Compressor

Abstract

The invention relates to a compressor. The compressor includes a scroll and a drain valve assembly mounted to the scroll. The drain valve assembly is configured to control fluid flow through the drain passage. The drain valve assembly includes a first portion having a support and a valve member. The first portion includes a discharge opening in communication with the discharge passage. The drain valve assembly includes a second portion including a body having a top wall, an outer wall, and an inner hub. The outer wall is spaced apart from and surrounds the inner hub to define an internal passage between the outer wall and the inner hub in communication with the discharge opening. A support is disposed between the valve member and the second portion. A portion of the outer wall engages the support. The valve member is deflectable between a closed position restricting fluid flow through the discharge opening and an open position permitting fluid flow through the discharge opening.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a compressor and a valve assembly of a compressor. Background Art

[0002] This section provides background information related to the present disclosure and is not necessarily prior art.

[0003] A climate control system such as, for example, a heat pump system, a refrigeration system, or an air conditioning system may include a fluid circuit having an outdoor heat exchanger, an indoor heat exchanger, an expansion device disposed between the indoor heat exchanger and the outdoor heat exchanger, and one or more compressors that circulate a working fluid (e.g., a refrigerant or carbon dioxide) between the indoor heat exchanger and the outdoor heat exchanger. Efficient and reliable operation of the compressor is desired to ensure that the climate control system in which the compressor is installed can effectively and efficiently provide cooling and / or heating effects as needed. Sometimes, the compressor may be noisy during operation. For an efficient compressor, it is advantageous to have reduced sound during operation. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This section provides an overall overview of the present disclosure and is not a full disclosure of the entire scope of the present disclosure or all features of the present disclosure.

[0005] In one form, the present disclosure provides a compressor including a scroll member and a discharge valve assembly. The scroll member includes an end plate and a spiral scroll extending from the end plate. The end plate includes a discharge passage. The discharge valve assembly is mounted to the scroll member and configured to control fluid flow through the discharge passage. The discharge valve assembly includes a support member, a valve member, and a retainer body. The retainer body includes a top wall, an outer wall, and an inner hub. The outer wall is spaced apart from the inner hub and surrounds the inner hub to define an annular internal passage in fluid communication with the discharge passage between the outer wall and the inner hub. The support member is disposed between the valve member and the retainer body. The support member defines a range of motion of the valve member. The valve member is deflectable between a closed position in which the valve member restricts fluid flow through the discharge passage and an open position in which the valve member allows fluid flow through the discharge passage.

[0006] In some configurations of the compressor of the above paragraph, the valve member is a reed valve having a fixed end and a movable end, and the movable end deflects between an open position and a closed position relative to the fixed end.

[0007] In some configurations of the compressor of any of the above paragraphs, a first portion of the discharge valve assembly includes a base fixed relative to the end plate. The valve member is mounted to the base. The valve member is disposed between the base and the support member.

[0008] In some configurations of the compressor in any of the above paragraphs, the first part of the discharge valve assembly further includes a spacer disposed between the base and the valve member.

[0009] In some configurations of the compressor in any of the above paragraphs, the first side of the base includes a seat surface. The movable end of the valve member contacts the seat surface when the valve member is in the closed position. The movable end of the valve member is spaced apart from the seat surface when the valve member is in the open position.

[0010] In some configurations of the compressor in any of the above paragraphs, the axial end of the retainer body engages the surface of the support.

[0011] In some configurations of the compressor in any of the above paragraphs, the retainer body, the support, and the valve member are disposed within the recess of the scroll member.

[0012] In some configurations of the compressor in any of the above paragraphs, when the valve member is in the open position, the working fluid flows through the discharge passage and the retainer body before flowing through the orifice in the separator that separates the suction chamber of the compressor from the discharge chamber of the compressor.

[0013] In some configurations of the compressor in any of the above paragraphs, the top wall defines one or more orifices that are in fluid communication with the internal passage.

[0014] In some configurations of the compressor in any of the above paragraphs, one or more of the orifices are slots.

[0015] In some configurations of the compressor in any of the above paragraphs, each of the slots in the slot includes a first end and a second end. The slot is curved between the first end and the second end.

[0016] In some configurations of the compressor in any of the above paragraphs, one or more of the orifices are kidney-shaped orifices.

[0017] In some configurations of the compressor in any of the above paragraphs, the compressor further includes a housing assembly that defines a suction chamber and a discharge chamber. When the valve member is in the open position, the working fluid flows through the discharge passage and the internal passage of the retainer body to the discharge chamber.

[0018] In some configurations of the compressor in any of the above paragraphs, the top wall of the retainer body defines one or more orifices that are in fluid communication with the internal passage and the discharge chamber. When the valve member is in the open position, the one or more orifices allow fluid communication between the discharge passage and the discharge chamber.

[0019] In some configurations of the compressor in any of the above paragraphs, the scroll member is a fixed scroll member.

