Compressor having capacity modulation system

Abstract

A compressor may include a first scroll, a second scroll, and a capacity modulation system. One of the scrolls may include an end plate having a modulation port and a vent passage. The vent passage may be in fluid communication with the modulation port and a suction-pressure region of the compressor. The capacity modulation system may be operable in a first capacity mode and a second capacity mode. The capacity modulation system may include a control valve and a piston. The piston is movable between an open position in which fluid communication between the modulation port and the vent passage is allowed and a closed position in which fluid communication between the modulation port and the vent passage is prevented. Movement of the control valve between a first position and a second position causes movement of the piston between the open and closed positions.

Description

Attorney Docket No. 0315-001113-WO-POACOMPRESSOR HAVING CAPACITY MODULATION SYSTEMCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 19 / 358,861 , filed on October 15, 2025, U.S. Patent Application No. 19 / 358,918, filed on October 15, 2025, U.S. Patent Application No. 19 / 359,131 , filed on October 15, 2025, and U.S. Patent Application No. 19 / 179,497, filed on April 15, 2025. The entire disclosures of the above applications are incorporated herein by reference.FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to a compressor having a capacity modulation system.BACKGROUND

[0003] This section provides background information related to the present disclosure and is not necessarily prior art.

[0004] A climate-control system (e.g., 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 and outdoor heat exchangers, and one or more compressors circulating a working fluid (e.g., refrigerant or carbon dioxide) between the indoor and outdoor heat exchangers. Efficient and reliable operation of the one or more compressors is desirable to ensure that the climate-control system in which the one or more compressors are installed is capable of effectively and efficiently providing a cooling and / or heating effect on demand. The one or more compressors can include a capacity modulation system operable to modulate the capacity of the one or more compressors.SUMMARY

[0005] This section provides a general summary of the disclosure and is not a comprehensive disclosure of its full scope or all of its features.

[0006] In one form, the present disclosure provides a compressor that may include a first scroll, a second scroll, and a capacity modulation system. The first scroll may include a first end plate and a first spiral wrap extending from the first end plate. The second scroll may include a second end plate and a second spiral wrap extending from the second end plate. The first and second spiral wraps cooperate to define a plurality ofAttorney Docket No. 0315-001113-WO-POAfluid pockets. During operation of the compressor, the fluid pockets move from a radially outer position to radially intermediate positions to a radially inner position. The second end plate may include a modulation port and a vent passage. The modulation port may be in fluid communication with one of the fluid pockets at one of the radially intermediate positions. The vent passage may be in fluid communication with the modulation port and a suction-pressure region. The capacity modulation system may be operable in a first capacity mode and a second capacity mode. The capacity modulation system may include a control valve and a piston. The piston is movable between an open position in which fluid communication between the modulation port and the vent passage is allowed and a closed position in which fluid communication between the modulation port and the vent passage is prevented. Movement of the control valve between a first position and a second position causes movement of the piston between the open and closed positions. The piston may be movably disposed within a first recess that extends into the second end plate. The piston may seat against a surface of the second end plate in the closed position. The piston may partially define an actuation chamber within the first recess. The second end plate may include a first passage, a second passage, and a third passage. The first passage may extend from the first recess to the control valve. The first passage may be in fluid communication with the actuation chamber and the control valve. The second passage may be in fluid communication with the control valve and the axial biasing chamber, and the second passage may extend between the control valve and an axial biasing chamber. The axial biasing chamber may be defined by a floating seal assembly and the second scroll. The third passage may extend from the first recess and may vent a space within the first recess.

[0007] In some configurations of the compressor of the above paragraph, the actuation chamber is disposed between the vent passage and the space within the first recess.

[0008] In some configurations of the compressor of either or both of the above paragraphs, the capacity modulation system includes a piston housing disposed within the first recess. The piston housing movably receives the piston.

[0009] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, a passage in the piston housing fluidly connects the first passage and the actuation chamber.Attorney Docket No. 0315-001113-WO-POA

[0010] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the piston housing includes an annular main body and an annular ledge that extends radially inwardly from the annular main body.

[0011] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the annular ledge and an inner diametrical surface of the annular main body cooperate with the piston to define the actuation chamber.

[0012] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the piston includes a body portion and a flange portion that extends radially outward from the body portion. The annular ledge and the inner diametrical surface of the annular main body of the piston housing cooperate with the body portion and the flange portion of the piston to define the actuation chamber.

[0013] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, a spring is disposed at least partially within the space within the first recess and biases the piston toward the closed position.

[0014] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the piston sealingly engages a plurality of annular seals.

[0015] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, an axial end of the piston is exposed to the axial biasing chamber such that working fluid within the axial biasing chamber biases the piston toward the closed position.

[0016] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, when the control valve is in the first position, working fluid from the axial biasing chamber is allowed to flow through the second passage, through the first passage, and into the actuation chamber.

[0017] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, when the control valve is in the second position, fluid communication between the first and second passages is prevented, and working fluid in the actuation chamber is vented through the first passage.

[0018] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the working fluid in the actuation chamber is vented to a suction chamber of the compressor through the first passage when the control valve is in the second position.

[0019] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the control valve includes a solenoid, wherein energizing the solenoidAttorney Docket No. 0315-001113-WO-POAcauses the control valve to move to the second position, and de-energizing the solenoid causes the control valve to move to the first position.

[0020] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the control valve includes a valve body, a valve member, and a valve housing.

[0021] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, when the control valve is in the first position, the working fluid flows through the valve body from the second passage to the first passage, and the valve member prevents fluid flow through an aperture in the valve housing.

[0022] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, when the control valve is in the second position, the working fluid flows from the first passage, through the valve body, and through the aperture in the valve housing, and the valve member prevents fluid flow through the valve body from the second passage to the first passage.

[0023] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the piston includes a central recess that receives a peg that is fixed relative to the second end plate. The piston and the peg define the actuation chamber within the central recess.

[0024] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, a radially extending passage in the piston fluidly connects the first passage with the actuation chamber.

[0025] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the third passage vents the space within the first recess to a suction chamber of the compressor.

[0026] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the suction-pressure region is a suction inlet defined by the second scroll.

[0027] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the suction-pressure region is a suction chamber defined by a shell of the compressor.

[0028] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the capacity modulation system includes another control valve that independently controls movement of another piston to selectively vent another modulation port to the suction-pressure region.Attorney Docket No. 0315-001113-WO-POA

[0029] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the capacity modulation system is configured to switch the compressor between the first capacity mode, the second capacity mode, and a third capacity mode.

[0030] In another example, the present disclosure provides a compressor that may include a compressor that may include a first scroll, a second scroll, and a capacity modulation system. The first scroll may include a first end plate and a first spiral wrap extending from the first end plate. The second scroll may include a second end plate and a second spiral wrap extending from the second end plate. The first and second spiral wraps cooperate to define a plurality of fluid pockets. During operation of the compressor, the fluid pockets move from a radially outer position to radially intermediate positions to a radially inner position. The second end plate may include a modulation port and a vent passage. The modulation port may be in fluid communication with one of the fluid pockets at one of the radially intermediate positions. The vent passage may be in fluid communication with the modulation port and a suction-pressure region. The capacity modulation system may be operable in a first capacity mode and a second capacity mode. The capacity modulation system may include a control valve, a piston, and a piston housing. The piston may be movable between an open position in which fluid communication between the modulation port and the vent passage is allowed and a closed position in which fluid communication between the modulation port and the vent passage is prevented. Movement of the control valve between a first position and a second position causes movement of the piston between the open and closed positions. The piston housing may be fixedly disposed within a first recess in the second end plate. The piston may be movably disposed within the piston housing. The piston may seat against a surface of the second end plate in the closed position. The piston and the piston housing may cooperate to define an actuation chamber therebetween. A passage in the piston housing may be in fluid communication with the control valve.

[0031] In some configurations of the compressor of the above paragraph, the piston housing includes an annular main body and an annular ledge that extends radially inwardly from the annular main body.

[0032] In some configurations of the compressor of either or both of the above paragraphs, the annular ledge and an inner diametrical surface of the annular main body cooperate with the piston to define the actuation chamber.Attorney Docket No. 0315-001113-WO-POA

[0033] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the piston includes a body portion and a flange portion that extends radially outward from the body portion.

[0034] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the annular ledge and the inner diametrical surface of the annular main body of the piston housing cooperate with the body portion and the flange portion of the piston to define the actuation chamber.

[0035] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the piston extends through an opening in an axial end of the piston housing when the piston is in the closed position.

[0036] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, a spring is disposed within the first recess and biases the piston toward the closed position.

[0037] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the piston sealingly engages a plurality of annular seals.

[0038] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the piston housing sealingly engages the plurality of annular seals.

[0039] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the annular seals cooperate with the piston and the piston housing to define the actuation chamber.

[0040] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the second end plate includes a first passage, a second passage, and a third passage.

[0041] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the first passage extends from the first recess to the control valve and is in fluid communication with the actuation chamber and the control valve.

[0042] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the second passage is in fluid communication with and extends between the control valve and an axial biasing chamber.

[0043] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the axial biasing chamber is defined by a floating seal assembly and the second scroll.Attorney Docket No. 0315-001113-WO-POA

[0044] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the third passage extends from the first recess and vents a space within the first recess.

[0045] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the actuation chamber is disposed between the vent passage and the space within the first recess.

[0046] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the passage in the piston housing fluidly connects the first passage and the actuation chamber.

[0047] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the third passage vents the space within the first recess to a suction chamber of the compressor.

[0048] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, when the control valve is in the first position, working fluid from the axial biasing chamber is allowed to flow through the second passage, through the first passage, and into the actuation chamber.

[0049] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, when the control valve is in the second position, fluid communication between the first and second passages is prevented, and working fluid in the actuation chamber is vented through the first passage.

[0050] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the working fluid in the actuation chamber is vented to a suction chamber of the compressor through the first passage when the control valve is in the second position.

[0051] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the control valve includes a valve body, a valve member, and a valve housing.

[0052] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, when the control valve is in the first position, the working fluid flows through the valve body from the second passage to the first passage, and the valve member prevents fluid flow through an aperture in the valve housing.

[0053] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, when the control valve is in the second position, the working fluid flows from the first passage, through the valve body, and through the aperture in the valve housing,Attorney Docket No. 0315-001113-WO-POAand the valve member prevents fluid flow through the valve body from the second passage to the first passage.

[0054] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the control valve includes a solenoid, wherein energizing the solenoid causes the control valve to move to the second position, and de-energizing the solenoid causes the control valve to move to the first position.

[0055] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, an axial end of the piston is exposed to an axial biasing chamber such that working fluid within the axial biasing chamber biases the piston toward the closed position.

[0056] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the suction-pressure region is a suction inlet defined by the second scroll.

[0057] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the suction-pressure region is a suction chamber defined by a shell of the compressor.

[0058] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the capacity modulation system includes another control valve that independently controls movement of another piston to selectively vent another modulation port to the suction-pressure region.

[0059] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the capacity modulation system is configured to switch the compressor between the first capacity mode, the second capacity mode, and a third capacity mode.

