Dual volume-ratio scroll machine

Abstract

The present invention provides the art with a scroll machine which has a plurality of built-in volume ratios along with their respective design pressure ratios. The incorporation of more than one built-in volume ratio allows a single compressor to be optimized for more than one operating condition. The operating envelope for the compressor will determine which of the various built-in volume ratios is going to be selected. Each volume ratio includes a discharge passage extending between one of the pockets of the scroll machine and the discharge chamber. All but the highest volume ration utilize a valve controlling the flow through the discharge passage.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10 / 726,713 filed Dec. 3, 2003 which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10 / 195,280 filed Jul. 15, 2002 which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09 / 688,549 filed on Oct. 16, 2000. The disclosure of the above application is incorporated herein by reference.FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0002] The present invention relates to generally to scroll machines. More particularly, the present invention relates to a dual volume ratio scroll machine, having a multi-function seal system which utilizes flip or flip seals. BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [0003] A class of machines exists in the art generally known as scroll machines which are used for the displacement of various types of fluids. Those scroll machines can be configured as an expander, a displacement engine, a pump, a compressor, etc., and the features of the present inve...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention provides sealing systems for scroll machines, specifically scroll compressors, that improve efficiency and reliability. The seals are designed to enhance tip sealing, which is important for compressing fluids, and to provide the necessary axial biasing forces for optimal performance. The invention also includes multiple built-in volume ratios and design pressure ratios that allow for improved operating efficiency of the scroll compressor.

Problems solved by technology

For example, scroll machines have high isentropic and volumetric efficiency, and hence are small and lightweight for a given capacity.

One way this has been accomplished, other than using tip seals (which are very difficult to assembly and which often present reliability problems) is by using fluid under pressure to axially bias one of the scroll members against the other scroll member.

When the motor is sized to meet the reduced supply voltage requirement, the design changes to the motor will generally conflict with the desire to maximize the motor efficiency at the primary compressor rating point.

Typically, the increasing of motor output torque will improve the low voltage operation of the motor but this will also reduce the compressor efficiency at the primary rating point.

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