Scroll compressor

Abstract

A scroll compressor has a compression chamber for compressing fluid, an outer passage into which fluid flows from a motor chamber, and a suction passage for drawing fluid into the compression chamber from the outer passage. The compression chamber is partitioned by a fixed scroll and a rotating scroll. The outer passage is partitioned by a third circumferential wall of a discharge housing and a fixed circumferential wall (63) of a fixed scroll (60). The suction passage is formed in the fixed circumferential wall and has an upstream outer surface located on the electric motor side of the suction passage in the axial direction of the rotation axis. The distance from the axis (L) of the rotation axis to the upstream outer surface varies in the axial direction of the rotation axis.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a scroll compressor. Background Technology

[0002] The scroll-type compressor of Japanese Patent Publication No. 2021-161947 comprises a rotating shaft, an electric motor, a housing, a stationary scroll, and a slewing scroll. The electric motor rotates the rotating shaft. The housing has a motor chamber that accommodates the electric motor. The stationary scroll is received within the housing and is fixed to the housing. The stationary scroll has a fixed end wall and a cylindrical circumferential wall extending from the fixed end wall toward the slewing scroll. The slewing scroll revolves in conjunction with the rotation of the rotating shaft.

[0003] A scroll compressor has a compression chamber, an outer passage, and a suction passage. The compression chamber is partitioned by a stationary scroll and a slewing scroll. The compression chamber compresses the fluid. The outer passage is partitioned by the inner surface of the housing and the outer surface of the perimeter wall of the stationary scroll. Fluid flows into the outer passage from the motor chamber. The suction passage is formed in the perimeter wall. The suction passage draws fluid from the outer passage into the compression chamber. The problem to be solved

[0004] When the distance from the inner circumference of the housing to the outer circumference of the perimeter wall of the fixed scroll is small, that is, when the outer passage is narrow, it becomes difficult for the fluid to flow through the outer passage. As a method to widen the outer passage, for example, the following two methods can be considered. The first method is to enlarge the housing towards the outer side, as described in Japanese Patent Publication No. 2021-161947. The second method is to reduce the thickness of the perimeter wall of the fixed scroll. However, in the first method, the compressor becomes larger. In the second method, there is a concern that the strength of the fixed scroll cannot be secured. means of solving the problem

[0005] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a scroll compressor is provided. The scroll compressor comprises a housing having a rotating shaft, an electric motor that rotates the rotating shaft, and a motor chamber that accommodates the electric motor, a fixed scroll that is accommodated within the housing and fixed to the housing, and a rotary scroll that revolves in conjunction with the rotation of the rotating shaft. The fixed scroll has a fixed end wall and a conventional circumferential wall extending from the fixed end wall toward the rotary scroll. The scroll compressor further comprises a compression chamber that compresses a fluid, partitioned by the fixed scroll and the rotary scroll, an outer circumferential passage partitioned by the inner circumferential surface of the housing and the outer circumferential surface of the circumferential wall, into which the fluid is introduced from the motor chamber, and a suction passage formed in the circumferential wall and into which the fluid is drawn from the outer circumferential passage into the compression chamber. The outer circumferential surface of the circumferential wall has an upstream outer circumferential surface located on the electric motor side of the suction passage in the axial direction of the rotating shaft. The distance from the axis of the rotation axis to the upstream outer surface in a direction perpendicular to the axis direction of the rotation axis is changing in the axis direction of the rotation axis. Effects of the invention delete Brief explanation of the drawing

[0008] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view showing a scroll-type compressor in an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a front view showing the discharge housing and fixed scroll in an embodiment. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing an enlarged portion of a scroll-type compressor in an embodiment. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing an enlarged portion of a scroll-type compressor in an embodiment. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0009] Hereinafter, an embodiment of a scroll-type compressor is described in accordance with FIGS. 1 to 4. The scroll-type compressor of this embodiment is used in a vehicle air conditioning system.

[0010] As shown in FIG. 1, a scroll compressor (10) comprises a housing (11), a rotating shaft (12), an electric motor (13), and a compression mechanism (14). The housing (11) accommodates the rotating shaft (12), the electric motor (13), and the compression mechanism (14). The electric motor (13) rotates the rotating shaft (12). The compression mechanism (14) is driven by the rotation of the rotating shaft (12).

[0011] <Housing>

[0012] The housing (11) has a motor housing (20), an shaft support housing (30), and a discharge housing (40). The housing (11) is made of metal. The housing (11) of this embodiment is made of aluminum.

[0013] The motor housing (20) is a normal structure having a bottom with a first bottom wall (21) and a normal first perimeter wall (22) extending from the outer perimeter of the first bottom wall (21). The motor housing (20) has a cylindrical first boss portion (23). The first boss portion (23) protrudes from the inner surface of the first bottom wall (21). The motor housing (20) has a suction port (22a). The suction port (22a) is formed in a portion of the first perimeter wall (22) located near the first bottom wall (21). The suction port (22a) communicates the inside and outside of the motor housing (20). The motor housing (20) has a plurality of female screw holes (22b). In FIG. 1, only one female screw hole (22b) is shown. Each female screw hole (22b) is formed on the front end surface of the first circumferential wall (22). Multiple female screw holes (22b) are spaced apart in the circumferential direction of the first circumferential wall (22).