[0060] In another example, the present disclosure provides a compressor that may include a compressor that may include a first scroll, a second scroll, and a capacity modulation system. The first scroll may include a first end plate and a first spiral wrap extending from the first end plate. The second scroll may include a second end plate and a second spiral wrap extending from the second end plate. The first and second spiral wraps cooperate to define a plurality of fluid pockets. During operation of the compressor, the fluid pockets move from a radially outer position to radially intermediate positions to a radially inner position. The second end plate may include a modulation port and a vent passage. The modulation port may be in fluid communication with one of the fluid pockets at one of the radially intermediate positions. The vent passage may be in fluid communication with the modulation port and a suction-pressure region. The capacity modulation system may be operable in a first capacity mode and a second capacityAttorney Docket No. 0315-001113-WO-POAmode. The capacity modulation system may include a control valve, an actuation valve, and a piston. The piston may be movable between an open position in which fluid communication between the modulation port and the vent passage is allowed and a closed position in which fluid communication between the modulation port and the vent passage is prevented. Movement of the control valve between first and second positions causes movement the actuation valve between first and second positions, which causes movement of the piston between the open and closed positions. The piston may be movably disposed within a first recess that extends into the second end plate. The piston may seat against a surface of the second end plate in the closed position. The piston may partially define a first actuation chamber and a second actuation chamber within the first recess. The actuation valve may fluidly communicate with the first and second actuation chambers and the control valve.

[0061] In some configurations of the compressor of the above paragraph, the actuation valve is in fluid communication with a discharge passage in the second end plate.

[0062] In some configurations of the compressor of either or both of the above paragraphs, the actuation valve selectively provides discharge-pressure working fluid from the discharge passage to the second actuation chamber, which moves the piston toward the closed position.

[0063] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the actuation valve is in fluid communication with the suction-pressure region.

[0064] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the actuation valve selectively vents working fluid from the second actuation chamber to the suction-pressure region, which allows the piston to move toward the open position.

[0065] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the control valve selectively provides intermediate-pressure working fluid to the actuation valve and the first actuation chamber to move the piston toward the open position.

[0066] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the control valve selectively vents working fluid from the first actuation chamber to allow the piston to move toward the closed position.Attorney Docket No. 0315-001113-WO-POA

[0067] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the second end plate includes a first passage, a second passage, a third passage, a fourth passage, and a fifth passage.

[0068] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the first passage extends from the control valve to the actuation valve.

[0069] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the second passage extends from the control valve to an axial biasing chamber.

[0070] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the axial biasing chamber is defined by a floating seal assembly and the second scroll.

[0071] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the third passage extends from the second actuation chamber to the actuation valve.

[0072] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the fourth passage extends from the first actuation chamber to the actuation valve.

[0073] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the fifth passage extends from the actuation valve to the vent passage.

[0074] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the actuation valve includes a valve member having a first portion and a second portion.

[0075] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the first portion has a larger diameter than a diameter of the second portion.

[0076] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, first and second seals engage the first and second portions, respectively.

[0077] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the first and second seals cooperate to define a valve chamber therebetween. In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the valve chamber is in fluid communication with the fifth passage.

[0078] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the valve chamber is in fluid communication with the third passage when the actuation valve is in the first position.Attorney Docket No. 0315-001113-WO-POA

[0079] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the valve chamber is fluid communication with the fourth passage when the actuation valve is in the second position.

[0080] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the piston includes a body portion and a flange portion that extends radially outward from the body portion.

[0081] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the flange portion defines the first and second actuation chambers and separates the first and second actuation chambers from each other.

[0082] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the piston includes a first seal engaging the body portion and a second seal engaging the flange portion.

[0083] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the first and second seals cooperate to define the first actuation chamber.

[0084] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the second seal defines the second actuation chamber.

[0085] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the capacity modulation system includes a piston housing disposed within the first recess.

[0086] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the piston housing movably receives the piston.

[0087] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, a passage in the piston housing is in fluid communication with the first actuation chamber.

[0088] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the piston housing includes an annular main body and an annular ledge that extends radially inwardly from the annular main body.

[0089] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the annular ledge and an inner diametrical surface of the annular main body cooperate with the piston to define the first actuation chamber.

[0090] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the annular main body of the piston housing cooperates with the piston to define the second actuation chamber.Attorney Docket No. 0315-001113-WO-POA

[0091] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the suction-pressure region is a suction inlet defined by the second scroll.

[0092] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the suction-pressure region is a suction chamber defined by a shell of the compressor.

[0093] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the capacity modulation system includes another control valve that independently controls movement of another actuation valve and another piston to selectively vent another modulation port to the suction-pressure region.

[0094] In some configurations of the compressor of any one or more of the above paragraphs, the capacity modulation system is configured to switch the compressor between the first capacity mode, the second capacity mode, and a third capacity mode.

[0095] Further areas of applicability will become apparent from the description provided herein. The description and specific examples in this summary are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0096] 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.

[0097] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of a compressor having a capacity modulation system;

[0098] Figure 2 is a perspective view of a non-orbiting scroll and capacity modulation system of the compressor of Figure 1 ;

[0099] Figure 3 is an exploded view of the non-orbiting scroll and capacity modulation system;

[0100] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the non-orbiting scroll and capacity modulation system with a piston of the capacity modulation system in an open position;

[0101] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of the non-orbiting scroll and capacity modulation system with the piston in a closed position;

[0102] Figure 6 is another cross-sectional view of the non-orbiting scroll and capacity modulation system with another piston of the capacity modulation system in the closed position;Attorney Docket No. 0315-001113-WO-POA

[0103] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of the non-orbiting scroll and capacity modulation system with the piston of Figure 6 in the open position;

[0104] Figure 8A is another cross-sectional view of the non-orbiting scroll;

[0105] Figure 8B is another cross-sectional view of the non-orbiting scroll and capacity modulation system;

[0106] Figure 9 is another cross-sectional view of the non-orbiting scroll and capacity modulation system with a control valve of the capacity modulation system in a first position;

[0107] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view of the non-orbiting scroll and capacity modulation system with the control valve of Figure 9 in a second position;

[0108] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view of another non-orbiting scroll and another capacity modulation system;

[0109] Figure 12 is a perspective view of the non-orbiting scroll and capacity modulation system of Figure 11 ;

[0110] Figure 13 is an exploded view of the non-orbiting scroll and capacity modulation system of Figure 11 ;

[0111] Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view of yet another non-orbiting scroll and another capacity modulation system;

[0112] Figure 15 is an exploded view of the non-orbiting scroll and capacity modulation system of Figure 14;

[0113] Figure 16 is a cross-sectional view of the non-orbiting scroll and capacity modulation system of Figure 14;

[0114] Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view of the non-orbiting scroll and capacity modulation system of Figure 14 with a piston of the capacity modulation system in a closed position;

[0115] Figure 18 is another cross-sectional view of the non-orbiting scroll and capacity modulation system of Figure 14 with the piston in the closed position;

[0116] Figure 19 is a cross-sectional view of the non-orbiting scroll and capacity modulation system of Figure 14 with a piston of the capacity modulation system in an open position;

[0117] Figure 20 is another cross-sectional view of the non-orbiting scroll and capacity modulation system of Figure 14 with the piston in the open position;

[0118] Figure 21 is a cross-sectional view of yet another non-orbiting scroll and another capacity modulation system;Attorney Docket No. 0315-001113-WO-POA

[0119] Figure 22 is another cross-sectional view of the non-orbiting scroll and capacity modulation system of Figure 21 ;

[0120] Figure 23 is another cross-sectional view of the non-orbiting scroll and capacity modulation system of Figure 21 ;

[0121] Figure 24 is another cross-sectional view of the non-orbiting scroll and capacity modulation system of Figure 21 ;

[0122] Figure 25 is a cross-sectional view of yet another non-orbiting scroll and another capacity modulation system;

[0123] Figure 26 is a cross-sectional view of the non-orbiting scroll and capacity modulation system of Figure 25 with a piston of the capacity modulation system in an open position;

[0124] Figure 27 is another cross-sectional view of the non-orbiting scroll and capacity modulation system of Figure 25 with the piston in the open position;

[0125] Figure 28 is a cross-sectional view of the non-orbiting scroll and capacity modulation system of Figure 25 with a piston of the capacity modulation system in a closed position;

[0126] Figure 29 is another cross-sectional view of the non-orbiting scroll and capacity modulation system of Figure 25 with the piston in the closed position;

[0127] Figure 30 is a cross-sectional view of yet another non-orbiting scroll and another capacity modulation system;

[0128] Figure 31 is another cross-sectional view of the non-orbiting scroll and capacity modulation system of Figure 30 with a control valve and actuation valve of the capacity modulation system in a first position;

[0129] Figure 32 is a cross-sectional view of the actuation valve in the first position;

[0130] Figure 33 is a cross-sectional view of the non-orbiting scroll of Figure 30 with a piston of the capacity modulation system in an open position;

[0131] Figure 34 is another cross-sectional view of the non-orbiting scroll and piston of Figure 33 in the open position;

[0132] Figure 35 is another cross-sectional view of the non-orbiting scroll and capacity modulation system of Figure 30 with the control valve and actuation valve of in a second position;

[0133] Figure 36 is a cross-sectional view of the actuation valve in the second position;Attorney Docket No. 0315-001113-WO-POA

[0134] Figure 37 is a cross-sectional view of the non-orbiting scroll of Figure 30 with the piston in a closed position;

[0135] Figure 38 is another cross-sectional view of the non-orbiting scroll and piston of Figure 37 in the closed position;

[0136] Figure 39 is a cross-sectional view of another non-orbiting scroll and capacity modulation system with a control valve and actuation valve of the capacity modulation system in a first position;

[0137] Figure 40 is a cross-sectional view of the actuation valve in the first position;

[0138] Figure 41 is a cross-sectional view of the non-orbiting scroll of Figure 39 with a piston of the capacity modulation system in an open position;

[0139] Figure 42 is another cross-sectional view of the non-orbiting scroll and piston of Figure 41 in the open position;

[0140] Figure 43 is another cross-sectional view of the non-orbiting scroll and capacity modulation system of Figure 39 with the control valve and actuation valve of in a second position;

[0141] Figure 44 is a cross-sectional view of the actuation valve in the second position;

[0142] Figure 45 is a cross-sectional view of the non-orbiting scroll of Figure 39 with the piston in a closed position;

[0143] Figure 46 is another cross-sectional view of the non-orbiting scroll and piston of Figure 45 in the closed position;

[0144] Figure 47 is a cross-sectional view of another non-orbiting scroll and capacity modulation system with a control valve and actuation valve of the capacity modulation system in a first position;

[0145] Figure 48 is a cross-sectional view of the actuation valve in the first position;

[0146] Figure 49 is a cross-sectional view of the non-orbiting scroll of Figure 47 with a piston of the capacity modulation system in an open position;

[0147] Figure 50 is another cross-sectional view of the non-orbiting scroll and piston of Figure 49 in the open position;

[0148] Figure 51 is another cross-sectional view of the non-orbiting scroll and capacity modulation system of Figure 47 with the control valve and actuation valve of in a second position;

[0149] Figure 52 is a cross-sectional view of the actuation valve in the second position;Attorney Docket No. 0315-001113-WO-POA

[0150] Figure 53 is a cross-sectional view of the non-orbiting scroll of Figure 47 with the piston in a closed position;

[0151] Figure 54 is another cross-sectional view of the non-orbiting scroll and piston of Figure 53 in the closed position;

[0152] Figure 55 is a perspective view of an alternative piston housing and piston;

[0153] Figure 56 is a cross-sectional view of the piston housing and piston of Figure 55;10154] Figure 57 is a cross-sectional view of yet another non-orbiting scroll and capacity modulation system;

[0155] Figure 58 is another cross-sectional view of the non-orbiting scroll and capacity modulation system of Figure 57;

[0156] Figure 59 is another cross-sectional view of the non-orbiting scroll and capacity modulation system of Figure 57;

[0157] Figure 60 is another cross-sectional view of the non-orbiting scroll and capacity modulation system of Figure 57;

[0158] Figure 61 is a plan view of yet another non-orbiting scroll;

[0159] Figure 62 is a cross-sectional view of another piston, piston housing, and spring incorporated into the non-orbiting scroll and capacity modulation system of Figure 14; and

[0160] Figure 63 is another cross-sectional view of the piston, piston housing, and spring of Figure 62 incorporated into the non-orbiting scroll and capacity modulation system of Figure 14.

