direct-inlet compressor

Abstract

A compressor includes a housing assembly, a compression mechanism, and a conduit. The housing assembly defines a chamber. The compression mechanism is disposed within the chamber of the housing assembly and includes a first scroll member and a second scroll member in meshing engagement with each other. The second scroll member includes a suction inlet. The conduit guides working fluid into the suction inlet and includes a first end defining an inlet opening and a second end defining an outlet opening adjacent to the suction inlet. The second end includes a locating pin extending outward therefrom.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference of related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 159,692, filed January 27, 2021. The entire disclosure of the above application is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure relates to direct-intake compressors. Background Technology

[0004] This section provides background information relating to this disclosure and is not necessarily prior art.

[0005] For example, a climate control system, such as a heat pump system, refrigeration system, or air conditioning system, may include a fluid loop having an outdoor heat exchanger, an indoor heat exchanger, an expansion device disposed between the indoor and outdoor heat exchangers, and one or more compressors that circulate a working fluid (e.g., refrigerant or carbon dioxide) between the indoor and outdoor heat exchangers. The goal is to achieve efficient and reliable operation of the one or more compressors to ensure that the climate control system equipped with one or more compressors can provide cooling and / or heating effects effectively and efficiently on demand. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This section provides a general overview of the disclosure and is not a complete disclosure of the full scope or all features of the disclosure.

[0007] In one embodiment, the compressor includes a housing assembly, a compression mechanism, and a conduit. The housing assembly defines a chamber. The compression mechanism is disposed within the chamber of the housing assembly and includes a first scroll member and a second scroll member in meshing engagement with each other. The second scroll member includes an intake inlet. The conduit guides working fluid into the intake inlet and includes a first end defining an inlet opening and a second end defining an outlet opening adjacent to the intake inlet. The second end includes an attachment pin extending outwardly therefrom.

[0008] In some configurations of the compressor described in the above paragraphs, the ends of the pins are chamfered.

[0009] In some configurations of the compressor in any one or more of the above paragraphs, the second end includes an arc-shaped connecting arm. A pin extends from the connecting arm.

[0010] In some configurations of the compressor in any one or more of the preceding paragraphs, the connecting arm is configured to snap into engagement with the second scroll member. The connecting arm includes a first boss extending therefrom, and the first boss is received in an external slot of the second scroll member when the connecting arm snaps into engagement with the second scroll member.

[0011] In some configurations of the compressor described in any one or more of the preceding paragraphs, the connecting arm is configured to snap into engagement with a second scroll member. The second scroll member includes an externally located groove formed therein, and the connecting arm includes a resilient, flexible protrusion extending therefrom. The resilient, flexible protrusion is received within a corresponding groove when the connecting arm snaps into engagement with the scroll member to prevent axial movement of the conduit relative to the second scroll member.

[0012] In some configurations of the compressor in any one or more of the above paragraphs, a plurality of attachment pins extend from the second end of the conduit.

[0013] In another embodiment, the compressor includes a housing assembly, a compression mechanism, and a conduit. The housing assembly defines a chamber. The compression mechanism is disposed within the chamber of the housing assembly and includes a first scroll member and a second scroll member in meshing engagement with each other. The second scroll member includes a suction inlet. The conduit guides working fluid into the suction inlet and includes a body and an arcuate connecting arm. The body has a first end defining an inlet opening and a second end defining an outlet opening. The arcuate connecting arm is configured to snap into engagement with the second scroll member and has an attachment pin extending outward therefrom.

[0014] In some configurations of the compressor described above, the arc-shaped connecting arm includes an end portion and an intermediate portion disposed between the end portions. An attachment pin extends from the wall of the intermediate portion.

[0015] In some configurations of the compressor in any one or more of the above paragraphs, at least one reinforcing rib extends from the intermediate portion and the body. The at least one reinforcing rib is positioned between two attachment pins in the attachment pin configuration.

[0016] In some configurations of the compressor described in any one or more of the preceding paragraphs, the arc-shaped connecting arm includes end portions and an intermediate portion disposed between the end portions. Reinforcing ribs extend from the intermediate portion and the body. An attachment pin is integral with at least two of the reinforcing ribs.

[0017] In some configurations of the compressor in any one or more of the above paragraphs, the attachment pin extends in either the radial or axial direction.