[0020] In another form, the present disclosure provides a compressor that includes a housing assembly, a scroll member, and a discharge valve assembly. The scroll member is disposed within the housing assembly. The scroll member includes a first end plate and a first spiral scroll. The first end plate includes a discharge passage and a discharge recess that are in fluid communication with a discharge chamber. The discharge valve assembly is mounted to the scroll member. The discharge valve assembly is configured to control fluid flow between the discharge passage and the discharge chamber. The discharge valve assembly includes a valve member, a support member, and a retainer body. The discharge valve assembly defines a first passage, a second passage, and a third passage. The support member is disposed between the valve member and the retainer body. The support member defines the first passage. The first passage is in fluid communication with the discharge passage. The second passage is an annular passage defined by the retainer body. The second passage is in fluid communication with the first passage and the third passage. The third passage includes one or more orifices formed in the retainer body. The second passage is disposed between the first passage and the third passage such that when the valve member is in an open position, fluid flows from the first passage to the second passage and then flows through the third passage.

[0021] In some configurations of the compressor of the above paragraph, the support member defines a range of motion of the valve member. The valve member is deflectable relative to the first end plate between a closed position and an open position. When the valve member is in the closed position, the valve member restricts fluid flow through the discharge passage. When the valve member is in the open position, the valve member allows fluid flow through the discharge passage.

[0022] In some configurations of the compressor of any of the above paragraphs, the valve member is a reed valve having a fixed end and a movable end, and the movable end deflects relative to the fixed end between an open position and a closed position.

[0023] In some configurations of the compressor of any of the above paragraphs, the discharge valve assembly further includes a base fixed relative to the end plate. The valve member is disposed between the base and the support member. The valve member contacts a seat surface of the base when the valve member is in the closed position. The valve member is spaced apart from the seat surface of the base when the valve member is in the open position.

[0024] In some configurations of the compressor of any of the above paragraphs, one or more of the orifices are slots.

[0025] In some configurations of the compressor of any of the above paragraphs, each of the slots includes a first end and a second end. The slot is curved between the first end and the second end.

[0026] In some configurations of the compressor of any of the above paragraphs, one or more of the orifices are kidney-shaped orifices.

[0027] In some configurations of the compressor in any of the above paragraphs, the support member includes a pair of arms and a leaf-like portion. The first passage is defined by the pair of arms and the leaf-like portion.

[0028] In some configurations of the compressor in any of the above paragraphs, the axial end of the retainer body engages the surface of the support member.

[0029] In some configurations of the compressor in any of the above paragraphs, the retainer body, the support member, and the valve member are disposed within a recess in the scroll member.

[0030] In some configurations of the compressor in any of the above paragraphs, when the valve member is in the open position, the working fluid flows through the discharge passage, the first passage, the second passage, and the third passage before flowing through an orifice in a separator that separates the suction chamber from the discharge chamber.

[0031] Other applications will become apparent from the description provided herein. The description and specific examples in this summary are intended for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0032] The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only of selected embodiments and not all possible implementations, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0033] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of a compressor in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure;

[0034] Figure 2 is Figure 1 a partial cross-sectional view of the compression mechanism of the compressor of, wherein the discharge valve assembly is in the closed position;

[0035] Figure 3 is Figure 2 another partial cross-sectional view of the compression mechanism of, wherein the discharge valve assembly is in the open position;

[0036] Figure 4 is Figure 1 a plan view of the fixed scroll of the compressor of;

[0037] Figure 5 is a perspective view of a first portion of a discharge valve assembly in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure;

[0038] Figure 6 is Figure 5 an exploded view of the first portion of the discharge valve assembly of;

[0039] Figure 7 is a perspective view of a second portion of a discharge valve assembly in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure;

[0040] Figure 8 Another perspective view of the second part of the discharge valve assembly;

[0041] Figure 9 A perspective view of a discharge valve assembly including a first part and a second part in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure; and

[0042] Figure 10 is Figure 9 A cross-sectional view of the discharge valve assembly of

[0043] Throughout several views of the accompanying drawings, corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0044] Example embodiments will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0045] These example 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 are set forth such as examples of specific components, devices, and methods to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that specific details need not be employed, and that the example embodiments may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present disclosure. In some example embodiments, well-known processes, well-known device structures, and well-known technologies have not been described in detail.

[0046] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular example embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" may also be intended to include the plural forms. The terms "comprises", "comprising", "includes", and "having" are inclusive and thus specify the presence of the stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude 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 necessarily requiring them to be performed in the particular order discussed or illustrated, unless specifically identified as an order of performance. It should also be understood that additional steps or alternative steps may be employed.

[0047] When an element or layer is referred to as being “on,” “engaged to,” “connected to,” or “coupled to” another element or layer, it can be directly on, engaged, connected, or coupled to the other element or layer, or intervening elements or layers may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directly on,” “directly engaged to,” “directly connected to,” or “directly coupled to” another element or layer, intervening elements or layers may not be present. Other words used to describe the relationship between elements (e.g., “between” versus “directly between,” “adjacent” versus “directly adjacent,” etc.) should be interpreted in a similar manner. As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0048] Although the terms first, second, and third, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms may be used only to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or section from another. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, terms such as “first,” “second,” and other numerical terms when used herein do not imply an order or sequence. Thus, the first element, first component, first region, first layer, or first section discussed below may be referred to as a second element, second component, second region, second layer, or second section without departing from the teachings of the exemplary embodiments.

[0049] For ease of description, spatial relative terms such as “inner,” “outer,” “beneath,” “below,” “lower,” “above,” “upper,” etc. may be used herein to describe the relationship of one element or feature to another element or feature as illustrated in the figures. Spatial relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, an element described as “beneath” or “below” other elements or features would then be oriented “above” the other elements or features. Thus, the exemplary term “beneath” can encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations), and the spatial relative descriptors used herein may be interpreted accordingly.

