Scroll electric compressor

Abstract

The present invention provides a scroll-type electric compressor that reduces noise and vibration of the scroll-type electric compressor. An annular space (74) formed around the fixed scroll (25) by a step portion (143), a second peripheral wall (142), a flange portion (25f), and an outer peripheral wall (25c) is connected to an oil storage chamber (50). Therefore, the annular space (74) functions as an oil storage chamber. Therefore, since the existing oil storage chamber (50) can be reduced by the amount of the annular space (74), the space of the existing discharge chamber (40) can be increased accordingly. Therefore, the pulsation of the refrigerant discharged into the discharge chamber (40) can be suppressed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a scroll-type electric compressor. Background Art

[0002] For example, as disclosed in Patent Document 1, a scroll-type electric compressor includes a housing, a rotating shaft, and an electric motor. The rotating shaft is rotatably supported by the housing. The electric motor rotates the rotating shaft. The scroll-type electric compressor includes a fixed scroll, an orbiting scroll, and a compression chamber. The fixed scroll includes a fixed base plate, a fixed scroll wall, and an outer peripheral wall. The fixed scroll wall and the outer peripheral wall rise from the fixed base plate. The outer peripheral wall surrounds the fixed scroll wall. The orbiting scroll includes an orbiting scroll wall. The orbiting scroll wall meshes with the fixed scroll wall. Furthermore, the orbiting scroll revolves as the rotating shaft rotates. The compression chamber is divided and formed between the fixed scroll wall and the orbiting scroll wall. Furthermore, the compression chamber takes in and compresses refrigerant from the outside. In addition, the scroll-type electric compressor includes a discharge chamber and an oil storage chamber. The refrigerant compressed by the compression chamber is discharged into the discharge chamber. The oil storage chamber stores oil separated from the refrigerant discharged into the discharge chamber.

[0003] Prior art literature

[0004] Patent Literature

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2020-165362 Summary of the Invention

[0006] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0007] However, in such scroll electric compressors, it is desirable to reduce noise and vibration. Pulsation of the refrigerant discharged into the discharge chamber contributes to noise and vibration. Therefore, a mechanism is desired that increases the capacity of the discharge chamber without increasing the size of the scroll electric compressor, particularly without increasing the axial dimension of the rotating shaft.

[0008] Solutions to Problems

[0009] The scroll-type electric compressor for solving the above-mentioned problems comprises: a housing; a rotating shaft rotatably supported by the housing; an electric motor that rotates the rotating shaft; a fixed scroll having a fixed base plate, a fixed scroll wall rising from the fixed base plate, and an outer peripheral wall rising from the fixed base plate and surrounding the fixed scroll wall; an orbiting scroll having an orbiting scroll wall meshing with the fixed scroll wall and revolving as the rotating shaft rotates; a compression chamber divided and formed between the fixed scroll wall and the orbiting scroll wall, for taking in and compressing refrigerant from the outside; a discharge chamber into which the refrigerant compressed by the compression chamber is discharged; and an oil storage chamber that stores oil separated from the refrigerant discharged to the discharge chamber. The outer shell includes a discharge shell, which includes an end wall, a first peripheral wall extending cylindrically from the end wall and abutting the fixed base plate, an annular step portion extending from the first peripheral wall to the radially outer side of the rotating shaft, and a second peripheral wall extending cylindrically from the step portion to the side opposite to the first peripheral wall. The discharge chamber and the oil storage chamber are arranged in a space divided by the end wall, the first peripheral wall and the fixed base plate, the fixed scroll includes an annular flange portion protruding radially from the outer peripheral wall and abutting the second peripheral wall, and an annular space is formed around the fixed scroll by the step portion, the second peripheral wall, the flange portion and the outer peripheral wall, and the annular space is communicated with the discharge chamber or the oil storage chamber.

[0010] Accordingly, the annular space formed around the fixed scroll, which is defined by the step portion, the second peripheral wall, the flange portion, and the outer peripheral wall, is connected to the discharge chamber or the oil storage chamber, so that the annular space can function as the discharge chamber or the oil storage chamber. Therefore, for example, when the annular space is used as the discharge chamber, the space used as the discharge chamber inside the scroll electric compressor can be increased. Therefore, the pulsation of the refrigerant discharged into the discharge chamber can be suppressed, and as a result, the noise and vibration of the scroll electric compressor can be reduced. In addition, for example, when the annular space is used as the oil storage chamber, since the existing oil storage chamber can be reduced by the amount of the annular space, the space of the existing discharge chamber can be increased by that amount. Therefore, the pulsation of the refrigerant discharged into the discharge chamber can be suppressed, and as a result, the noise and vibration of the scroll electric compressor can be reduced.

[0011] In the scroll electric compressor, the annular space is preferably connected to the oil storage chamber. The scroll electric compressor includes a gasket that seals between the discharge housing and the fixed base plate, and a throttle groove that connects the annular space and the oil storage chamber is formed in the gasket.

[0012] According to this, the annular space can function as an oil storage chamber. In addition, the annular space and the oil storage chamber are connected via the throttle groove of the gasket. Therefore, the oil separated in the oil separation chamber is easily stored in the oil storage chamber. On the other hand, for example, consider the operating conditions in which the oil stored in the oil storage chamber easily flows to the annular space via the throttle groove. Even in this case, since the pressure in the annular space is lower than the pressure in the oil storage chamber, the oil flowing out into the annular space is easily stored in the annular space. Therefore, in the operating area of ​​the scroll-type electric compressor, the oil can be stably stored in one of the oil storage chamber and the annular space. In addition, the gasket that seals between the discharge housing and the fixed base plate is suitable as a component for forming the throttle groove that connects the annular space and the oil storage chamber.