[0014] The shaft support housing (30) is a conventional housing having a second bottom wall (31) and a conventional second perimeter wall (32) extending from the outer perimeter of the second bottom wall (31). The shaft support housing (30) has a circular shaft insertion through hole (31a). The shaft insertion through hole (31a) is formed in the center of the second bottom wall (31). The shaft insertion through hole (31a) penetrates the second bottom wall (31) in the thickness direction.

[0015] The shaft support housing (30) has an annular flange portion (33). The flange portion (33) extends outward in the diameter direction of the second perimeter wall (32) from the end opposite to the second bottom wall (31) in the second perimeter wall (32).

[0016] The shaft support housing (30) has a plurality of first bolt insertion through holes (33a) and a plurality of communication holes (34). In FIG. 1, only one first bolt insertion through hole (33a) and one communication hole (34) are shown. Each first bolt insertion through hole (33a) and each communication hole (34) are formed on the outer circumference of the flange portion (33). Each first bolt insertion through hole (33a) and each communication hole (34) penetrate the flange portion (33) in the thickness direction. The plurality of first bolt insertion through holes (33a) are spaced apart in the circumferential direction of the flange portion (33). The plurality of communication holes (34) are formed at positions different from the first bolt insertion through holes (33a) in the circumferential direction of the flange portion (33).

[0017] The shaft support housing (30) has a plurality of pins (35). In FIG. 1, only one pin (35) is shown. The pin (35) protrudes from the flange portion (33) to the opposite side of the second bottom wall (31). The pin (35) is located inward from the first bolt insertion through hole (33a) and the connecting hole (34) in the diameter direction of the flange portion (33).

[0018] The shaft support housing (30) closes the opening of the motor housing (20). The front end surface of the first circumferential wall (22) of the motor housing (20) is in contact with the flange portion (33) of the shaft support housing (30). The axial direction of the second circumferential wall (32) of the shaft support housing (30) coincides with the axial direction of the first circumferential wall (22) of the motor housing (20).

[0019] The motor room (S1) is partitioned by the motor housing (20) and the shaft support housing (30). The electric motor (13) is housed in the motor room (S1). Thus, the housing (11) has a motor room (S1) in which the electric motor (13) is housed. In the motor room (S1), a refrigerant as a fluid is sucked in through the suction port (22a) from an external refrigerant circuit not shown. Thus, the motor room (S1) is a suction room in which the refrigerant is sucked in from the suction port (22a).

[0020] The first bolt insertion through hole (33a) of the shaft support housing (30) is in communication with the female thread hole (22b) of the motor housing (20). The communication hole (34) of the shaft support housing (30) is located radially inward from the inner circumference of the first circumferential wall (22) of the motor housing (20). Thus, the communication hole (34) is in communication with the motor chamber (S1).

[0021] The discharge housing (40) is a normal one having a third bottom wall (41) and a normal third perimeter wall (42) extending from the outer perimeter of the third bottom wall (41).

[0022] As shown in FIG. 2, the outer diameter of the third perimeter wall (42) is approximately constant along the entire circumference of the third perimeter wall (42). Meanwhile, the inner diameter of the third perimeter wall (42) varies along the circumference of the third perimeter wall (42). Accordingly, the thickness of the third perimeter wall (42) varies along the circumference of the third perimeter wall (42). The third perimeter wall (42) has a thick section (42a) and a thin section (42b). The thick section (42a) and the thin section (42b) are formed alternately along the circumference of the third perimeter wall (42). The inner surface (420) of the third circumferential wall (42) in the thick portion (42a) is pushed inward in the radial direction compared to the inner surface (420) of the third circumferential wall (42) in the thin portion (42b).

[0023] The discharge housing (40) has a plurality of second bolt insertion through holes (40a). Each second bolt insertion through hole (40a) penetrates the discharge housing (40) in the axial direction of the third perimeter wall (42). The plurality of second bolt insertion through holes (40a) are spaced apart in the perimeter direction of the third perimeter wall (42). In this embodiment, each second bolt insertion through hole (40a) is formed in the thick portion (42a) of the third perimeter wall (42).

[0024] As shown in FIG. 1, the discharge housing (40) has a first concave portion (43). The first concave portion (43) is recessed from the inner surface of the third bottom wall (41). The discharge housing (40) has an oil separation chamber (44). The oil separation chamber (44) is formed inside the third bottom wall (41). A tube member (45) is fitted into the inner wall partitioning the oil separation chamber (44). The discharge housing (40) has an introduction passage (46). The introduction passage (46) communicates the inner side of the first concave portion (43) with the inside of the oil separation chamber (44). The discharge housing (40) has a discharge port (47). The discharge port (47) connects the inside of the tube member (45) with the outside of the discharge housing (40).

[0025] The discharge housing (40) is positioned on the cross-section opposite to the motor housing (20) in the shaft support housing (30). The flange portion (33) of the shaft support housing (30) is clamped by the first circumferential wall (22) of the motor housing (20) and the third circumferential wall (42) of the discharge housing (40). The front end surface of the third circumferential wall (42) of the discharge housing (40) is in contact with the flange portion (33) of the shaft support housing (30). The axial direction of the third circumferential wall (42) of the discharge housing (40) coincides with the axial direction of the second circumferential wall (32) of the shaft support housing (30). The second bolt insertion through hole (40a) of the discharge housing (40) is in communication with the first bolt insertion through hole (33a) of the shaft support housing (30). The communication hole (34) of the shaft support housing (30) is located radially inward from the inner circumferential surface (420) of the third circumferential wall (42) of the discharge housing (40).