[0050] Referring to Figure 1 , there is provided a scroll compressor 10 that may include a housing assembly 12, a discharge fitting 14, a suction inlet fitting 16, a motor assembly 18, a bearing housing assembly 20, a compression mechanism 22, a floating seal assembly 26, and a discharge valve assembly 28. As will be described in more detail below, the discharge valve assembly 28 is capable of being in a closed position ( Figure 2 ) and an open position (Figure 3 ) moves between them. In the closed position, the discharge valve assembly 28 restricts the flow of the discharge pressure working fluid, and in the open position, the discharge valve assembly 28 allows the discharge pressure working fluid to be discharged from the compression mechanism 22.

[0051] The housing assembly 12 can accommodate the motor assembly 18, the bearing housing assembly 20, the compression mechanism 22, the floating seal assembly 26, and the discharge valve assembly 28. The housing assembly 12 can include a generally cylindrical housing 34, an end cap 36, a laterally extending partition 37, and a base 38. The end cap 36 can be fixed to the upper end of the housing 34. The base 38 can be fixed to the lower end of the housing 34. The end cap 36 and the partition 37 can define a discharge chamber 42 therebetween, and the discharge chamber 42 receives the compressed working fluid from the compression mechanism 22. The partition 37 can include an orifice 39 that provides communication between the compression mechanism 22 and the discharge chamber 42. The discharge chamber 42 can generally form a discharge muffler for the compressor 10.

[0052] The discharge fitting 14 can be attached to the end cap 36 and be in fluid communication with the discharge chamber 42. The suction inlet fitting 16 can be attached to the housing 34 and can be in fluid communication with the suction chamber 43. Although the compressor 10 is Figure 1 shown as including a discharge chamber 42 and a suction chamber 43, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to compressors having a discharge chamber and / or a suction chamber, but is equally applicable to direct discharge configurations and / or direct suction configurations or directed suction configurations.

[0053] The motor assembly 18 can include a motor stator 44, a rotor 46, and a drive shaft 48. The stator 44 can be press-fitted into the housing 34. The drive shaft 48 can be rotatably driven by the rotor 46 and supported by the bearing housing assembly 20. The drive shaft 48 can include an eccentric crankpin 52 that has a flat portion thereon for driving engagement with the compression mechanism 22. The rotor 46 can be press-fitted onto the drive shaft 48. The bearing housing assembly 20 can include a main bearing housing 54 and a lower bearing housing 56 fixed within the housing 34. The bearing housings 54, 56 can be fixed relative to the housing assembly 12 and can accommodate bearings that rotatably support the drive shaft 48. The main bearing housing 54 can include a flat annular thrust bearing surface 58 that supports the compression mechanism 22 thereon.

[0054] The compression mechanism 22 can be driven by the motor assembly 18 and generally can include a moving scroll member 60 and a stationary scroll member 62. The moving scroll member 60 can include an end plate 64 having a spiral blade or scroll 66 on its upper surface and a flat annular thrust surface 68 on its lower surface. The thrust surface 68 can engage a flat annular thrust bearing surface 58 on the main bearing housing 54. A cylindrical hub 70 can project downward from the thrust surface 68 and can have a drive bushing 72 disposed therein. The drive bushing 72 can include an inner opening in which the crank pin 52 is drivingly disposed. The crank pin 52 can drivingly engage a flat surface in a portion of the inner opening of the drive bushing 72 to provide a radially compliant drive arrangement.

[0055] As Figures 2 to 4 shown, the stationary scroll member 62 can include an end plate 78 and a scroll 80 extending from a first side portion 82 of the end plate 78. A second side portion 84 of the end plate 78 can include a first annular wall 86 and a second annular wall 90. The first annular wall 86 and the second annular wall 90 cooperate to define an annular recess 88. The second annular wall 90 can be disposed radially inward relative to the first annular wall 86 and can define a discharge recess 92. The annular recess 88 can surround the discharge recess 92 and can be substantially concentric with the discharge recess 92. As Figure 2 and Figure 3 shown, a discharge passage 94 can extend from the first side portion 82 through the end plate 78 to the discharge recess 92.

[0056] As Figure 4 shown, the end plate 78 can include a pair of openings 116. In some embodiments, the openings 116 can be unthreaded blind holes formed in the discharge recess 92 that only partially extend through the end plate 78. In some embodiments, the openings 116 can be threaded holes formed in the discharge recess 92 that only partially extend through the end plate 78.

[0057] Returning to Figure 1 , the stationary scroll member 62 can be rotationally fixed to the main bearing housing 54 by a retaining assembly 120. The retaining assembly 120 allows the stationary scroll member 62 to undergo limited axial displacement relative to the moving scroll member 60 and the main bearing housing 54 based on pressurized gas from the bias passage 100. The retaining assembly 120 can include a plurality of fasteners 122 and bushings 124 extending through apertures in the stationary scroll member 62. The fasteners 122 can fixedly engage the main bearing housing 54. The stationary scroll member 62 is capable of axial movement along the bushings 124 relative to the fasteners 122.