[0013] In the scroll-type electric compressor, preferably, the annular space communicates with the oil reservoir, the fixed scroll is formed with a connecting passage connecting the annular space and the oil reservoir, and a throttle member is provided in the connecting passage.

[0014] According to this, the annular space can function as an oil storage chamber. In addition, the annular space and the oil storage chamber are connected by a connecting passage, and a throttling member is provided in the connecting passage. Therefore, the oil separated by the oil separation chamber is easily stored in the oil storage chamber. On the other hand, for example, consider the operating conditions in which the oil stored in the oil storage chamber easily flows to the annular space via the connecting passage. Even in this case, since the pressure in the annular space is lower than the pressure in the oil storage chamber, the oil flowing out into the annular space is easily stored in the annular space. Therefore, in the operating range of the scroll-type electric compressor, the oil can be stably stored in one of the oil storage chamber and the annular space. In addition, the connecting passage connecting the annular space and the oil storage chamber is suitable as a location for providing a throttling member.

[0015] In the above-mentioned scroll-type electric compressor, it is preferred that the annular space is connected to the oil storage chamber and is connected to the suction pressure area for the flow of refrigerant sucked into the compression chamber via a connecting passage, and a connecting passage connecting the annular space and the oil storage chamber is formed in the fixed scroll, and a throttling component is provided in the connecting passage.

[0016] This allows the annular space to function as an oil reservoir. Furthermore, because the pressure in the annular space is the same as that in the oil reservoir, oil stored in the oil reservoir flows smoothly into the annular space via the connecting passage. Furthermore, because a throttle member is provided within the connecting passage, oil flowing into the annular space is stably stored there.

[0017] In the scroll-type electric compressor described above, it is preferred that the annular space communicate with the discharge chamber.

[0018] This allows the annular space to function as a discharge chamber. Consequently, the space used as the discharge chamber within the scroll electric compressor can be increased. This suppresses the pulsation of the refrigerant discharged into the discharge chamber, resulting in reduced noise and vibration in the scroll electric compressor.

[0019] Effects of the Invention

[0020] According to this invention, the noise and vibration of the scroll-type electric compressor can be reduced. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] Figure 1 It is a cross-sectional view of a scroll-type electric compressor in the embodiment.

[0022] Figure 2 It is an exploded perspective view showing a part of the scroll-type electric compressor.

[0023] Figure 3 It is an exploded perspective view showing a part of the scroll-type electric compressor.

[0024] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view showing an enlarged portion of a scroll-type electric compressor.

[0025] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view showing an enlarged portion of a scroll-type electric compressor in another embodiment.

[0026] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view showing an enlarged portion of a scroll-type electric compressor in another embodiment.

[0027] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view showing an enlarged portion of a scroll-type electric compressor in another embodiment.

[0028] Description of reference numerals:

[0029] 10…Scroll-type electric compressor; 11…Casing; 14…Discharge casing; 15…Rotating shaft; 22…Electric motor; 25…Fixed scroll; 25a…Fixed base plate; 25b…Fixed scroll wall; 25c…Outer peripheral wall; 25f…Flange; 26…Orbiting scroll; 26b…Orbiting scroll wall; 27…Compression chamber; 40…Discharge chamber; 50…Oil storage chamber; 55…Gasket; 74…Annular space; 75…Throttling groove; 76…Connecting passage; 80…Connecting passage; 81, 82…Throttling member; 140…End wall; 141…First peripheral wall; 142…Second peripheral wall; 143…Step portion. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0030] Below, according to Figures 1 to 4An embodiment of a scroll-type electric compressor will be described. The scroll-type electric compressor of this embodiment is used in, for example, a vehicle air conditioner.

[0031] (Overall Structure of Scroll-Type Electric Compressor 10)

[0032] like Figure 1 As shown, the scroll-type electric compressor 10 includes a cylindrical housing 11. The housing 11 includes a motor housing 12, a shaft-supporting housing 13, and a discharge housing 14. The motor housing 12, the shaft-supporting housing 13, and the discharge housing 14 are made of a metal material, such as aluminum. The scroll-type electric compressor 10 also includes a rotating shaft 15. The rotating shaft 15 is housed within the housing 11.

[0033] (Regarding the motor housing 12)

[0034] The motor housing 12 has a plate-shaped end wall 12a and a cylindrical peripheral wall 12b. The peripheral wall 12b extends from the outer periphery of the end wall 12a in a cylindrical shape. The axial direction of the peripheral wall 12b is consistent with the axial direction of the rotating shaft 15. A plurality of internal threaded holes 12c are formed at the open end of the peripheral wall 12b. It should be noted that Figure 1 For ease of illustration, only one internally threaded hole 12c is shown. Furthermore, the motor housing 12 has a suction port 12h for drawing in refrigerant. The suction port 12h is formed in a portion of the peripheral wall 12b located on the side of the end wall 12a. The suction port 12h connects the inside and outside of the motor housing 12.

[0035] A cylindrical boss 12d protrudes from the inner surface of the end wall 12a. The first end portion of the rotating shaft 15, which serves as one axial end, is inserted into the boss 12d. A rolling bearing 16 is provided between the inner circumference of the boss 12d and the outer circumference of the first end portion of the rotating shaft 15. The first end portion of the rotating shaft 15 is rotatably supported by the motor housing 12 via the rolling bearing 16.