[0026] The motor housing (20), shaft support housing (30), and discharge housing (40) are connected by a plurality of bolts (B). In FIG. 1, only one bolt (B) is shown. Specifically, the bolt (B) is inserted through the second bolt insertion hole (40a) of the discharge housing (40) and the first bolt insertion hole (33a) of the shaft support housing (30). The male thread of the bolt (B) is screwed into the female thread hole (22b) of the motor housing (20). The housing (11) is formed by integrating the motor housing (20), shaft support housing (30), and discharge housing (40).

[0027] <Axis of Rotation>

[0028] The rotation axis (12) has a main shaft (12a) and an eccentric shaft (12b). The outer diameter of the main shaft (12a) is larger than the outer diameter of the eccentric shaft (12b).

[0029] The main shaft (12a) is inserted through the shaft insertion through hole (31a) of the shaft support housing (30). The main shaft (12a) has a first end that is inserted into the inner side of the first boss portion (23). A first bearing (15a) is formed between the inner surface of the first boss portion (23) and the outer surface of the first end of the main shaft (12a). The first bearing (15a) is, for example, a rolling bearing. The first end of the main shaft (12a) is rotatably supported in the motor housing (20) through the first bearing (15a). The main shaft (12a) has a second end on the opposite side from the first end. The second end of the main shaft (12a) is located inside the shaft support housing (30). A second bearing (15b) is formed between the inner surface of the second circumferential wall (32) of the shaft support housing (30) and the outer surface of the second end of the main shaft (12a). The second bearing (15b) is, for example, a rolling bearing. The second end of the main shaft (12a) is rotatably supported in the shaft support housing (30) through the second bearing (15b).

[0030] The eccentric shaft (12b) protrudes from the cross-section of the second end of the main shaft (12a). The eccentric shaft (12b) has an axis (Lb) that extends parallel to the axis (La) of the main shaft (12a). The axis (Lb) of the eccentric shaft (12b) is formed at an eccentric position relative to the axis (La) of the main shaft (12a).

[0031] In the following, the axis (La) of the main shaft (12a) is referred to as the axis (L) of the rotation shaft (12). Also, the direction in which the axis (L) of the rotation shaft (12) extends is referred to as the axis direction of the rotation shaft (12). The axis direction of the rotation shaft (12) coincides with the axis direction of the first circumferential wall (22) of the motor housing (20), the axis direction of the second circumferential wall (32) of the shaft support housing (30), and the axis direction of the third circumferential wall (42) of the discharge housing (40).

[0032] <Electric Motor>

[0033] The electric motor (13) has a rotor (51) and a stator (52).

[0034] The rotor (51) has a cylindrical rotor core (53) and an unillustrated permanent magnet formed in the rotor core (53). The main shaft (12a) of the rotation axis (12) is inserted through the inside of the rotor core (53). The rotor core (53) is fixed to the rotation axis (12). The rotor (51) can rotate integrally with the rotation axis (12).

[0035] The stator (52) is formed on the outer circumference of the rotor (51). The stator (52) surrounds the rotor (51). The stator (52) has a cylindrical stator core (54) and a coil (55). The stator core (54) is fixed to the inner circumference of the first circumferential wall (22) of the motor housing (20). The coil (55) is wound around the stator core (54).

[0036] When power is supplied to the coil (55) and a rotating magnetic field is generated in the stator (52), the rotor (51) rotates. As a result, the rotation axis (12) rotates integrally with the rotor (51).

[0037] <Compression Mechanism>

[0038] The compression mechanism (14) has a fixed scroll (60) and a rotating scroll (70).

[0039] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the fixed scroll (60) has a disc-shaped fixed end wall (61), a spiral-shaped fixed spiral wall (62), and a fixed circumference wall (63) as a normal circumference wall. The fixed spiral wall (62) and the fixed circumference wall (63) each protrude from the first surface (61a) of the fixed end wall (61). The fixed circumference wall (63) is located on the outer periphery of the fixed end wall (61). The fixed circumference wall (63) surrounds the fixed spiral wall (62).

[0040] As shown in FIG. 2, the inner diameter of the fixed perimeter wall (63) is approximately constant along the entire circumference of the fixed perimeter wall (63). Meanwhile, the outer diameter of the fixed perimeter wall (63) varies along the circumference of the fixed perimeter wall (63). Accordingly, the thickness of the fixed perimeter wall (63) in the diameter direction varies along the circumference of the fixed perimeter wall (63). The fixed perimeter wall (63) has a thick section (63a) and a thin section (63b). The thick section (63a) and the thin section (63b) are formed alternately along the circumference of the fixed perimeter wall (63).

[0041] The fixed scroll (60) has a discharge passage (64). The discharge passage (64) is formed in the center of the fixed end wall (61). The discharge passage (64) penetrates the fixed end wall (61) in the thickness direction.

