

[0009] In a part of the compressor configuration of any one of the above paragraphs, the center of gravity of the first Oldham coupling and the second Oldham coupling rotates at a rotational speed greater than the rotational speed of the first scroll member and the second scroll member.

[0010] In a part of the compressor configuration of any one of the above paragraphs, the surface on which the second slots are formed is the axially facing surface of the bearing support member. The bearing support member may be rotatably fixed to the first scroll member.

[0011] In a part of the compressor configuration of any one of the above paragraphs, the first and second bodies of the first and second Oldham couplings are annular bodies extending around the hub of the second scroll member. The hub may extend from the first side of the end plate of the second scroll member. A spiral wrap extends from the second side of the end plate.

[0012] In a part of the compressor configuration of any one of the above paragraphs, the first keys of the first Oldham coupling extend from the first body in a first direction and a second direction opposite to each other. The second keys of the second Oldham coupling extend from the second body in a first direction and a second direction opposite to each other.

[0013] In a part of the compressor configuration of any one of the above paragraphs, the first keys are spaced 180 degrees apart from each other, and the second keys are spaced 180 degrees apart from each other.

[0014] In a part of the compressor configuration of any one of the above paragraphs, the first Oldham coupling includes third keys extending from the first body, and the second Oldham coupling includes fourth keys extending from the second body.

[0015] In a part of the compressor configuration of any one of the paragraphs above, the first keys of the first Oldham coupling extend from the first body in a first direction. The third keys of the first Oldham coupling extend from the first body in a second direction opposite to the first direction. The second keys of the second Oldham coupling extend from the second body in the second direction. The fourth keys of the second Oldham coupling extend from the second body in the first direction.

[0016] In a part of the compressor configuration of any one of the above paragraphs, the first keys are spaced 180 degrees apart from each other, the second keys are spaced 180 degrees apart from each other, the third keys are spaced 180 degrees apart from each other, and the fourth keys are spaced 180 degrees apart from each other.

[0017] In another embodiment, the present disclosure provides a compressor that may include a shell assembly, a first bearing support member, a first scroll member, a second scroll member, a first Oldham coupling, and a second Oldham coupling. The first bearing support member may be fixed to the shell assembly and may include a first cylindrical surface and a second cylindrical surface eccentric to the first cylindrical surface. The first scroll member may be rotatable about the first bearing support member about a first rotation axis defined by the first cylindrical surface. The second scroll member may define compression pockets together with the first scroll member. The second scroll member may be rotatable about the first bearing support member about a second rotation axis defined by the second cylindrical surface. The first Oldham coupling may include a first body and first keys extending from the first body. The first keys may be slidably engaged in first slots formed in the second scroll member. The second Oldham coupling is separate and distinct from the first Oldham coupling. The second Oldham coupling may include a second body and second keys extending from the second body. The second keys may be slidably engaged in second slots formed on a surface that rotates about the first rotation axis.

[0018] In a part of the compressor configuration of the above paragraph, during the operation of the compressor, the rotation of the center of gravity of the first Oldham coupling is in phase with the rotation of the center of gravity of the second Oldham coupling.

[0019] In a part of the compressor configuration of any of the above paragraphs, the center of gravity of the first Oldham coupling and the second Oldham coupling rotates at a rotational speed greater than (e.g., twice as great) the rotational speed of the first scroll member and the second scroll member.

[0020] In a part of the compressor configuration of any of the above paragraphs, the surface on which the second slot is formed is the axially facing surface of the second bearing support member. The second bearing support member may be rotatably fixed to the first scroll member. The compressor may include a first bearing and a second bearing. The first bearing may be attached to the second bearing support member and to the first cylindrical surface of the first bearing support member. The second bearing may surround the second cylindrical surface of the first bearing support member and may be disposed within the cavity of the second bearing support member. A bushing may be disposed between the second bearing and the second cylindrical surface of the first bearing support member. The bushing may provide radial conformity to the scroll members.

[0021] In a part of the compressor configuration of any of the above paragraphs, the first body of the first Oldham coupling and the second body of the second Oldham coupling are annular bodies extending around the hub of the second scroll member. The hub may extend from the first side of the end plate of the second scroll member. A spiral wrap extends from the second side of the end plate.

[0022] In a part configuration of the compressor of any one of the above paragraphs, the first keys of the first Oldham coupling extend from the first body in a first direction and a second direction opposite to each other, and the second keys of the second Oldham coupling extend from the second body in a first direction and a second direction opposite to each other.

[0023] In a part of the compressor configuration of any one of the above paragraphs, the first keys are spaced 180 degrees apart from each other, and the second keys are spaced 180 degrees apart from each other.