[0036] (Regarding the shaft supporting housing 13)

[0037] The shaft supporting housing 13 has a plate-shaped end wall 17 and a cylindrical peripheral wall 18. The peripheral wall 18 extends in a cylindrical shape from the outer peripheral portion of the end wall 17. The axial direction of the peripheral wall 18 is consistent with the axial direction of the rotating shaft 15. In addition, the shaft supporting housing 13 has an annular flange wall 19. The flange wall 19 extends from the end portion of the outer peripheral surface of the peripheral wall 18 on the side opposite to the end wall 17 toward the radial outside of the rotating shaft 15. The outer peripheral portion of the flange wall 19 abuts against the open end of the peripheral wall 12b of the motor housing 12 in the axial direction of the rotating shaft 15. It should be noted that, in detail, the outer peripheral portion of the flange wall 19 abuts against the peripheral wall 12b of the motor housing 12 via a sealing member not shown in the figure.

[0038] A plurality of bolt insertion holes 19a are formed on the outer periphery of the flange wall 19. Each bolt insertion hole 19a passes through the flange wall 19 in the thickness direction. Each bolt insertion hole 19a of the flange wall 19 is connected to each internal threaded hole 12c of the motor housing 12. Figure 1 In the figure, only one bolt insertion hole 19a is shown for convenience of explanation.

[0039] The motor housing 12 and the shaft support housing 13 define a motor chamber 20 formed in the housing 11. Thus, the motor housing 12 and the shaft support housing 13 together define the motor chamber 20. Refrigerant is drawn into the motor chamber 20 from the suction port 12h. Therefore, the motor chamber 20 is a suction pressure region.

[0040] A circular insertion hole 17a is formed in the center of the end wall 17. The insertion hole 17a extends through the end wall 17 in the thickness direction. The rotating shaft 15 passes through the insertion hole 17a. The end surface 15e located on the second end side, which is the other end in the axial direction of the rotating shaft 15, is located inside the peripheral wall 18. A rolling bearing 21 is provided between the inner circumferential surface of the peripheral wall 18 and the outer circumferential surface of the rotating shaft 15. The rotating shaft 15 is rotatably supported by the shaft support housing 13 via the rolling bearing 21. Therefore, the shaft support housing 13 rotatably supports the rotating shaft 15. The rotating shaft 15 is rotatably supported by the housing 11.

[0041] (Regarding the electric motor 22)

[0042] The scroll-type electric compressor 10 includes an electric motor 22. The electric motor 22 is housed in a motor chamber 20. The electric motor 22 includes a cylindrical stator 23 and a cylindrical rotor 24. The rotor 24 is disposed inside the stator 23. The rotor 24 rotates integrally with the rotating shaft 15. The stator 23 surrounds the rotor 24. The rotor 24 includes a rotor core 24a fixed to the rotating shaft 15 and a plurality of permanent magnets (not shown) disposed on the rotor core 24a.

[0043] The stator 23 includes a cylindrical stator core 23a and motor coils 23b. The stator core 23a is fixed to the inner circumferential surface of the peripheral wall 12b of the motor housing 12. The motor coils 23b are wound around the stator core 23a. Furthermore, the rotor 24 rotates when power, controlled by a drive circuit (not shown), is supplied to the motor coils 23b, causing the rotating shaft 15 and the rotor 24 to rotate integrally. Thus, the electric motor 22 rotates the rotating shaft 15.

[0044] (Regarding the Fixed Scroll 25 and the Orbiting Scroll 26)

[0045] The scroll electric compressor 10 includes a compression mechanism C1. The compression mechanism C1 has a fixed scroll 25 and an orbiting scroll 26. Therefore, the scroll electric compressor 10 includes a fixed scroll 25 and an orbiting scroll 26. The orbiting scroll 26 orbits relative to the fixed scroll 25 as the rotary shaft 15 rotates.

[0046] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the fixed scroll 25 includes a fixed base plate 25a, a fixed scroll wall 25b, and an outer peripheral wall 25c. The fixed base plate 25a is in the shape of a circular plate. A discharge port 25h is formed in the center of the fixed base plate 25a. The discharge port 25h is in the shape of a circular hole. The discharge port 25h penetrates the fixed base plate 25a in the thickness direction. The fixed scroll wall 25b rises from the fixed base plate 25a. The outer peripheral wall 25c rises from the outer periphery of the fixed base plate 25a. The outer peripheral wall 25c surrounds the fixed scroll wall 25b. The outer peripheral surface of the outer peripheral wall 25c is a conical surface whose outer diameter increases as it moves away from the fixed base plate 25a.

[0047] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the fixed scroll 25 has an annular flange portion 25f. The flange portion 25f protrudes radially from the end portion of the outer peripheral surface of the outer peripheral wall 25c on the opposite side of the fixed base plate 25a. A plurality of bolt insertion holes 25d are formed in the flange portion 25f. Each bolt insertion hole 25d passes through the flange portion 25f in the thickness direction. Figure 1 As shown, each bolt insertion hole 25d is connected to each bolt insertion hole 19a of the flange wall 19. Each bolt insertion hole 25d is arranged at a predetermined interval in the circumferential direction of the flange portion 25f. Figure 1 For convenience of explanation, only one of the bolt insertion holes 25d is shown in the figure.

