Scroll compressor with engineered shared communication port

Abstract

An asymmetric scroll compressor includes a compressor housing. An orbiting scroll member and a non-orbiting scroll member are disposed within the compressor housing. The orbiting scroll member and the non-orbiting scroll member each include a base plate and a scroll wrap extending from the base plate. The orbiting scroll member and the non-orbiting scroll member intermesh to form a plurality of compression pockets. A drive shaft is secured to the orbiting scroll member and is configured to orbit the orbiting scroll member from a first orbiting position to a second orbiting position. A communication port is disposed on the base plate of one of the orbiting scroll member and the non-orbiting scroll member such that, in the first orbiting position, the communication port is in communication with a first enclosed pocket of the plurality of compression pockets, and, in the second orbiting position, the communication port is in communication with a second enclosed pocket of the plurality of compression pockets.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to a scroll compressor. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to communicating intermediate pressure fluid to an asymmetric scroll compressor in a heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration ("HVACR") system. BACKGROUND

[0002] Heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVACR) systems often include a compressor, such as a scroll compressor. Scroll compressors include a pair of scroll members that orbit relative to one another to compress a working fluid. In an asymmetric scroll compressor, the scrolls on the pair of scroll members have different shapes, lengths, curvatures, or combinations thereof. Asymmetric scroll compressors compress a working fluid (e.g., a refrigerant, a refrigerant mixture, etc.) at a lower pressure and discharge the fluid at a higher pressure. SUMMARY

[0003] The present disclosure relates generally to a scroll compressor. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to communicating intermediate pressure fluid to an asymmetric scroll compressor in a heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration ("HVACR") system.

[0004] By providing a communication port shared between two adjacent compression pockets, the asymmetric scroll compressor can receive or discharge working fluid at an intermediate pressure. Injecting working fluid at an intermediate pressure into the asymmetric scroll compressor can increase the mass flow rate and / or efficiency of the compressor. By discharging working fluid at an intermediate pressure and recycling the discharged working fluid back to a suction line of the compressor, the capacity of the compressor can be controlled while saving energy consumption of the compressor. Finally, by discharging working fluid at an intermediate pressure and recycling the discharged working fluid to a discharge line of the compressor, the power consumption can be controlled, thereby benefiting the efficiency of the compressor.

[0005] According to one embodiment, an asymmetric scroll compressor includes a compressor housing. An orbiting scroll member and a non-orbiting scroll member are disposed within the compressor housing. The orbiting scroll member and the non-orbiting scroll member each include a base plate and a scroll wrap extending from the base plate. The orbiting scroll member and the non-orbiting scroll member are intermeshed to form a plurality of compression pockets. A drive shaft is secured to the orbiting scroll member and configured to orbit the orbiting scroll member from a first orbiting position to a second orbiting position. A communication port is disposed on the base plate of one of the orbiting scroll member and the non-orbiting scroll member such that, in the first orbiting position, the communication port is in communication with a first enclosed pocket of the plurality of compression pockets and, in the second orbiting position, the communication port is in communication with a second enclosed pocket of the plurality of compression pockets.

[0006] In one embodiment, the orbiting scroll member has an intermediate orbiting position between the first orbiting position and the second orbiting position, and during the intermediate orbiting position, the communication port communicates with both the first closed volume and the second closed volume.

[0007] In one embodiment, the first closed volume and the second closed volume are adjacent in a radial direction and separated by one of the scroll wraps.

[0008] In one embodiment, the first closed volume and the second closed volume are at the same or about the same pressure between the first orbiting position and the second orbiting position.

[0009] In one embodiment, the asymmetric compressor includes a porous structure disposed in the communication port, the communication port is configured to pass fluid through the porous structure, and the porous structure is configured to mitigate wear on a tip seal disposed on one of the scroll wraps.

[0010] In one embodiment, the communication port is disposed within a base plate of the non-orbiting scroll member.

[0011] In another embodiment, a method of communicating working fluid at an intermediate pressure to an asymmetric scroll compressor is provided. The asymmetric scroll compressor includes orbiting a scroll member fixed to a drive shaft from a first orbiting position to a second orbiting position about an orbit, thereby intermeshing with a non-orbiting scroll member of the asymmetric scroll compressor, thereby forming a plurality of compression volumes. The method further includes receiving working fluid at a suction pressure from a suction inlet disposed between the orbiting scroll member and the non-orbiting scroll member. The method further includes enclosing the working fluid in the suction inlet to obtain a first closed volume of the plurality of closed volumes. The method further includes communicating working fluid at an intermediate pressure from a communication port such that, at the first orbiting position, the first closed volume of the plurality of compression volumes is communicated via the communication port, and at the second orbiting position, a second closed volume of the plurality of compression volumes is communicated via the communication port. The method further includes discharging the working fluid at a discharge pressure through a discharge outlet.

[0012] In one embodiment, the method includes communicating with both the first closed volume and the second closed volume via the communication port at an intermediate orbiting position, the intermediate orbiting position being between the first orbiting position and the second orbiting position.

[0013] In one embodiment, the orbiting scroll member and the non-orbiting scroll member each include a base plate and a scroll wrap extending from the base plate, and the first closed volume and the second closed volume are adjacent in a radial direction and separated by one of the scroll wraps.

[0014] In one embodiment, the method includes maintaining the first closed volume and the second closed volume at the same or about the same pressure at the intermediate orbiting position.

[0015] In one embodiment, the method includes orbiting the orbiting scroll member from a suction orbiting position to the first orbiting position to enclose the working fluid in the suction inlet.

[0016] According to yet another embodiment, a refrigerant circuit is provided. The refrigerant circuit includes a compressor, an expander, a condenser, and an evaporator fluidly connected. The compressor includes a compressor housing. An orbiting scroll member and a non-orbiting scroll member are disposed within the compressor housing. The orbiting scroll member and the non-orbiting scroll member each include a base plate and a scroll wrap extending from the base plate. The orbiting scroll member and the non-orbiting scroll member intermesh to form a plurality of compression volumes. A drive shaft is fixed to the orbiting scroll member and configured to orbit the orbiting scroll member from a first orbiting position to a second orbiting position. A communication port is disposed on the base plate of one of the orbiting scroll member and the non-orbiting scroll member such that, in the first orbiting position, the communication port is in communication with a first closed volume of the plurality of compression volumes, and in the second orbiting position, the communication port is in communication with a second closed volume of the plurality of compression volumes.

[0017] In one embodiment, the orbiting scroll member has an intermediate orbiting position between the first orbiting position and the second orbiting position, and during the intermediate orbiting position, the communication port is in communication with both the first closed volume and the second closed volume.

[0018] In one embodiment, the first closed volume and the second closed volume are adjacent in a radial direction and separated by one of the scroll wraps.

[0019] In one embodiment, during between the first orbiting position and the second orbiting position, the first closed volume and the second closed volume are at the same or about the same pressure.

[0020] In one embodiment, a porous structure is disposed in the communication port, the communication port is configured to communicate fluid through the porous structure, and the porous structure is configured to mitigate wear on a tip seal disposed on one of the scroll wraps.

[0021] In one embodiment, the communication port is disposed within a base plate of the non-orbiting scroll member.

[0022] In one embodiment, the compressor housing includes a mid-pressure fluid port configured to receive working fluid from a source of intermediate pressure fluid, the communication port is configured to receive working fluid at an intermediate pressure and inject the working fluid into the first and second closed volumes.