[0024] In a part configuration of the compressor of any one of the above paragraphs, the first Oldham coupling includes third keys extending from the first body, and the second Oldham coupling includes fourth keys extending from the second body.

[0025] In a part configuration of the compressor of any one of the above paragraphs, the first keys of the first Oldham coupling extend from the first body in a first direction, and the third keys of the first Oldham coupling extend from the first body in a second direction opposite to the first direction. The second keys of the second Oldham coupling extend from the second body in the second direction, and the fourth keys of the second Oldham coupling extend from the second body in the first direction.

[0026] In a part of the compressor configuration of any one of the above paragraphs, the first keys are spaced 180 degrees apart from each other, the second keys are spaced 180 degrees apart from each other, the third keys are spaced 180 degrees apart from each other, and the fourth keys are spaced 180 degrees apart from each other.

[0027] Additional areas of applicability of the present disclosure will become apparent from the description provided in this specification. The contents and specific examples disclosed in this section are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0028] The drawings described herein are merely for illustrating selected embodiments and are not all possible implementations and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure. FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a compressor according to the principles of the present disclosure. Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of the bearing housing and compression mechanism of the compressor of Figure 1. Figure 3 is another exploded perspective view of the bearing housing and compression mechanism. FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the bearing support member of the compressor and the Oldham coupling. FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a scroll member and an Oldham coupling. Figure 6 is a plan view of the bearing support member and the scroll member. FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of a scroll member in a first rotational position. FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram of a scroll member in a second rotational position. FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram of a scroll member in a third rotational position. FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of a scroll member in the fourth rotational position. FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram of a scroll member in the fifth rotational position. FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram of a scroll member in the 6th rotational position. FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of a scroll member in the 7th rotational position. FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram of a scroll member in the eighth rotational position. FIG. 15 is an exploded perspective view of an alternative bearing housing and an alternative compression mechanism according to the principles of the present disclosure. FIG. 16 is another exploded perspective view of the bearing housing and compression mechanism of FIG. 15. FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the scroll member and Oldham coupling of the compression mechanism of FIG. 15. FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a bearing support member and an Oldham coupling. 19 is a plan view of the bearing support member and scroll member of FIG. 15. The corresponding reference number indicates the corresponding part across multiple drawings. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0029] Exemplary embodiments will be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0030] Exemplary embodiments are provided to complete the disclosure and fully convey its scope to those skilled in the art. Many specific details are given as examples of specific components, devices, and methods to provide a complete understanding of the embodiments of the disclosure. Those skilled in the art will clearly understand that specific details are not required to be adopted, that exemplary embodiments may be implemented in many different forms, and that neither shall be construed as limiting the scope of the disclosure. In some exemplary embodiments, known processes, known device structures, and known technologies are not described in detail.

[0031] The terms used in this application specification are intended solely for the purpose of describing specific exemplary embodiments and are not intended to be limiting. As used in this application specification, the singular form is intended to likewise include the plural form unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms “include,” “comprising,” “having,” and “having” are in a comprehensive sense and indicate that the mentioned features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or parts are present, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, parts, and / or groups thereof. The steps, processes, and operations described in this application specification are not to be interpreted as necessarily needing to be performed in the specific order discussed or illustrated unless the order of execution is specifically identified. It is also clear that additional or alternative steps may be adopted.

[0032] Where one element or layer is referred to as being "on," "engaged," "connected," or "combined" with another element or layer, it may be directly on, engaged with, connected to, or combined with the other element or layer, or an intermediate element or layer may exist. Conversely, where one element is referred to as being "directly on," "directly engaged," "directly connected," or "directly combined" with another element or layer, there may be no intermediate element or layer. Other words used to describe the relationship between elements should be interpreted in a similar manner (e.g., "between" vs. "directly between," "adjacently" vs. "directly adjacently," etc.). As used in this application specification, the term "and / or" includes any combination of one or more of the items enumerated in relation thereto and all such combinations.

[0033] In this application specification, terms such as first, second, third, etc., may be used to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections, but such elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections should not be limited by such terms. Such terms may be used solely to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or section from another element, component, region, layer, or section. Terms such as "first," "second," and other numbered terms do not imply a sequence or order unless explicitly indicated by the context. Therefore, the first element, first component, first region, first layer, or first section discussed below may refer to the second element, second component, second region, second layer, or second section without departing from the teachings of the exemplary embodiments.

[0034] Spatial terms such as "inside," "outside," "below," "below," "lower," "above," and "top" may be used in this application specification to facilitate the description of the relationship that one element or feature has with respect to other element(s) or feature(s) depicted in the drawings. Spatial terms may be intended to include other orientations of the device during use or operation in addition to the orientation shown in the drawings. For example, if the device is inverted in the drawings, an element described as "below" or "below" of another element or feature becomes "above" of that other element or feature. Therefore, the exemplary term "below" may include both the lower and upper directions. The device may be oriented in other ways (rotated 90 degrees or in other directions), and spatial descriptions used in this application specification may be interpreted accordingly.