[0048] like Figure 2 As shown, a plurality of passage recesses 25g are formed on the open end surface of the outer peripheral wall 25c. The plurality of passage recesses 25g are arranged at predetermined intervals in the circumferential direction of the outer peripheral wall 25c. Each passage recess 25g opens on the open end surface of the outer peripheral wall 25c. Each passage recess 25g opens on the inner circumferential surface of the outer peripheral wall 25c.

[0049] like Figure 1 and Figure 3 As shown, the first discharge chamber forming recess 41 and the first oil storage chamber forming recess 51 are formed on the end surface 25e of the fixed base plate 25a. The discharge port 25h opens at the bottom surface of the first discharge chamber forming recess 41. Figure 1 As shown, the scroll-type electric compressor 10 includes a valve mechanism 25v. The valve mechanism 25v is attached to the bottom surface of the first discharge chamber forming recess 41. The valve mechanism 25v is configured to be able to open and close the discharge port 25h.

[0050] The orbiting scroll 26 has an orbiting base plate 26a and an orbiting scroll wall 26b. The orbiting base plate 26a is in the shape of a circular plate. The orbiting base plate 26a is opposite to the fixed base plate 25a. The orbiting scroll wall 26b rises from the orbiting base plate 26a toward the fixed base plate 25a. The orbiting scroll wall 26b is engaged with the fixed scroll wall 25b. The orbiting scroll 26 is located on the inner side of the outer peripheral wall 25c. The orbiting scroll 26 revolves on the inner side of the outer peripheral wall 25c. The front end surface of the fixed scroll wall 25b is in contact with the orbiting base plate 26a, and the front end surface of the orbiting scroll wall 26b is in contact with the fixed base plate 25a. In addition, a compression chamber 27 for compressing refrigerant is divided by the fixed base plate 25a, the fixed scroll wall 25b, the orbiting base plate 26a and the orbiting scroll wall 26b. Therefore, the compression chamber 27 is defined between the fixed spiral wall 25b and the orbiting spiral wall 26b and takes in and compresses the refrigerant from the outside.

[0051] The rotating substrate 26a has a cylindrical protrusion 26c. The protrusion 26c protrudes from the end face 26e of the rotating substrate 26a on the opposite side to the fixed substrate 25a. The axial direction of the protrusion 26c is consistent with the axial direction of the rotating shaft 15. In addition, the rotating substrate 26a has a plurality of grooves 26d. The plurality of grooves 26d are respectively formed around the protrusion 26c in the end face 26e of the rotating substrate 26a. The plurality of grooves 26d are arranged at predetermined intervals in the circumferential direction of the rotating shaft 15. An annular ring member 28 is embedded in each groove 26d. A pin 29 is inserted into each ring member 28. Each pin 29 is protruding from the end face 13e on the rotating scroll 26 side in the shaft support housing 13.

[0052] (About eccentric shaft 31)

[0053] The scroll-type electric compressor 10 includes an eccentric shaft 31. The eccentric shaft 31 projects toward the orbiting scroll 26 from a position eccentric to the axis L1 of the rotating shaft 15, on the end surface 15e. The eccentric shaft 31 is integrally formed with the rotating shaft 15. The axial direction of the eccentric shaft 31 coincides with the axial direction of the rotating shaft 15. The eccentric shaft 31 is inserted into the boss 26c.

[0054] (Regarding the balancing weight 32 and the bushing 33)

[0055] The scroll-type electric compressor 10 includes a balancing weight 32 and a bushing 33. The bushing 33 is fitted onto the outer peripheral surface of the eccentric shaft 31. The balancing weight 32 and the bushing 33 are integrated. The balancing weight 32 is integrally formed with the bushing 33. The balancing weight 32 is housed within the peripheral wall 18 of the shaft support housing 13. The orbiting scroll 26 is supported on the eccentric shaft 31 by the bushing 33 and the rolling bearing 34 so as to be rotatable relative to the eccentric shaft 31.

[0056] The rotation of the rotating shaft 15 is transmitted to the orbiting scroll 26 via the eccentric shaft 31, the bushing 33 and the rolling bearing 34, so that the orbiting scroll 26 rotates. In addition, since each pin 29 contacts the inner circumferential surface of each ring member 28, the rotation of the orbiting scroll 26 is prevented, and only the orbiting scroll 26 is allowed to revolve. As a result, the orbiting scroll 26 revolves while the orbiting scroll wall 26b contacts the fixed scroll wall 25b, and the volume of the compression chamber 27 is reduced, thereby compressing the refrigerant. The orbiting scroll 26 revolves on the inner side of the outer circumferential wall 25c as the rotating shaft 15 rotates. The balancing weight 32 offsets the centrifugal force acting on the orbiting scroll 26 when the orbiting scroll 26 revolves, thereby reducing the imbalance of the orbiting scroll 26.

[0057] (Regarding the suction passage 35)

[0058] The scroll-type electric compressor 10 includes an intake passage 35. The intake passage 35 is formed by an intake groove 36, an intake port 37, and a passage recess 25g. A plurality of intake grooves 36 are formed on a portion of the inner circumferential surface of the peripheral wall 12b of the motor housing 12. Each intake groove 36 opens at the open end of the peripheral wall 12b. A plurality of intake ports 37 are formed on the outer circumference of the flange wall 19 of the shaft-supporting housing 13. Each intake port 37 connects each intake groove 36 with each passage recess 25g. Each intake port 37 penetrates the flange wall 19 in the thickness direction.