[0018] In another form, this disclosure provides a method for coupling a conduit to a compression mechanism. The method includes: coupling an attachment tool to the conduit; coupling the conduit to a vortex member of the compression mechanism via the attachment tool; and removing the attachment tool from the conduit after coupling the conduit to the vortex member. The conduit includes an end having at least one attachment pin, which is securely received in a corresponding orifice in the attachment tool when the attachment tool is coupled to the conduit.

[0019] In some configurations of the methods described in the above paragraphs, the end of the attachment pin is chamfered to facilitate the attachment tool's connection to the conduit.

[0020] In some configurations of the methods in any one or more of the paragraphs above, the end surface of the attachment tool abuts against the wall of the conduit when the attachment tool is attached to the conduit.

[0021] In some configurations of the methods in any one or more of the preceding paragraphs, the conduit includes reinforcing ribs. The attachment tool has a recess that receives the reinforcing ribs when the attachment tool is attached to the conduit.

[0022] In some configurations of the methods in any one or more of the preceding paragraphs, when the attachment tool is attached to the conduit, a first end surface of the attachment tool abuts against a first wall of the conduit, and a second end surface of the attachment tool abuts against a second wall of the conduit offset from the first wall of the conduit.

[0023] In some configurations of the methods in any one or more of the preceding paragraphs, the second end of the conduit includes a boss and a flexible protrusion, and the vortex member includes an externally located groove and an externally located recess. When the conduit is coupled to the vortex member, the boss is received in the groove and the flexible protrusion is received in the recess.

[0024] In some configurations of the methods in any one or more of the paragraphs above, reinforcing ribs extend from the conduit. The attachment pin is integral with the reinforcing ribs.

[0025] In some configurations of the methods in any one or more of the paragraphs above, the attachment pin extends in either the radial or axial direction.

[0026] Other application areas will become apparent from the descriptions provided herein. The descriptions and specific examples in this overview are intended for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0027] The accompanying drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only, and not for all possible implementations, and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure.

[0028] Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional view of a compressor with an inhalation conduit based on the principles of this disclosure;

[0029] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The compressor indicator in the image is a close-up view of part of area 2;

[0030] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of the inhalation tube and the fixed vortex component of the compression mechanism, which are shown disconnected from each other.

[0031] Figure 4 It is a perspective view of the inhalation tube and the fixed vortex component of the compression mechanism, which are connected to each other;

[0032] Figure 5 It is along Figure 4 A partial cross-sectional view of the interconnected inhalation tubing and fixed vortex element, taken from line 5-5;

[0033] Figure 6 It is along Figure 4 Another partial cross-sectional view of the interconnected inhalation tubing and fixed vortex element, taken from line 6-6;

[0034] Figure 7 It is a 3D diagram of the inhalation catheter;

[0035] Figure 8 This is another three-dimensional view of the inhalation catheter;

[0036] Figure 9 It is a 3D diagram of the assembly tools;

[0037] Figure 10 This is a partial cross-sectional view of the assembly tool connected to the inhalation catheter;

[0038] Figure 11 It is a three-dimensional diagram of an alternative inhalation cannula;

[0039] Figure 12 This is a three-dimensional diagram of another alternative inhalation cannula;

[0040] Figure 13 This is a 3D diagram of yet another alternative inhalation cannula;

[0041] Figure 14 This is a 3D diagram of yet another alternative inhalation cannula;

[0042] Figure 15 This is a 3D diagram of yet another alternative inhalation cannula;

[0043] Figure 16 This is a 3D diagram of yet another alternative inhalation cannula;

[0044] Figure 17 This is a 3D diagram of yet another alternative inhalation cannula;

[0045] Figure 18 It is a three-dimensional diagram of the assembly tools and inhalation tubing; and

[0046] Figure 19 This is a perspective view of the assembly tool attached to the inhalation tube.

[0047] In each figure of the accompanying drawings, the corresponding reference numerals indicate the corresponding parts. Detailed Implementation

[0048] The exemplary embodiments will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0049] These exemplary embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and will fully convey the scope to those skilled in the art. Numerous specific details, such as examples of particular components, apparatuses, and methods, are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of this disclosure. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that specific details are not required, that exemplary embodiments may be implemented in many different forms, and none should be construed as limiting the scope of this disclosure. In some exemplary embodiments, well-known processes, well-known apparatus structures, and well-known techniques are not described in detail.