[0161] Corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views of the drawings.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0162] Example embodiments will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0163] Example embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and will fully convey the scope to those who are 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, that example embodiments may be embodied in many different forms and that neither should be construed to limit the scope of the disclosure. In some example embodiments, well-Attorney Docket No. 0315-001113-WO-POAknown processes, well-known device structures, and well-known technologies are not described in detail.

[0164] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular example embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular forms "a,” "an," and "the" may be intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms "comprises," "comprising," “including,” and “having,” are inclusive and therefore specify the presence of 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 are not to be construed as necessarily requiring their performance in the particular order discussed or illustrated, unless specifically identified as an order of performance. It is also to be understood that additional or alternative steps may be employed.

[0165] When an element or layer is referred to as being "on," “engaged to,” "connected to," or "coupled to" another element or layer, it may 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, there may be no intervening elements or layers present. Other words used to describe the relationship between elements should be interpreted in a like fashion (e.g., “between” versus “directly between,” “adjacent” versus “directly adjacent,” etc.). As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0166] Although the terms first, second, 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 only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another region, layer, or section. Terms such as “first,” “second,” and other numerical terms when used herein do not imply a sequence or order unless clearly indicated by the context. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer, or section discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer, or section without departing from the teachings of the example embodiments.Attorney Docket No. 0315-001113-WO-POA

[0167] Spatially relative terms, such as “inner,” “outer,” "beneath," "below," "lower," "above," "upper," and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. Spatially relative terms may be 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, elements described as "below" or "beneath" other elements or features would then be oriented "above" the other elements or features. Thus, the example term "below" can encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly.

[0168] With reference to Figures 1-10, a compressor 10 is provided and may include a shell assembly 12, first and second bearing housing assemblies 14, 16, a motor assembly 18, a compression mechanism 20, a discharge port or fitting 24, a suction port or fitting 28, a suction conduit 30, a floating seal assembly 31 , and a capacity modulation system 33.

[0169] As shown in Figure 1, the shell assembly 12 may form a compressor housing and may include a cylindrical shell 32, an end cap 34 at an upper end thereof, a transversely extending partition 36, and a base 38 at a lower end thereof. The shell 32, the base 38 and the partition 36 may cooperate to define a suction-pressure chamber 39. The end cap 34 and the partition 36 may define a discharge-pressure chamber 40. The partition 36 may separate the discharge-pressure chamber 40 from the suctionpressure chamber 39. A discharge-pressure passage 43 may extend through the partition 36 to provide communication between the compression mechanism 20 and the discharge-pressure chamber 40. The suction fitting 28 may be attached to the shell assembly 12 at an opening 46.

[0170] As shown in Figure 1 , the first and second bearing housing assemblies 14, 16 may be disposed within the suction-pressure chamber 39 and may be fixed relative to the shell 32. The first bearing housing assembly 14 may include a first bearing housing 48 and a first bearing 50. The second bearing housing assembly 16 may include a second bearing housing 49 and a second bearing 51. The first and second bearing housings 48, 49 may house the first and second bearings 50, 51 , respectively. The first bearing housing 48 may axially support the compression mechanism 20.

[0171] As shown in Figure 1 , the motor assembly 18 may be disposed within the suction-pressure chamber 39 and may include a stator 60 and a rotor 62. The stator 60Attorney Docket No. 0315-001113-WO-POAmay be press fit into the shell 32. The rotor 62 may be press fit on a drive shaft 64 and may transmit rotational power to the drive shaft 64. The drive shaft 64 may be rotatably supported by the first and second bearing housing assemblies 14, 16. The drive shaft 64 may include an eccentric crank pin 66 having a crank pin flat.

[0172] As shown in Figure 1 , the compression mechanism 20 may be disposed within the suction-pressure chamber 39 and may include a first scroll member and a second scroll member. The first scroll member may be an orbiting scroll 70 that may include an end plate 74 and a spiral wrap 76 extending therefrom. A cylindrical hub 80 may project downwardly from the end plate 74 and may include a drive bushing 82 disposed therein. The drive bushing 82 may include an inner bore (not numbered) in which the crank pin 66 is drivingly disposed. The crank pin flat may drivingly engage a flat surface in a portion of the inner bore to provide a radially compliant driving arrangement. An Oldham coupling 84 may be engaged with the orbiting and non-orbiting scrolls 70, 72 to prevent relative rotation therebetween.

[0173] As shown in Figure 1 , the second scroll member may be a non-orbiting scroll 72 that may include an end plate 86 and a spiral wrap 88 projecting downwardly from the end plate 86. The spiral wrap 88 may meshingly engage the spiral wrap 76 of the orbiting scroll 70, thereby creating a series of moving fluid pockets. The fluid pockets defined by the spiral wraps 76, 88 may decrease in volume as they move from a radially outer position (at a suction pressure) to radially intermediate positions (at intermediate pressures) to a radially inner position (at a discharge pressure) throughout a compression cycle of the compression mechanism 20. A suction inlet 89 may be formed in the nonorbiting scroll 72 and may provide fluid communication between the suction conduit 30 and a radially outermost fluid pocket 93 formed by the spiral wraps 76, 88. The suction conduit 30 may be attached to the end plate 86 of the non-orbiting scroll and may direct working fluid at a suction pressure from the suction fitting 28 to the suction inlet 89 of the non-orbiting scroll 72 so that working fluid can be directed into the radially outermost fluid pocket 93 and subsequently compressed by the compression mechanism 20.

[0174] In the example shown in the figures, the end plate 86 is a two-piece end plate having a first portion 85 (from which the spiral wrap 88 extends) and a second portion 87 that may be attached to the first portion 85 (e.g., mounted via threaded fasteners).

[0175] The first portion 85 of the end plate 86 may include a discharge passage 92, one or more first modulation ports 99, one or more second modulation ports 100, andAttorney Docket No. 0315-001113-WO-POAone or more third modulation ports 102. As shown in Figures 3 and 8A, the modulation ports 99, 100, 102 may extend entirely through first and second opposing axially facing sides of the first portion 85 of the end plate 86 and are in selective fluid communication with respective intermediate-pressure pockets (e.g., the first modulation ports 99 may be in fluid communication with a first intermediate-pressure pocket, the second modulation ports 100 may be in fluid communication with a second intermediate-pressure pocket, and the third modulation ports 102 may be in fluid communication with a third intermediate-pressure pocket).

[0176] The second portion 87 of the end plate 86 of the non-orbiting scroll 72 may include a hub 104 that extends away from the spiral wrap 88. A discharge passage 108 extends axially through the hub 104 and is in fluid communication with the discharge chamber 40 via the discharge passage 43 in the partition 36. The discharge passage 108 is also in selective fluid communication with the discharge passage 92 in the first portion 85 of the end plate 86. A discharge valve assembly 110 may also be disposed within the discharge passage 108 of the hub 104. The discharge valve assembly 110 may be a one-way valve that allows fluid flow from the discharge passage 92 to the discharge chamber 40 and restricts or prevents fluid flow from the discharge chamber 40 back into the compression mechanism 20.

[0177] The floating seal assembly 31 may be an annular member that may encircle the hub 104 and be disposed radially between the hub 104 and an outer rim 105 of the second portion 87 of the end plate 86. For example, the floating seal assembly 31 may include annular disks that are fixed to each other and one or more annular lip seals that extend from the disks. The floating seal assembly 31 may be sealingly engaged with the partition 36, the hub 104, and the outer rim 105 of the end plate 86. In this manner, the floating seal assembly 31 fluidly separates the suction-pressure chamber 39 from the discharge-pressure chamber 40. In some configurations, the floating seal assembly 31 could be a one-piece floating seal.

[0178] The end plate 86 of the non-orbiting scroll 72 may include an intermediate-cavity-pressure (ICP) passage 106 the extends through the first and second portions 85, 87 of the end plate 86. The ICP passage 106 (Figure 4) may be in fluid communication with an intermediate-pressure compression pocket (defined by the spiral wraps). The ICP passage 106 may provide intermediate-pressure working fluid to an axial biasing chamber 109 (Figure 4) The axial biasing chamber 109 may be a chamber disposed radially between the inner hub 104 and outer rim 105 and defined by the floating sealAttorney Docket No. 0315-001113-WO-POAassembly 31 and a wall 111 of the second portion 78 of the end plate 86). The intermediate-pressure working fluid in the axial biasing chamber 109 biases the floating seal assembly 31 and the end plate 86 axially away from each other so that the floating seal assembly 31 sealingly engages the partition 36 and the non-orbiting scroll 72 sealingly engages the orbiting scroll 70.

[0179] During operation of the compressor 10, the capacity modulation system 33 may be operable to switch the compressor 10 between a full-capacity or high-capacity mode, a low-capacity mode (in which the compressor 10 operates at a capacity that is lower than the high-capacity mode), and an intermediate-capacity mode (in which the compressor 10 operates at a capacity that is lower than the high-capacity mode and higher than the low-capacity mode). As will be described in more detail below, in the high-capacity mode, fluid communication between the modulation ports 99, 100, 102 and a suction-pressure region (e.g., the suction inlet 89, the suction-pressure chamber 39, or another location within the compressor at a suction pressure) is prevented. In the low-capacity mode, the modulation ports 99, 100, 102 are allowed to fluidly communicate with the suction-pressure region to vent intermediate-pressure working fluid from the respective intermediate-pressure compression pockets to the suction-pressure region. In the intermediate-capacity mode, the modulation ports 100, 102 are allowed to vent to the suction-pressure region and fluid communication between the modulation ports 99 and the suction-pressure region is prevented.