[0042] As shown in FIG. 1, the fixed scroll (60) has a second recess (65). The second recess (65) is recessed from the second surface (61b), which is opposite to the first surface (61a) of the fixed end wall (61). The discharge passage (64) is open on the bottom surface of the second recess (65). A valve mechanism (66) is mounted on the bottom surface of the second recess (65). The valve mechanism (66) is configured to open and close the discharge passage (64).

[0043] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the fixed scroll (60) has a plurality of suction passages (67). Each suction passage (67) penetrates the fixed perimeter wall (63) in the radial direction. Each suction passage (67) communicates the inside and outside of the fixed perimeter wall (63). The plurality of suction passages (67) are spaced apart in the perimeter direction of the fixed perimeter wall (63). In this embodiment, each suction passage (67) is formed in the thick portion (63a) of the fixed perimeter wall (63). Thus, the thick portion (63a) is the part around the suction passage (67) in the perimeter direction of the fixed perimeter wall (63).

[0044] As shown in FIG. 1, the rotating scroll (70) has a disc-shaped rotating end wall (71) and a swirl-shaped rotating swirl wall (72). The rotating swirl wall (72) protrudes from the first surface (71a) of the rotating end wall (71). The rotating scroll (70) has a cylindrical second boss portion (73). The second boss portion (73) protrudes from the second surface (71b), which is the opposite side to the first surface (71a) of the rotating end wall (71). The rotating scroll (70) has a plurality of groove portions (74). In FIG. 1, only one groove portion (74) is shown. Each groove portion (74) is carved out from the second surface (71b) of the rotating end wall (71). Each groove (74) is located further outward from the second boss (73) in the diameter direction of the pivot wall (71). An annular ring member (75) is fitted and mounted within each groove (74). A pin (35) of the shaft support housing (30) is inserted into each ring member (75).

[0045] The fixed scroll (60) and the rotating scroll (70) are arranged so that the first surface (61a) of the fixed end wall (61) and the first surface (71a) of the rotating end wall (71) face each other. The fixed vortex wall (62) and the rotating vortex wall (72) are interlocked with each other. The rotating vortex wall (72) is located on the inner side of the fixed perimeter wall (63). The front end surface of the fixed vortex wall (62) is in contact with the first surface (71a) of the rotating end wall (71). The front end surface of the rotating vortex wall (72) is in contact with the first surface (61a) of the fixed end wall (61).

[0046] The fixed scroll (60) and the rotating scroll (70) partition the compression chamber (S2) that compresses the refrigerant. Specifically, the compression chamber (S2) is partitioned by the first surface (61a) of the fixed end wall (61), the fixed swirl wall (62), the inner surface of the fixed perimeter wall (63), the first surface (71a) of the rotating end wall (71), and the rotating swirl wall (72).

[0047] The compression mechanism (14) is accommodated in a space partitioned by the shaft support housing (30) and the discharge housing (40). The fixed scroll (60) is located between the flange portion (33) of the shaft support housing (30) and the third bottom wall (41) of the discharge housing (40). The fixed scroll (60) is fixed to the housing (11) by being clamped by the flange portion (33) of the shaft support housing (30) and the third bottom wall (41) of the discharge housing (40).

[0048] The fixed end wall (61) is located between the third bottom wall (41) of the discharge housing (40) and the rotating scroll (70). A gasket (16) is disposed between the second face (61b) of the fixed end wall (61) and the inner surface of the third bottom wall (41) of the discharge housing (40). The gasket (16) seals the space between the fixed end wall (61) and the third bottom wall (41).

[0049] The discharge chamber (S3) is partitioned by the first concave portion (43) of the discharge housing (40) and the second concave portion (65) of the fixed end wall (61). After the refrigerant is compressed in the compression chamber (S2), it is discharged into the discharge chamber (S3) through the discharge passage (64).

[0050] The fixed vortex wall (62) and the fixed circumference wall (63) each extend toward the pivot scroll (70) from the first surface (61a) of the fixed end wall (61). The axial direction of the fixed circumference wall (63) coincides with the axial direction of the third circumference wall (42) of the discharge housing (40). The front end surface of the fixed circumference wall (63) is in contact with the flange portion (33) of the shaft support housing (30). The outer surface (630) of the fixed circumference wall (63) faces the inner surface (420) of the third circumference wall (42) of the discharge housing (40) in a spaced-apart state.

[0051] As shown in FIG. 2, the thick portion (63a) of the fixed perimeter wall (63) is aligned in the radial direction with the thin portion (42b) of the third perimeter wall (42). The thin portion (63b) of the fixed perimeter wall (63) is aligned in the radial direction with the thick portion (42a) of the third perimeter wall (42).

[0052] As shown in FIG. 1, the pivot scroll (70) is located between the shaft support housing (30) and the fixed end wall (61) of the fixed scroll (60). The second face (71b) of the pivot end wall (71) faces the flange portion (33) of the shaft support housing (30). The pivot vortex wall (72) extends from the first face (71a) of the pivot end wall (71) in a direction away from the electric motor (13).