[0035] Referring to FIGS. 1 through 14, a compressor (10) is provided that may include a shell assembly (12), a first bearing housing (14), a second bearing housing (16), a compression mechanism (18), and a motor assembly (20). The shell assembly (12) may include a shell body (22), a first end cap (23), a second end cap (24), and a partition (or muffler plate) (25). The shell body (22) may be generally cylindrical. The first and second end caps (23, 24) may be fixedly attached to two axially opposite ends of the shell body (22). The partition (25) may be fixedly attached to the shell body (22) and / or the first end cap (23) and may extend across the shell body (22).

[0036] The partition (25) and the first end cap (23) together define (form) a discharge chamber (26) that receives working fluid compressed from the compression mechanism (18). The partition (25), the shell body (22), and the second end cap (24) together define a suction chamber (28). The first and second bearing housings (14, 16), the compression mechanism (18), and the motor assembly (20) may be placed within the suction chamber (28). The suction chamber (28) may receive working fluid under suction pressure from a suction inlet fitting (30) attached to the second end cap (24) or the shell body (22). That is, the suction pressure working fluid (i.e., low pressure working fluid) can enter the suction chamber (28) through the suction inlet fitting (30) and can be drawn into the compression mechanism (18) for compression. The compression mechanism (18) discharges the compressed working fluid (i.e., discharge pressure working fluid at a pressure higher than the suction pressure) into the discharge chamber (26). The working fluid in the discharge chamber (26) can be discharged from the compressor (10) through the discharge outlet fitting (32). In some configurations, a discharge valve (34) may be placed within the discharge outlet fitting (32). The discharge valve (34) may be a check valve that allows fluid to exit the discharge chamber (26) through the discharge outlet fitting (32) but prevents fluid from entering the discharge chamber (26) through the discharge outlet fitting (32).

[0037] The compressor (10) illustrated in the drawing is a low-side compressor (i.e., at least most of the motor assembly (20) and the compression mechanism (18) are located in the intake chamber (28). However, it will be understood that the principles of the present disclosure are applicable to a high-side compressor (i.e., a compressor having a compression mechanism (18) located in the exhaust chamber).

[0038] The first bearing housing (14) may include a first bearing support member (38) and a second bearing support member (40). The first bearing support member (38) may be a generally cylindrical shaft or body having a discharge passage (42) extending axially. The first bearing support member (38) may be fixed to the shell assembly (12). For example, the first bearing support member (38) may be fixedly attached to the partition (25) and may extend through the opening (44) of the partition (25). In other configurations, the first bearing support member (38) may be formed integrally with the partition (25), or the first bearing support member (38) may be attached to the first end cap (23) or formed integrally with the first end cap (23). The discharge passage (42) is fluidly connected to the discharge chamber (26) and the compression mechanism (18) so that the compressed working fluid discharged from the compression mechanism (18) flows into the discharge chamber (26) through the discharge passage (42).

[0039] The first bearing support member (38) includes a first cylindrical surface (48) and a second cylindrical surface (48). The first cylindrical surface (46) can support the first bearing (50) and can define the first rotation axis (A1). The second cylindrical surface (48) is eccentric with respect to the first cylindrical surface (46) and partially defines the second rotation axis (A2) which is parallel to the first rotation axis (A1) and laterally offset (i.e., not collinear). The second cylindrical surface (48) supports the second bearing (52).

[0040] The first bearing (50) may be a rolling element bearing comprising an outer ring (54), an inner ring (56), and a plurality of rolling elements (e.g., spheres or cylinders) (58) disposed between the outer ring (54) and the inner ring (56). The inner ring (56) of the first bearing (50) may be fixedly attached to the first cylindrical surface (46) of the first bearing support member (38). The outer ring (54) of the first bearing (50) may be attached to the second bearing support member (40).

[0041] The second bearing (52) may include an outer ring (53) and rotating elements (55). The rotating elements (55) may be arranged around a bushing (57). The outer ring (53) surrounds the rotating elements (55) and the bushing (57). The bushing (57) surrounds the second cylindrical surface (48) of the first bearing support member (38). A gap (59) may be radially positioned between the second cylindrical surface (48) and the bushing (57). The outer ring (53) of the second bearing (52) may be attached to the compression mechanism (18) (described in more detail below). The bushing (57), the radial gap (59), and the second cylindrical surface (48) define the second rotation axis (A2). The bushing (57) allows for radial compliance of the scroll member (70, 72).