[0180] The capacity modulation system 33 may include a first piston 120 (Figures 3-5, 8A, and 8B), a second piston 121 (Figures 3 and 6-8B), a first control valve 122 (Figures 3 and 8B-10), and a second control valve 123 (Figures 3 and 8B). As will be described in more detail below, the first piston 120 is movable between an open position (Figure 4; to allow ports 99 to vent to the suction-pressure region) and a closed position (Figure 5; to prevent ports 99 from venting to the suction-pressure region). Similarly, the second piston 121 is movable between an open position (Figure 7; to allow ports 100, 102 to vent to the suction-pressure region) and a closed position (Figure 6; to prevent ports 100, 102 from venting to the suction-pressure region). The first control valve 122 is movable between a first position (Figure 9; which causes the first piston 120 to move to the open position) and a second position (Figure 10; which causes the first piston 120 to move to the closed position). Similarly, the second control valve 123 is movable between the first position (which causes the second piston 121 to move to the open position) and the second position (which causes the second piston 121 to move to the closed position).Attorney Docket No. 0315-001113-WO-POA

[0181] As shown in Figures 4-7, the pistons 120, 121 may be generally cylindrical members and may be slidably received in respective recesses 124, 125 in the second portion 87 of the end plate 86 of the non-orbiting scroll 72. The second portion 87 may also include a recess or vent passage 126 (Figures 4-8A) recessed into a bottom surface 137 of the second portion 87 of the end plate 86. The modulation ports 99 are in fluid communication with the vent passage 126 when the first piston 120 is in the open position and are fluidly isolated from the vent passage 126 when the first piston 120 is in the closed position. The modulation ports 100, 102 are in fluid communication with the vent passage 126 when the second piston 121 is in the open position and are fluidly isolated from the vent passage 126 when the second piston 121 is in the closed position. The vent passage 126 in the second portion 87 of the end plate 86 is also in fluid communication with a vent passage 127 (Figures 6 and 8A) in the first portion 85 of the end plate 86. The vent passage 127 extends through the first portion 85 and provides fluid communication between the vent passage 126 and the suction inlet 89 of the nonorbiting scroll 72.

[0182] As shown in Figures 3-7, each of the pistons 120, 121 may include a main body portion (or first portion) 128 and a flange portion (or second portion) 129. The flange portion 129 extends radially outward from the body portion 128 and has a diameter that is larger than a diameter of the body portion 128. Each piston 120, 121 may also include an upper protrusion 137 that extends upward from the flange portion 129 into the axial biasing chamber 109. The upper protrusion 137 has a diameter that is smaller than the diameter of the flange portion 129 and smaller than the diameter of the body portion 128. The upper protrusion 137 may contact the floating seal assembly 31 when the piston 120, 121 is in the open position. In this manner, the upper protrusion 137 acts as a hard stop to limit the range of motion of the piston 120, 121. As shown in Figures 4-7, each of the pistons 120, 121 may include a spring 138 that biases the pistons 120, 121 toward the open position. The spring 138 may engage a surface 139 of the end plate 86 (e.g., a surface that defines an upper end of the first portion 85 of the end plate 86) and may be received within an aperture 140 in the respective piston 120, 121.

[0183] As shown in Figures 4-7, the recesses 124, 125 (in which the respective pistons 120, 121 are movably received) each include a first portion 130 and a second portion 131. The first portion 130 has a smaller diameter than a diameter of the second portion 131. The first portion 130 of each recess 124, 125 receives the body portion 128 of the respective piston 120, 121. The second portion 131 of each recess 124, 125Attorney Docket No. 0315-001113-WO-POAreceives the flange portion 129 of the respective piston 120, 121. The body portion 128 may include an annular groove that receives a first seal 132 that sealingly engages the body portion 128 and the first portion 130 of the recess 124, 125. The flange portion 129 may include an annular groove that receives a second seal 133 that sealingly engages the flange portion 129 and the second portion 131 of the recess 124, 125. In this manner, an annular actuation chamber 134 is formed between the flange portion 129 of each piston 120, 121 and the first portion 130 of each respective recess 124. The seals 132, 133 seal the upper and lower axial ends of the actuation chamber 134.

[0184] As shown in Figures 4, 5, and 8B, the second portion 87 of the end plate 86 may include first passages 142 that each fluidly communicate with a respective one of the actuation chambers 134. One of the first passages 142 extends from the first control valve 122 to the actuation chamber 134 defined by the first piston 120. The other first passage 142 extends from the second control valve 123 to the actuation chamber 134 defined by the second piston 121. The second portion 87 of the end plate 86 may also include second passages 144 that each fluidly communicate with the axial biasing chamber 109. One of the second passages 144 extends from the first control valve 122 to the axial biasing chamber 109. The other second passage 144 extends from the second control valve 123 to the axial biasing chamber 109.

[0185] As shown in Figures 8B-10, the control valves 122, 123 may be mounted to the end plate 86 (e.g., the second portion 87 of the end plate 86) and may partially extend into respective valve passages 146 in the end plate 86. Each valve passage 146 may be in fluid communication with a respective one of the first passages 142 and a respective one of the second passages 144.

[0186] When the first control valve 122 is in the first position (Figure 9), the first control valve 122 may provide intermediate-pressure working fluid (e.g., from the axial biasing chamber 109 and second passage 144) to the actuation chamber 134 defined by the first piston 120 via the respective first passage 142, which moves the piston 120 to the open position (Figure 4). When the first control valve 122 is in the second position (Figure 10), the first control valve 122 may provide suction-pressure working fluid (e.g., from suction chamber 39) to the actuation chamber 134 defined by the first piston 120, which moves the piston 120 to the closed position (Figure 5).

[0187] Similarly, when the second control valve 123 is in the first position, the second control valve 123 may provide intermediate-pressure working fluid (e.g., from the axial biasing chamber 109 and second passage 144) to the actuation chamber 134Attorney Docket No. 0315-001113-WO-POAdefined by the second piston 121 via the respective first passage 142, which moves the piston 121 to the open position (Figure 7). When the second control valve 123 is in the second position, the second control valve 123 may provide suction-pressure working fluid (e.g., from suction chamber 39) to the actuation chamber 134 defined by the second piston 121, which moves the piston 121 to the closed position (Figure 6).

[0188] The control valves 122, 123 may be solenoid valves. In the particular example shown in Figures 1-10, energizing the solenoid of the first control valve 122 causes the first control valve 122 to move to the second position (Figure 10), which causes the first piston 120 to move to the closed position (Figure 5). Deenergizing the solenoid of the first control valve 122 causes the first control valve 122 to move to the first position (Figure 9), which causes the first piston 120 to move to the open position (Figure 4). Similarly, energizing the solenoid of the second control valve 123 causes the second control valve 123 to move to the second position, which causes the second piston 121 to move to the closed position (Figure 6). Deenergizing the solenoid of the second control valve 123 causes the second control valve 123 to move to the second position, which causes the second piston 121 to move to the open position (Figure 7).

[0189] As shown in Figures 9 and 10, each of the control valves 122, 123 may include a body 150, a housing 152, a valve member 156, a spring 158, a solenoid coil 160, and a coil housing 162. The valve member 156 may include an armature 165 and a valve stem 167 that may be fixed to each other. The body 150 may be a generally cylindrical body having a first passage 164, a second passage 166, a third passage 168, and a flange 170. The body 150 may be at least partially received in the valve passage 146 in the end plate 86.

[0190] As shown in Figures 9 and 10, each of the valve passages 146 in the end plate 86 includes a first portion 172 having a first diameter and a second portion 174 having a second diameter that is larger than the first diameter. The body 150 of the control valve 122, 123 is fixedly received in the first and second portions 172, 174 of the respective valve passage 146. The body 150 may include seals 175, 177 (e.g., O-rings) that sealingly engage the first and second portions 172, 174, respectively. An annular chamber 176 is formed axially between the seals 175, 177 and radially between diametrical surfaces of the body 150 and diametrical surfaces of the valve passage 146. Each of the first passage 142 in the end plate 86 intersects (and communicates with) the respective annular chamber 176. The third passage 168 of the body 150 of each control valve 122, 123 is in fluid communication with the respective annular chamber 176, andAttorney Docket No. 0315-001113-WO-POAtherefore, is also in fluid communication with the respective first passage 142 of the end plate 86.

[0191] The second passage 166 of the body 150 extends through a first axial end of the body 150 and is in fluid communication with respective second passage 144 of the end plate 86. When the control valve 122, 123 is in the first position (Figure 9), the second passage 166 of the body 150 is in fluid communication with the first passage 164 of the body 150 and the third passage 168 of the body 150. When the control valve 122, 123 is in the second position (Figure 10), the valve stem 167 of the valve member 156 prevents fluid communication between the second passage 166 of the body 150 and the first and third passages 164, 168 of the body 150.

[0192] The first passage 164 of the body 150 extends through a second axial end of the body 150. The first passage 164 is in fluid communication with the third passage 168, and as described above, is in selective fluid communication with the second passage 166. The first passage 164 reciprocatingly receives the valve stem 167 of the valve member 156. The diameters of the valve stem 167 and the first passage 164 may be sized such that a gap is formed between the valve stem 167 and a diametrical surface of the first passage 164 through which working fluid can flow through the first passage 164 around the valve stem 167.

[0193] The housing 152 of the control valve 122, 123 may be fixed relative to the body 150 and the end plate 86. The housing 152 may be a generally tubular and hollow body defining an internal cavity 182. A first axial end surface 184 of the housing 152 may include an aperture 186 that provides fluid communication between the suction chamber 39 and the internal cavity 182. The opposite axial end (i.e. , the axial end opposite the first axial end surface 174) of the housing 152 has an opening such that the valve member 156 and an end of the body 150 can be received therethrough.

[0194] As described above, the valve member 156 may include the armature 165 and the valve stem 167. The armature 165 may be reciprocatingly received within the internal cavity 182 of the housing 152. The diameters of the armature 165 and the inner diametrical surface of the housing 152 may be sized such that a gap is formed radially between the outer diametrical surface of the armature 165 and the inner diametrical surface of the housing 152. Working fluid from passage 142 can flow through passage 164, through this gap around the armature 165, and subsequently through aperture 186 (when the control valve 122, 123 is in the second position (Figure 10)) to the suction chamber 39. The spring 158 may be disposed between the body 150 and the armatureAttorney Docket No. 0315-001113-WO-POA165 and biases the armature 165 away from the body 150 to bias the valve member 156 toward the first position (Figure 9).

[0195] The valve stem 167 of the valve member 156 may be an elongated pin or rod that extends through a central aperture in the armature 165. The valve stem 167 may be fixed to the armature 165 (e.g., by press fit and / or adhesive, for example). The valve stem 167 extends through the open axial end of the housing 152 and extends into the first passage 164 of the body 150. The valve stem 167 is movable within the first passage 164 between the first and second positions, as shown in Figures 9 and 10. In the first position (Figure 9), the valve stem 167 plugs the aperture 186 of the housing 152 (to prevent fluid flow through the aperture 186) and allows fluid flow from the passage 144 and second passage 166 into the first passage 164 and subsequently into the third passage 168 and passage 142. In the second position (Figure 10), the valve stem 167 unplugs the aperture 186 of the housing 152 (to allow fluid flow from passage 142, through passage 164, through the aperture 186, and into the suction chamber 39) and prevents fluid flow from the passage 144 and second passage 166 into the first passage 164.

[0196] The solenoid coil 160 may be disposed within the coil housing 162 and may surround the armature 165. The solenoid coil 160 may be electrically connected to a source of electrical power. The solenoid coil 160 and coil housing 162 are fixed relative to the housing 152. The housing 152 may be at least partially disposed within the coil housing 162. The valve member 156 is disposed partially within the coil housing 162 and extends out of the coil housing 162 and into the first passage 164 of the body 150. The coil housing 162 may be fixed to the end plate 86 by fasteners, for example. In some configurations, the coil housing 162 may be attached to a mounting bracket that is fixed to the end plate 86 by fasteners.