[0059] The refrigerant in the motor chamber 20 is drawn into the compression chamber 27 through the suction grooves 36, the suction ports 37, and the passage recesses 25g. Therefore, the suction grooves 36, the suction ports 37, and the passage recesses 25g form suction pressure regions through which the refrigerant drawn into the compression chamber 27 flows. The refrigerant drawn into the compression chamber 27 is compressed within the compression chamber 27 by the orbiting motion of the orbiting scroll 26.

[0060] (About the discharge housing 14)

[0061] like Figure 2 As shown, the discharge housing 14 includes a plate-shaped end wall 140, a first peripheral wall 141, a stepped portion 143, and a second peripheral wall 142. The first peripheral wall 141 extends cylindrically from the outer periphery of the end wall 140. The inner side of the first peripheral wall 141 is partitioned by a partition wall 144 into a second discharge chamber-forming recess 42 and a second oil reservoir-forming recess 52. Thus, the first peripheral wall 141 forms the second discharge chamber-forming recess 42 and the second oil reservoir-forming recess 52. The second discharge chamber-forming recess 42 has a shape substantially identical to the first discharge chamber-forming recess 41. The second oil reservoir-forming recess 52 has a shape substantially identical to the first oil reservoir-forming recess 51.

[0062] The step portion 143 is annular and extends radially outward from the first circumferential wall 141 to the rotating shaft 15. The step portion 143 connects the first circumferential wall 141 and the second circumferential wall 142. The step portion 143 is a flat surface extending in the radial direction of the rotating shaft 15. The second circumferential wall 142 extends in a cylindrical shape from the step portion 143 to the side opposite to the first circumferential wall 141. The open end of the second circumferential wall 142 is opposite to the flange portion 25f in the axial direction of the rotating shaft 15. A plurality of bolt insertion holes 145 are formed in the second circumferential wall 142. The plurality of bolt insertion holes 145 are arranged at predetermined intervals in the circumferential direction of the rotating shaft 15. Each bolt insertion hole 145 is connected to the bolt insertion hole 25d of the flange portion 25f.

[0063] like Figure 1 As shown, the scroll-type electric compressor 10 is equipped with a through bolt B1. The through bolt B1 passes through the bolt insertion hole 145 of the discharge housing 14, the bolt insertion hole 25d of the fixed scroll 25, and the bolt insertion hole 19a of the shaft support housing 13 in sequence, and is screwed into the internal threaded hole 12c. Therefore, the through bolt B1 passes through the second peripheral wall 142 of the discharge housing 14, the flange portion 25f of the fixed scroll 25, and the flange wall 19 of the shaft support housing 13, and is screwed into the peripheral wall 12b of the motor housing 12. Furthermore, the discharge housing 14, the fixed scroll 25, the shaft support housing 13, and the motor housing 12 are fixed integrally in the axial direction of the rotating shaft 15 in sequence by the through bolt B1. Therefore, the motor housing 12, the shaft support housing 13, the fixed scroll 25, and the discharge housing 14 are arranged in sequence along the axial direction of the rotating shaft 15.

[0064] (Regarding pad 55)

[0065] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the scroll-type electric compressor 10 includes an annular gasket 55. The gasket 55 is a thin metal plate. The gasket 55 seals between the discharge housing 14 and the fixed base plate 25a. The gasket 55 is interposed between the outer periphery of the end surface 25e of the fixed base plate 25a and the open end surface of the first peripheral wall 141 of the discharge housing 14.

[0066] The gasket 55 has a discharge chamber communication hole 55a and an oil reservoir communication hole 55b. The discharge chamber communication hole 55a and the oil reservoir communication hole 55b are separated by a gasket partition wall 55c. The discharge chamber communication hole 55a has a shape substantially identical to the first discharge chamber-forming recess 41 and the second discharge chamber-forming recess 42. The oil reservoir communication hole 55b has a shape substantially identical to the first oil reservoir-forming recess 51 and the second oil reservoir-forming recess 52. The gasket partition wall 55c has a shape substantially identical to the partition wall 144 of the discharge housing 14. A through-hole 55h is formed in the gasket partition wall 55c. The through-hole 55h extends through the gasket partition wall 55c in the thickness direction.

[0067] (About the discharge chamber 40)

[0068] The first discharge chamber-forming recess 41 and the second discharge chamber-forming recess 42 communicate with each other via a discharge chamber communication hole 55a. Furthermore, the first discharge chamber-forming recess 41 and the second discharge chamber-forming recess 42 form a discharge chamber 40. Thus, the scroll-type electric compressor 10 includes the discharge chamber 40. Refrigerant compressed by the compression chamber 27 is discharged into the discharge chamber 40.

[0069] (Regarding the oil storage chamber 50)

[0070] The first oil reservoir-forming recess 51 and the second oil reservoir-forming recess 52 communicate via an oil reservoir communication hole 55b. Furthermore, the first oil reservoir-forming recess 51 and the second oil reservoir-forming recess 52 define an oil reservoir 50. Therefore, the discharge housing 14 and the fixed base plate 25a together define the discharge chamber 40 and the oil reservoir 50. The discharge chamber 40 and the oil reservoir 50 are disposed within a space defined by the end wall 140, the first peripheral wall 141, and the fixed base plate 25a. A gasket 55 seals the space between the discharge chamber 40 and the oil reservoir 50. The scroll-type electric compressor 10 of this embodiment is mounted on a vehicle with the oil reservoir 50 positioned below the discharge chamber 40.