[0042] The second bearing support member (40) may be an annular member having a first cavity (41) and a second cavity (43). The first cavity (41) may accommodate a first bearing (50). The second cavity (43) may accommodate a part of a compression mechanism (18). The second bearing support member (40) may include a plurality of slots (61) (Figs. 3 and 4). For example, the slots (61) may be formed on an axially facing surface (63) of the second bearing support member (40) (i.e., a surface facing a direction parallel to the direction in which the axes (A1, A2) extend). An annular seal (65) is disposed within the second bearing support member (40) (e.g., axially between the first cavity (41) and the second cavity (43)). The sealing portion (65) is sealedly engaged with the second bearing support member (40) and the first bearing support member (38). Another annular sealing portion (66) is sealedly engaged with the second bearing support member (40) and the second scroll member (72). The sealing portions (65, 66) prevent compressed working fluid (i.e., working fluid discharged from the compression mechanism (18)) from flowing into the suction chamber (28).

[0043] The second bearing housing (16) may include an annular central hub (60) and a plurality of arms (not shown) that extend radially outward from the hub (60) and are fixedly connected to a shell assembly (12) (e.g., a shell body (22)). The hub (60) accommodates a third bearing (62). The hub (60) may also include a central aperture (64).

[0044] The compression mechanism (18) may include a drive shaft (68), a first scroll member (70), a second scroll member (72), a first Oldham coupling (or Oldham ring) (74), and a second Oldham coupling (or Oldham ring) (76). The first and second scroll members (70, 72) together define fluid pockets (i.e., compression pockets) between them. The compression mechanism (18) is a co-rotating scroll compression mechanism in which the first scroll member (70) is a driven scroll member and the second scroll member (72) is an idler scroll member.

[0045] The drive shaft (68) may include a shaft portion (78) and a flange portion (80). The shaft portion (78) is rotatably supported by a third bearing (62) and extends through the motor assembly (20). The flange portion (80) extends radially outward from the axial end of the motor shaft portion (78). Fasteners (82) extend through holes in the flange portion (80), the first scroll member (70), and the second bearing support member (40) to rotatably secure the first scroll member (70) and the second bearing support member to the drive shaft (68) (i.e., to allow the first scroll member (70) and the second bearing support member (40) to rotate together with the drive shaft (68) around the first rotation axis (A1). The drive shaft (68) may include one or more holes (84) that allow the suction pressure operating fluid of the suction chamber (28) to flow into the suction inlet opening (86) of the first scroll member (70).

[0046] The first scroll member (70) may include a first end plate (88) and a first spiral wrap (90) extending from the first end plate (88). An intake inlet opening (86) may be disposed in the first end plate (88). The second scroll member (72) includes a second end plate (92), a second spiral wrap (94) extending from one side of the second end plate (92), and a hub (96) extending from the other side of the second end plate (92) (opposite side of said one side). The second end plate (92) may include a discharge passage (98), which is fluidly connected to the discharge passage (42) of the first bearing support member (38).

[0047] The second scroll member (72) may be disposed within the second cavity (43) of the second bearing support member (40). The eccentric second cylindrical surface (48) of the first bearing support member (38) may be received within the hub (96) of the second scroll member (72). The hub (96) of the second scroll member (72) may be rotatably supported by the second bearing (52), the bushing (57), and the eccentric second cylindrical surface (48) of the first bearing support member (38). In this way, the second scroll member (72) is rotatable about the second rotation axis (A2). As illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 5, the second end plate (92) of the second scroll member (72) includes a plurality of slots (100).

[0048] As described in more detail below, the Oldham coupling (74, 76) can be fixed to the second bearing support member (40) and the second scroll member (72). The Oldham coupling (74, 76) transmits the rotational energy of the drive shaft (68), the first scroll member (70), and the second bearing support member (40) to the second scroll member (72), so that as the drive shaft (68), the first scroll member (70), and the second bearing support member (40) rotate around the first rotation axis (A1), the second scroll member (72) rotates around the second rotation axis (A2). The first and second spiral wraps (90, 94) interlock and interact with each other to form a plurality of fluid pockets (i.e., compression pockets) between them. The rotation of the first scroll member (70) around the first rotation axis (A1) and the rotation of the second scroll member (72) around the second rotation axis (A2) cause the size of the fluid pockets to decrease as they move from a radially outer position to a radially inner position, thereby compressing the working fluid inside the pocket from the suction pressure to the discharge pressure.