[0023] In one embodiment, the compressor housing includes a mid-pressure fluid port configured to exhaust working fluid from both the first and second closed volumes, the communication port is configured to exhaust working fluid at an intermediate pressure.

[0024] In one embodiment, the communication port is configured to exhaust working fluid at an intermediate pressure to a suction port disposed on the housing. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0025] Reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a part of this disclosure, and which illustrate embodiments of the systems and methods described in this specification.

[0026] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a refrigerant circuit according to an embodiment.

[0027] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of a compressor according to an embodiment.

[0028] Figure 3A is a cross-sectional view of a pair of scrolls of an asymmetric scroll compressor according to an embodiment.

[0029] Figure 3B is Figure 3A another cross-sectional view of a pair of scrolls of

[0030] Figure 3C is Figure 3A another cross-sectional view of a pair of scrolls of

[0031] Figure 4A is Figure 3A a cross-sectional view of a pair of scrolls of

[0032] Figure 4B is Figure 4A a cross-sectional view of a pair of scrolls of

[0033] Figure 4C is Figure 4B a cross-sectional view of a pair of scrolls of

[0034] Figure 5A is a cross-sectional view of a non-orbiting scroll member according to another embodiment.

[0035] Figure 5B is a cross-sectional view of a non-orbiting scroll member according to yet another embodiment.

[0036] Figure 5C is a cross-sectional view of a non-orbiting scroll member according to yet another embodiment.

[0037] Figure 5D is a cross-sectional view of a non-orbiting scroll member according to yet another embodiment.

[0038] Figure 5E is a cross-sectional view of a non-orbiting scroll member according to yet another embodiment.

[0039] Figure 6 is a flow chart diagram of a method of communicating intermediate pressure working fluid according to an embodiment.

[0040] Throughout the drawings, like reference numerals will be used to refer to like components. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0041] The present disclosure relates generally to a scroll compressor. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to communicating intermediate pressure fluid with an asymmetric scroll compressor in a heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (“HVACR”) system.

[0042] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a refrigerant circuit 1 according to an embodiment. The refrigerant circuit 1 includes a compressor 10, a condenser 14, a first expander 16, a second expander 16’, and an evaporator 18.

[0043] It should be appreciated that the refrigerant circuit 1 is an example embodiment and can be modified to include additional components or remove components. For example, in one embodiment, the refrigerant circuit 1 can include other components such as, but not limited to, one or more flow control devices, an economizer, a receiver tank, a dryer, a suction liquid heat exchanger, etc. In one embodiment, the refrigerant circuit 1 can be modified to have a single expander instead of two.

[0044] The refrigerant circuit 1 can be applied to various systems for controlling environmental conditions (e.g., temperature, humidity, air quality, etc.) in a space, often referred to as a conditioned space. Examples of such systems include, but are not limited to, HVAC systems, transportation climate control systems, and the like. Examples of conditioned spaces include, but are not limited to, a residence, a portion of a building, an environment-controlled container on a vehicle, a vessel or boat, and the like. In one embodiment, the refrigerant circuit 1 can be configured as a cooling system (e.g., an air conditioning system) that is capable of operating in a cooling mode. In another embodiment, the refrigerant circuit 1 can be configured as a heat pump system that can operate in both a cooling mode and a heating / defrosting mode.

[0045] The refrigerant circuit 1 includes a compressor 10, a condenser 14, a first expander 16, a second expander 16’, and an evaporator 18, which are fluidly connected by refrigerant lines 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 26, 28, 29, and / or 30. In one embodiment, the refrigerant lines 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 26, 28, 29, and / or 30 can alternatively be referred to as refrigerant conduits.

[0046] The compressor 10 includes a suction port 12A, a discharge port 12B, and a mid-pressure fluid port 12C. The port 12C can be referred to as a mid-port. In operation, the compressor 10 compresses a working fluid (e.g., a working fluid such as a refrigerant, a refrigerant mixture, etc.) from a relatively lower pressure gas (e.g., a suction pressure) to a relatively higher pressure gas (e.g., a discharge pressure). The relatively lower pressure working fluid is drawn into or transferred into the compressor 10 through the suction port 12A. The working fluid is then compressed within the compressor 10 and discharged from the compressor 10 at a relatively higher pressure at the discharge port 12B. In one embodiment, the compressor is an asymmetric scroll compressor.

[0047] The relatively higher pressure working fluid discharged from the discharge port 12B of the compressor 10 is also at a relatively higher temperature. In one embodiment, the relatively higher pressure working fluid is a gas. The relatively higher pressure working fluid flows from the compressor 10 to the condenser 14 through the refrigerant line 20. The working fluid flows through the condenser 14 and discharges heat to a process fluid (e.g., water, air, etc.). The cooled working fluid, now liquid or mostly liquid, flows to the first expander 16 via the refrigerant line 22 and to the second expander 16’ via the refrigerant line 21. In one embodiment, the expanders (e.g., the first expander 16, the second expander 16’) can be expansion valves, expansion plates, expansion vessels, orifices, or other such types of expansion mechanisms. It should be understood that the expanders in one embodiment can be any type of expander used in the HVACR art for expanding a working fluid to thereby lower the temperature of the working fluid.

[0048] A first portion of the cooled working fluid flows from the condenser 14 to the first expander 16 via refrigerant line 22. The first expander 16 allows the working fluid to expand and reduce the pressure of the working fluid to obtain the working fluid in liquid form, gaseous form, or a combination thereof. The working fluid now has a lower temperature after being expanded by the first expander 16. The reduced pressure can be an intermediate pressure that is higher than the suction pressure of the compressor 10 but lower than the discharge pressure of the compressor 10. As a result, the working fluid discharged from the first expander 16 can be in liquid form, gaseous form, or a combination thereof. The working fluid discharged from the first expander 16 flows to the evaporator 18 and absorbs heat from the second process fluid (e.g., water, air, etc.), heats the working fluid, and converts the working fluid to gaseous or mostly gaseous form. The gaseous working fluid then returns to the compressor 10 through refrigerant line 26.

[0049] A second portion of the cooled working fluid flows from the condenser 14 to the second expander 16' via refrigerant line 21. After passing through the second expander 16', the portion of the cooled working fluid can flow to the compressor 10 via refrigerant lines 28 and 30. The portion can be fed into the compressor 10 at the intermediate pressure fluid port 12C to be injected into the compression chamber of the compressor 10. The above process continues when the refrigerant circuit 1 is operating, for example, in a cooling mode (e.g., when the compressor 10 is running).

[0050] In one embodiment, the intermediate pressure fluid port 12C can be configured as an outlet port, where the refrigerant lines 28, 21, and the second expander 16' are disconnected, for example, by removal or a flow control device (e.g., one or more flow control valves). Alternatively, the second expander 16' can be shut off. As a result, the second portion of the flow of the cooled working fluid from the condenser 14 will flow from the condenser 14 to the first expander 16, as the first portion. The intermediate pressure fluid port 12C is configured to discharge the working fluid at the intermediate pressure to the refrigerant lines 30, 29. The working fluid discharged from the intermediate pressure fluid outlet 12C combines with the working fluid in the refrigerant line 26 to be fed into the compressor 10 from the suction inlet 12A. By discharging a portion of the working fluid in the compressor 10 at the intermediate pressure, the compression capacity of the compressor 10 can be controlled, thereby saving the energy consumption of the compressor 10. The intermediate pressure fluid port 12C that functions as an inlet port and / or an outlet port can be collectively referred to as a communication port 12C.