[0197] Deenergizing the solenoid coil 160 allows the spring 158 to move the valve member 156 to the first position (Figure 9). In the first position, the valve member 156 blocks the aperture 186 in the housing 152 and thereby prevents fluid communication between the suction chamber 39 and the internal cavity 182. Furthermore, in the first position, the valve stem 167 unblocks opening 181 between passages 164 and 166 to allow fluid communication between the passages 166 and 168, thereby allowing intermediate-pressure working fluid to flow from the axial biasing chamber 109, through the second passage 144 of the end plate 86, into the passage 166, through the passage 164, through passage 168, through the passage 142 of the end plate 86, and into theAttorney Docket No. 0315-001113-WO-POAactuation chamber 134 of the respective piston 120, 121. As noted above, providing intermediate-pressure working fluid to the actuation chamber 134 causes the piston 120, 121 to move up to the open position, which opens the respective modulation ports 99, 100, 102 to allow the respective intermediate-pressure pockets (e.g., pockets 96, 97) to vent to the suction inlet 89 (e.g., via passages 126 and 127), thereby lowering the capacity of the compressor 10.

[0198] Energizing the solenoid coil 160 moves the valve member 156 into the second position (Figure 10). In the second position, the valve stem 167 opens the aperture 186 in the housing 152, thereby allowing fluid communication between the suction chamber 39 and the internal cavity 182. Furthermore, in the second position, the valve stem 167 blocks the opening 181 to prevent fluid communication between the passage 164 and passage 166, thereby cutting off the supply of intermediate-pressure working fluid to the actuation chamber 134 (e.g., preventing fluid communication between the axial biasing chamber 109 and the actuation chamber 134). Instead, while the valve member 156 is in the second position, suction-pressure working fluid from the suction chamber 39 is communicated to the actuation chamber 134 (or rather, the actuation chamber 134 is vented to suction pressure) via aperture 186 in the housing 152, the internal cavity 182, the gaps around the valve member 156, the passage 168 in the body 152, and the passage 142 in the end plate 86. As noted above, providing suctionpressure working fluid to the actuation chamber 134 (i.e., venting the actuation chamber 134 to suction pressure) allows intermediate-pressure fluid in the axial biasing chamber 109 to force the flange portion 129 of the respective piston 120, 121 downward to the closed position, which closes the respective modulation ports 99, 100, 102 to prevent the respective intermediate-pressure pockets (e.g., pockets 96, 97) from venting to the suction inlet 89, thereby raising the capacity of the compressor 10.

[0199] By venting the intermediate-pressure working fluid of the intermediatepressure pockets to the suction inlet 89 of the scroll 72 (as opposed to venting to the suction chamber 39 of the shell 12), the vented working fluid is kept away from the muffler plate 36 (which radiates significant heat from the discharge chamber 40) and from the motor assembly 18 (which also produces significant heat). This reduces heating of the vented working fluid, which may improve efficiency of the compressor 10.

[0200] The control valves 122, 123 may be in communication (e.g., in electrical and / or signal connection) with a control module. The control module 200 may control operation of the control valves 122, 123 and may be in communication (e.g., wired orAttorney Docket No. 0315-001113-WO-POAwireless communication) with a thermostat. The control module may control the control valve 122 based on information received from the thermostat, for example. In some configurations, the control module may also be in communication with and control operation of the motor assembly 18 of the compressor 10 (e.g., based on information received from the thermostat).

[0201] Furthermore, it will be appreciated that the control valves 122, 123 could be configured to operate with other types of capacity modulation systems and to control actuation of such capacity modulation systems. For example, the control valve could be incorporated in a capacity modulation system that includes a valve ring and a base ring that cooperate to form a lift chamber (or actuation chamber) that contains fluid to selectively lift the valve ring to move between first and second capacity modes. The control valve could be configured to control fluid flow to the lift chamber.

[0202] Referring now to Figures 11-13, an alternative non-orbiting scroll 272 and capacity modulation system 233 are provided that can be incorporated into the compressor 10 instead of the non-orbiting scroll 72 and capacity modulation system 33. The structure and function of the non-orbiting scroll 272 and capacity modulation system 233 may be similar or identical to that of the non-orbiting scroll 72 and capacity modulation system 33 described above, apart from differing features described below and / or shown in the figures.

[0203] Like the non-orbiting scroll 72, the non-orbiting scroll 272 includes a first portion 285 (similar or identical to first portion 85 described above) and a second portion 287. The second portion 287 may be similar or identical to the second portion 87 described above, except the second portion 287 may include piston retainers 288 that retain pistons 320, 321 of the capacity modulation system 233 in recesses 324, 325 (similar or identical to recesses 124, 125 described above). Each piston retainer 288 is received in an annular slot 290 formed in the respective one of the recesses 324, 325.

[0204] The piston retainers 288 may be generally C-shaped rings. Each piston retainer 288 includes a pair of ends 292 that are spaced apart from each other. To install the piston retainers 288 in their respective slots 290, the ends 292 of each piston retainer 288 can be squeezed together to reduce the diameter of the piston retainer 288, the piston retainer 288 can then be inserted into the slot 290, and the ends 292 can be subsequently released to allow the piston retainer 288 to resiliency expand back to a larger diameter to seat the piston retainer 288 partially inside the slot 290.Attorney Docket No. 0315-001113-WO-POA

[0205] Like the capacity modulation system 33, the capacity modulation system 233 may include first and second pistons 320, 321 , and first and second control valves 322, 323 that are operable to selectively vent respective modulation ports 299, 300, 302 (similar or identical to modulation ports 99, 100, 102). The piston retainers 288 may be in contact with the respective pistons 320, 321 in their open positions. In this manner, the piston retainers 288 act as hard stops that limit the range of motion of the pistons 320, 321.

[0206] Like the capacity modulation system 33 described above, movement of the pistons 320, 321 is independently controlled by the control valves 322, 323, respectively. That is, intermediate-pressure working fluid in axial biasing chamber 309 (similar or identical to axial biasing chamber 109) urges the pistons 320, 321 downward toward the closed position. The control valves 322, 323 control fluid flow through passages 342, 344 (similar or identical to passages 142, 144) so that intermediate-pressure working fluid can be selectively supplied to the passage 342 and actuation chamber 334 (similar or identical to actuation chamber 134) to force the piston 320, 321 upward to the open position and working fluid can be vented from the actuation chamber 334 and passage 342 to allow working fluid in the axial biasing chamber 309 to force the piston 320, 321 downward to the closed position.

[0207] Figure 11 shows spring 340 disposed within actuation chamber 334 circumferentially around a portion of the piston 320. The spring 340 biases the piston 320 toward the open position. Another spring 340 is disposed with actuation chamber 334 corresponding to piston 321 to similarly bias piston 321 toward the open position. It will be appreciated, however, that springs similar or identical to springs 138 (described above) could be utilized instead of (or in addition to) the springs 340 in the non-orbiting scroll 272 and capacity modulation system 233. It will also be appreciated that springs similar or identical to springs 340 could be utilized instead of (or in addition to) spring 138 in the non-orbiting scroll 72 and capacity modulation system 33.

[0208] While not shown in Figures 11-13, it will be appreciated that when the nonorbiting scroll 272 and capacity modulation system 233 are installed in the compressor 10, the floating seal assembly 31 will be installed between hub 304 and rim 305 in the same manner as shown and described above with respect to non-orbiting scroll 72.

[0209] Referring now to Figures 14-20, another non-orbiting scroll 472 and capacity modulation system 433 are provided that can be incorporated into the compressor 10 instead of the non-orbiting scroll 72 and capacity modulation system 33.Attorney Docket No. 0315-001113-WO-POAThe structure and function of the non-orbiting scroll 472 and capacity modulation system 433 may be similar or identical to that of the non-orbiting scroll 72 and capacity modulation system 33 described above, apart from differing features described below and / or shown in the figures.

[0210] Like the non-orbiting scroll 72, the non-orbiting scroll 472 may include a first portion 485 (similar or identical to first portion 85) and a second portion 487 (similar to second portion 87, except for differences described below). Like the first portion 85, the first portion 485 may include including modulation ports 499, 500, 502 (similar or identical to modulation ports 99, 100, 102), vent passage 527 (similar or identical to vent passage 127), and suction inlet 489 (similar or identical to suction inlet 89), as shown in Figure 15.

[0211] The second portion 487 may include a hub 504 and rim 505 (similar or identical to hub 104 and rim 105) that cooperate with the floating seal assembly 31 to form an axial biasing chamber 509 (similar or identical to axial biasing chamber 109), which receives intermediate-pressure working fluid from an ICP passage (similar or identical to ICP passage 106) and intermediate-pressure compression pocket (defined by the spiral wraps), in the manner described above.

[0212] The second portion 487 includes first and second recesses 524, 525, a vent passage 526 (similar or identical to vent passage 126), a pair of first passages 542 (similar or identical to passages 142), a pair of second passages 544 (similar or identical to passages 144), and a pair of third passages 545. The first and second recesses 524, 525 extend into the underside of the second portion 487 of the end plate 486, like the recesses 124, 125 described above. Unlike recesses 124, 125, however, the recesses 524, 525 do not extend into the axial biasing chamber 509. That is, the recesses 524, 525 are not directly open to the axial biasing chamber 509.

[0213] Like the first passages 142 described above, the first passages 542 are in fluid communication with a respective one of control valve assembly 522, 523 and are in fluid communication with a respective one of the recesses 524, 525. Like the second passages 144 described above, the second passages 544 are in fluid communication with the axial biasing chamber 509 and a respective one of control valve assembly 522, 523. The third passages 545 are in fluid communication with the suction chamber 39 and a respective one of the recesses 524, 525.

[0214] The capacity modulation system 433 may include piston housings 519, first and second pistons 520, 521 , and the first and second control valves 522, 523. The structure and function of the control valves 522, 523 may be similar or identical to controlAttorney Docket No. 0315-001113-WO-POAvalves 122, 123 described above. Like the pistons 120, 121 of the capacity modulation system 33, the pistons 520, 521 are movable between an open position Figures 19 and 20) to allow respective modulation ports 499, 500, 501 to vent to the suction inlet 489 and a closed position (Figures 17 and 18) to prevent the respective modulation ports 499, 500, 501 from venting to the suction inlet 489. Like the control valves 122, 123 of the capacity modulation system 33, movement of the control valve 522, 523 to the first position (see Figure 9) causes the respective piston 520, 521 to move to the open position (Figures 19 and 20) and movement of the control valve 522, 523 to the second position (see Figure 10) causes the respective piston 520, 521 to move to the closed position.

[0215] The piston housings 519 may be annular members and may be fixedly received in (e.g., pressed into) a respective one of the recesses 524, 525. As shown in Figures 17-20, each piston includes a main body 531 and an annular ledge 533 that extends radially inward from the main body 531. An outer diametrical surface of the main body 531 may engage an inner diametrical surface of the respective recess 524, 525. As shown in Figures 17 and 19, each piston housing 519 also includes a passage 535 that extends through inner and outer diametrical surfaces of the main body 531. The passage 535 is in fluid communication with the passage 542 in the end plate 486.