[0049] The motor assembly (20) may be placed within the suction chamber (28) and may include a motor stator (102) and a rotor (104). The motor stator (102) may be attached to the shell body (22) (e.g., by press fitting, staking, and / or welding). The rotor (104) may be attached to the shaft portion (78) of the drive shaft (68) (e.g., by press fitting, staking, and / or welding). The drive shaft (68) may be driven by the rotor (104) to rotate relative to the shell assembly (12) about a first rotation axis (A1). The motor assembly (20) may be a fixed-speed motor, a multi-speed motor, or a variable-speed motor.

[0050] As illustrated in FIG. 2-5, the first Oldham coupling (74) may include an annular body (106) and a pair of keys (108). The keys (108) may be rectangular protrusions (i.e., rectangular prisms). The keys (108) may be positioned approximately 180 degrees apart from each other. The keys (108) extend axially from two opposite sides of the annular body (106). That is, the body (106) is attached to the keys (108) at a position between the opposing ends of the keys (108).

[0051] The second Oldham coupling (76) may include an annular body (110) and a pair of keys (112). The keys (112) may be rectangular protrusions (i.e., rectangular prisms). The keys (112) may be spaced approximately 180 degrees apart from each other. The keys (112) extend axially from two opposite sides of the annular body (110). That is, the body (110) is attached to the keys (112) at a position between the opposing ends of the keys (112). The Oldham couplings (74, 76) may be similar or identical to each other. The Oldham couplings (74, 76) are separated and distinguishable from each other and are movable relative to each other during the operation of the compressor (10).

[0052] The key (108, 112) of the Oldham coupling (74, 76) is slidably received in each slot (61, 100) of the second bearing support member (40) and the second scroll member (72). The slots (61) of the second bearing support member (40) are arranged in a circular pattern centered on the first rotation axis (A1). Each slot (61) is positioned approximately 90 degrees apart from adjacent slots (61). Each slot (61) has a length (L) (i.e., the dimension in which the key (108, 112) can slide) such that: (a) it is perpendicular to the length (L) of adjacent slots (61) (i.e., each slot (61) is perpendicular to slots (61) that are 90 degrees apart from each other); (b) are oriented parallel to the opposite slot (61) but not aligned in a straight line (i.e., slots (61) spaced 180 degrees apart from each other are parallel to each other but not in a straight line). The longitudinal axes extending along the length (L) of the slots (61) do not intersect the center of the rotation axes (A1, A2).

[0053] Likewise, the slots (100) of the second scroll member (72) are arranged in a circular pattern centered on the first rotation axis (A1). Each slot (100) is positioned approximately 90 degrees apart from an adjacent slot (100). Each slot (100) is oriented such that its length (L) (i.e., the dimension on which the key (108, 112) can slide) is: (a) perpendicular to the length (L) of adjacent slots (100) (i.e., each slot (100) is perpendicular to slots (100) that are 90 degrees apart from each other); (b) parallel to opposite slots (100) but not aligned in a straight line (i.e., slots (100) that are 180 degrees apart from each other are parallel to each other but not in a straight line). The longitudinal axes extending along the length (L) of the slots (100) do not intersect the center of the rotation axis (A1, A2).

[0054] The Oldham coupling (74, 76) is positioned within the second cavity (43) of the second bearing support member (40) and between the axially facing surface (63) of the second bearing support member (40) and the end plate (92) of the second scroll member (72). The annular body (106, 110) of the Oldham coupling (74, 76) is positioned around the hub (96) of the second scroll member (72) (i.e., the hub (96) extends through the annular body (106, 110) of the Oldham coupling (74, 76).

[0055] As illustrated in FIGS. 4 to 6, the keys (108, 112) of the Oldham couplings (74, 76) are received within the slots (61, 100) of the second bearing support member (40) and the second scroll member (72). That is, the first part of each key (108) of the first Oldham coupling (74) is received within the corresponding slot (61) of the second bearing support member (40), and the second part of each key (108) of the first Oldham coupling (74) is received within the corresponding slot (100) of the second scroll member (72). Likewise, the first part of each key (112) of the second Oldham coupling (76) is received within the corresponding slot (61) of the second bearing support member (40), and the second part of each key (112) of the second Oldham coupling (76) is received within the corresponding slot (100) of the second scroll member (72). The key (108, 112) can slide within the slot (61, 100) along the length (L) of the slot (61, 100).