[0051] It should be understood that the communication port 12C can be configured as an inlet port or an outlet port by reconfiguring the refrigerant line(s) connected to the compressor 100 without mechanically changing the communication port 12C. Accordingly, descriptions regarding a “mid-pressure fluid inlet / outlet port,” “mid-pressure fluid port,” “communication port,” or “injection port” should be interpreted as a port that can inject or discharge. In one embodiment, any description of a fluid being injected into, via, through, the communication port, injection terminology, processes, functions, actions, etc. should be interpreted as the fluid being able to enter or exit the communication port, depending on the external configuration.

[0052] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of a compressor 100 according to an embodiment. The compressor 100 can be used as a compressor 10 in a refrigerant circuit 1 (as shown in Figure 1 It should be understood that the compressor 100 can include additional features not described in detail in this specification. For example, in one embodiment, the compressor 100 can include a lubricant sump for storing lubricant that will be introduced to the moving features of the compressor 100.

[0053] The illustrated compressor 100 is a single-stage scroll compressor. More specifically, the illustrated compressor 100 is a single-stage vertical scroll compressor. It should be understood that the principles described in this specification are not intended to be limited to single-stage scroll compressors, and they can be applied to multi-stage scroll compressors having two or more compression stages. The embodiments described herein relate to vertical compressors having a vertical or near-vertical crankshaft (e.g., crankshaft 114). However, it should be understood that the features described herein can also be applied to compressors having crankshafts of different orientations (e.g., horizontal compressors).

[0054] Figure 2 is a vertical cross-sectional side view of a compressor 100 according to an embodiment. The compressor 100 includes a housing 102. The housing 102 includes an upper portion 102A, a middle portion 102B, and a lower portion 102C. The upper portion 102A of the housing 102 is the outermost housing of the compressor 100 and can alternatively be referred to as an upper cover 102A. The middle portion 102B of the housing 102 is disposed between the compression chamber 140 and the upper portion 102A of the housing 102 and can be referred to as a middle cover 102B. The middle portion 102B and the upper portion 102A form a space therebetween that is the middle pressure chamber 124. The lower portion 102C provides the remainder of the housing 102 for the compressor 100. It should be understood that the middle pressure chamber can be provided on other portions of the compressor 100. For example, other embodiments can provide the middle pressure chamber in the non-orbiting scroll member 110 or in the upper portion of the housing 102.

[0055] Compressor 100 includes a suction inlet 112A and a discharge outlet 106. The suction inlet 112A typically protrudes from the compressor housing to receive piping (e.g., Figure 1 The refrigerant line 26 (e.g., in the compressor) supplies working fluid to the compressor 100 at a relatively low pressure (e.g., suction pressure). In the illustrated embodiment, the outlet 106 is oriented in line with the drive shaft 114 of the compressor 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the outlet 106 is therefore oriented such that the working fluid is discharged vertically upward (relative to the page). It should be understood that in other embodiments, the outlet 106 may have a different orientation (e.g., horizontal, angled, etc.).

[0056] The compressor 100 includes a track-moving scroll member 108 and a non-track-moving scroll member 110. The non-track-moving scroll member 110 may alternatively be referred to as, for example, a stationary scroll, a fixed scroll, etc. The non-track-moving scroll member 110 and the track-moving scroll member 108 are arranged in a mutually engaging configuration. In some embodiments, the non-track-moving scroll member 110 and the track-moving scroll member 108 may be held in a mutually engaging configuration by an Oldham coupling 112. Each of the track-moving scroll member 108 and the non-track-moving scroll member 110 includes a respective scroll 108A, 110A projecting from a respective base plate 108B, 110B. In some embodiments, tip seals 108C, 110C may be respectively provided on the distal end of each scroll 108A, 110A to seal between compression cavities on adjacent sides of each scroll 108A, 110A. In some embodiments, the orbital motion vortex member 108 and / or the non-orbital motion vortex member 110 can seal opposing surfaces without discrete tip seals. For example, features protruding from the distal end of each vortex member can be formed of the same material as the vortex. The features protruding from the distal end can seal between compression cavities on adjacent sides of each vortex.

[0057] The compressor 100 includes a drive shaft 114. Alternatively, the drive shaft 114 may be referred to as a crankshaft. The drive shaft 114 is rotated by, for example, an electric motor 116. The electric motor 116 typically includes a stator 118 and a rotor 120. In one embodiment, the drive shaft 114 is fixed to the rotor 120 such that the drive shaft 114 rotates as the rotor 120 rotates. The electric motor 116, stator 118, and rotor 120 operate according to generally known principles. The drive shaft 114 may be fixed to the rotor 120, for example, by an interference fit or the like. In another embodiment, the drive shaft 114 may be connected to and rotated by an external electric motor, an internal combustion engine (e.g., a diesel engine or a gasoline engine), etc. It should be understood that in such an embodiment, the electric motor 116, stator 118, and rotor 120 will not be present within the housing 102 of the compressor 100.

[0058] The orbiting scroll member 108 is fixed to an end of a drive shaft 114. The drive shaft 114 continuously rotates during compressor operation, causing the orbiting scroll member 108 to orbit relative to the non-orbiting scroll member 110 of the compressor 100. The orbiting causes the orbiting scroll member 108 and the non-orbiting scroll member 110 to intermesh to form a plurality of compression chambers separated by the wraps 108A or 110A of the orbiting scroll member 108 and the non-orbiting scroll member 110 and their tip seals 108C or 110C. It should be appreciated that a compression chamber is a closed chamber containing working fluid. The compression chambers are disposed between and enclosed by the orbiting scroll member 108 and the non-orbiting scroll member 110. It should also be appreciated that the compression chambers are a plurality of spaces that are compressed within the compression chamber 140. The compression chamber 140 occupies the space between the orbiting scroll member 108 and the non-orbiting scroll member 110 fluidly connected to the suction inlet 112A and the discharge outlet 106 of the compressor 100. In one embodiment, the compression chamber 140 includes a suction inlet as further described below.

[0059] The compressor 100 includes a mid-pressure fluid port 122. The mid-pressure fluid port 122 is disposed in the upper portion 102A of the housing 102. The mid-pressure fluid port 122 is configured to be fluidly connected to a mid-pressure fluid source, such as an economizer and / or an expander (e.g., expander 16’). In one embodiment, the mid-pressure fluid port 122, the suction inlet 112A, and the discharge outlet 106 can be tubular machined connections or ports welded to the housing 102. In one embodiment, the housing 102, the mid-pressure fluid port 122, the suction inlet 112A, and the discharge outlet 106 can be a single-piece, monolithic construction. For example, the economizer can be included in the refrigerant circuit 1 and configured to exchange thermal energy between the refrigerant lines 28 and 22.

[0060] The mid-pressure fluid port 122 is in fluid communication with an intermediate pressure chamber 124 and is configured to communicate (e.g., supply or discharge) intermediate pressure working fluid with the intermediate pressure chamber 124. The intermediate pressure chamber 124 is fluidly connected to the compression chamber 140 via a communication port 126. It should be appreciated that the communication port can be referred to as an injection port 126 when configured to inject or supply working fluid at an intermediate pressure into the compressor 100. In one embodiment, more than one communication port can connect the intermediate pressure chamber 124 with the compression chamber 140.