[0058] The scroll wrap 80 of the fixed scroll member 62 can be engaged meshingly with the scroll wrap 66 of the orbiting scroll member 60, thereby creating a series of pockets between the scroll wrap 80 of the fixed scroll member 62 and the scroll wrap 66 of the orbiting scroll member 60. The fluid pockets defined by the scroll wraps 66, 80 can decrease in volume as the fluid pockets move from a radially outer position (at suction pressure) to a radially intermediate position (at intermediate pressure) to a radially inner position (at discharge pressure) throughout the compression cycle of the compression mechanism 22. The discharge passage 94 can be in fluid communication with the fluid pocket 123 at the radially inner position. When the discharge valve assembly 28 is in the open position ( Figure 2 ), the working fluid (discharge-pressure working fluid) from the fluid pocket 123 at the radially inner position can flow through the discharge passage 94, the discharge valve assembly 28, and the discharge recess 92 and into the discharge chamber 42. The bias passage 100 in the end plate 78 can be in fluid communication with the fluid pocket 125 ( Figure 2 and Figure 3 ) at the radially intermediate position.

[0059] Referring back to Figure 2 and Figure 3 , the floating seal assembly 26 can be disposed within the annular recess 88 and can sealingly engage the first annular wall 86, the second annular wall 90, and the separator 37 to form an annular bias chamber 148. The annular bias chamber 148 is isolated from the suction chamber 43 and the discharge chamber 42 and is in communication with the fluid pocket 125 via the bias passage 100 at the radially intermediate position. During operation of the compressor 10, the bias chamber 148 can be filled with intermediate-pressure working fluid from the fluid pocket 125 at the radially intermediate position, which biases the fixed scroll member 62 in the axial direction toward the orbiting scroll member 60.

[0060] The discharge valve assembly 28 can be received within the discharge recess 92 of the fixed scroll member 62 and can control fluid flow through the discharge passage 94. As shown in Figures 5 to 10 , the discharge valve assembly 28 can include a first portion or valve member portion 96 and a second portion or retainer portion 98.

[0061] Referring to Figure 5 and Figure 6 , the valve member portion 96 can include a base 149, a reed valve member 150, a spacer 151, and a support 152. The base 149 can be a disk-shaped member having a discharge opening 154 extending therethrough and a pair of openings 155. The openings 155 can be coaxially aligned with the openings 116 of the end plate 78. As shown in Figure 2 and Figure 3 , the base 149 can be seated against the end plate 78 such that the discharge opening 154 is generally aligned with the discharge passage 94. The surface 156 defines the periphery of the discharge opening 154. InFigure 5 and Figure 6 in the configuration of Figure 5 and Figure 6 , the discharge opening 154 has a generally circular shape, but other configurations are possible.

[0062] The base 149 may include a seat surface 160 on a first side portion 162 of the base 149. The spacer 151 may be mounted to the seat surface 160. The first side portion 162 of the base 149 may be the side portion adjacent to the reed valve member 150 when the discharge valve assembly 28 is assembled.

[0063] The reed valve member 150 may be a thin, elastically flexible member having a fixed end 170 and a movable end 171. A pair of arms 172 may extend from the fixed end 170, and the pair of arms 172 may each include an opening 173. The reed valve member 150 may rest against the spacer 151, which in turn may rest against the base 149, such that the opening 173 is coaxially aligned with the opening 155 in the base 149. The movable end 171 of the reed valve member 150 is capable of deflecting between a closed position ( Figure 2 ) and an open position ( Figure 3 ), in the closed position, the movable end 171 seals against the base 149 to restrict or prevent fluid flow through the discharge opening 154 (thereby preventing fluid flow through the discharge passage 94), in the open position, the movable end 171 moves away from the base 149 and deflects upwardly toward the support 152 to allow fluid flow through the discharge passage 94 and the discharge opening 154.

[0064] The reed valve member 150 may move to the open position due to a pressure differential across opposite sides of the reed valve member 150, such as when the pressure in the discharge passage 94 (and the fluid cavity 123) exceeds the pressure in the discharge chamber 42. The amount of deflection of the movable end 171 of the reed valve member 150 may vary based on the distance from the fixed end 170. For example, the amount of deflection in a portion of the movable end 171 of the reed valve member 150 that is farther from the fixed end 170 may be greater. The fixed end 170 may be fixed by coupling the support 152 to the base 149 (i.e., clamping the fixed end 170 between the support 152 and the base 149). The maximum amount of deflection of the movable end 171 may occur at the portion 175 of the movable end 171 of the reed valve member 150 that is farthest from the fixed end 170.

[0065] Due to the pressure in the discharge chamber 42 increasing relative to the pressure within the discharge passage 94 and / or due to the pressure within the discharge passage 94 decreasing relative to the pressure within the discharge chamber 42, the spring force of the resilient flexible reed valve member 150 is allowed to urge the movable end 171 toward the closed position. Thus, the movable end 171 of the reed valve member 150 can move to the closed position by moving in a downward direction toward the seat surface 160. In the closed position, the reed valve member 150 restricts or prevents fluid flow between the discharge chamber 42 and the discharge passage 94.

[0066] The spacer 151 can include a pair of arms 177 shaped to correspond to the arms 172 of the reed valve member 150. Each of the arms 177 can include an opening 178 coaxially aligned with a corresponding one of the openings 173, 155. The spacer 151 can be disposed between the base 149 and the reed valve member 150 to create a space between the movable end 171 and the discharge opening 154. The movable end 171 of the reed valve member 151 can move into this space when entering the closed position to seal the discharge opening 154.