[0056] As illustrated in FIG. 6, the first key among the keys (108) is slidably received in the first slot among the slots (61) and the first slot among the slots (100). The first slot among the slots (61) and the first slot among the slots (100) are perpendicular to each other. The second key among the keys (108) is slidably received in the second slot among the slots (61) and the second slot among the slots (100). The second slot among the slots (61) and the second slot among the slots (100) are perpendicular to each other. The first key among the keys (112) is slidably received in the third slot among the slots (61) and the third slot among the slots (100). The third slot among the slots (61) and the third slot among the slots (100) are perpendicular to each other. The second key among the keys (112) is slidably received in the fourth slot among the slots (61) and the fourth slot among the slots (100). The fourth slot among the slots (61) and the fourth slot among the slots (100) are perpendicular to each other. Therefore, when the compressor (10) is in operation, the rotation of the center of gravity (CG1) of the first Oldham coupling (74) is out of phase with the rotation of the center of gravity (CG2) of the second Oldham coupling (76), so the inertial forces of the Oldham couplings (74, 76) cancel each other out. That is, as shown in FIGS. 7 to 14, when the compressor (10) is in operation, the center of gravity (CG1) of the first Oldham coupling (74) is 180 degrees away from the center of gravity (CG2) of the second Oldham coupling (76).

[0057] As illustrated in FIGS. 7 through 14, during the operation of the compressor (10), the center of gravity (CG1, CG2) of the Oldham coupling (74, 76) moves along a circular path (P). The diameter of the circular path (P) is equal to the offset distance between the centers of rotation of the first and second scroll members (70, 72) (i.e., the offset distance between the first and second axes of rotation (A1, A2)). The center of gravity (CG1, CG2) of the Oldham coupling (74, 76) rotates at twice the rotational speed (twice as large) of the scroll member (70, 72) (along the circular path (P)). (When the scroll member (70, 72) rotates 45 degrees from FIG. 7 to FIG. 8, the center of gravity (CG1, CG2) rotates 90 degrees from FIG. 7 to FIG. 8. FIG. 7-14 illustrates various positions of the scroll member (70, 72) and the center of gravity (CG1, CG2) during one full rotation (360 degrees) and two full rotations (720 degrees) of the scroll member (70, 72).

[0058] Because the rotation of the center of gravity (CG1) of the first Oldham coupling (74) is in phase with the rotation of the center of gravity (CG2) of the second Oldham coupling (76), the inertial forces of the Oldham couplings (74, 76) cancel each other out. This reduces or eliminates rotational imbalance of the compressor (10), thereby reducing noise and vibration during the operation of the compressor (10). The configuration of the aforementioned Oldham couplings (74, 76) and slots (61, 100) also allows for radial conformity of the scroll members (70, 72), which improves the efficiency of the compressor (10) and reduces vibration.

[0059] Referring to FIGS. 15-19, an alternative first bearing housing (214) and an alternative compression mechanism (218) are provided. The first bearing housing (214) and the compression mechanism (218) may be integrated into the compressor (10) instead of the first bearing housing (14) and the compression mechanism (18) described above. The structure and function of the first bearing housing (214) and the compression mechanism (218) may be similar or identical to those of the first bearing housing (14) and the compression mechanism (18) described above, except for the differences described below and / or illustrated in the drawings. Therefore, similar features are not described in detail again.

[0060] The first bearing housing (214), like the first bearing housing (14), may include a first bearing support member (238) and a second bearing support member (240). The first bearing support member (238) may be identical to the first bearing support member (38) described above. The second bearing support member (240) may be identical to the second bearing support member (40) described above, except that the slots (261) of the second bearing support member (240) are oriented differently from the slots (61) described above. Like the slots (61), the slots (261) are arranged in a circular pattern and are spaced approximately 90 degrees apart from each other. However, unlike the slots (61), the slots (261) spaced 180 degrees apart are aligned in a straight line with each other, so that the longitudinal axis extending along the length of one slot (261) also extends along the length of the slots (261) spaced 180 degrees apart.

[0061] The compression mechanism (218) may include a drive shaft (268), a first scroll member (270), a second scroll member (272), a first Oldham coupling (274), and a second Oldham coupling (276). The drive shaft (268) and the first scroll member (270) are similar or identical to the drive shaft (68) and the first scroll member (70) described above. The second scroll member (272) may be identical to the second scroll member (72) described above, except that the slots (300) of the second bearing scroll member (272) are oriented differently from the slots (100) described above. Like the slots (100), the slots (300) are arranged in a circular pattern and spaced approximately 90 degrees apart from each other. However, unlike the slots (100), the slots (300) that are spaced 180 degrees apart are aligned in a straight line with each other such that the longitudinal axis extending along the length of one slot (300) also extends along the length of another slot among the slots (300) that are spaced 180 degrees apart.

[0062] The first Oldham coupling (274) may include a generally annular body (306), a first pair of keys (308), and a second pair of keys (310). The first keys (308) are protrusions extending from the first side of the body (306) in a first axial direction. The first keys (308) are positioned approximately 180 degrees apart from each other. The second keys (310) are protrusions extending to the second side of the body (306) (opposite side of the first side) in a second axial direction (opposite direction of the first axial direction) of the body (306). The second keys (310) are positioned approximately 180 degrees apart from each other and approximately 90 degrees apart from adjacent first keys (308).