[0061] In the illustrated embodiment, the communication port 126 is formed in the non-orbiting scroll member 110 of the compressor 100. Working fluid that has been compressed in the compression chamber 140 is provided from the compressor 100 via the discharge outlet 106. The compressed working fluid (e.g., at a discharge pressure) is then provided to a condenser (e.g., by way of the refrigerant line 22) and then to an expansion device (e.g., by way of the refrigerant line 28).Figure 1 The refrigerant line 20 in FIG. 1 provides working fluid to the compressor 100.

[0062] The discharge seal 132 (e.g., a gasket, O-ring, face seal, etc.) and the intermediate seal 130 (e.g., a gasket, O-ring, face seal, etc.) can function to isolate the intermediate pressure chamber 124 from the discharge port 106 (e.g., working fluid at a discharge pressure) and the suction chamber 134 (e.g., working fluid at a suction pressure). The discharge seal 132 sealingly engages the upper portion 102A of the housing 102 and the non-orbiting scroll member 110. The intermediate seal 130 sealingly engages the intermediate portion 102B of the housing 102 and the non-orbiting scroll member 110.

[0063] In operation, the compressor 100 can communicate (e.g., receive or supply) working fluid at an intermediate pressure via the intermediate pressure fluid port 122. In one embodiment, the intermediate pressure fluid port 122 supplies working fluid at or about an intermediate pressure to the compression chamber 140 via the injection port 126, where the working fluid is compressed and ultimately discharged via the discharge port 106. In another embodiment, the intermediate pressure fluid port 122 receives working fluid from the compression chamber 140 at or about an intermediate pressure via the communication port 126. The working fluid at an intermediate pressure is supplied back to the suction port 112A, for example, via the refrigerant line 29. In the illustrated embodiment, the refrigerant line 29 is external to the compressor 100 (e.g., see FIG. 1). However, it should be appreciated that in one embodiment, the refrigerant line 29 can be internal to the compressor 100 (e.g., a passage connecting the intermediate pressure chamber 124 to the suction chamber 134, etc.). In yet another embodiment, the intermediate pressure fluid port 122 receives working fluid from the compression chamber 140 at or about an intermediate pressure via the communication port 126. The working fluid at an intermediate pressure is supplied to the condenser (e.g., the condenser 14 in FIG. 1), for example, via the refrigerant line 20. Figure 1 Figure 1 In operation, the compressor 100 can communicate (e.g., receive or supply) working fluid at an intermediate pressure via the intermediate pressure fluid port 122. In one embodiment, the intermediate pressure fluid port 122 supplies working fluid at or about an intermediate pressure to the compression chamber 140 via the injection port 126, where the working fluid is compressed and ultimately discharged via the discharge port 106. In another embodiment, the intermediate pressure fluid port 122 receives working fluid from the compression chamber 140 at or about an intermediate pressure via the communication port 126. The working fluid at an intermediate pressure is supplied back to the suction port 112A, for example, via the refrigerant line 29. In the illustrated embodiment, the refrigerant line 29 is external to the compressor 100 (e.g., see FIG. 1). However, it should be appreciated that in one embodiment, the refrigerant line 29 can be internal to the compressor 100 (e.g., a passage connecting the intermediate pressure chamber 124 to the suction chamber 134, etc.). In yet another embodiment, the intermediate pressure fluid port 122 receives working fluid from the compression chamber 140 at or about an intermediate pressure via the communication port 126. The working fluid at an intermediate pressure is supplied to the condenser (e.g., the condenser 14 in FIG. 1), for example, via the refrigerant line 20.

[0064] ​In one embodiment, to ensure that working fluid flows into compression chamber 140 via injection port 126 and not outwardly, the working fluid (e.g., mid-pressure fluid) at injection port 126 can generally have a higher pressure than the pressure of the working fluid in compression chamber 140 at the location of injection port 126. In one embodiment, because the pressure of compression chamber 140 is cyclical in a scroll compressor, the pressure of compression chamber 140 at the location of injection port 126 can be momentarily less than the pressure of the working fluid at injection port 126. However, intermediate pressure chamber 124 can reduce the impact of any pressure wave that can flow backward from the normal flow direction. In one embodiment, a one-way valve (not shown, e.g., check valve) can be included to ensure that working fluid cannot flow backward from the normal flow direction. The specific location of injection port 126 relative to the compression process can vary.

[0065] In one embodiment, the location of communication port 126 can be selected so that the pressure in compression chamber 140 is between the suction pressure and the discharge pressure. Communication port 126 can be drilled or otherwise bored or formed in non-orbiting scroll member 110 of compressor 100. In one embodiment, non-orbiting scroll member 110 can be cast or otherwise manufactured to include communication port 126. Communication port outlet 126A connects communication port 126 to compression chamber 140. In one embodiment, communication port 126 can be drilled or otherwise bored or formed in orbiting scroll member 108 of compressor 100.

[0066] As described above, drive shaft 114 is fixed to orbiting scroll member 108 and rotates to drive orbiting scroll member 108 and cause it to orbit about the orbit. As drive shaft 114 rotates, orbiting scroll member 108 orbits relative to non-orbiting scroll member 110. The relative rotational position of drive shaft 114 corresponds to the relative orbital position of orbiting scroll member 108 relative to non-orbiting scroll member 110. This relative rotational position of crankshaft 114 can also be referred to as a crankshaft angle. The corresponding orbital position of orbiting scroll member 108 can be a position of orbit. The crankshaft angle can be an amount of rotation (e.g., X degrees or X°) of crankshaft 114 from a reference rotational position (e.g., a starting rotational position or 0°). The orbital position of orbiting scroll member 108 is defined by a corresponding crank angle. For example, orbiting scroll member 108 can have a starting position of 0° crank angle or about 0° crank angle. The orbital position of orbiting scroll member 108 would be 0°. “About” a certain angle (e.g., about 180°) can include a range above or below that particular angle (e.g., 180°) due to manufacturing variations or tolerances, normal wear during operation, etc.

[0067] Figures 3A-3CA port envelope 350 (shown in Figure 3C ) is shown defined by the overlapping area of the relative orbital motion of two adjacent compression pockets compressed by the non-orbiting scroll member and the orbiting scroll member of the asymmetric scroll compressor. Figures 3A-3C may be a cross-sectional view along line 3-3 (shown in Figure 2 ) of a pair of scroll members (e.g., the non-orbiting scroll member 110 and the orbiting scroll member 108) of the asymmetric scroll compressor 300 according to one embodiment. For example, the asymmetric scroll compressor 300 includes the orbiting scroll member 308 and the non-orbiting scroll member 310 that intermesh to form a plurality of compression pockets 360A-360D. The asymmetric scroll compressor 300 can include, for example, a suction port, a discharge port 306, and a communication port outlet of a communication port 390 configured to communicate working fluid at an intermediate pressure with the compression chamber, similar to the compressor 100 in Figure 2 . Figure 3A The cross-sectional view in Figure 2 may be along line 3-3 in .

[0068] In the embodiment shown in Figures 3A-3C , the compressor 300 includes a non-orbiting scroll member 310, an orbiting scroll member 308 (not shown in Figure 3C ), a suction port 320, and a discharge port 306, the non-orbiting scroll member 310 including a wrap 310A, a base plate 310B, and a tip seal (not shown), the orbiting scroll member 308 including a wrap 308A, a base plate (not shown), and a tip seal (not shown). The base plate of the orbiting scroll member 308 is omitted in these views. The non-orbiting scroll member includes a wrap 310A protruding from the base plate 310B. In one embodiment, the non-orbiting scroll member 310, the orbiting scroll member 308, and the discharge port 306 can be the non-orbiting scroll member 110, the orbiting scroll member 108, and the discharge port 106 in Figure 2 . The discharge port 306 is disposed in the non-orbiting member. In one embodiment, the discharge port 306 can be the discharge port 106 of the compressor 100 in Figure 2 .