[0067] The support 152 can include a body 179 having a pair of openings 180 extending therethrough. The openings 180 can be coaxially aligned with the corresponding openings 173, 155, 178. The body 179 can include a lobe portion 181 shaped to correspond to the shape of the movable end 171 of the reed valve member 150. The body can include a pair of arms 182 shaped to correspond to the arms 177 of the spacer and / or the arms 172 of the reed valve member 150. The body 179 can include a first or top surface 183. The lobe portion 181 can include an inclined surface 184 that faces the reed valve member 150 and forms a valve stop that defines a maximum deflection amount of the movable end 171 of the reed valve member 150. The inclined surface 184 can be shaped to allow the reed valve member 150 to open to a greater extent than a conventional discharge valve assembly while limiting stress in the reed valve member 150. Such an enlarged opening can achieve an increase in the working fluid flow rate through the discharge passage 94 and the discharge valve assembly 28. Such an increased fluid flow rate improves the efficiency of the compressor 10, thereby reducing energy consumption and improving the operation of the climate control system in which the compressor 10 is installed.

[0068] When the reed valve member 150 is in the open position ( Figure 2) When, the first passage or the recess passage 186 can be defined by the seat surface 160 of the base 149, the arm portion 177 of the spacer 151, the arm portion 182 of the support member 152, and the lobe portion 181 of the support member 152. The recess passage 186 is disposed within the discharge recess 92. As will be described in more detail below, the recess passage 186 can be in fluid communication with the discharge passage 94 and the discharge chamber 42 when the reed valve member 150 is in the open position.

[0069] The fastener 190 can pass through the openings 116, 155, 173, 178, 180 to fix the discharge valve assembly 28 to the end plate 78. In some embodiments, the fastener can be threaded. In some embodiments, the fastener can be a helical pin having a diameter that can elastically contract to facilitate insertion into the openings 116, 155, 173, 178, 180. In some embodiments, the pin can be press-fitted into the non-threaded openings 116, 155, 173, 178, 180 to fix the discharge valve assembly 28 to the end plate 78.

[0070] As Figure 7 and Figure 8 shown, the retainer portion 98 of the discharge valve assembly 28 can include a retainer body 200. The retainer body 200 can be an annular member including a first wall or top wall 201, an outer wall 202, and an inner hub 204. The outer wall 202 and the inner hub 204 can extend generally perpendicularly from the top wall 201 in a first direction. The top wall 201 can be integrally formed with the outer wall 202 and / or the inner hub 204. The outer wall 202 can be spaced apart from the inner hub 204 and surround the inner hub 204 to define a second passage or internal passage 206. The internal passage 206 can be an annular passage. In other words, the internal passage 206 can surround the inner hub 204.

[0071] The inner hub 204 can cooperate with the top wall 201 to define a central aperture or central passage 209 extending through the inner hub 204. The central aperture 209 can be fluidly connected to the internal passage 206. The inner hub 204 can be generally cylindrical or cup-shaped, but other shapes and configurations are possible. Although the central aperture 209 is shown in the Figures 7 to 10 embodiment, it can be understood that alternative embodiments can include an inner hub without a central aperture (i.e., an inner hub that does not define an opening extending therethrough).

[0072] The top wall can define a third passage. The third passage can include one or more retainer apertures 210. The one or more retainer apertures 210 can extend through the top wall 201 and can be fluidly connected to the internal passage 206. During normal operation of the compressor 10, fluid can flow from the discharge passage 94 through the recess passage 186 ( Figure 5 and Figures 9 to 10) and into the discharge chamber 42 through the internal passage 206, the central orifice 209, and / or the retainer orifice 210. In some configurations, such as when the inner hub 204 does not have a central orifice, during operation of the compressor 10, fluid can flow from the discharge passage 94 through the recess passage 186, the internal passage 206, the retainer orifice 210, and into the discharge chamber 42.

[0073] Each of the retainer orifices 210 in the retainer orifice may be elongated between a first end 212 and a second end 214. For example, the retainer orifice 210 may be a slot. Each of the slots in the slot may be curved between a first end 212 and a second end 214. The retainer orifice 210 may be curved along at least a portion of the perimeter of the top wall 201. In Figures 7 to 10 the illustrated configuration, the retainer orifice 210 is generally kidney-shaped, but other shapes and configurations may also control fluid flow through the retainer orifice 210. The retainer orifice 210 may have a volume defined by the length 216 of the orifice 210 (e.g., the length between the first end 212 and the second end 214), the width of the orifice, and the thickness 218 of the top wall 201. The volume of the orifice 210 may be customized by modifying the length 216, width, or shape of the orifice 210 and / or the thickness 218 of the top wall 201. The volume, shape, and number of the orifices 210 may be customized to meet the desired fluid flow and acoustic characteristics of the compressor 10.

[0074] The first end 212 and the second end 214 may have a circular shape. The retainer orifice 210 having rounded first and second ends 212 and 214 may reduce the operating noise and / or sound of the compressor 10 compared to a compressor having a retainer orifice with flat or sharp edges.

[0075] Although Figures 7 to 10 three evenly spaced retainer orifices 210 are shown in the embodiment of, it will be understood that a retainer body 200 may be employed that includes more or fewer orifices and / or includes orifices having different sizes and spacings. For example, a single orifice may extend around the perimeter of the top wall 201. Alternatively, the top wall 201 may include only two orifices. In some configurations, the top wall 201 may include more than three orifices, such as four or more orifices, optionally five or more orifices, optionally seven or more orifices, or optionally ten or more orifices.