[0063] The second Oldham coupling (276) may include a generally annular body (312), a first pair of keys (314), and a second pair of keys (316). The first keys (314) are protrusions extending from the first side of the body (312) in a first axial direction. The first keys (314) are spaced approximately 180 degrees apart from each other. The second keys (316) are protrusions extending from the second side of the body (312) (opposite side of the first side) in a second axial direction (opposite direction of the first axial direction) of the body (312). The second keys (316) are spaced approximately 180 degrees apart from each other and spaced approximately 90 degrees apart from adjacent first keys (314).

[0064] The first keys (308) of the first Oldham coupling (274) are slidably received in the first pair of slots (300) of the second scroll member (272), and the second keys (310) of the first Oldham coupling (274) are slidably received in the first pair of slots (261) of the second bearing support member (240). The first keys (314) of the second Oldham coupling (276) are slidably received in the second pair of slots (300) of the second scroll member (272), and the second keys (316) of the second Oldham coupling (276) are slidably received in the second pair of slots (261) of the second bearing support member (240).

[0065] When the compressor (10) is operated, the rotation of the center of gravity of the first Oldham coupling (274) is in phase with the rotation of the center of gravity of the second Oldham coupling (276), so the inertial forces of the Oldham couplings (274, 276) cancel each other out. As previously described, when the compressor (10) is operated, the center of gravity of the Oldham couplings (274, 276) moves along a circular path. The diameter of the circular path is equal to the offset distance between the centers of rotation of the first and second scroll members (270, 272) (i.e., the offset distance between the first and second rotation axes (A1, A2)). The center of gravity of the Oldham couplings (274, 276) rotates (along the circular path) at a rotational speed that is twice (i.e. twice as large) as the rotational speed of the scroll members (270, 272).

[0066] Because the center of gravity rotation of the first Oldham coupling (274) is in phase with the center of gravity rotation of the second Oldham coupling (276), the inertial forces of the Oldham couplings (274, 276) cancel each other out. This reduces or eliminates rotational imbalance of the compressor (10), thereby reducing noise and vibration during the operation of the compressor (10). The configuration of the aforementioned Oldham couplings (274, 276) and slots (261, 300) also allows for radial conformity of the scrolls (270, 272), which improves the efficiency of the compressor (10) and reduces vibration.

[0067] Although it has been described above that the Oldham coupling (74, 76, 274, 276) is slidably connected to the second scroll member (72, 272) and the second bearing support member (40, 240), in some configurations, the Oldham coupling (74, 76, 274, 276) may be slidably connected to the first and second scroll members (70, 72, 270, 272).

[0068] The foregoing description is provided for illustrative and illustrative purposes only. It is not comprehensive and is not intended to limit the present disclosure. Individual elements or features of a particular embodiment do not limit the particular embodiment and may be substituted if applicable and may be used in selected embodiments even if they have not been specifically illustrated or described. The same may also be modified in many different ways. Such modifications should not be construed as departing from the present disclosure, and all variations are contained within the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