[0050] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular exemplary embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” may also be intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms “comprising,” “including,” “containing,” and “having” are inclusive and therefore specify the presence of the stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. The method steps, processes, and operations described herein should not be construed as requiring them to be performed in the particular order discussed or illustrated, unless specifically indicated as such. It should also be understood that additional or alternative steps may be employed.

[0051] When an element or layer is referred to as “on another element or layer,” “joined to,” “connected to,” or “linked to” another element or layer, the element or layer may be directly on, joined to, connected to, or linked to the other element or layer, or there may be intermediate elements or layers present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as “directly on another element or layer,” “directly joined to,” “directly connected to,” or “directly linked to” another element or layer, there may be no intermediate elements or layers present. Other terms used to describe relationships between elements (e.g., “between” vs. “directly between,” “adjacent” vs. “directly adjacent,” etc.) should be interpreted in the same manner. As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated enumerations.

[0052] Although the terms first, second, third, etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or segments, these elements, components, regions, layers, and / or segments should not be limited by these terms. These terms may be used only to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or segment from another. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, terms such as “first,” “second,” and other numerical terms used herein do not imply order or sequence. Therefore, without departing from the teachings of the exemplary embodiments, the first element, component, region, layer, or segment discussed below may be referred to as a second element, component, region, layer, or segment.

[0053] For ease of description, spatial relative terms such as “inside,” “outside,” “below,” “under,” “below,” “above,” “above,” etc., are used herein to describe the relationship between one element or feature as illustrated in the accompanying drawings and another element or feature (or other elements or features). Spatial relative terms may be intended to cover different orientations of the device in use or operation other than those depicted in the accompanying drawings. For example, if the device in the accompanying drawings is flipped, an element described as “below” or “under” other elements or features will be oriented “above” other elements or features. Thus, the example term “below” can cover both above and below orientations. The device may be oriented in other ways (rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations) and the spatial relative descriptors used herein may be interpreted accordingly.

[0054] Reference Figures 1 to 4 A compressor 10 is provided, and the compressor 10 may include a hermetically sealed housing assembly 12, a first bearing housing assembly 14 and a second bearing housing assembly 16, a motor assembly 18, a compression mechanism 20, a discharge port or fitting 24, a suction port or fitting 28, and a suction conduit 30.

[0055] like Figure 1 As shown, housing assembly 12 can form a compressor housing and may include a cylindrical housing 32, an end cap 34 at the upper end of the cylindrical housing 32, a laterally extending partition 36, and a base 38 at the lower end of the cylindrical housing 32. The housing 32, base 38, and partition 36 can cooperate to define an intake pressure chamber 39. The end cap 34 and partition 36 can define a discharge pressure chamber 40. The partition 36 can separate the discharge pressure chamber 40 from the intake pressure chamber 39. A discharge pressure passage 43 can extend through the partition 36 to provide communication between the compression mechanism 20 and the discharge pressure chamber 40. An intake fitting 28 can be attached to housing assembly 12 at opening 46.

[0056] like Figure 1As shown, the first bearing housing assembly 14 can be arranged in the suction pressure chamber and can be fixed relative to the housing 32. The first bearing housing assembly 14 may include a first main bearing housing 48 and a first bearing 50. The first main bearing housing 48 can accommodate the first bearing 50 therein. The first main bearing housing 48 can be fixedly engaged with the housing 32 and can axially support the compression mechanism 20.

[0057] like Figure 1 As shown, the motor assembly 18 can be arranged within the intake pressure chamber 39 and can include a stator 60 and a rotor 62. The stator 60 can be press-fitted into the housing 32. The rotor 62 can be press-fitted onto the drive shaft 64 and can transmit rotational power to the drive shaft 64. The drive shaft 64 can be rotatably supported by a first bearing housing assembly 14 and a second bearing housing assembly 16. The drive shaft 64 may include an eccentric crank pin 66 having a crank pin flat portion.

[0058] like Figure 1 As shown, the compression mechanism 20 may be arranged within the suction pressure chamber 39 and may include a moving scroll member 70 and a stationary scroll member 72. The first scroll member or moving scroll member 70 may include an end plate 74 and a helical scroll 76 extending from the end plate 74. A cylindrical hub 80 may project downward from the end plate 74 and may include a drive bushing 82 disposed therein. The drive bushing 82 may include an inner bore (not numbered) in which a crank pin 66 is drivably disposed. A flat portion of the crank pin may drivably engage with a flat surface in a portion of the inner bore to provide a radially adapted drive arrangement. A cross-slider coupling 84 may engage with the moving scroll member 70 and the stationary scroll member 72 to prevent relative rotation between them.