[0071] (Regarding the oil separation chamber 60)

[0072] like Figure 1 As shown, the scroll-type electric compressor 10 includes an oil separation chamber 60. The oil separation chamber 60 is formed inside the discharge housing 14. The oil separation chamber 60 is formed within an elongated cylindrical outer tube 61, which is a portion of the end wall 140 of the discharge housing 14. The first end of the outer tube 61 serves as a discharge port 62 for discharging the refrigerant to the outside. The discharge port 62 communicates with the oil separation chamber 60. Therefore, the oil separation chamber 60 represents the discharge pressure region.

[0073] An inner cylinder 63 is embedded in the oil separation chamber 60. The axial direction of the inner cylinder 63 is consistent with the radial direction of the rotating shaft 15. The first end of the inner cylinder 63 is connected to the discharge port 62. The second end of the inner cylinder 63 is connected to the opposite side of the discharge port 62 in the oil separation chamber 60. Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, an introduction hole 64 is formed in the outer cylinder 61. The introduction hole 64 connects the discharge chamber 40 and the oil separation chamber 60. The introduction hole 64 introduces the refrigerant discharged into the discharge chamber 40 into the oil separation chamber 60.

[0074] An oil drain hole 65 is formed in the discharge housing 14. A first end of the oil drain hole 65 communicates with the side of the oil separation chamber 60 opposite the discharge port 62. A second end of the oil drain hole 65 opens into the open end surface of the partition wall 144 of the discharge housing 14. The oil drain hole 65 communicates with the through-hole 55h of the gasket 55. Furthermore, the oil separation chamber 60 communicates with the first oil reservoir recess 51 via the oil drain hole 65 and the through-hole 55h. Therefore, the oil separation chamber 60 communicates with the oil reservoir 50 via the oil drain hole 65 and the through-hole 55h. Consequently, the oil reservoir 50 is in the discharge pressure region.

[0075] The refrigerant compressed in the compression chamber 27 and discharged into the discharge chamber 40 through the discharge port 25h is introduced into the oil separation chamber 60 through the introduction hole 64. The refrigerant introduced into the oil separation chamber 60 swirls around the inner cylinder 63. This exerts centrifugal force on the oil contained in the refrigerant, and the oil is separated from the refrigerant in the oil separation chamber 60. Therefore, the oil separation chamber 60 separates the oil contained in the refrigerant discharged into the discharge chamber 40.

[0076] The refrigerant from which the oil has been separated flows into and passes through the inner cylinder 63, and then flows out to an external refrigerant circuit (not shown) through the discharge port 62. The oil separated from the refrigerant in the oil separation chamber 60 flows toward the oil drain hole 65 due to its own weight, and is discharged into the oil reservoir 50 through the oil drain hole 65 and the through hole 55h, and is stored in the oil reservoir 50. Therefore, the oil reservoir 50 stores the oil separated by the oil separation chamber 60.

[0077] (Regarding the First Abutting Portion 71)

[0078] like Figure 4 As shown, the outer periphery of the end surface 25e of the fixed base plate 25a faces the open end surface of the first peripheral wall 141 in the axial direction of the rotating shaft 15. Furthermore, the outer periphery of the end surface 25e of the fixed base plate 25a forms a first abutting portion 71 that abuts the first peripheral wall 141. Therefore, the fixed base plate 25a has the first abutting portion 71 that abuts the first peripheral wall 141. Specifically, the first abutting portion 71 abuts the first peripheral wall 141 via the spacer 55. Therefore, the first peripheral wall 141 abuts the fixed base plate 25a.

[0079] (Regarding the Second Abutting Portion 72)

[0080] The flange portion 25f faces the open end surface of the second circumferential wall 142 in the axial direction of the rotating shaft 15. The portion of the flange portion 25f facing the open end surface of the second circumferential wall 142 is an annular second abutment portion 72 that abuts the second circumferential wall 142. Therefore, the fixed scroll 25 includes an annular flange portion 25f that protrudes radially from the outer circumferential wall 25c and abuts the second circumferential wall 142. Specifically, the second abutment portion 72 of the flange portion 25f abuts the second circumferential wall 142 via a sealing member 73. The sealing member 73 is, for example, a thin metal plate.

[0081] (About Ring Space 74)

[0082] The scroll-type electric compressor 10 includes an annular space 74. The annular space 74 is defined and formed around the fixed scroll 25 by a step 143, a second peripheral wall 142, a flange 25f, and an outer peripheral wall 25c. A gasket 55 seals the discharge chamber 40 and the annular space 74. Furthermore, a sealing member 73 seals the annular space 74 from the outside.

[0083] (Regarding the throttle groove 75)

[0084] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, a throttle groove 75 is formed in the gasket 55. The throttle groove 75 extends along the outer periphery of the gasket 55. The throttle groove 75 penetrates the gasket 55 in the thickness direction. The first end of the throttle groove 75 is connected to the lower space in the oil storage chamber 50. The second end of the throttle groove 75 is separated from the first end of the throttle groove 75 by 180 degrees in the circumferential direction of the gasket 55 and opens to the outer periphery of the gasket 55. Figure 4 As shown, the second end of the throttle groove 75 is in communication with the upper space in the annular space 74. Therefore, the throttle groove 75 connects the annular space 74 with the oil reservoir 50. Therefore, the annular space 74 is in communication with the oil reservoir 50.