[0069] The compression chamber 340 includes a suction inlet 320 at an inlet of the compression chamber 340 that accepts working fluid at a suction pressure. The suction inlet 320 is fluidly connected to similar to Figure 2the suction inlet (not shown) of the suction inlet 112A. The compression chamber 340 also includes a compression chamber output 330 at an outlet of the compression chamber 340 that discharges working fluid at a discharge pressure to the discharge port 306. The suction inlet 320 connects the compression chamber 340 to a suction chamber (not shown) of the compressor 300. In one embodiment, the suction chamber can be Figure 2 the suction chamber 134 in Figure 2 The discharge port 306 can be the discharge port 106 in

[0070] The tip seal 308C is disposed on a distal end of the scroll 308A of the orbiting scroll member. The tip seal 308C can be the tip seal 110C in Figure 2 The tip seal 308C on the scroll 308A is disposed between the distal end of the scroll 308A and the base plate 310B of the non-orbiting scroll member to seal the compression pockets 360A-360C from each other.

[0071] Figure 3A is a cross-sectional view of a pair of scroll members 308, 310 of an asymmetric scroll compressor according to an embodiment. Figure 3A The compressor 300 is shown in an orbiting position (e.g., of the scroll 308A of the orbiting scroll member 308). For example, the orbiting position can correspond to a crank angle at a reference crank angle (e.g., 0°). Figure 3B is a cross-sectional view of a pair of scroll members 308, 310 of Figure 3A at another orbiting position according to an embodiment. In one embodiment, the other orbiting position can be 180° or about 180° from the orbiting position of Figure 3A (e.g., 180° or about 180° counterclockwise or clockwise from the orbiting position of Figure 3A

[0072] As shown in Figure 3B the scroll 308A orbits from the orbiting position of Figure 3A (also referred to as a suction orbiting position) to another orbiting position in Figure 3B The orbiting movement of the orbiting scroll member pushes working fluid at the suction inlet 320 into an enclosed pocket, forming a compression pocket 360A. As the scroll 308A moves from the orbiting position of Figure 3A to the orbiting position of Figure 3B each compression pocket (e.g., 360B, 360C) in Figure 3A moves circumferentially and radially inward. Each compression pocket (e.g., 360B, 360C) also becomes smaller as it moves circumferentially and radially inward from the suction inlet 320 to the compression chamber output 330, thereby causing compression of the working fluid. Then,​Figure 3A The compressed working fluid in the intermediate compression chamber output 330 is forced in Figure 3B The discharge outlet is 306.

[0073] Figure 3C yes Figure 3A A cross-sectional view of a pair of vortex components 308 and 310. Figure 3C The view omits the scroll 308A of the orbital motion vortex component 308. Figure 3C The port envelope 350 is a region on the substrate 310B of the non-track-motion vortex member 310. This region of the port envelope 350 is from... Figure 3A Switching within the compression chamber 360B Figure 3B Within the compression chamber 360A, the injection port 390, which has an outlet within the port envelope 350, can... Figure 3A First orbital position and Figure 3B During certain orbital positions between the second orbital positions, injection is performed into each or both of the two adjacent compression chambers (i.e., compression chambers 360A and 360B). Therefore, the connecting port 390, with its connecting port outlet, is... Figure 3A orbital position and Figure 3B One or more orbital position periods between orbital positions are shared by two compression chambers 360A and 360B.

[0074] Sharing a communication port between adjacent compression chambers improves asymmetric scroll compressors by increasing mass flow rate and / or improving efficiency. In some embodiments, the shared communication port can be designed to optimize compressor performance for its intended use (e.g., improving efficiency, increasing mass flow rate, etc.). The communication port can be configured to communicate with adjacent compression chambers within a similar pressure range (e.g., the pressure of the first chamber in a first track position is the same or approximately the same as the pressure of the second chamber in a second track position). Being at the same or approximately the same pressure can be a pressure range that allows the shared communication port to inject or discharge intermediate fluid while still improving the compressor's mass flow rate and / or efficiency. Working fluid at intermediate pressures can be injected or discharged through the shared communication port. By controlling the position of the shared injection port relative to the port envelope, the designed mass flow rate into each of the two adjacent compression chambers can be controlled or regulated. For example, the shared injection port can be configured to be biased towards the center of one of the two adjacent compression chambers to inject more into that one chamber. In some embodiments, experimental data show that a shared communication port within the port envelope can improve compressor efficiency by 2%, a significant improvement in the field of scroll compressor technology. Figures 3A-3BIn the illustrated example, the orbiting scroll member orbits from a first orbiting position at a crank angle of 0° or about 0° to a second orbiting position at a crank angle of 180° or about 180°. The X° crank angle can also be referred to as the X°.

[0075] Figure 4A is a cross-sectional view of a pair of scroll members of Figure 3A at a further orbiting position. In one embodiment, Figure 4A the orbiting position of Figure 3A may be the same as the orbiting position of Figure 3A In another embodiment, the orbiting position can be further (i.e., radially further) than the orbiting position of the scroll members 308, 310 of Figure 4A the orbiting position of Figure 3A is radially further from the reference orbiting position than the orbiting position of

[0076] As shown in Figure 4A the communication port 390 has a communication port exit disposed in the port envelope 350 (as shown in Figure 3C In the illustrated embodiment, the communication port exit of the communication port 390 has a comet shape. In Figure 4A the orbiting position, the communication port 390 is in communication with the first compression chamber 361 and not in communication with the second compression chamber 362 adjacent the first compression chamber 361 in the radial direction. In the illustrated example, the communication port 390 is partially obstructed by the scroll wrap 308A and the tip seal 308C of the orbiting scroll member. It should be appreciated that the communication port exit can be moved, reshaped, or resized to be in communication with the first compression chamber 361 without any obstruction at the orbiting position of Figure 4A It should also be appreciated that the injection port 390 begins to be in communication with the first compression chamber 361 at an orbiting position that is earlier than the orbiting position of Figure 4A the earlier position can be referred to as the start of the communication period of the injection port 390.

[0077] Figure 4B is a cross-sectional view of a pair of scroll members 308, 310 of Figure 3A at a further orbiting position. The orbiting position can be, for example, halfway (the middle position) between the orbiting position of Figure 3A and the orbiting position of Figure 3B The communication port 390 is shown in communication with both the first compression chamber 361 and the second compression chamber 362. For example, Figure 4B the orbiting position can be 90° or about 90°. It should be appreciated that the start of the communication of the injection port 390 with the compression chambers 361 and 362 is earlier than the orbiting position of Figure 4BThe starting trajectory position where the injection port 390 begins to communicate simultaneously with both compression chambers 361 and 362 can be referred to as the starting trajectory position of the shared portion of the communication loop. In one embodiment, the shared portion of the communication loop can be a trajectory position that allows the communication port to communicate with both compression chambers simultaneously. The ending trajectory position where the injection port 390 simultaneously stops communicating with both compression chambers 361 and 362 can be referred to as the ending trajectory position of the shared portion of the communication loop. It should be understood that the ending position is further from the fourth trajectory position. In one embodiment, the communication loop can be biased towards one of the two adjacent compression chambers rather than the other, for example, by setting the center of the injection port outlet toward one of the two adjacent compression chambers, thereby providing a longer communication time with one of the two adjacent compression chambers. A longer communication time can result in a larger volume of working fluid being communicated through the injection port during each communication loop. In one embodiment, for a non-limiting example, the shared portion of the communication loop can be 60° or about 60° to 120° or about 120°. In some other embodiments, the shared portion of the communication loop can be 180° or about 180° to 240° or about 240°.