[0053] <Balance Weights and Bushings>

[0054] The scroll-type compressor (10) is equipped with a balance weight (18) and a bush (19). The balance weight (18) and the bush (19) are integrally formed. The balance weight (18) and the bush (19), together with the compression mechanism (14), are housed in a space partitioned by the shaft support housing (30) and the discharge housing (40).

[0055] The bush (19) is fitted onto the outer surface of the eccentric shaft (12b). The bush (19) is inserted into the inner side of the second boss portion (73). A third bearing (15c) is disposed between the inner surface of the second boss portion (73) and the outer surface of the bush (19). The third bearing (15c) is, for example, a rolling bearing. The slewing scroll (70) is supported on the eccentric shaft (12b) so as to be rotatable relative to the eccentric shaft (12b) through the bush (19) and the third bearing (15c). A balance weight (18) is disposed on the inner side of the flange portion (33) of the shaft support housing (30).

[0056] The rotation of the main shaft (12a) is transmitted to the slewing scroll (70) through the eccentric shaft (12b), the bush (19), and the third bearing (15c). At this time, the rotation of the slewing scroll (70) is prevented by the contact between each pin (35) and the inner surface of each ring member (75). The slewing scroll (70) is allowed only to orbit the stationary scroll (60). In short, the slewing scroll (70) orbits in conjunction with the rotation of the rotation axis (12). When the slewing scroll (70) orbits, the slewing vortex wall (72) contacts the stationary vortex wall (62), and as the volume of the compression chamber (S2) decreases, the refrigerant in the compression chamber (S2) is compressed. The balance weight (18) reduces the amount of unbalance of the rotating scroll (70) by offsetting the centrifugal force acting on the rotating scroll (70) when the rotating scroll (70) revolves.

[0057] <Outsourcing Channel>

[0058] The scroll-type compressor (10) has an outer circumferential passage (R). The outer circumferential passage (R) is partitioned by the inner surface (420) of the third circumferential wall (42) of the discharge housing (40) and the outer surface (630) of the fixed circumferential wall (63) of the fixed scroll (60). As described above, the communication hole (34) of the shaft support housing (30) is located radially inward from the inner surface (420) of the third circumferential wall (42) of the discharge housing (40). Therefore, the communication hole (34) is in communication with the outer circumferential passage (R). Refrigerant flows into the outer circumferential passage (R) from the motor room (S1) through the communication hole (34).

[0059] As shown in FIG. 3, the outer surface (630) of the fixed perimeter wall (63) has an upstream outer surface (631) and a downstream outer surface (632). The upstream outer surface (631) is located between the suction passage (67) and the electric motor (13) in the axial direction of the rotation axis (12). The downstream outer surface (632) is located on the opposite side from the upstream outer surface (631) around the suction passage (67) in the axial direction of the rotation axis (12).

[0060] The distance (P) from the axis (L) of the rotation axis (12) to the upstream outer surface (631) in a direction perpendicular to the axis direction of the rotation axis (12) varies in the axis direction of the rotation axis (12). On the other hand, the distance from the axis (L) of the rotation axis (12) to the inner surface (420) of the third circumferential wall (42) of the discharge housing (40) in a direction perpendicular to the axis direction of the rotation axis (12) is constant in the axis direction of the rotation axis (12). Accordingly, the distance from the inner circumferential surface (420) of the third circumferential wall (42) of the discharge housing (40) to the outer circumferential surface (630) of the fixed circumferential wall (63) in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the rotation axis (12) varies in the axial direction of the rotation axis (12). In short, the width of the outer circumferential passage (R) in the diameter direction of the rotation axis (12) varies in the axial direction of the rotation axis (12). In this embodiment, in the front end surface of the third circumferential wall (42) and the front end surface of the fixed circumferential wall (63), the distance from the inner circumferential surface (420) of the third circumferential wall (42) to the outer circumferential surface (630) of the fixed circumferential wall (63) coincides with the diameter of the communication hole (34).

[0061] In this embodiment, the upstream outer surface (631) is inclined with respect to the axis (L) of the rotation axis (12) such that the distance (P) from the axis (L) of the rotation axis (12) to the upstream outer surface (631) in a direction perpendicular to the axis direction of the rotation axis (12) gradually changes in the axis direction of the rotation axis (12). In this embodiment, the distance (P) from the axis (L) of the rotation axis (12) to the upstream outer surface (631) in a direction perpendicular to the axis direction of the rotation axis (12) increases as it goes from the motor room (S1) toward the suction passage (67) in the axis direction of the rotation axis (12). The thickness of the fixed perimeter wall (63) increases as it goes from the motor room (S1) toward the suction passage (67) in the axis direction of the rotation axis (12).

[0062] As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, in this embodiment, the angle of inclination of the upstream outer surface (631) with respect to the axis (L) of the rotation axis (12) is different in the circumferential direction of the fixed circumferential wall (63). Specifically, the angle of inclination of the upstream outer surface (631) with respect to the axis (L) of the rotation axis (12) is set according to the position of the suction passage (67) in the circumferential direction of the fixed circumferential wall (63) or the thickness of the fixed circumferential wall (63).