[0059] like Figure 1 As shown, the second scroll member or stationary scroll member 72 may include an end plate 86 and a helical scroll 88 projecting downward from the end plate 86. The helical scroll 88 may engage the helical scroll 76 of the moving scroll member 70 in an engaging manner, thereby creating a series of moving fluid cavities. The fluid cavities defined by the helical scrolls 76, 88 may decrease in volume as they move from a radially outer position (at suction pressure) to a radially intermediate position (at intermediate pressure) and finally to a radially inner position (at discharge pressure) throughout the entire compression cycle of the compression mechanism 20. Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the suction inlet 89 can be formed in the fixed vortex member 72 and can provide fluid communication between the suction conduit 30 and the radially outermost fluid cavity 93 formed by the helical vortices 76, 88.

[0060] Reference Figures 3 to 6 The fixed vortex member 72 also has a wall 90 integral with the end plate 86, and may include a first groove or recess 92 located on the outside. Figure 3 and Figure 5 The first groove 92 is located outside the suction inlet 89) and multiple second grooves or recesses 94 located on the outside. Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 6 The second groove 94 is located outside the suction inlet 89. For example, the first groove 92 can be machined in the top surface 96 of the wall 90. For example, multiple second grooves 94 can be machined in the lateral surface 98 of the wall 90 (i.e., the lateral surface 98 of the wall 90 is generally perpendicular to the top surface 96 of the wall 90). In some configurations, the groove 94 can be a square cut. The wall 90 can also define a suction inlet 89, which can be spaced apart from the first groove 92. The suction inlet 89 can also be positioned between two second grooves in the second recess 94.

[0061] The suction conduit 30 guides the working fluid at suction pressure from the suction fitting 28 to the suction inlet 89 of the fixed vortex member 72, allowing the working fluid to be guided into the radially outermost fluid chamber 93 and subsequently compressed by the compression mechanism 20. Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, the inhalation conduit 30 can be snapped into engagement with the wall 90 of the fixed vortex member 72. For example, the inhalation conduit 30 can be injection molded or otherwise formed from a polymer or metallic material. The inhalation conduit 30 may include a body 100 and a connecting arm 104. The body 100 may include a first end 101 and a second end 103. A circular inlet opening 102 may be formed at or near the first end 101 of the body 100. Figures 1 to 4 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 ), and an outlet opening 106 may be formed at or near the second end 103 of the body 100. Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 8 The first end 101 may be adjacent to the inhalation fitting 28 (i.e., the first end 101 may contact the inhalation fitting 28 or may be spaced apart from the inhalation fitting 28). In some configurations, the inlet opening 102 may be concentric with and / or substantially aligned with the inhalation fitting 28.

[0062] The outlet opening 106 provides fluid communication between the suction conduit 30 and the compression mechanism 20. That is, the working fluid flowing into the suction conduit 30 through the inlet opening 102 can exit the suction conduit 30 through the outlet opening 106. The working fluid can be guided from the outlet opening 106 into the radially outermost fluid chamber 93 and subsequently compressed by the compression mechanism 20.

[0063] A bridge or clamp 110 may extend from the main body 100. Figure 1 , Figure 2and Figure 8 The bridge portion 110 may include a first member 118 and a second member 120 extending perpendicularly to the first member 118. When the suction conduit 30 is engaged with the fixed vortex member 72, the bridge portion 110 may extend at least partially into the suction inlet 89, and the first member 118 may abut against the upper surface of the wall 90.

[0064] The connecting arm 104 can extend from the second end 103 of the body 100 and can be positioned at or near the tip of the outlet opening 106. The connecting arm 104 can be arc-shaped and can snap into engagement with the wall 90 of the fixed scroll member 72. The connecting arm 104 may include an end portion 111a and a middle portion 111b. The end portion 111a may include a boss 112 and a plurality of resilient flexible protrusions 114. Each boss 112 can extend axially from the corresponding end portion 111a (i.e., the boss 112 extends in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of shaft 64 when the conduit 30 is assembled to the fixed scroll member 72). Figure 5 As shown, when the connecting arm 104 engages with the wall 90 of the fixed scroll member 72, each boss 112 can be received in the first groove 92 of the fixed scroll member 72. In this way, radial movement of the suction conduit 30 relative to the fixed scroll member 72 is prevented (i.e., movement of the suction conduit 30 along a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of shaft 64 is prevented). Figure 5 As shown, when the connecting arm 104 is snapped into engagement with the wall 90 of the fixed vortex member 72, the bottom surface 113 of the connecting arm 104 can abut against the top surface 96 of the wall 90.