Claim 1 A compressor comprising a shell assembly, a first scroll member, a second scroll member, a drive shaft, a first bearing, a second bearing, a first Oldham coupling, and a second Oldham coupling, wherein the first scroll member is disposed within the shell assembly; and the second scroll member is disposed within the shell assembly and, together with the first scroll member, defines compression pockets between them; A compressor, wherein the drive shaft is coupled to the first scroll member and configured to rotate the first scroll member relative to the shell assembly; the first bearing defines a first rotation axis on which the drive shaft and the first scroll member rotate; the second bearing is spaced apart from the first bearing and supports the second scroll member to rotate around a second rotation axis offset from the first rotation axis; the first Oldham coupling comprises a first body and first keys extending from the first body, the first keys being slidably engaged in first slots formed in the second scroll member; the second Oldham coupling is separate and distinct from the first Oldham coupling, the second Oldham coupling comprises a second body and second keys extending from the second body, the second keys being slidably engaged in second slots formed on a surface rotating around the first rotation axis. Claim 2 A compressor according to claim 1, wherein, during the operation of the compressor, the rotation of the center of gravity of the first Oldham coupling is in a different phase from the rotation of the center of gravity of the second Oldham coupling. Claim 3 In paragraph 2, a compressor in which the center of gravity of the first Oldham coupling and the second Oldham coupling rotates at a rotational speed greater than the rotational speed of the first scroll member and the second scroll member. Claim 4 A compressor according to claim 1, wherein the surface on which the second slots are formed is an axially facing surface of a bearing support member, and the bearing support member is rotatably fixed to the first scroll member. Claim 5 In paragraph 4, the first and second bodies of the first and second Oldham couplings are annular bodies extending around the hub of the second scroll member, the hub extending from the first side of the end plate of the second scroll member, and the spiral wrap extending from the second side of the end plate, a compressor. Claim 6 A compressor according to claim 1, wherein the first keys of the first Oldham coupling extend from the first body in a first direction and a second direction opposite to each other, and the second keys of the second Oldham coupling extend from the second body in a first direction and a second direction opposite to each other. Claim 7 A compressor according to claim 6, wherein the first keys are spaced 180 degrees apart from each other, and the second keys are spaced 180 degrees apart from each other. Claim 8 A compressor according to claim 1, wherein the first Oldham coupling comprises third keys extending from the first body, and the second Oldham coupling comprises fourth keys extending from the second body. Claim 9 A compressor according to claim 8, wherein the first keys of the first Oldham coupling extend from the first body in a first direction, the third keys of the first Oldham coupling extend from the first body in a second direction opposite to the first direction, the second keys of the second Oldham coupling extend from the second body in the second direction, and the fourth keys of the second Oldham coupling extend from the second body in the first direction. Claim 10 A compressor according to claim 9, wherein the first keys are spaced 180 degrees apart from each other, the second keys are spaced 180 degrees apart from each other, the third keys are spaced 180 degrees apart from each other, and the fourth keys are spaced 180 degrees apart from each other. Claim 11 A compressor comprising a shell assembly, a first bearing support member, a first scroll member, a second scroll member, a first Oldham coupling, and a second Oldham coupling, wherein the first bearing support member is fixed to the shell assembly, and the first bearing support member comprises a first cylindrical surface and a second cylindrical surface eccentric to the first cylindrical surface; the first scroll member is rotatable about the first bearing support member about a first rotation axis defined by the first cylindrical surface; the second scroll member defines compression pockets together with the first scroll member, and the second scroll member is rotatable about the first bearing support member about a second rotation axis defined by the second cylindrical surface; the first Oldham coupling comprises a first body and first keys extending from the first body, and the first keys are slidably engaged in first slots formed in the second scroll member; the second Oldham coupling is separate and distinct from the first Oldham coupling, and the A compressor comprising a second Oldham coupling, a second body, and second keys extending from the second body, wherein the second keys are slidably engaged in second slots formed on a surface rotating about the first axis of rotation. Claim 12 In paragraph 11, a compressor in which, during the operation of the compressor, the rotation of the center of gravity of the first Oldham coupling is in a different phase from the rotation of the center of gravity of the second Oldham coupling. Claim 13 In paragraph 12, a compressor in which the centers of gravity of the first Oldham coupling and the second Oldham coupling rotate at a rotational speed greater than the rotational speed of the first scroll member and the second scroll member. Claim 14 In claim 11, the surface on which the second slot is formed is an axially facing surface of the second bearing support member, the second bearing support member is rotatably fixed to the first scroll member, and the compressor comprises a first bearing and a second bearing, the first bearing is attached to the second bearing support member and to the first cylindrical surface of the first bearing support member, and the second bearing surrounds the second cylindrical surface of the first bearing support member and is disposed within the cavity of the second bearing support member. Claim 15 In paragraph 14, the first and second bodies of the first and second Oldham couplings are annular bodies extending around the hub of the second scroll member, the hub extending from the first side of the end plate of the second scroll member, and the spiral wrap extending from the second side of the end plate, a compressor. Claim 16 A compressor according to claim 11, wherein the first keys of the first Oldham coupling extend from the first body in a first direction and a second direction opposite to each other, and the second keys of the second Oldham coupling extend from the second body in a first direction and a second direction opposite to each other. Claim 17 A compressor according to claim 16, wherein the first keys are spaced 180 degrees apart from each other and the second keys are spaced 180 degrees apart from each other. Claim 18 A compressor according to claim 11, wherein the first Oldham coupling includes third keys extending from the first body, and the second Oldham coupling includes fourth keys extending from the second body. Claim 19 A compressor according to claim 18, wherein the first keys of the first Oldham coupling extend from the first body in a first direction, the third keys of the first Oldham coupling extend from the first body in a second direction opposite to the first direction, the second keys of the second Oldham coupling extend from the second body in the second direction, and the fourth keys of the second Oldham coupling extend from the second body in the first direction. Claim 20 A compressor according to claim 19, wherein the first keys are spaced 180 degrees apart from each other, the second keys are spaced 180 degrees apart from each other, the third keys are spaced 180 degrees apart from each other, and the fourth keys are spaced 180 degrees apart from each other.

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