[0076] Although not shown in the Figures 7 to 10 embodiment of, it will be understood that in some configurations, the peripheral surface 220 of the top wall 201 ( Figure 9) may have an external thread. When the retainer body 200 includes an external thread, the retainer body 200 may be threadedly engaged with a part of the compression mechanism 22( Figure 1 ), such as a part of the stationary scroll member 62).

[0077] As Figure 9 and Figure 10 shown, the retainer portion 98 engages with the valve member portion 96 of the discharge valve assembly 28. The retainer portion 98 may be disposed within the discharge recess 92. The support member 152 may be disposed between the reed valve member 150 and the retainer portion 98 such that fluid flowing through the discharge opening 154 flows through the recess passage 186 of the valve member portion 96 before flowing through the retainer portion 98. At least a portion of the outer wall 202 may engage with the first surface 183 of the arm portion 182 of the support member 152. For example, the distal surface 212 of the outer wall 202 may sit against the first surface 183 of the arm portion 182 of the support member 152. In Figures 9 to 10 configuration, the inner hub 204 is spaced apart from the lobe portion 181 of the support member 152. When the inner hub 204 is spaced apart from the lobe portion 181, the central orifice 209 may be in fluid communication with the discharge chamber 94, for example, via the discharge opening 154( Figure 2 and Figure 3 ), the discharge recess 92, and the internal passage 206. Alternatively, the inner hub 204 may be configured to contact and engage the first surface 183 of the lobe portion 181 of the support member 152. The retainer portion 98 may be attached to the valve member portion 96 by means of fasteners (such as pins and / or bolts), adhesives, and / or welding, or otherwise attached. In some configurations, the retainer portion 98 is integrally formed with the valve member portion 96.

[0078] Referring back to Figure 2 and Figure 3 , the movable end 171 of the reed valve member 150 may sit and / or seal against the seat surface 160 of the base 149 adjacent to the periphery of the discharge opening 154 when in the closed position( Figure 2 ) due to the pressure difference between the discharge chamber 42 and the discharge passage 94. In this way, the movable end 171 of the reed valve member 150 may improve or reduce the leakage of fluid moving from the discharge passage 94 to the discharge chamber 42. When the reed valve member 150 is in the closed position, fluid movement from the discharge passage 94 to the discharge chamber 42 can be prevented. When the movable end 171 of the reed valve member 150 is in the closed position, leakage of the working fluid through the discharge valve assembly 28 can be improved or reduced, thus improving the efficiency of the compressor 10, reducing energy consumption, and improving the operation of the climate control system in which the compressor 10 is installed.

[0079] The movable end 171 of the reed valve member 150 can deflect or contact the inclined surface 184 of the support member 152 when in the open position ( Figure 3 ) due to the pressure difference between the discharge chamber 42 and the discharge passage 94. When the movable end 171 of the reed valve member 150 is in the open position, the working fluid from the discharge passage 94 travels through the discharge opening 154 to the discharge chamber 42. The internal passage 206 (e.g., via the discharge opening 154 and the recess passage 186) is in fluid communication with the discharge passage 94 and (e.g., via the retainer orifice 210 and the orifice 39) is in fluid communication with the discharge chamber 42. That is, when the reed valve member 150 is in the open position, fluid is allowed to flow from the discharge passage 94 through the discharge opening 154, the recess passage 186, the internal passage 206, the retainer orifice 210 (and optionally through the central orifice 209), the orifice 39 and into the discharge chamber 42.

[0080] In some discharge valve assemblies, when the reed valve member 150 is in the open position, the fluid flow through the discharge opening 154 is partially blocked by the lobe portion 181 of the support member 152, resulting in turbulent fluid vibrations (e.g., eddies) moving around the lobe portion 181 through the recess passage 186 and into the discharge chamber 42. These vibrations from the fluid flow can generate acoustic pulses that may excite the end cap 36 and / or the separator 37. When the end cap 36 and / or the separator 37 are excited, the compressor may be relatively noisy during operation.

[0081] In the discharge valve assembly of the present disclosure, the inner hub 204 can cooperate with the outer wall 202 and the retainer orifice 210 to concentrate and direct the fluid flow through the recess passage 186, the internal passage 206 and the retainer orifice 210 into the discharge chamber 42, thereby reducing or eliminating the structural excitation of the compressor 10 (e.g., excitation of the end cap 36 and / or the separator 37). In this way, the configuration of the recess passage 186, the internal passage 206 and the retainer orifice 210 in the discharge valve assembly 28 cooperate to reduce the turbulent fluid vibrations passing through the discharge valve assembly 28 and into the discharge chamber 42, thus reducing the operating noise of the compressor 10. In other words, the retainer portion 98 of the discharge valve assembly 28 can act as a muffler to reduce the acoustic pulses in the discharge chamber 42 and the noise generated in the compressor 10. For example, in one particular exemplary embodiment of the compressor 10, compared to a compressor with a conventional discharge valve assembly, the retainer portion 98 and the valve member portion 96 of the present discharge valve assembly 28 cooperate to reduce the sound level of the compressor 10 by about 3 A-weighted decibels to 5 A-weighted decibels (dBA).