[0065] Multiple flexible protrusions 114 may have barbed tips 116. The multiple flexible protrusions 114 can extend axially from the connecting arm 104 (i.e., the multiple flexible protrusions 114 extend in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of shaft 64 when the conduit 30 is assembled to the fixed vortex member 72). For example... Figure 8 As shown, a plurality of flexible protrusions 114 are positioned between bosses 112. In some configurations, the plurality of flexible protrusions 114 may be positioned outside the bosses 112 (i.e., the bosses 112 are arranged between the flexible protrusions 114). The flexible protrusions 114 may engage with the wall 90 of the fixed vortex member 72 (i.e., the barbed tip 116 of the flexible protrusion 114 may engage with the corresponding second groove 94 and the surface 121 of the flexible protrusion 114 may abut against the lateral surface 98 of the wall 90), thereby preventing the suction conduit 30 from moving axially relative to the fixed vortex member 72.

[0066] like Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 7As shown, the intermediate portion 111b of the connecting arm 104 may include a first wall 124 and a second wall 126 offset from each other (the first wall 124 and the second wall 126 are not aligned with each other). The first wall 124 and the second wall 126 may cooperate with each other to define a horizontal step portion 128 in the intermediate portion 111b. Figure 10 The intermediate portion 111b may also include one or more cylindrical attachments or locating pins 130 extending radially outward from the first wall 124. In some configurations, the pins 130 may extend radially outward from the second wall 126. In other configurations, one or more of the pins 130 may extend radially outward from the first wall 124, and one or more of the pins 130 may extend radially outward from the second wall 126. Figure 7 and Figure 10 As shown, each pin 130 includes a proximal end 132 and a distal end 134. The proximal end 132 extends from the first wall 124. The distal end 134 has a chamfered edge.

[0067] In one embodiment, one or more ribs 138 may extend from the intermediate portion 111b of the connecting arm 104 and the body 100, providing additional strength to the suction conduit 30. The ribs 138 are spaced apart from each other. That is, two ribs of the ribs 138 extend from opposite ends of the intermediate portion 111b of the connecting arm 104 and opposite ends of the body 100. One rib of the ribs 138 extends from a central region of the intermediate portion 111b and a central region of the body 100, and is also positioned between two pins in the pins 130. In some configurations, the suction conduit 30 may not include any ribs.

[0068] Continue to refer to Figures 1 to 10 The assembly of the inhalation tube 30 and the fixed vortex member 72 will now be described in detail. First, the attachment tool 140 is fixed to the inhalation tube 30 ( Figure 10In other words, the operator (human or automated robot) attaches the attachment tool 140 to the suction conduit 30 such that the pin 130 of the suction conduit 30 is received in a similarly shaped orifice 142 in the attachment tool 140, and the rib 138 of the suction conduit 30 is received in a recess 144 of the attachment tool 140. When the pin 130 of the suction conduit 30 is fully received in the similarly shaped orifice 142 of the attachment tool 140 and the rib 138 is fully received in the recess 144 of the attachment tool 140, the first outer surface 146 at the end 148 of the tool 140 abuts against the first wall 124 of the intermediate portion 111b, and the second outer surface 150 at the end 148 abuts against the second wall 126 of the intermediate portion 111b. In this way, the attachment tool 140 is securely attached to the suction conduit 30 (i.e., the movement of the suction conduit 30 relative to the attachment tool 140 is restricted). In some configurations, when the suction conduit 30 does not include the horizontal step portion 128, the second outer surface 150 of the assembly tool 140 abuts against the first wall 124 of the intermediate portion 111b.

[0069] The operator then uses the attachment tool 140 to assemble the inhalation tubing 30 onto the fixed scroll member 72. That is, while holding the attachment tool 140, the operator positions the inhalation tubing 30 onto the fixed scroll member 72 until the connecting arm 104 snaps into engagement with the fixed scroll member 72. Once the inhalation tubing 30 is snapped into engagement with the fixed scroll member 72, the operator can easily disconnect the attachment tool 140 from the inhalation tubing 30.