[0063] FIG. 3 shows the upstream outer surface (631) in the thick section (63a). As described above, the thick section (63a) is the part around the suction passage (67) in the circumferential direction of the fixed perimeter wall (63). FIG. 4 shows the upstream outer surface (631) in the thin section (63b). The angle of inclination of the upstream outer surface (631) with respect to the axis (L) of the rotation axis (12) in the thick section (63a) is greater than the angle of inclination of the upstream outer surface (631) with respect to the axis (L) of the rotation axis (12) in the thin section (63b). In short, in the portion around the suction passage (67) in the circumferential direction of the fixed circumferential wall (63), the angle of inclination of the upstream outer surface (631) with respect to the axis (L) of the rotation axis (12) is set to be larger than in other portions. On the other hand, in the portion with a smaller thickness in the circumferential direction of the fixed circumferential wall (63), the angle of inclination of the upstream outer surface (631) with respect to the axis (L) of the rotation axis (12) is set to be smaller than in other portions.

[0064] In this embodiment, the distance (Q) from the axis (L) of the rotation axis (12) to the downstream outer surface (632) in a direction perpendicular to the axis direction of the rotation axis (12) is set to be greater than or equal to the maximum distance (P) from the axis (L) of the rotation axis (12) to the upstream outer surface (631) in a direction perpendicular to the axis direction of the rotation axis (12). The thickness of the fixed perimeter wall (63) between the suction passage (67) and the fixed end wall (61) in the axis direction of the rotation axis (12) is greater than or equal to the thickness of the fixed perimeter wall (63) between the front end surface of the fixed perimeter wall (63) and the suction passage (67) in the axis direction of the rotation axis (12).

[0065] Also, in this embodiment, the distance (Q) from the axis (L) of the rotation axis (12) to the downstream outer surface (632) in a direction perpendicular to the axis direction of the rotation axis (12) is constant in the axis direction of the rotation axis (12). The thickness of the fixed perimeter wall (63) is constant between the suction passage (67) and the fixed end wall (61) in the axis direction of the rotation axis (12).

[0066] <Flow of Refrigerant>

[0067] The flow of refrigerant in a scroll compressor (10) is described.

[0068] The refrigerant is drawn into the motor room (S1) from the external refrigerant circuit through the suction port (22a). The refrigerant drawn into the motor room (S1) flows into the outer passage (R) through the connecting hole (34). The refrigerant flowing into the outer passage (R) flows into the compression room (S2) through the suction passage (67). Thus, the suction passage (67) draws refrigerant into the compression room (S2) from the outer passage (R). The refrigerant flowing into the compression room (S2) is compressed as the volume of the compression room (S2) decreases. The compressed refrigerant is discharged to the discharge room (S3) through the discharge passage (64). The refrigerant discharged to the discharge room (S3) is introduced into the oil separation room (44) through the introduction passage (46). In the oil separation room (44), the oil contained in the refrigerant is separated. More specifically, when the refrigerant introduced into the oil separation chamber (44) swirls around the container member (45), centrifugal force is applied to the oil contained in the refrigerant, thereby separating the oil within the oil separation chamber (44). After the oil is separated, the refrigerant passes through the inside of the container member (45) and then returns to the external refrigerant circuit through the discharge port (47).

[0069] [Operation and Effects of the Present Embodiment]

[0070] The operation and effects of the present embodiment are explained.

[0071] (1) The distance (P) from the axis (L) of the rotation axis (12) in a direction perpendicular to the axis direction of the rotation axis (12) to the upstream outer surface (631) of the fixed perimeter wall (63) varies in the axis direction of the rotation axis (12). With this configuration, the distance (P) from the axis (L) of the rotation axis (12) in a direction perpendicular to the axis direction of the rotation axis (12) to the upstream outer surface (631) is small, and thus the distance from the inner surface (420) of the third perimeter wall (42) of the discharge housing (40) to the outer surface (630) of the fixed perimeter wall (63) can be increased. Because of this, the outer passage (R) can be widened without making the discharge housing (40) larger on the outer side. In addition, the thickness of the fixed circumferential wall (63) can be secured by the portion where the distance (P) from the axis (L) of the rotation axis (12) to the upstream outer surface (631) in a direction perpendicular to the axis direction of the rotation axis (12) is large. Because of this, the strength of the fixed scroll (60) can be secured. Therefore, the outer passage (R) can be widened while simultaneously suppressing the enlargement of the housing (11) and securing the strength of the fixed scroll (60).

[0072] (2) The upstream outer surface (631) is inclined with respect to the axis (L) of the rotation axis (12) so that the distance (P) from the axis (L) of the rotation axis (12) to the upstream outer surface (631) in a direction perpendicular to the axis direction of the rotation axis (12) changes gradually in the axis direction of the rotation axis (12). With this configuration, the refrigerant flows more easily through the outer surface passage (R) compared to the case where the upstream outer surface (631) is stepped so that the distance (P) from the axis (L) of the rotation axis (12) to the upstream outer surface (631) in a direction perpendicular to the axis direction of the rotation axis (12) changes stepwise in the axis direction of the rotation axis (12).