[0082] The foregoing description of the embodiments has been provided for purposes of illustration and description. The foregoing description is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure. The various elements or features of a particular embodiment are generally not limited to that particular embodiment and, where applicable, are interchangeable and can be used in a selected embodiment, even if not specifically shown or described. The various elements or features of a particular embodiment can also be changed in many ways. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the disclosure, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the disclosure.

[0083] The disclosure can also be understood from the following paragraphs:

[0084] 1. A compressor, comprising:

[0085] a scroll member, the scroll member including an end plate and a spiral scroll extending from the end plate, the end plate including a discharge passage; and

[0086] a discharge valve assembly, the discharge valve assembly being mounted to the scroll member and configured to control fluid flow through the discharge passage, the discharge valve assembly including a support member, a valve member, and a retainer body,

[0087] wherein:

[0088] the retainer body includes a top wall, an outer wall, and an inner hub, wherein the outer wall is spaced from the inner hub and surrounds the inner hub to define an annular internal passage in fluid communication with the discharge passage between the outer wall and the inner hub,

[0089] wherein the support member is disposed between the valve member and the retainer body and defines a range of motion of the valve member,

[0090] wherein the valve member is deflectable between a closed position in which the valve member restricts fluid flow through the discharge passage and an open position in which the valve member allows fluid flow through the discharge passage.

[0091] 2. The compressor according to paragraph 1, wherein the valve member is a reed valve having a fixed end and a movable end, and the movable end deflects relative to the fixed end between the open position and the closed position.

[0092] 3. The compressor according to paragraph 1, wherein the discharge valve assembly includes a base fixed relative to the end plate, wherein the valve member is mounted to the base, and wherein the valve member is disposed between the base and the support member.

[0093] 4. The compressor according to paragraph 3, wherein a first side portion of the base includes a seat surface, and wherein a movable end of the valve member contacts the seat surface when the valve member is in the closed position, and the movable end is spaced apart from the seat surface when the valve member is in the open position.

[0094] 5. The compressor according to paragraph 1, wherein an axial end of the retainer body engages a surface of the support.

[0095] 6. The compressor according to paragraph 1, wherein the retainer body, the support, and the valve member are disposed within a recess in the scroll member.

[0096] 7. The compressor according to paragraph 6, wherein when the valve member is in the open position, the working fluid flows through the discharge passage and the retainer body before flowing through an orifice in a separator that separates an intake chamber of the compressor from a discharge chamber of the compressor.

[0097] 8. The compressor according to paragraph 1, wherein the top wall defines one or more orifices in fluid communication with the internal passage.

[0098] 9. The compressor according to paragraph 8, wherein the one or more orifices are slots.

[0099] 10. The compressor according to paragraph 9, wherein each of the slots includes a first end and a second end, and wherein the slot is curved between the first end and the second end.

[0100] 11. The compressor according to paragraph 1, further comprising a housing assembly defining an intake chamber and a discharge chamber, wherein when the valve member is in the open position, the working fluid flows through the discharge passage and the internal passage of the retainer body to the discharge chamber.

[0101] 12. The compressor according to paragraph 11, wherein the top wall of the retainer body defines one or more orifices in fluid communication with the internal passage and the discharge chamber, and wherein when the valve member is in the open position, the one or more orifices permit fluid communication between the discharge passage and the discharge chamber.

[0102] 13. The compressor according to paragraph 1, wherein the scroll member is a fixed scroll member.

[0103] 14. A compressor, comprising:

[0104] a housing assembly that defines an intake chamber and a discharge chamber;

[0105] A scroll member, the scroll member being disposed within the housing assembly and including a first end plate and a first spiral scroll, the first end plate including a discharge passage and a discharge recess that are in fluid communication with the discharge chamber; and

[0106] A discharge valve assembly, the discharge valve assembly being mounted to the scroll member and configured to control fluid flow between the discharge passage and the discharge chamber, the discharge valve assembly including a valve member, a support member, and a retainer body, the discharge valve assembly defining a first passage, a second passage, and a third passage,

[0107] wherein:

[0108] The support member is disposed between the valve member and the retainer body, wherein the support member defines the first passage, and wherein the first passage is in fluid communication with the discharge passage,

[0109] The second passage is an annular passage defined by the retainer body, wherein the second passage is in fluid communication with the first passage and the third passage,

[0110] The third passage includes one or more apertures formed in the retainer body, and

[0111] The second passage is disposed between the first passage and the third passage such that fluid flows from the first passage to the second passage and then through the third passage when the valve member is in the open position.

[0112] 15. The compressor according to paragraph 14, wherein,

[0113] The support member defines the range of motion of the valve member, and

[0114] The valve member is a reed valve that is deflectable relative to the first end plate between a closed position and an open position, in the closed position, the valve member restricts fluid flow through the discharge passage, and in the open position, the valve member allows fluid flow through the discharge passage.

[0115] 16. The compressor according to paragraph 14, wherein the discharge valve assembly includes a base fixed relative to the first end plate, wherein the valve member is disposed between the base and the support member, wherein the valve member contacts a seat surface of the base when the valve member is in the closed position, and the valve member is spaced apart from the seat surface of the base when the valve member is in the open position.

[0116] 17. The compressor according to paragraph 14, wherein the one or more apertures are slots.