[0070] The inhalation catheter 30 of this disclosure provides the benefit of allowing the attachment tool 140 to be attached thereto, which facilitates the attachment of the inhalation catheter 30 to the fixed scroll member 72. In this way, for example, an operator working in an assembly line is allowed to assemble the inhalation catheter 30 to the fixed scroll member 72 without experiencing fatigue due to assembling the inhalation catheter 30 to the fixed scroll member 72 by hand (i.e., without the attachment tool 140). Although the attachment tool 140 in this disclosure is used to facilitate the attachment of the inhalation catheter 30 to the fixed scroll member 72, thereby engaging the inhalation catheter 30 with the fixed scroll member 72, the attachment tool 140 can also be used to facilitate the attachment of the inhalation catheter 30 to the fixed scroll member 72 by fasteners (e.g., screws, bolts, etc.). The attachment tool 140 can also be used to remove the inhalation catheter 30 from the fixed scroll member 72.

[0071] Reference Figure 11 and Figure 12Inhalation tubing 230a and 230b are provided. Each of the inhalation tubing 230a and 230b may be incorporated into the compressor 10 in place of inhalation tubing 30. The structure and function of the inhalation tubing 230a and 230b may be similar to or the same as the structure and function of the inhalation tubing 30 described above, except for any differences mentioned below.

[0072] Each inhalation catheter 230a, 230b may include a body 200 and a connecting arm 204. The body 200 may be similar to or identical to the body 100 described above, and therefore will not be described in detail again. Figure 11 and Figure 12 As shown, each connecting arm 204 has a horizontal stepped portion 228 positioned at a different vertical height relative to the end 250 of the body 200. In this way, each conduit 230a, 230b can be suitably connected to and sealed with a fixed scroll of a different size.

[0073] Reference Figure 13 An additional inhalation conduit 330 is provided. The inhalation conduit 330 may be incorporated into the compressor 10 in place of the inhalation conduits 30, 230a, and 230b described above. The structure and function of the inhalation conduit 330 may be similar to or the same as those of the inhalation conduits 30, 230a, and 230b described above, except for any differences mentioned below.

[0074] The inhalation tube 330 may include a body 300, a bridge (not shown), and a connecting arm 304. The body 300 may be similar to or the same as the bodies 100 and 200 described above, and therefore will not be described in detail again. The bridge may be similar to or the same as the bridge 110 described above, and therefore will not be described in detail again.

[0075] The connecting arm 304 may include an end portion 311a and an intermediate portion 311b. The end portion 311a may include a boss 312 and a plurality of resilient flexible protrusions 314. The boss 312 and the flexible protrusions 314 may be similar to or identical to the boss 112 and flexible protrusions 114 described above, and therefore will not be described in detail again. The intermediate portion 311b may include a first wall 324 and a second wall 326 offset from each other (the first wall 324 and the second wall 326 are not aligned with each other). The first wall 324 and the second wall 326 may cooperate with each other to define a horizontal stepped portion in the intermediate portion 311b.

[0076] One or more ribs 338a, 338b, 338c may extend from the intermediate portion 311b of the connecting arm 304 and the body 300, providing additional strength to the suction conduit 330. The ribs 338a, 338b, 338c are spaced apart from each other. That is, ribs 338a and 338b extend from opposite ends of the intermediate portion 311b of the connecting arm 304 and opposite ends of the body 300. Rib 338c extends from the central region of the intermediate portion 311b and the central region of the body 300.

[0077] One or more cylindrical attachment pins 332 may be integral with the outer ribs 338a, 338b and may extend in the radial direction. In some configurations, the pins 332 may be triangular, star-shaped, rectangular, L-shaped, or any other suitable shape that allows an assembly tool (not shown) to be attached to the pins 332 to facilitate attachment of the suction conduit 330 to the fixed scroll member 72. In some configurations, one or more pins 332 may extend in the radial direction, and one or more pins 332 may extend in the axial direction.

[0078] Reference Figures 14 to 17 Inhalation tubing 430a, 430b, 430c, and 430d are provided. Each inhalation tubing 430a, 430b, 430c, and 430d can be incorporated into the compressor 10 in place of the inhalation tubing 30, 230a, 230b, and 330 described above. The structure and function of the inhalation tubing 430a, 430b, 430c, and 430d can be similar to or the same as those of the inhalation tubing 30, 230a, 230b, and 330 described above, except for any differences mentioned below.