[0073] (3) The distance (P) from the axis (L) of the rotation axis (12) to the upstream outer surface (631) in a direction perpendicular to the axis direction of the rotation axis (12) increases as it moves from the motor room (S1) toward the suction passage (67) in the axis direction of the rotation axis (12). With this configuration, the distance from the inner surface (420) of the third circumferential wall (42) of the discharge housing (40) to the upstream outer surface (631) can be reduced as it moves from the motor room (S1) toward the suction passage (67) in the axis direction of the rotation axis (12). Because of this, the outer passage (R) narrows as it moves from the motor room (S1) toward the suction passage (67) in the axis direction of the rotation axis (12). Accordingly, compared to the case where the outer passage (R) widens as it moves from the motor room (S1) toward the suction passage (67) in the axial direction of the rotation axis (12), the refrigerant is more likely to flow through the outer passage (R) toward the suction passage (67).

[0074] (4) The angle of inclination of the upstream outer surface (631) with respect to the axis (L) of the rotation axis (12) is different in the circumferential direction of the fixed circumferential wall (63). In this embodiment, the angle of inclination of the upstream outer surface (631) with respect to the axis (L) of the rotation axis (12) is set according to the position of the suction passage (67) in the circumferential direction of the fixed circumferential wall (63) and the thickness of the fixed circumferential wall (63). Specifically, in the thick portion (63a) which is the part around the suction passage (67) in the circumferential direction of the fixed circumferential wall (63), the angle of inclination of the upstream outer surface (631) with respect to the axis (L) of the rotation axis (12) is increased to widen the outer passage (R), thereby making it easier for the refrigerant to flow from the outer passage (R) to the suction passage (67). In addition, in the thin-walled portion (63b), which is a portion with a small thickness in the circumferential direction of the fixed circumferential wall (63), the strength of the fixed circumferential wall (63) is secured by reducing the angle of inclination of the upstream outer surface (631) with respect to the axis (L) of the rotation axis (12).

[0075] (5) The distance (Q) from the axis (L) of the rotation axis (12) to the downstream outer surface (632) in a direction perpendicular to the axis direction of the rotation axis (12) is greater than the maximum distance (P) from the axis (L) of the rotation axis (12) to the upstream outer surface (631) in a direction perpendicular to the axis direction of the rotation axis (12). With this configuration, the strength of the fixed scroll (60) can be increased compared to the case where the distance (Q) from the axis (L) of the rotation axis (12) to the downstream outer surface (632) is smaller than the maximum distance (P) from the axis (L) of the rotation axis (12) to the upstream outer surface (631).

[0076] (6) In the front face of the third perimeter wall (42) and the front face of the fixed perimeter wall (63), the distance from the inner surface (420) of the third perimeter wall (42) to the outer surface (630) of the fixed perimeter wall (63) is equal to the diameter of the communication hole (34). Therefore, in the front face of the third perimeter wall (42) and the front face of the fixed perimeter wall (63), compared to the case where the distance from the inner surface (420) of the third perimeter wall (42) to the outer surface (630) of the fixed perimeter wall (63) is smaller than the diameter of the communication hole (34), the refrigerant is more likely to flow from the communication hole (34) to the outer passage (R).

[0077] (7) In the third circumferential wall (42) of the discharge housing (40), a thick portion (42a) is formed to form a second bolt insertion through hole (40a). In this embodiment, the thick portion (42a) is a portion in which the inner circumferential surface (420) of the third circumferential wall (42) is pushed inward in the radial direction. And, in the fixed circumferential wall (63), the portion aligned in the radial direction with the thick portion (42a) of the third circumferential wall (42) is a thin portion (63b). In this configuration, for example, the discharge housing (40) can be reduced in diameter compared to the case where the thick portion (42a) is formed by pushing the outer surface of the third perimeter wall (42) outward in the diameter direction to form the second bolt insertion through hole (40a) in the third perimeter wall (42).

[0078] [Change Example]

[0079] The above embodiment may be implemented with modifications as follows. The above embodiment and the following modifications may be implemented in combination with one another to the extent that they are not technically contradictory.

[0080] The configuration of the housing (11) of the above embodiment is an example. The configuration of the housing (11) may be appropriately changed.

[0081] For example, instead of the discharge housing (40), the shaft support housing (30) may have a third circumferential wall (42). In this case, the third circumferential wall (42) extends from the outer periphery of the flange portion (33) to the side opposite to the motor housing (20). The discharge housing (40) has only a third bottom wall (41). The third bottom wall (41) closes the opening of the shaft support housing (30) by being connected to the front end of the third circumferential wall (42).

[0082] For example, instead of the discharge housing (40), the motor housing (20) may have a third perimeter wall (42). In this case, the third perimeter wall (42) is formed by extending the first perimeter wall (22) in the axial direction. The discharge housing (40) has only a third bottom wall (41). The third bottom wall (41) closes the opening of the motor housing (20) by being connected to the leading end of the third perimeter wall (42). The shaft support housing (30) is disposed within the motor housing (20). The shaft support housing (30) separates the motor room (S1) from the space accommodating the compression mechanism (14).

[0083] If the distance (P) from the axis (L) of the rotation axis (12) in a direction perpendicular to the axis direction of the rotation axis (12) to the upstream outer surface (631) of the fixed perimeter wall (63) changes in the axis direction of the rotation axis (12), the upstream outer surface (631) does not have to be inclined with respect to the axis (L) of the rotation axis (12). For example, the upstream outer surface (631) may be stepped so that the distance (P) from the axis (L) of the rotation axis (12) in a direction perpendicular to the axis direction of the rotation axis (12) to the upstream outer surface (631) changes stepwise in the axis direction of the rotation axis (12).