[0085] (About Connecting Road 76)

[0086] A connecting passage 76 is formed in the outer peripheral wall 25c of the fixed scroll 25. The connecting passage 76 extends axially along the outer peripheral wall 25c. The first end of the connecting passage 76 opens at the outer peripheral surface of the outer peripheral wall 25c. The first end of the connecting passage 76 communicates with the lower space in the annular space 74. The second end of the connecting passage 76 opens at the bottom surface of one of the plurality of passage recesses 25g. The connecting passage 76 communicates with the inner side of one of the plurality of passage recesses 25g. Therefore, the annular space 74 is connected to the oil storage chamber 50 and is connected to the suction pressure area through which the refrigerant of the suction pressure chamber 27 flows via the connecting passage 76. Therefore, the annular space 74 is a suction pressure area.

[0087] (effect)

[0088] Next, the operation of this embodiment will be described.

[0089] The annular space 74 defined around the fixed scroll 25 by the step 143, the second peripheral wall 142, the flange 25f, and the outer peripheral wall 25c communicates with the oil reservoir 50. Thus, the annular space 74 functions as an oil reservoir. Consequently, the existing oil reservoir 50 can be reduced by the amount of the annular space 74, thereby increasing the existing space in the discharge chamber 40. This suppresses pulsation of the refrigerant discharged into the discharge chamber 40.

[0090] For example, in a compressor having an oil storage space only in a space under a discharge pressure atmosphere, during high-load operation with a high discharge pressure, the stored oil is subjected to the high discharge pressure and is returned in an amount exceeding the required amount. As a result, there is a problem of reduced efficiency due to the return oil passage between the suction chamber and the discharge chamber. On the other hand, in a compressor having an oil storage space only in a space under a suction pressure atmosphere, during high-speed operation with a large flow rate of refrigerant, there is a problem that a large amount of separated oil cannot be returned to the oil storage chamber and is discharged to the outside from the discharge port, which may cause poor lubrication. The scroll-type electric compressor 10 of this embodiment is less susceptible to the above-mentioned problem because it includes both the annular space 74 as the oil storage space exposed to the suction pressure atmosphere and the discharge chamber 40 as the oil storage space exposed to the discharge pressure atmosphere.

[0091] (Effect)

[0092] The following effects can be obtained in the above-described embodiment.

[0093] (1) The annular space 74 defined around the fixed scroll 25 by the step 143, the second peripheral wall 142, the flange 25f, and the outer peripheral wall 25c communicates with the oil reservoir 50. Therefore, the annular space 74 can function as an oil reservoir. Consequently, the existing oil reservoir 50 can be reduced by the amount of the annular space 74, and thus the existing space of the discharge chamber 40 can be increased accordingly. This can suppress the pulsation of the refrigerant discharged into the discharge chamber 40, resulting in reduced noise and vibration in the scroll-type electric compressor 10.

[0094] (2) The annular space 74 can function as an oil reservoir. Furthermore, the annular space 74 and the oil reservoir 50 are connected via the throttle groove 75 of the gasket 55. Therefore, during the operating range of the scroll-type electric compressor 10, oil can be stably stored in at least one of the oil reservoir 50 and the annular space 74. Furthermore, the gasket 55, which seals between the discharge housing 14 and the fixed base plate 25a, is suitable as a member for forming the throttle groove 75 that connects the annular space 74 and the oil reservoir 50.

[0095] (3) For example, in a compressor having an oil storage space only in a space with a discharge pressure atmosphere, during high-load operation with a high discharge pressure, the stored oil is subjected to the high discharge pressure and is returned in an amount exceeding the required amount. As a result, there is a problem of reduced efficiency due to the connection between the suction chamber and the discharge chamber via the oil return passage. On the other hand, in a compressor having an oil storage chamber only in a space with a suction pressure atmosphere, during high-speed operation with a large flow rate of refrigerant, there is a problem that a large amount of separated oil cannot be returned to the oil storage chamber and is discharged to the outside from the discharge port, which may cause poor lubrication. The scroll-type electric compressor 10 of this embodiment includes both an annular space 74 as an oil storage space exposed to the suction pressure atmosphere and a discharge chamber 40 as an oil storage space exposed to the discharge pressure atmosphere. Therefore, the above-mentioned problem can be made less likely to occur.

[0096] (4) The annular space 74 is a suction pressure region. This reduces the pressure difference between the annular space 74 and the outside compared to a case where the annular space 74 is a discharge pressure region. Therefore, oil leakage from the annular space 74 to the outside can be easily suppressed.

[0097] (5) Since the annular space 74 is defined around the fixed scroll 25 , the capacity of the discharge chamber 40 can be increased without increasing the size of the scroll-type electric compressor 10 , particularly the axial dimension of the rotary shaft 15 .

[0098] (Change Example)

[0099] It should be noted that the above embodiment can be implemented by modifying as follows: The above embodiment and the following modifications can be implemented in combination with each other within the scope of no technical contradiction.

[0100] ○ Such as Figure 5 As shown, a connecting passage 80 connecting the annular space 74 and the oil reservoir 50 may be formed in the fixed scroll 25. Furthermore, a throttle member 81 may be provided in the connecting passage 80. In this case, the throttle groove 75 is formed in the spacer 55. The throttle member 81 is, for example, a cylindrical member and is fixed by being press-fitted into the connecting passage 80.

[0101] This allows the annular space 74 to function as an oil reservoir. Furthermore, the annular space 74 and the oil reservoir 50 are connected by a connecting passage 80, which includes a throttle member 81. Consequently, oil separated by the oil separation chamber 60 is easily stored in the oil reservoir 50. On the other hand, consider operating conditions where oil stored in the oil reservoir 50 easily flows into the annular space 74 via the connecting passage 80. Even in this case, the pressure in the annular space 74 is lower than that in the oil reservoir 50, so oil flowing into the annular space 74 is easily stored there. Therefore, within the operating range of the scroll-type electric compressor 10, oil can be stably stored in either the oil reservoir 50 or the annular space 74. Furthermore, the connecting passage 80 connecting the annular space 74 and the oil reservoir 50 is a suitable location for the throttle member 81.