[0078] Figure 4C According to one embodiment Figure 3A A cross-sectional view of a pair of vortex components at another track position. Figure 4C The orbital position can be, for example, distance Figure 4A and Figure 4B Its orbital position is farther away. For example... Figure 4C As shown, the injection port 390 is connected to the second compression chamber 362, but not to the first compression chamber 361. It should be understood that, as... Figure 4C The indicated orbital position is further along or approximately located at the end of the shared portion of the connected loop.

[0079] The connected loop can correspond to injection into the first compression chamber (e.g., compression chamber 361, such as...). Figure 4A (as shown) or connected to it, injected into the first compression chamber and the second compression chamber (e.g., compression chambers 361, 362, such as Figure 4B (as shown) or connected to it, and injected into the second compression chamber (such as compression chamber 362, as shown) Figure 4CThe portion of the communication cycle injected into or communicated with the first compression chamber can be a first portion of the communication cycle. The portion of the communication cycle injected into or communicated with the second compression chamber can be a second portion of the compression cycle. The portion of the communication cycle injected into or communicated with both compression chambers can be a shared portion of the communication cycle. In one embodiment, for non-limiting examples, the first portion of the compression cycle can be at or about a crank angle of 0° to 60°; the shared portion of the communication cycle can be at or about a crank angle of 60° to 120°; the second portion of the compression cycle can be at or about 120° to 180°. In some embodiments, for non-limiting examples, the first portion of the compression cycle can be at or about a crank angle of 60° to 180°; the shared portion of the communication cycle can be at or about a crank angle of 180° to 240°; the second portion of the compression cycle can be at or about 240° to 360°. It should be appreciated that the portions and shared portions of the communication cycle can occupy the same or different amounts or portions of the crank angle range.

[0080] Figures 5A-5E is a cross-sectional view of a non-orbital motion scroll member of an asymmetric scroll compressor according to some embodiments. Figures 5A-5E The cross-sectional view of FIG. 3 can be a cross-sectional view along line 3-3 Figure 2 As shown, the compressors 500A-500E can include the same or similar components as the compressors in FIG. 1. Figures 5A-5E As shown, the compressors 500A-500E can include the same or similar components as the compressors in FIG. 1. Figures 2-4C As shown, the compressors 500A-500E can include the same or similar components as the compressors in FIG. 1.

[0081] Figure 5A is a cross-sectional view of a non-orbital motion scroll member of an asymmetric scroll compressor 500A according to an embodiment. In the illustrated embodiment, the injection port exit 390A is a plurality of circular shapes. Figure 5B is a cross-sectional view of a non-orbital motion scroll member of an asymmetric scroll compressor 500A according to an embodiment. In the illustrated embodiment, the injection port exit 390B is a single circular shape. Figure 5C is a cross-sectional view of a non-orbital motion scroll member of an asymmetric scroll compressor 500C according to an embodiment. In the illustrated embodiment, the injection port exit 390C is a rhombus shape. Figure 5D is a cross-sectional view of a non-orbital motion scroll member of an asymmetric scroll compressor 500D according to an embodiment. In the illustrated embodiment, the injection port exit 390D is a comet shape. Notably, the injection port exit 390D is not a circular shape. Figures 5A-5D are some example shapes of communication port exits. In some embodiments, the communication port exit can have a shape as shown in Figures 5A-5Dcombinations and / or modifications of the shapes shown. For example, the communication port outlet in the embodiments can have a shape as described, where any corners of the shape are modified to be rounded. In one embodiment, the communication port outlet can have a non-circular shape and / or a non-elliptical shape.

[0082] Figure 5E is a cross-sectional view of a non-orbital motion scroll member of an asymmetric scroll compressor 500E according to an embodiment. In the illustrated embodiment, the injection port outlet 390E fills the port envelope 350 (as shown in Figure 3C The injection port behind the injection port outlet 390E is at least partially filled with a porous material and allows injection of working fluid through the injection port. By having a porous material, the tip seal (not shown) can slide on the porous material and have less wear and tear from cutting large or sharp edges created by an open injection port and extend the life of the tip seal (not shown). For example, the tip seal can be the tip seal 308C or 108C in Figure 2 and Figures 4A-4C It should be understood that the injection port outlet 390E can be any shape shown and described in Figures 5A-5D and does not need to fill the entire port envelope 350. In one embodiment, the injection port outlet 390E can have other shapes, for example, but not limited to, a shape where the outlet 390E is segmented into multiple portions, a shape Figures 5A-5D shapes for the injection port outlet 390A-390E disclosed in Figures 5A-5D combinations and / or modifications of the shapes for the injection port outlet 390A-390E disclosed in

[0083] In another embodiment, one or more support structures can be disposed above the injection port outlet 390A-390E. The support structure can be, for example, but not limited to, a strip of material disposed above the injection port outlet with limited hindrance to the air flow through the communication port. The support structure can be constructed from, for example, but not limited to, the same material of the scroll member milled into or welded onto the communication port. The support structure is configured to be in contact with the tip seal and provide support to the tip seal in operation. The tip seal can slide on the support structure and have less wear and tear from cutting large or sharp edges created by an open injection port and extend the life of the tip seal (not shown). In some embodiments, the support structure can be configured to have, for example, but not limited to, other shapes and structures to provide the function of supporting the tip seal to slide on the communication port and reduce wear and tear on the tip seal.

[0084] In one embodiment, the compressors 500A-500E can be or include similar components as the compressors 10, 100, and 300, as shown and described in Figure 1 、 Figure 2 、 Figures 3A-4C .

[0085] The injection port 126 and the injection port outlet 126A, 390 can be designed to minimize the pressure drop of the working fluid having the intermediate pressure. For example, the outlet diameter, the outlet shape, and combinations thereof can be controlled to provide the working fluid with a desired flow rate, overall efficiency, and the like.

[0086] In the example shown in Figures 3A-5D , the injection port or the injection port outlet is shown as being disposed in the non-orbiting member (e.g., the non-orbiting member 110, 310). It should be appreciated that the injection port and the injection port outlet can be disposed in the orbiting scroll member (e.g., the orbiting scroll member 108, 308).

[0087] Figure 6 is a block diagram of a method 600 of communicating working fluid at an intermediate pressure to an asymmetric scroll compressor, according to an embodiment.

[0088] At method step 610, the asymmetric scroll compressor rotates a drive shaft to orbit a scroll member fixed to the drive shaft from a first orbiting position to a second orbiting position to intermesh with a non-orbiting scroll member of the asymmetric scroll compressor, thereby forming a plurality of compression chambers.

[0089] At method step 620, the asymmetric scroll compressor receives working fluid at a suction pressure from a suction inlet disposed between the orbiting scroll member and the non-orbiting scroll member.