[0216] The pistons 520, 521 may be movably received in a respective one of the piston housings 519. As shown in Figures 17-20, each of the pistons 520, 521 may include a main body portion (or first portion) 528 and a flange portion (or second portion) 529. The flange portion 529 extends radially outward from the body portion 528 and has a diameter that is larger than a diameter of the body portion 528. Each of the pistons 520, 521 may include a spring 538 that biases the pistons 520, 521 toward the closed position (Figures 17 and 18). The spring 538 may engage a surface 539 of the second portion 487 of the end plate 486 (e.g., a surface that defines an upper axial end of recess 524, 525) and may be received within an aperture 540 in the respective piston 520, 521. As shown in Figures 18 and 20, a space 551 above each piston 520, 521 is in fluid communication with the suction chamber 39 via the respective passage 545.

[0217] The first portion 528 of the piston 520, 521 may include an annular groove that receives a first annular seal 541. The second portion 529 of the piston 520, 521 may include an annular groove that receives a second annular seal 543. The first annular seal 541 seal i ngly engages the first portion 528 of the piston 520, 521 and an inner diametrical surface of the annular ledge 533 of the piston housing 519. The second annular seal 543 seal i ngly engages the second portion 529 of the piston 520, 521 and an inner diametricalAttorney Docket No. 0315-001113-WO-POAsurface of the main body 531 of the piston housing 519. In this manner, an annular actuation chamber 534 is formed between the annular seals 541 , 543 (i.e., axially between the annular ledge 533 and the second portion 529 of the piston 520, 521) and radially between the outer diametrical surface of the first portion 528 of the piston 520, 521 and the inner diametrical surface of the main body 531 of the piston housing 519. The passage 535 in the piston housing 519 is in fluid communication with the actuation chamber 534. In this manner, the actuation chamber 534 is in fluid communication with the passage 542 of the end plate 486. In the same manner as described above with respect to the capacity modulation system 33, when the control valve 522, 523 is in the first position (see Figure 9), intermediate-pressure working fluid from passage 544 is allowed to flow to passage 542 and into the actuation chamber 534 to move the respective piston 520, 521 to the open position (Figures 19 and 20). Furthermore, in the same manner as described above with respect to the capacity modulation system 33, when the control valve 522, 523 is in the second position (see Figure 10), intermediatepressure working fluid from the actuation chamber 534 is allowed to vent to the suction chamber 39 via passage 542 to move the respective piston 520, 521 to the closed position (Figures 17 and 18) by the force of spring 538.

[0218] Referring now to Figures 21-24, another non-orbiting scroll 672 and capacity modulation system 633 are provided that can be incorporated into the compressor 10 instead of the non-orbiting scroll 72 and capacity modulation system 33. The structure and function of the non-orbiting scroll 672 and capacity modulation system 633 may be similar or identical to that of the non-orbiting scroll 472 and capacity modulation system 433 described above, apart from differing features described below.

[0219] Like the capacity modulation system 433, the capacity modulation system 633 may include piston housings 719 (similar or identical to piston housings 519), first and second pistons 720, 721, and the first and second control valves 722, 723. The structure and function of the control valves 722 may be similar or identical to control valves 122, 123 described above. Like the pistons 520, 521 of the capacity modulation system 433, the pistons 720, 721 are movable between an open position (see Figures 19 and 20) to allow respective modulation ports (similar or identical to modulation ports 499, 500, 501) to vent to a suction inlet (similar or identical to suction inlet 489) and a closed position (see Figures 17 and 18) to prevent the respective modulation ports from venting to the suction inlet. Like the control valves 122, 123 of the capacity modulation system 33, movement of the control valve 722, 723 to the first position (see Figure 9)Attorney Docket No. 0315-001113-WO-POAcauses the respective piston 720, 721 to move to the open position and movement of the control valve 722, 723 to the second position (see Figure 10) causes the respective piston 720, 721 to move to the closed position.

[0220] The pistons 720, 721 may be similar or identical to pistons 520, 521 , except pistons 720, 721 include a protrusion 737 that extends into a respective aperture 739 in a second portion 687 of end plate 684. Other than having the apertures 739, the end plate 684 may be otherwise identical to end plate 484. Each of the apertures 739 extends from axial biasing chamber 709 (similar or identical to axial biasing chamber 109) to the respective recess 724, 725 (similar or identical to recesses 524, 525). Like pistons 520, 521 , the pistons 720, 721 cooperate with the respective piston housing 719 to define actuation chambers 734 (similar or identical to actuation chambers 534).

[0221] In the same manner as described above with respect to the capacity modulation system 433, when the control valve 722, 723 is in the first position (see Figure 9), intermediate-pressure working fluid from passage 744 (similar or identical to passage 544) is allowed to flow to passage 742 (similar or identical to passage 542) and into the actuation chamber 734 to move the respective piston 720, 721 to the open position. Furthermore, in the same manner as described above with respect to the capacity modulation system 433, when the control valve 722, 723 is in the second position (see Figure 10), intermediate-pressure working fluid from the actuation chamber 734 is allowed to vent to the suction chamber 39 via passage 742 to move the respective piston 721 , 721 to the closed position. Intermediate-pressure working fluid in the axial biasing chamber 109 applies a force to the protrusion 737 of the piston 720, 721 to bias the piston 720, 721 toward the closed position. In some configurations, a spring 738 may also bias the piston 720, 721 toward the closed position.

[0222] Referring now to Figures 25-29, another non-orbiting scroll 872 and capacity modulation system 833 are provided that can be incorporated into the compressor 10 instead of the non-orbiting scroll 72 and capacity modulation system 33. The structure and function of the non-orbiting scroll 872 and capacity modulation system 833 may be similar or identical to that of the non-orbiting scroll 472 and capacity modulation system 433 described above, apart from differing features described below.

[0223] The capacity modulation system 833 may include pegs 919 (only one of which is shown), first and second pistons 920 (only one of which is shown), and first and second control valves 922 (only one of which is shown). The first and second pistons 920 may be identical to each other and may have the same function as pistons 520, 521. TheAttorney Docket No. 0315-001113-WO-POAfirst and second control valves 922 may be identical to each other. The structure and function of the control valves 922 may be similar or identical to control valves 122, 123 described above.

[0224] Like the pistons 520, 521 of the capacity modulation system 433, the pistons 920 are movable between an open position to allow respective modulation ports (similar or identical to modulation ports 499, 500, 501) to vent to a suction inlet (similar or identical to suction inlet 489) and a closed position to prevent the respective modulation ports from venting to the suction inlet. Like the control valves 122, 123 of the capacity modulation system 33, movement of the control valve 922 to the first position (see Figure 9) causes the respective piston 920 to move to the open position (Figures 26 and 27) and movement of the control valve 922 to the second position (see Figure 10) causes the respective piston 920 to move to the closed position (Figures 28 and 29).

[0225] The non-orbiting scroll 872 may be similar or identical to the non-orbiting scroll 472 described above. That is, the non-orbiting scroll 872 may include an end plate 886 having first and second portions 885, 887 (similar or identical to first and second portions 485, 487). The second portion 887 may include first and second recesses 924 (similar or identical to recesses 524, 525), first passages 942 (similar or identical to passages 542), second passages 944 (similar or identical to passages 544), and third passages 945 (similar or identical to passages 545). Each of the recesses 924 movably receives a respective one of the pistons 920.

[0226] Each of the pistons 920 may include a pair of annular seals 943 received in grooves in the outer diametrical surface of the piston 920. Each piston 920 may also include a central recess 940 that extends through a lower axial end of the piston 920. A passage 946 extends from the central recess 940 and through the outer diametrical surface of the piston 920. The passage 946 is in fluid communication with the first passage 942 in the second portion 887 of the end plate 886.

[0227] The central recess 940 of each piston 920 receives a respective one of the pegs 919. The pistons 920 move relative to the pegs 919. The pegs 919 may remain stationary relative to the end plate 886 even while the pistons 920 are moving. Each peg 919 may include an annular seal 941 that sealingly engages the peg 919 and inner diametrical surface of the central recess 940 of the piston 920. In this manner, each piston 920 and peg 919 cooperate to form an actuation chamber 934. The actuation chamber 934 is in fluid communication with the passage 942 via passage 946.Attorney Docket No. 0315-001113-WO-POA

[0228] Each of the pistons 920 may include a spring 938 that biases the piston 920 toward the closed position (Figures 28 and 29). The spring 938 may engage an upper surface of the piston 920 and a surface 939 of the second portion 887 of the end plate 886 (e.g., a surface that defines an upper axial end of recess 924). As shown in Figures 18 and 20, a space 951 above each piston 920 is in fluid communication with the suction chamber 39 via the respective passage 945.

[0229] In the same manner as described above with respect to the capacity modulation system 433, when the control valve 922 is in the first position (see Figure 9), intermediate-pressure working fluid from passage 944 is allowed to flow to passage 942 and into the actuation chamber 934 to move the respective piston 920 to the open position. Furthermore, in the same manner as described above with respect to the capacity modulation system 433, when the control valve 922 is in the second position (see Figure 10), intermediate-pressure working fluid from the actuation chamber 934 is allowed to vent to the suction chamber 39 via passage 942 to move the respective piston 920 to the closed position. The spring 938 forces the piston 720, 721 to the closed position when the control valve 922 is in the second position.

[0230] Referring now to Figures 30-38, another non-orbiting scroll 1072 and capacity modulation system 1033 are provided that can be incorporated into the compressor 10 instead of the non-orbiting scroll 72 and capacity modulation system 33. The structure and function of the non-orbiting scroll 1072 and capacity modulation system 1033 may be similar or identical to that of the non-orbiting scroll 472 and capacity modulation system 433 described above, apart from differing features described below.

[0231] Like the non-orbiting scroll 72, the non-orbiting scroll 1072 includes an end plate 1086 having a first portion 1085 and a second portion 1087. The first and second portions 1085, 1087 may be similar or identical to the first and second portions 85, 87, apart from differences described below. Like the first portion 85, the first portion 1085 includes modulation ports 1099, 1100, 1102 that may be similar or identical to modulation ports 99, 100, 102. Like the second portion 87, the second portion 1087 may include a recess or vent passage 1126 (similar or identical to vent passage 126) in fluid communication with a suction-pressure region (e.g., a suction inlet (like suction inlet 89) of the scroll 1072 or the suction chamber 39, for example). Furthermore, like the second portion 87, the second portion 1087 may cooperate with the floating seal assembly 31 to define an axial biasing chamber 1109 (similar or identical to axial biasing chamber 109) that contains intermediate-pressure working fluid, as described above.Attorney Docket No. 0315-001113-WO-POA

[0232] Like the capacity modulation system 433, the capacity modulation system 1033 may be operable to switch the compressor 10 between a high-capacity mode, a low-capacity mode, and an intermediate-capacity mode. In a similar manner as described above, in the high-capacity mode, fluid communication between modulation ports 1099, 1100, 1102 and a suction-pressure region (e.g., the suction inlet 89, the suction-pressure chamber 39, or another location within the compressor at a suction pressure) is prevented. In the low-capacity mode, the modulation ports are allowed to fluidly communicate with the suction-pressure region to vent intermediate-pressure working fluid from the respective intermediate-pressure compression pockets to the suctionpressure region. In the intermediate-capacity mode, the modulation ports 1100, 1102 are allowed to vent to the suction-pressure region and fluid communication between the other modulation ports 1099 and the suction-pressure region is prevented.