[0117] 18. The compressor according to paragraph 14, wherein the support member includes a pair of arms and a leaf-shaped portion, and wherein the first passage is defined by the pair of arms and the leaf-shaped portion.

[0118] 19. The compressor according to paragraph 14, wherein the retainer body, the support member, and the valve member are disposed within a recess in the scroll member.

[0119] 20. The compressor according to paragraph 19, wherein when the valve member is in the open position, the working fluid flows through the discharge passage, the first passage, the second passage, and the third passage before flowing through an orifice in the separator that separates the suction chamber from the discharge chamber.

Claims

1. A compressor, comprising: a scroll member including an end plate and a spiral wrap extending from the end plate, the end plate including a discharge passage; as well as a discharge valve assembly mounted to the scroll and configured to control fluid flow through the discharge passage, the discharge valve assembly comprising a support, a valve member and a retainer body, in: The retainer body includes a top wall, an outer wall, and an inner hub, wherein the outer wall is spaced apart from and surrounds the inner hub to define an annular inner passage between the outer wall and the inner hub in fluid communication with the discharge passage, wherein the support member is disposed between the valve member and the retainer body and limits the range of motion of the valve member, Wherein the valve member is deflectable between a closed position in which the valve member restricts fluid flow through the exhaust passage and an open position in which the valve member allows fluid flow through the exhaust passage.

2. The compressor according to claim 1, wherein: The valve member is a reed valve having a fixed end and a movable end, the movable end deflecting relative to the fixed end between the open position and the closed position.

3. The compressor according to claim 1, wherein: The discharge valve assembly includes a base fixed relative to the end plate, wherein the valve member is mounted to the base, and wherein the valve member is disposed between the base and the support.

4. The compressor according to claim 3, wherein: The first side of the base includes a seat surface, and wherein a movable end of the valve member contacts the seat surface when the valve member is in the closed position and is spaced apart from the seat surface when the valve member is in the open position.

5. The compressor according to claim 1, wherein: An axial end of the retainer body engages a surface of the support member.

6. The compressor according to claim 1, wherein: The retainer body, the support, and the valve member are disposed within a recess in the scroll.

7. The compressor according to claim 6, wherein: When the valve member is in the open position, working fluid flows through the discharge passage and the retainer body before flowing through an orifice in a partition that separates a suction chamber of the compressor from a discharge chamber of the compressor.

8. The compressor according to claim 1, wherein: The top wall of the retainer body defines one or more apertures in fluid communication with the internal passageway.

9. The compressor according to claim 8, wherein: The one or more apertures are slots.

10. The compressor according to claim 9, wherein: Each of the slots includes a first end and a second end, and wherein the slot is curved between the first end and the second end.

11. The compressor of claim 1 , further comprising a housing assembly defining a suction chamber and a discharge chamber, wherein: When the valve member is in the open position, working fluid flows to the discharge chamber through the discharge passage and the internal passage of the retainer body.

12. The compressor according to claim 11, wherein: The top wall of the retainer body defines one or more apertures in fluid communication with the internal passage and the discharge chamber, and wherein the one or more apertures allow fluid communication between the discharge passage and the discharge chamber when the valve member is in the open position.

13. The compressor according to claim 1, wherein: The scroll member is a fixed scroll member.

14. A compressor, comprising: a housing assembly defining a suction chamber and a discharge chamber; a scroll member disposed within the housing assembly and comprising a first end plate and a first spiral wrap, the first end plate comprising a discharge passage and a discharge recess in fluid communication with the discharge chamber; and a discharge valve assembly mounted to the scroll and configured to control fluid flow between the discharge passage and the discharge chamber, the discharge valve assembly comprising a valve member, a support, and a retainer body, the discharge valve assembly defining a first passage, a second passage, and a third passage, in: The support is disposed between the valve member and the retainer body, wherein the support defines the first passage, wherein the first passage is in fluid communication with the exhaust passage, the second passage is an annular passage defined by the retainer body, wherein the second passage is in fluid communication with the first passage and the third passage, The third passageway includes one or more apertures formed in the retainer body, and The second passage is disposed between the first passage and the third passage such that fluid flows from the first passage to the second passage and then through the third passage when the valve member is in an open position.

15. The compressor according to claim 14, wherein: The support member defines a range of motion of the valve member, and The valve member is a reed valve deflectable relative to the first end plate between a closed position in which the valve member restricts fluid flow through the exhaust passage and an open position in which the valve member allows fluid flow through the exhaust passage.

16. The compressor according to claim 14, wherein: The discharge valve assembly includes a base fixed relative to the first end plate, wherein the valve member is arranged between the base and the support member, wherein the valve member contacts the seat surface of the base when the valve member is in a closed position, and the valve member is spaced apart from the seat surface of the base when the valve member is in an open position.

17. The compressor according to claim 14, wherein: The one or more apertures are slots.

18. The compressor according to claim 14, wherein: The support member includes a pair of arms and a leaf-shaped portion, and wherein the first passage is defined by the pair of arms and the leaf-shaped portion.

19. The compressor according to claim 14, wherein: The retainer body, the support, and the valve member are disposed within a recess in the scroll.

20. The compressor according to claim 19, wherein When the valve member is in the open position, working fluid flows through the discharge passage, the first passage, the second passage, and the third passage before flowing through an orifice in a partition that separates the suction chamber from the discharge chamber.

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