[0084] The distance (P) from the axis (L) of the rotation axis (12) to the upstream outer surface (631) in a direction perpendicular to the axis direction of the rotation axis (12) does not need to increase as it moves from the motor room (S1) toward the suction passage (67) in the axis direction of the rotation axis (12). For example, the distance (P) from the axis (L) of the rotation axis (12) to the upstream outer surface (631) in a direction perpendicular to the axis direction of the rotation axis (12) may decrease as it moves from the motor room (S1) toward the suction passage (67) in the axis direction of the rotation axis (12).

[0085] The angle of inclination of the upstream outer surface (631) with respect to the axis (L) of the rotation axis (12) may be constant in the circumferential direction of the fixed perimeter wall (63).

[0086] In the front surface of the third perimeter wall (42) and the front surface of the fixed perimeter wall (63), the distance from the inner surface (420) of the third perimeter wall (42) to the outer surface (630) of the fixed perimeter wall (63) may be different from the diameter of the connecting hole (34).

[0087] The distance (Q) from the axis (L) of the rotation axis (12) to the downstream outer surface (632) in a direction perpendicular to the axis direction of the rotation axis (12) may be smaller than the maximum distance (P) from the axis (L) of the rotation axis (12) to the upstream outer surface (631) in a direction perpendicular to the axis direction of the rotation axis (12).

[0088] The distance (Q) from the axis (L) of the rotation axis (12) to the downstream outer surface (632) in a direction perpendicular to the axis direction of the rotation axis (12) may vary in the axis direction of the rotation axis (12).

[0089] The use of the scroll compressor (10) is not limited to vehicle air conditioning systems. For example, the scroll compressor (10) may be installed in a fuel cell vehicle. The scroll compressor (10) compresses air as a fluid supplied to the fuel cell.

Claims

Claim 1 delete Claim 2 A scroll-type compressor comprises a housing having a rotating shaft, an electric motor that rotates the rotating shaft, and a motor chamber that accommodates the electric motor, a fixed scroll that is accommodated within the housing and fixed to the housing, and a rotary scroll that revolves in conjunction with the rotation of the rotating shaft, wherein the fixed scroll has a fixed end wall and a conventional perimeter wall extending from the fixed end wall toward the rotary scroll, and the scroll-type compressor further comprises a compression chamber that compresses a fluid, which is partitioned by the fixed scroll and the rotary scroll, an outer passage partitioned by the inner surface of the housing and the outer surface of the perimeter wall and into which the fluid flows from the motor chamber, and a suction passage formed in the perimeter wall and into which the fluid is drawn from the outer passage into the compression chamber, wherein the outer surface of the perimeter wall has an upstream outer surface located between the suction passage and the electric motor in the axial direction of the rotating shaft, and wherein the A scroll-type compressor in which the distance to the upstream outer surface varies in the axial direction of the rotational shaft, the upstream outer surface is inclined with respect to the axis of the rotational shaft such that the distance from the axis of the rotational shaft to the upstream outer surface in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the rotational shaft gradually changes in the axial direction of the rotational shaft, and the inner surface of the housing faces the upstream outer surface while the distance from the axis of the rotational shaft to the inner surface of the housing in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the rotational shaft is constant in the axial direction of the rotational shaft. Claim 3 delete Claim 4 A scroll-type compressor comprises a housing having a rotating shaft, an electric motor that rotates the rotating shaft, and a motor chamber that accommodates the electric motor, a fixed scroll that is accommodated within the housing and fixed to the housing, and a rotary scroll that revolves in conjunction with the rotation of the rotating shaft, wherein the fixed scroll has a fixed end wall and a conventional perimeter wall extending from the fixed end wall toward the rotary scroll, and the scroll-type compressor further comprises a compression chamber that compresses a fluid, which is partitioned by the fixed scroll and the rotary scroll, an outer passage partitioned by the inner surface of the housing and the outer surface of the perimeter wall and into which the fluid flows from the motor chamber, and a suction passage formed in the perimeter wall and into which the fluid is drawn from the outer passage into the compression chamber, wherein the outer surface of the perimeter wall has an upstream outer surface located between the suction passage and the electric motor in the axial direction of the rotating shaft, and wherein the A scroll-type compressor in which the distance to the upstream outer surface varies in the axial direction of the rotational shaft, the upstream outer surface is inclined with respect to the axis of the rotational shaft such that the distance from the axis of the rotational shaft to the upstream outer surface in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the rotational shaft gradually increases as it moves from the motor room toward the suction passage in the axial direction of the rotational shaft, and the angle of inclination of the upstream outer surface with respect to the axis of the rotational shaft is different in the perimeter direction of the circumferential wall. Claim 5 A scroll-type compressor according to claim 4, wherein the outer surface of the circumferential wall has a downstream outer surface located opposite to the upstream outer surface with the suction passage in between in the axial direction of the rotation axis, and the inner surface of the housing is opposed to the upstream outer surface and the downstream outer surface in a state where the distance from the axis of the rotation axis to the inner surface of the housing in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the rotation axis is constant in the axial direction of the rotation axis. Claim 6 delete

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