[0102] ○ Such as Figure 6 As shown in FIG. 2 , a connecting passage 80 connecting the annular space 74 and the oil storage chamber 50 may be formed in the fixed scroll 25. Furthermore, a throttle member 82 may be provided in the connecting passage 76. Figure 5 In the embodiment shown, instead of providing the throttle member 81 in the connecting passage 80, a throttle member 82 may be provided in the communicating passage 76. This allows the annular space 74 to become a discharge pressure region. Thus, the annular space 74 can also be a discharge pressure region.

[0103] This allows the annular space 74 to function as an oil reservoir. Furthermore, because the pressure in the annular space 74 is the same as the pressure in the oil reservoir 50, the oil stored in the oil reservoir 50 flows smoothly into the annular space 74 via the connecting passage 80. Furthermore, because the throttle member 82 is provided in the communicating passage 76, the oil flowing into the annular space 74 is stably stored there.

[0104] ○ Such as Figure 7 As shown, the annular space 74 can also be connected to the discharge chamber 40. A passage 83 is formed in the discharge housing 14 to connect the discharge chamber 40 and the annular space 74. In addition, in this case, a through hole 84 is formed in the fixed scroll 25 to connect the throttle groove 75 and the passage recess 25g. The oil in the oil storage chamber 50 flows back to the passage recess 25g via the throttle groove 75 and the through hole 84. Accordingly, the annular space 74 can function as a discharge chamber. Therefore, the space used as the discharge chamber inside the scroll-type electric compressor 10 can be increased. Therefore, the pulsation of the refrigerant discharged into the discharge chamber can be suppressed, and as a result, the noise vibration of the scroll-type electric compressor 10 can be reduced.

[0105] In the embodiment, the outer peripheral surface of the outer peripheral wall 25c does not need to be a conical surface whose outer diameter increases as it moves away from the fixed base plate 25a. For example, the outer peripheral surface of the outer peripheral wall 25c may extend in the axial direction of the rotating shaft 15. In short, the shape of the outer peripheral surface of the outer peripheral wall 25c is not particularly limited, as long as the stepped portion 143, the second peripheral wall 142, and the outer peripheral wall 25c define the annular space 74 between the second peripheral wall 142 and the outer peripheral wall 25c.

[0106] In the embodiment, the scroll-type electric compressor 10 is used in a vehicle air conditioner, but the invention is not limited thereto. In short, the scroll-type electric compressor 10 can be any device as long as it compresses refrigerant, and the application of the scroll-type electric compressor 10 can be changed as appropriate.

Claims

1. A scroll-type electric compressor comprising: shell; a rotating shaft rotatably supported on the housing; an electric motor that rotates the rotating shaft; a fixed scroll having a fixed base plate, a fixed scroll wall rising from the fixed base plate, and an outer peripheral wall rising from the fixed base plate and surrounding the fixed scroll wall; an orbiting scroll having an orbiting scroll wall meshing with the fixed scroll wall and orbiting along with the rotation of the rotation shaft; A compression chamber is formed between the fixed scroll wall and the orbiting scroll wall, and takes in and compresses refrigerant from the outside; a discharge chamber into which the refrigerant compressed in the compression chamber is discharged; and an oil storage chamber for storing oil separated from the refrigerant discharged into the discharge chamber, The scroll-type electric compressor is characterized in that: The housing includes a discharge housing having an end wall, a first peripheral wall extending cylindrically from the end wall and contacting the fixed base plate, an annular step extending radially outward from the first peripheral wall, and a second peripheral wall extending cylindrically from the step toward a second direction opposite to the first direction in which the first peripheral wall extends from the step. The discharge chamber and the oil storage chamber are provided in a space defined by the end wall, the first peripheral wall, and the fixed base plate. The fixed scroll has an annular flange portion that protrudes radially from the outer peripheral wall and abuts against the second peripheral wall. An annular space is defined around the fixed scroll by the step portion, the second peripheral wall, the flange portion, and the outer peripheral wall. The annular space is communicated with the discharge chamber or the oil storage chamber. The step portion and the end wall are separated in the axial direction of the rotating shaft. The second direction is set to be a direction extending away from the end wall.

2. The scroll-type electric compressor according to claim 1, characterized in that: The annular space is communicated with the oil storage chamber, The scroll-type electric compressor includes a gasket for sealing between the discharge housing and the fixed base plate. The gasket is formed with a throttle groove that connects the annular space and the oil storage chamber.

3. The scroll-type electric compressor according to claim 1, wherein: The annular space is communicated with the oil storage chamber, The fixed scroll is formed with a connecting passage connecting the annular space and the oil storage chamber. A throttle member is provided in the connecting passage.

4. The scroll-type electric compressor according to claim 1, wherein: The annular space is communicated with the oil storage chamber and is communicated with a suction pressure region through a communication path, where the refrigerant sucked into the compression chamber flows. The fixed scroll is formed with a connecting passage connecting the annular space and the oil storage chamber. A throttle member is provided in the communication passage.

5. The scroll-type electric compressor according to claim 1, characterized in that: The annular space communicates with the discharge chamber.

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