[0079] Each inhalation catheter 430a, 430b, 430c, 430d may include a body 400, a bridge (not shown), and a connecting arm 404. The body 400 may be similar to or identical to the bodies 100, 200, and 300 described above, and therefore will not be described in detail again. The bridge may be similar to or identical to the bridge 110 described above, and therefore will not be described in detail again.

[0080] The connecting arm 404 may include an end portion 411a and an intermediate portion 411b. The end portion 411a may include a boss 412 and a plurality of resilient flexible protrusions 414. The boss 412 and the flexible protrusions 414 may be similar to or identical to the boss 112 and flexible protrusions 114 described above, and therefore will not be described in detail again. The intermediate portion 411b may include a first wall 424 and a second wall 426 offset from each other (the first wall 424 and the second wall 426 are not aligned with each other). The first wall 424 and the second wall 426 may cooperate with each other to define a horizontal stepped portion in the intermediate portion 411b.

[0081] One or more ribs 438a, 438b, 438c may extend from the intermediate portion 411b of the connecting arm 404 and the body 400, providing additional strength to the suction conduits 430a, 430b, 430c. The ribs 438a, 438b, 438c are spaced apart from each other. That is, ribs 438a and 438b extend from opposite ends of the intermediate portion 411b of the connecting arm 404 and opposite ends of the body 400. Rib 438c extends from the central region of the intermediate portion 411b and the central region of the body 400.

[0082] One or more cylindrical attachment pins 432 can be integral with ribs 438a, 438b, 438c and can extend in the axial direction. In some configurations, such as Figure 15 As shown, pin 432 can be integrally formed with each rib 438a, 438b, 438c. In other configurations, such as Figures 15 to 17 As shown, pin 432 may be integral with only two of the ribs 438a, 438b, and 438c, rather than with all three ribs 438a, 438b, and 438c. In this way, the assembly tool (not shown) used to attach the inhalation catheter to the fixed scroll assembly can be unique for a particular inhalation catheter. That is, each inhalation catheter can have a specific number, shape, and position of pins corresponding to the matching assembly tool. Therefore, when assembling the inhalation catheter to the fixed scroll assembly, this ensures that each catheter is assembled to the appropriate fixed scroll assembly and allows for post-assembly inspection of the inhalation catheter. This also provides the benefit of preventing errors in the assembly process (e.g., avoiding attaching the inhalation catheter to an incorrect fixed scroll assembly).

[0083] Reference Figure 18 and Figure 19 Assembly tool 540 is provided. Assembly tool 540 can be used to attach the suction tube 30 to the fixed vortex member 72 in place of assembly tool 140. The structure and function of assembly tool 540 can be similar to or the same as those of assembly tool 140 described above, except for any differences mentioned below.

[0084] The attachment tool 540 includes a handle 542 and a lever 544 pivotally attached to the handle 542. The handle 542 includes a gripping portion 546 that allows an operator (human or automated robot) to easily grasp the conduit 30 when attaching it to the fixed scroll member 72. The lever 544 includes a gripping portion 548 and a stabilizing arm 550. The stabilizing arm 550 may include an opposing end portion 552 configured to contact the connecting arm 104 of the conduit 30 when it is securely attached to the handle 542. In this way, the arm 550 helps maintain the attachment of the conduit 30 when it is connected to the fixed scroll member 72 (securely holding the conduit 30 in place on the handle 542). When the conduit 30 is engaged with the fixed scroll member 72, the operator can rotate the gripping portion 548 of the lever 544, causing the end portion 552 to disengage from the connecting arm 104. In this way, the handle 542 can be easily disconnected from the conduit 30.

[0085] The foregoing description of embodiments has been provided for purposes of illustration and description. This description is not intended to be exhaustive or limiting. Individual elements or features of a particular embodiment are generally not limited to that particular embodiment, but rather, even if not specifically shown or described, individual elements or features of a particular embodiment are interchangeable where applicable and can be used in selected embodiments. Individual elements or features of a particular embodiment may also vary in many ways. These variations are not considered to depart from this disclosure, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A compressor, comprising: Housing assembly defining a cavity; A compression mechanism is disposed within the cavity of the housing assembly and includes a first vortex member and a second vortex member in meshing engagement with each other, the second vortex member including a suction inlet; as well as A conduit that guides working fluid into the suction inlet and includes a first end defining an inlet opening and a second end defining an outlet opening adjacent to the suction inlet, the second end including a locating pin extending outwardly from the second end. The locating pin is securely received in a corresponding orifice in the attachment tool when the attachment tool is connected to the conduit.