[0233] The capacity modulation system 1033 may include a first piston 1120, a second piston 1121, a first control valve 1122, a second control valve 1123, a first actuation valve 1118, and a second actuation valve 1119. The pistons 1120, 1121 are movable between an open position (Figures 33 and 34; to allow the modulation ports to vent to the suction-pressure region) and a closed position (Figures 37 and 38; to prevent the modulation ports from venting to the suction-pressure region).

[0234] The first and second control valves 1122 are independently movable between a first position (Figure 31 ; which causes the respective actuation valve 1118, 1119 to move to a first position (Figures 31 and 32), which causes the respective piston 1120, 1121 to move to the open position) and a second position (Figure 35; which causes the respective actuation valve 1118, 1119 to move to a second position (Figures 35 and 36), which the respective piston 1120, 1121 to move to the closed position).

[0235] As shown in Figures 33 and 34, each of the pistons 1120, 1121 may include a main body portion (or first portion) 1128 and a flange portion (or second portion) 1129. The flange portion 1129 extends radially outward from the body portion 1128 and has a diameter that is larger than a diameter of the body portion 1128. Each piston 1120, 1121 may also include an upper protrusion 1137 that extends upward from the flange portion 1129 and may abut a surface 1139 of recess 1124, 1125 when the piston 1120, 1121 is in the open position. In this manner, the upper protrusion 1137 acts as a hard stop to limit the range of motion of the piston 1120, 1121. The upper protrusion 1137 has a diameter that is smaller than the diameter of the flange portion 1129 and smaller than the diameter of the body portion 1128.Attorney Docket No. 0315-001113-WO-POA

[0236] As shown in Figures 33 and 34, the recesses 1124, 1125 in end plate 1086 of the non-orbiting scroll 1072 movably receive respective pistons 1120, 1121. Each recess 1124, 1125 may include a first portion 1130 and a second portion 1131. The first portion 1130 has a smaller diameter than a diameter of the second portion 1131. The first portion 1130 of each recess 1124, 1125 receives the body portion 1128 of the respective piston 1120, 1121. The second portion 1131 of each recess 1124, 1125 receives the flange portion 1129 of the respective piston 1120, 1121. The body portion 1128 may include an annular groove that receives a first seal 1132 that sealingly engages the body portion 1128 and the first portion 1130 of the recess 1124, 1125. The flange portion 1129 may include an annular groove that receives a second seal 1133 that sealingly engages the flange portion 1129 and the second portion 1131 of the recess 1124, 1125. In this manner, a first annular actuation chamber 1134 is formed within the recess 1124, 1125 between the flange portion 1129 of each piston 1120, 1121 and the first portion 1131 of each respective recess 1124. The seals 1132, 1133 seal the upper and lower axial ends of the first actuation chamber 1134. A second actuation chamber 1135 is formed within the recess 1124, 1125 between the second seal 1133 and the surface 1139 (i.e. , surface 1139 defining the axial upper end of the recess 1124, 1125).

[0237] As shown in Figure 31 , the second portion 1087 of the end plate 1086 may include first passages 1142, second passages 1144, third passages 1145, fourth passages 1146, and fifth passages 1147. The first passages 1142 (see Figures 30 and 31) are in fluid communication with a respective control valve 1122, 1123 and a respective actuation valve 1118, 1119. One of the first passages 1142 extends from the first control valve 1122 to the first actuation valve 1118. The other first passage 142 extends from the second control valve 123 to the second actuation valve 1119.

[0238] The second passages 1144 (see Figures 30 and 31) each fluidly communicate with the axial biasing chamber 1109 and a respective control valve 1122, 1123. That is, one of the second passages 1144 extends from the axial biasing chamber 1109 to the first control valve 1122, and the other of the second passages 1144 extends from the axial biasing chamber 1109 to the second control valve 1123.

[0239] The third passages 1145 each fluidly communicate with a respective actuation valve 1118, 1119 and a respective second actuation chamber 1135 (see Figures 30 and 33). That is, one of the third passages 1145 extends from the first actuation valve 1118 to the second actuation chamber 1135 of the first recess 1124. TheAttorney Docket No. 0315-001113-WO-POAother one of the third passages 1145 extends from the second actuation valve 1119 to the second actuation chamber 1135 of the second recess 1125.

[0240] The fourth passages 1146 each fluidly communicate with a respective actuation valve 1118, 1119 and a respective first actuation chamber 1134 (see Figures 30 and 34). That is, one of the fourth passages 1146 extends from the first actuation valve 1118 to the first actuation chamber 1134 of the first recess 1124. The other one of the fourth passages 1146 extends from the second actuation valve 1119 to the first actuation chamber 1134 of the second recess 1125.

[0241] The fifth passages 1147 each fluidly communicate with a respective actuation valve 1118, 1119 and the suction-pressure region (e.g., suction inlet or suction chamber 39) via recess 1126 (see Figure 32). That is, one of the fifth passages 1147 extends from the first actuation valve 1118 to the recess 1126. The other one of the fifth passages 1147 extends from the second actuation valve 1119 to the recess 1126.

[0242] As shown in Figures 31 and 32, each of the first and second actuation valves 1118, 1119 may include a valve member 1160 and a body 1161. The valve member 1160 and body 1161 of the first actuation valve 1118 may be received in a valve passage 1162 in the second portion 1087 of the end plate 1086 of the scroll 1072. The valve passage 1162 may extend radially through the second portion 1087 of the end plate 1086 from a radially outer surface 1107 to a discharge passage 1108 (similar or identical to discharge passage 108). The valve passage 1162 may include a first portion 1164, a second portion 1166, and a third portion 1168. The first portion 1164 may have a diameter that is larger than the diameters of the second and third portions 1166, 1168. The diameter of the second portion 1166 is larger than the diameter of the third portion 1168.

[0243] The first portion 1164 may be in fluid communication with the first passage 1142 , the fourth passage 1146, and the fifth passage 1147. The second portion 1166 may be in fluid communication with the third passage 1145. The third portion 1168 of the valve passage 1162 is in fluid communication with the discharge passage 1108. As described above, discharge-pressure working fluid is discharged from the scroll 1072 through the discharge passage 1108.

[0244] The third portion 1168 extends outward from the discharge passage 1108. The second portion 1166 extends outward from the third portion 1168 to the first portion 1164 (i.e., the second portion 1166 is disposed between the first and third portions 164, 1168). The first portion 1164 extends outward from the second portion 1166.Attorney Docket No. 0315-001113-WO-POA

[0245] The body 1161 of each actuation valve 1118, 1119 may be fixedly received in the first portion 1164 of the respective valve passage 1162 (i.e., the body 1161 is fixed relative to the valve passage 1162). The valve member 1160 is movably received in the first and second portions 1164, 1166 of the valve passage 1162. That is, the valve member 1160 is movable relative to the valve passage 1162 between the first position (Figures 31 and 32) and the second position (Figure 35).

[0246] The valve member 1160 may include a first portion 1170 and a second portion 1172. The first portion 1170 has a diameter that is larger than the diameter of the second portion 1172. The first portion 1170 of the valve member 1160 may include an annular groove that receives a first seal 1171 that sealingly engages the first portion 1170 and the first portion 1164 of the valve passage 1162. The second portion 1172 of the valve member 1160 may include an annular groove that receives a second seal 1173 that sealingly engages the second portion 1172 and the second portion 1166 of the valve passage 1162. The first portion 1170 of the valve member 1160 is sized to be movable within the first portion 1164 of the valve passage 1162 and to abut an annular ledge of the valve passage 1162 that defines a transition between the first and second portions 1164, 1166 of the valve passage 1162. The second portion 1172 of the valve member 1160 is sized to be movable with the second portion 1166 of the valve passage 1162 and to abut an annular ledge of the valve passage that defines a transition between the second and third portions 1166, 1168 of the valve passage 1162.

[0247] The first and second seals 1171 , 1173 cooperate with the inner diametrical surfaces of the first and second portions 1164, 1166 of the valve passage 1162 to define a first valve chamber 1180 (disposed between the seals 1171 , 1173) and a second valve chamber 1182 (disposed between the first seal 1171 and the body 1161. Since the first valve chamber 1180 is defined by the first and second seals 1171 , 1173, the first valve chamber 1180 moves with the valve member 1160 between the first and second positions. Since the second valve chamber 1182 is defined by the first seal 1171 and the body 1161 , the second valve chamber 1182 decreases in volume as the valve member 1160 moves from the first position (Figure 31 ) to the second position (Figure 35).

[0248] When the valve member 1160 is in the first position (Figure 31 ): (a) the first passage 1142 and the fourth passage 1146 are in fluid communication with each other via the second valve chamber 1182, (b) the third and fifth passages 1145, 1147 are in fluid communication with each other via the first valve chamber 1180, (c) the fifth passage 1147 is in fluid communication with the suction-pressure region via the recess 1126 (seeAttorney Docket No. 0315-001113-WO-POAFigure 32), and (d) the third portion 1168 of the valve passage 1162 is prevented from fluidly communicating with any of the passages 1142, 1144, 1145, 1146, 1147.

[0249] When the valve member 1160 is in the second position (Figure 35): (a) the first passage 1142 is fluidly isolated from the third, fourth, and fifth passages 1145, 1146, 1147, (b) the fourth and fifth passages 1146, 1147 are in fluid communication with each other via the first valve chamber 1180, (c) the fifth passage 1147 is in fluid communication with the suction-pressure region via the recess 1126 (see Figure 36), and (d) the third portion 1168 of the valve passage 1162 is in fluid communication with the third passage 1145.

[0250] The first and second control valves 1122, 1123 may be similar or identical to the control valves 122, 123 described above. That is, each of the control valves 1122, 1123 may include a body 1150 (similar or identical to body 150), a housing 1152 (similar or identical to housing 152), a valve member 1156 (similar or identical to valve member 156), a spring 1158 (similar or identical to spring 158), a solenoid coil 1157 (similar or identical to solenoid coil 160), and a coil housing 1159 (similar or identical to coil housing 162).

[0251] When the control valve 1122, 1123 is in the first position (Figure 31), the valve member 1156 prevents fluid flow through aperture 1186 (similar or identical to aperture 186) in the housing 1152 and allows intermediate-pressure working fluid from the axial biasing chamber 1109 to flow through the second passage 1144 to the first passage 1142. This intermediate-pressure working fluid then flows from the first passage 1142 into the second valve chamber 1182, which forces the valve member 1160 of the actuation valve 1118, 1119 to move to the first position, which allows fluid communication between the second valve chamber 1182 and the fourth passage 1146, which allows the intermediate-pressure working fluid to flow from the second valve chamber 1182 to the first actuation chamber 1134 (Figure 34), which forces the piston 1120, 1121 upward toward the open position. The second actuation chamber 1135 (Figure 33) is vented to the suction-pressure region via third passage 1145, the first valve chamber 1180, the fifth passage 1147, and the recess 1126 (Figure 32).

[0252] When the control valve 1122, 1123 is in the second position (Figure 35), the valve member 1156 prevents fluid communication between the first and second passages 1142, 1144 and allows fluid communication between the first passage 1142 and the suction chamber 39 via aperture 1186. This allows discharge-pressure working fluid in the third portion 1168 of the valve passage 1162 to force the valve member 1162Attorney Docket No. 0315-001113-WO-POAof the actuation valve 1118, 1119 to move to the second position. This allows dischargepressure working fluid to flow from the third portion 1168 to the third passage 1145 to the second actuation chamber 1135 while also allowing the first actuation chamber 1134 (Figure 38) to vent to the suction chamber 39 via the fourth passage 1147 and recess 1126. The discharge-pressure working fluid in the second actuation chamber 1135 forces the piston 1120, 1121 to the closed position. It should be noted that the dischargepressure working fluid can move the pistons 1120, 1121 to the closed positions without springs (e.g., without springs like springs 938).