[0090] At method step 630, the scroll wraps enclose the working fluid in the suction inlet to obtain a first enclosed chamber of the plurality of enclosed chambers.

[0091] At method step 640, the asymmetric scroll compressor communicates with the working fluid at the intermediate pressure from a communication port. For example, the communication port can be fluidly connected to an economizer to receive the working fluid at the intermediate pressure.

[0092] At method step 650, the asymmetric scroll compressor at the first orbiting position communicates with the first enclosed chamber of the plurality of compression chambers via the communication port.

[0093] At method step 660, the asymmetric scroll compressor at the second orbiting position communicates with a second enclosed chamber of the plurality of compression chambers via the communication port.

[0094] At method step 670, the asymmetric scroll compressor discharges fluid at a discharge pressure through a discharge port.

[0095] Any of aspects 1-6 can be combined with any of aspects 7-12, and can also be combined with any of aspects 13-20.

[0096] Aspect 1. An asymmetric scroll compressor comprising: a compressor housing; an orbiting scroll member and a non-orbiting scroll member disposed within the compressor housing, the orbiting scroll member and the non-orbiting scroll member each including a base plate and a wrap extending from the base plate, the orbiting scroll member and the non-orbiting scroll member intermeshing to form a plurality of compression pockets; a drive shaft fixed to the orbiting scroll member and configured to orbit the orbiting scroll member from a first orbiting position to a second orbiting position; a communication port disposed on the base plate of one of the orbiting scroll member and the non-orbiting scroll member such that, at the first orbiting position, the communication port is in communication with a first closed pocket of the plurality of compression pockets, and at the second orbiting position, the communication port is in communication with a second closed pocket of the plurality of compression pockets.

[0097] Aspect 2. The asymmetric scroll compressor of aspect 1, wherein the orbiting scroll member has an intermediate orbiting position between the first orbiting position and the second orbiting position, and during the intermediate orbiting position, the communication port is in communication with both the first closed pocket and the second closed pocket.

[0098] Aspect 3. The asymmetric scroll compressor of any of aspects 1-2, wherein the first closed pocket and the second closed pocket are adjacent in a radial direction and separated by one of the wraps.

[0099] Aspect 4. The asymmetric scroll compressor of any of aspects 1-3, wherein the first closed pocket and the second closed pocket are at the same or approximately the same pressure between the first orbiting position and the second orbiting position.

[0100] Aspect 5. The asymmetric scroll compressor of any of aspects 1-4, further comprising a porous structure disposed in the communication port, the communication port configured to pass fluid through the porous structure, and the porous structure configured to mitigate wear on a tip seal disposed on one of the wraps.

[0101] Aspect 6. The asymmetric scroll compressor of any of aspects 1-5, wherein the communication port is disposed within the base plate of the non-orbiting scroll member.

[0102] Aspect 7. A method of communicating working fluid at an intermediate pressure with an asymmetric scroll compressor, comprising: orbitally moving an orbiting scroll member fixed to a drive shaft from a first orbiting position to a second orbiting position, thereby intermeshing with a non-orbiting scroll member of the asymmetric scroll compressor, thereby forming a plurality of compression pockets; receiving working fluid at a suction pressure from a suction inlet disposed between the orbiting scroll member and the non-orbiting scroll member; enclosing working fluid in the suction inlet to obtain a first enclosed pocket of a plurality of enclosed pockets; communicating working fluid at an intermediate pressure from a communication port, such that: in the first orbiting position, the first enclosed pocket of the plurality of compression pockets is communicated with via the communication port, and in the second orbiting position, a second enclosed pocket of the plurality of compression pockets is communicated with via the communication port, and discharging the working fluid at a discharge pressure through a discharge outlet.

[0103] Aspect 8. The method of aspect 7, wherein both the first enclosed pocket and the second enclosed pocket are communicated with via the communication port at an intermediate orbiting position between the first orbiting position and the second orbiting position.

[0104] Aspect 9. The method of any of aspects 7-8, wherein the orbiting scroll member and the non-orbiting scroll member each comprise a base plate and a scroll wrap extending from the base plate, and the first enclosed pocket and the second enclosed pocket are adjacent in a radial direction and separated by one of the scroll wraps.

[0105] Aspect 10. The method of any of aspects 7-9, further comprising: maintaining the first enclosed pocket and the second enclosed pocket at the same or about the same pressure at the intermediate orbiting position.

[0106] Aspect 11. The method of any of aspects 7-10, further comprising: orbitally moving the orbiting scroll member from a suction orbiting position to the first orbiting position to enclose the working fluid in the suction inlet.

[0107] Aspect 12, a refrigerant circuit comprising: a compressor, an expander, a condenser, and an evaporator fluidly connected, wherein the compressor comprises: a compressor housing; an orbiting scroll member and a non-orbiting scroll member disposed within the compressor housing, the orbiting scroll member and the non-orbiting scroll member each comprising a base plate and a scroll wrap extending from the base plate, the orbiting scroll member and the non-orbiting scroll member intermeshing to form a plurality of compression pockets; a drive shaft fixed to the orbiting scroll member and configured to cause the orbiting scroll member to orbit from a first orbiting position to a second orbiting position; a communication port disposed on the base plate of one of the orbiting scroll member and the non-orbiting scroll member such that, in the first orbiting position, the communication port is in communication with a first closed pocket of the plurality of compression pockets, and in the second orbiting position, the communication port is in communication with a second closed pocket of the plurality of compression pockets.

[0108] Aspect 13, the refrigerant circuit of aspect 12, wherein the orbiting scroll member has an intermediate orbiting position between the first orbiting position and the second orbiting position, and during the intermediate orbiting position, the communication port is in communication with both the first closed pocket and the second closed pocket.

[0109] Aspect 14, the refrigerant circuit of any of aspects 12-13, wherein the first closed pocket and the second closed pocket are adjacent in a radial direction and separated by one of the scroll wraps.

[0110] Aspect 15, the refrigerant circuit of any of aspects 12-14, wherein, during the first orbiting position and the second orbiting position, the first closed pocket and the second closed pocket are at the same or about the same pressure.

[0111] Aspect 16, the refrigerant circuit of any of aspects 12-15, wherein a porous structure is disposed in the communication port, the communication port is configured to pass fluid through the porous structure, and the porous structure is configured to mitigate wear on a tip seal disposed on one of the scroll wraps.

[0112] Aspect 17, the refrigerant circuit of any of aspects 12-16, wherein the communication port is disposed within the base plate of the non-orbiting scroll member.

[0113] Aspect 18. The refrigerant circuit of any one of aspects 12-17, wherein the compressor housing includes a mid-pressure fluid port configured to receive working fluid from an intermediate pressure fluid source, the communication port is configured to receive working fluid at an intermediate pressure and inject the working fluid into the first closed cavity and the second closed cavity.

[0114] Aspect 19. The refrigerant circuit of any one of aspects 12-18, wherein the compressor housing includes a mid-pressure fluid port configured to exhaust working fluid from both the first closed cavity and the second closed cavity, the communication port is configured to exhaust working fluid at an intermediate pressure.

[0115] Aspect 20. The refrigerant circuit of any one of aspects 12-19, wherein the communication port is configured to exhaust working fluid at an intermediate pressure to a suction port provided on the housing.

[0116] Aspect 21. The refrigerant circuit of any one of aspects 12-20, wherein the communication port is configured to exhaust working fluid at an intermediate pressure to the condenser.