2. The compressor according to claim 1, wherein, The end of the locating pin is chamfered.

3. The compressor according to claim 1, wherein, The locating pin is cylindrical in shape.

4. The compressor according to claim 1, wherein, The second end includes an arc-shaped connecting arm, wherein the locating pin extends from the connecting arm.

5. The compressor according to claim 4, wherein, The connecting arm is configured to snap into engagement with the second vortex member, and wherein the connecting arm includes a first boss extending from the connecting arm, and the first boss is received in an external groove of the second vortex member when the connecting arm snaps into engagement with the second vortex member.

6. The compressor according to claim 4, wherein, The connecting arm is configured to snap into engagement with the second vortex member, wherein the second vortex member includes an externally located groove formed therein, and the connecting arm includes an elastic flexible protrusion extending from the connecting arm, the elastic flexible protrusion being received within a corresponding groove when the connecting arm snaps into engagement with the second vortex member to prevent axial movement of the conduit relative to the second vortex member.

7. The compressor according to claim 1, wherein, A plurality of locating pins extend from the second end of the catheter.

8. A compressor, comprising: Housing assembly defining a cavity; A compression mechanism is disposed within the cavity of the housing assembly and includes a first vortex member and a second vortex member in meshing engagement with each other, the second vortex member including a suction inlet; as well as A conduit that guides working fluid into the suction inlet and includes a body and an arcuate connecting arm. The body has a first end defining an inlet opening and a second end defining an outlet opening. The arcuate connecting arm is configured to snap into engagement with the second vortex member and has a locating pin extending outward from the arcuate connecting arm. The locating pin is securely received in a corresponding orifice in the attachment tool when the attachment tool is connected to the conduit.

9. The compressor according to claim 8, wherein, The arc-shaped connecting arm includes an end portion and an intermediate portion disposed between the end portions, wherein the locating pin extends from the wall of the intermediate portion.

10. The compressor according to claim 9, wherein, At least one reinforcing rib extends from the middle portion and the body, wherein the at least one reinforcing rib is positioned between two locating pins in the locating pin.

11. The compressor according to claim 8, wherein, The arc-shaped connecting arm includes an end portion and an intermediate portion disposed between the end portions, wherein reinforcing ribs extend from the intermediate portion and the body, and the locating pin is integral with at least two of the reinforcing ribs.

12. The compressor according to claim 11, wherein, The locating pin extends in either the radial or axial direction.

13. A method for connecting a catheter to a compression mechanism, the method comprising: An attachment tool is attached to the conduit, the conduit including an end having at least one locating pin, the at least one locating pin being securely received in a corresponding orifice in the attachment tool when the attachment tool is attached to the conduit. The conduit is connected to the vortex member of the compression mechanism via the attachment tool; as well as After the conduit is connected to the vortex member, the attachment tool is removed from the conduit.

14. The method according to claim 13, wherein, The end of at least one locating pin is chamfered to facilitate attachment of the attachment tool to the conduit.

15. The method according to claim 13, wherein, The end surface of the attachment tool abuts against the wall of the conduit when the attachment tool is attached to the conduit.

16. The method according to claim 13, wherein, The catheter includes reinforcing ribs, and the attachment tool has a recess that receives the reinforcing ribs when the attachment tool is attached to the catheter.

17. The method according to claim 13, wherein, When the attachment tool is attached to the conduit, the first end surface of the attachment tool abuts against the first wall of the conduit, and the second end surface of the attachment tool abuts against the second wall of the conduit, which is offset from the first wall of the conduit.

18. The method according to claim 13, wherein, The end of the conduit includes a boss and a flexible protrusion, and the vortex member includes an external groove and an external recess, wherein when the conduit is connected to the vortex member, the boss is received in the groove and the flexible protrusion is received in the recess.

19. The method according to claim 13, wherein, A reinforcing rib extends from the conduit, and wherein the at least one locating pin is integral with the reinforcing rib.

20. The method according to claim 19, wherein, The at least one locating pin extends in either the radial or axial direction.

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