[0117] The terminology used in this description is intended to describe particular embodiments and is not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure. Unless otherwise expressly stated, the terms "a," "an" and "the" do not limit a claim, but rather include both singular and plural aspects. When used in this description, the terms "including," "containing," and / or "comprising" are intended to mean that the specified features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components are present, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components.

[0118] With respect to the foregoing description, it is to be understood that the details of the specification can vary greatly in form and detail without departing from the scope of the disclosure. The specification and described examples are only meant to be exemplary and the true scope and spirit of the disclosure is indicated by the appended claims.

Claims

1. An asymmetric scroll compressor, characterized by, include: Compressor housing; The compressor housing includes a track-moving vortex component and a non-track-moving vortex component, each comprising a base plate and a vortex extending from the base plate. The track-moving vortex component and the non-track-moving vortex component mesh with each other to form a plurality of compression chambers. A drive shaft is fixed to the track motion vortex member and configured to cause the track motion vortex member to move from a first track position to a second track position, the track motion vortex member having an intermediate track position between the first track position and the second track position; A connecting port, disposed on the base plate of one of the orbital motion vortex member and the non-orbital motion vortex member, the connecting port having a non-circular and non-elliptical shape, is configured to receive working fluid at an intermediate pressure, such that: At the first track position, the connecting port communicates with the first closed cavity among the plurality of compression cavities. At the second track position, the connecting port communicates with the second closed cavity among the plurality of compression cavities, and During the intermediate track position, the connecting port communicates with both the first closed cavity and the second closed cavity; by controlling the position of the shared connecting port within the port envelope, the design mass flow rate into each of the two adjacent compression cavities can be controlled or adjusted, and the connecting port and connecting port outlet can be designed to minimize the pressure drop of the working fluid with intermediate pressure.

2. The asymmetric scroll compressor according to claim 1, characterized in that, The shape of the connecting port is comet-shaped or a modified comet-shaped shape.

3. The asymmetric scroll compressor according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first enclosed cavity and the second enclosed cavity are adjacent in the radial direction and separated by one of the vortices.

4. The asymmetric scroll compressor according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first enclosed cavity and the second enclosed cavity are under the same or approximately the same pressure during the intermediate track position.

5. The asymmetric scroll compressor according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes A porous structure is disposed in the communication port, the communication port being configured to convey fluid through the porous structure, and the porous structure being configured to reduce wear on a tip seal disposed on one of the vortices.

6. The asymmetric scroll compressor according to claim 1, characterized in that, The communication port is located within the substrate of the non-track-moving vortex component.

7. A method for connecting a working fluid at intermediate pressure to an asymmetric scroll compressor, characterized in that, include: The track motion scroll member fixed to the drive shaft moves from the first track position to the second track position, thereby engaging with the non-track motion scroll member of the asymmetric scroll compressor to form multiple compression chambers. The track motion scroll member has an intermediate track position between the first track position and the second track position. Working fluid at suction pressure is received from the suction inlet located between the track-moving vortex component and the non-track-moving vortex component; The working fluid is sealed in the suction inlet to obtain a first sealed chamber among a plurality of sealed chambers; The working fluid at intermediate pressure is connected from a connecting port, which has a non-circular and non-elliptical shape, such that: At the first track position, it communicates with the first closed cavity among the plurality of compression cavities via the communication port, and At the second track position, it communicates with the second closed cavity among the plurality of compression cavities via the communication port. During the intermediate track position, communication is established with both the first enclosed cavity and the second enclosed cavity via the communication port; and The working fluid, which is under discharge pressure, is discharged through the outlet. By controlling the position of the shared connecting port within the port envelope, the design mass flow rate into each of the two adjacent compression chambers can be controlled or adjusted. The connecting port and the connecting port outlet can be designed to minimize the pressure drop of the working fluid with intermediate pressure.

8. The method according to claim 7, characterized in that, The shape of the connecting port is comet-shaped or a modified comet-shaped shape.

9. The method according to claim 7, characterized in that, The orbital motion vortex component and the non-orbital motion vortex component each include a base plate and a vortex extending from the base plate, and the communication port is disposed on the base plate of one of the orbital motion vortex component and the non-orbital motion vortex component. The first enclosed cavity and the second enclosed cavity are adjacent in the radial direction and separated by one of the vortices.

10. The method according to claim 7, characterized in that, Further includes: The first enclosed cavity and the second enclosed cavity are kept at the same or approximately the same pressure at the intermediate track position.

11. The method according to claim 7, characterized in that, Also includes: The orbital motion vortex component is moved from the suction track position to the first track position to enclose the working fluid in the suction inlet.

12. A refrigerant circuit, characterized in that, include: A compressor, expander, condenser, and evaporator in fluid connection, wherein the compressor includes: Compressor housing; The compressor housing includes a track-moving vortex component and a non-track-moving vortex component, each comprising a base plate and a vortex extending from the base plate. The track-moving vortex component and the non-track-moving vortex component mesh with each other to form a plurality of compression chambers. A drive shaft is fixed to the track motion vortex member and configured to cause the track motion vortex member to move from a first track position to a second track position, the track motion vortex member having an intermediate track position between the first track position and the second track position; A connecting port is disposed on the base plate of one of the orbital motion vortex component and the non-orbital motion vortex component, the connecting port having a non-circular and non-elliptical shape, such that: At the first track position, the connecting port communicates with the first closed cavity among the plurality of compression cavities. At the second track position, the connecting port communicates with the second closed cavity among the plurality of compression cavities, and During the intermediate track position, the communication port communicates with both the first enclosed cavity and the second enclosed cavity; By controlling the position of the shared connecting port within the port envelope, the design mass flow rate into each of the two adjacent compression chambers can be controlled or adjusted. The connecting port and the connecting port outlet can be designed to minimize the pressure drop of the working fluid with intermediate pressure.

13. The refrigerant circuit as described in claim 12, characterized in that, The shape of the connecting port is comet-shaped or a modified comet-shaped shape.

14. The refrigerant circuit as described in claim 12, characterized in that, The first enclosed cavity and the second enclosed cavity are adjacent in the radial direction and separated by one of the vortices.

15. The refrigerant circuit as described in claim 12, characterized in that, During the period between the intermediate track positions, the first enclosed cavity and the second enclosed cavity are under the same or approximately the same pressure.

16. The refrigerant circuit as described in claim 12, characterized in that, A porous structure is disposed in the communication port, the communication port being configured to convey fluid through the porous structure, and the porous structure being configured to reduce wear on the tip seal disposed on one of the vortices.

17. The refrigerant circuit as described in claim 12, characterized in that, The communication port is located within the substrate of the non-track-moving vortex component.

18. The refrigerant circuit as described in claim 12, characterized in that, The compressor housing includes a medium-pressure fluid port. The medium-pressure fluid port is configured to receive working fluid from an intermediate-pressure fluid source. The communication port is configured to receive the working fluid at an intermediate pressure and inject the working fluid into the first enclosed cavity and the second enclosed cavity.

19. The refrigerant circuit as described in claim 12, characterized in that, The compressor housing includes a medium-pressure fluid port. The medium-pressure fluid port is configured to discharge working fluid from both the first enclosed cavity and the second enclosed cavity. The connection port is configured to discharge the working fluid at an intermediate pressure.

20. The refrigerant circuit as described in claim 19, characterized in that, The communication port is configured to discharge the working fluid at the intermediate pressure to the suction port provided on the housing.

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