[0253] Referring now to Figures 39-46, another non-orbiting scroll 1272 and capacity modulation system 1233 are provided that can be incorporated into the compressor 10 instead of the non-orbiting scroll 72 and capacity modulation system 33. The structure and function of the non-orbiting scroll 1272 may be similar or identical to that of the non-orbiting scroll 1072 described above. That is, the non-orbiting scroll 1272 includes a first portion 1285 and a second portion 1287. The second portion 1287 includes passages 1342, 1344, 1345, 1346, 1347 that may be similar or identical to passages 1142, 1144, 1145, 1146, 1147, respectively. Furthermore, like non-orbiting scroll 1072, the non-orbiting scroll 1272 includes valve passage 1362 (similar or identical to valve passage 1162 in fluid communication with discharge passage 1308 (similar or identical to discharge passage 1108).

[0254] The structure and function of the capacity modulation system 1233 may be similar or identical to that of the capacity modulation system 1033 described above, apart from differences that will be described below. Like the capacity modulation system 1033, the capacity modulation system 1233 may include first and second pistons 1320, 1321 that are received in recesses 1324, 1325 (similar or identical to recesses 1124, 1125), respectively. The pistons 1320, 1321 selectively open and closed modulation ports (similar or identical to modulation ports 99, 100, 102) to operate the compressor 10 in the high-capacity mode, the intermediate capacity mode, and the low-capacity mode. Furthermore, like the capacity modulation system 1033, the capacity modulation system 1233 may include first and second control valves 1323 (similar or identical to control valves 1122, 1123) and first and second actuation valves 1319 (similar or identical to actuation valves 1118, 1119).

[0255] As shown in Figures 41 and 42, the pistons 1320, 1321 may be similar or identical to the pistons 920, 921 described above. That is, each of the pistons 1320, 1321 may include a pair of annular seals 1343 received in grooves in the outer diametricalAttorney Docket No. 0315-001113-WO-POAsurface of the piston 1320, 1321. Each piston 1320, 1321 may also include a central recess 1340 that extends through a lower axial end of the piston 1320, 1321. A passage 1341 extends from the central recess 1340 and through the outer diametrical surface of the piston 1320, 1321. The passage 1341 is in fluid communication with the first passage 1346 in the second portion 1287 of the scroll 1272.

[0256] The central recess 1340 of each piston 1320, 1321 receives a respective peg 1317 (similar or identical to pegs 919). The pistons 1320, 1321 move relative to the pegs 1317. The pegs 1317 may remain stationary relative to the scroll 1272 even while the pistons 1320, 1321 are moving. Each peg 1317 may include an annular seal 1318 that sealingly engages the peg 1317 and inner diametrical surface of the central recess 1340 of the piston 1320, 1321. In this manner, each piston 1320, 1321 and peg 1317 cooperate to form a first actuation chamber 1334. The first actuation chamber 1334 is in fluid communication with the passage 1346 via passage 1341. A second actuation chamber 1335 is formed within the recess 1324, 1325 between the upper seal 1343 and surface 1339 (i.e., surface 1339 defining the axial upper end of the recess 1324, 1325). The second actuation chamber 1335 is in fluid communication with passage 1345.

[0257] As described above with respect to capacity modulation system 1033, when the control valve 1323 and actuation valve 1319 are in the first positions (Figure 39), the first actuation chamber 1334 receives intermediate-pressure working fluid from passages 1344, 1342, and 1346, and the second actuation chamber 1335 is vented to the suction-pressure region via third passage 1345, the fifth passage 1347, and recess 1326 (similar or identical to recess 1126). This causes the piston 1320, 1321 to move to the open position (Figures 41 and 42).

[0258] When the control valve 1323 and actuation valve 1319 are in the second positions, the first actuation chamber 1334 is vented to the suction chamber 39 via passages 1346 and 1347 and the second actuation chamber 1335 receives dischargepressure working fluid from discharge passage 1308 and passage 1345 (in the same manner as described above with respect to capacity modulation system 1033). This causes the piston 1320, 1321 to move to the closed position (Figures 45 and 46). It should be noted that the discharge-pressure working fluid can move the pistons 1320, 1321 to the closed positions without springs (e.g., without springs like springs 938).

[0259] Referring now to Figures 47-54, another non-orbiting scroll 1472 and capacity modulation system 1433 are provided that can be incorporated into the compressor 10 instead of the non-orbiting scroll 72 and capacity modulation system 33.Attorney Docket No. 0315-001113-WO-POAThe structure and function of the non-orbiting scroll 1472 may be similar or identical to that of the non-orbiting scroll 1072 described above. That is, the non-orbiting scroll 1472 includes a first portion 1485 and a second portion 1487. The second portion 1487 includes passages 1542, 1544, 1545, 1546, 1547 that may be similar or identical to passages 1142, 1144, 1145, 1146, 1147, respectively. Furthermore, like non-orbiting scroll 1072, the non-orbiting scroll 1472 includes valve passage 1562 (similar or identical to valve passage 1162 in fluid communication with discharge passage 1508 (similar or identical to discharge passage 1108).

[0260] The structure and function of the capacity modulation system 1433 may be similar or identical to that of the capacity modulation system 1033 described above, apart from differences that will be described below. Like the capacity modulation system 1033, the capacity modulation system 1433 may include first and second pistons 1520, 1521 that are received in recesses 1524, 1525 (similar or identical to recesses 1124, 1125), respectively. The pistons 1520, 1521 selectively open and closed modulation ports (similar or identical to modulation ports 99, 100, 102) to operate the compressor 10 in the high-capacity mode, the intermediate capacity mode, and the low-capacity mode. Furthermore, like the capacity modulation system 1033, the capacity modulation system 1433 may include first and second control valves 1523 (similar or identical to control valves 1122, 1123) and first and second actuation valves 1519 (similar or identical to actuation valves 1118, 1119).

[0261] As shown in Figures 49 and 50, the pistons 1520, 1521 may be similar or identical to the pistons 520, 521 described above (except the pistons 1520, 1521 do not include a spring like spring 538). Each piston 1520, 1521 may be movably received in a respective piston housing 1517 (similar or identical to piston housing 519). Each piston housing 1517 is fixedly received in the respective recess 1524, 1525.

[0262] Each of the pistons 1520, 1521 may include a main body portion (or first portion) 1528 and a flange portion (or second portion) 1529. The flange portion 1529 extends radially outward from the body portion 1528 and has a diameter that is larger than a diameter of the body portion 1528. The first portion 1528 of the piston 1520, 1521 may include an annular groove that receives a first annular seal 1541. The second portion 1529 of the piston 1520, 1521 may include an annular groove that receives a second annular seal 1543. The first annular seal 1541 seal i ng ly engages the first portion 1528 of the piston 1520, 1521 and an inner diametrical surface of an annular ledge 1533 of the piston housing 1517. The second annular seal 1543 sealingly engages the secondAttorney Docket No. 0315-001113-WO-POAportion 1529 of the piston 1520, 1521 and an inner diametrical surface of the main body 1531 of the piston housing 1517. In this manner, a first actuation chamber 1534 is formed between the annular seals 1541 , 1543 (i.e., axially between the annular ledge 1533 and the second portion 1529 of the piston 1520, 1521) and radially between the outer diametrical surface of the first portion 1528 of the piston 1520, 1521 and the inner diametrical surface of the main body 1531 of the piston housing 1517. A passage 1527 (Figure 50) in the piston housing 1517 is in fluid communication with the first actuation chamber 1534 and the fourth passage 1546. A second actuation chamber 1535 is formed within the recess 1524, 1525 between the seal 1543 and surface 1539 (i.e., surface 1539 defining the axial upper end of the recess 1524, 1525). The second actuation chamber 1535 is in fluid communication with passage 1545, as shown in Figure 49.

[0263] As described above with respect to capacity modulation system 1033, when the control valve 1523 and actuation valve 1519 are in the first positions (Figure 47), the first actuation chamber 1534 receives intermediate-pressure working fluid from passages 1544, 1542, and 1546, and the second actuation chamber 1535 is vented to the suction-pressure region via third passage 1545, the fifth passage 1547, and recess 1526 (similar or identical to recess 1126). This causes the piston 1520, 1521 to move to the open position (Figures 49 and 50).

[0264] When the control valve 1523 and actuation valve 1519 are in the second positions, the first actuation chamber 1534 is vented to the suction chamber 39 via passages 1546 and 1547 and the second actuation chamber 1535 receives dischargepressure working fluid from discharge passage 1508 and passage 1545 (in the same manner as described above with respect to capacity modulation system 1033). This causes the piston 1520, 1521 to move to the closed position (Figures 53 and 54). The discharge-pressure working fluid can move the pistons 1520, 1521 to the closed positions without springs (e.g., without springs like springs 538).

[0265] Referring now to Figures 55 and 56, an alternative piston housing 1617 is provided that can be utilized in the compressor 10 with non-orbiting scroll 472 and capacity modulation system 433 (with pistons 520, 521) or with non-orbiting scroll 1472 and capacity modulation system 1433 (with pistons 1520, 1521). The piston housing 1617 may be similar or identical to the piston housing 519 or 1517, except the piston housing 1617 has a pair of annular grooves that receive annular seals 1618. The piston housing 1617 also has feet or standoffs 1619. The standoffs 1619 can be in contact with the first portion 485, 1485 of the scroll 472, 1472 so that a main body 1631 of the pistonAttorney Docket No. 0315-001113-WO-POAhousing 1617 does not need to be pressed into the recess 524, 525, 1524, 1525. Otherwise, the piston housing 1617 may be identical to the piston housing 519 or 1517.

[0266] Referring now to Figures 57-60, another non-orbiting scroll 1772 and capacity modulation system 1733 are provided that can be incorporated into the compressor 10 instead of the non-orbiting scroll 72 and capacity modulation system 33.

[0267] As shown in Figure 58, the non-orbiting scroll 1772 may include an end plate 1786 and a spiral wrap 1788 projecting downwardly from the end plate 1786. The end plate 1786 is a two-piece end plate having a first portion 1785 (from which the spiral wrap 1788 extends) and a second portion 1787 that may be attached to the first portion 1785 (e.g., mounted via threaded fasteners).

[0268] The first portion 1785 of the end plate 1786 may include one or more first modulation ports 1799, one or more second modulation ports 1800, and one or more third modulation ports 1802 (similar or identical to modulation ports 99, 100, 102). The modulation ports 1799, 1800, 1802 are in selective fluid communication with respective intermediate-pressure compression pockets (e.g., the first modulation port(s) 1799 may be in fluid communication with a first intermediate-pressure pocket, the second modulation port(s) 1800 may be in fluid communication with a second intermediatepressure pocket, and the third modulation port(s) 1802 may be in fluid communication with a third intermediate-pressure pocket). The first portion 1785 of the end plate 1786 may also include a plurality of recesses 1803 that do not extend into (or directly communicate with) the compression pockets. The second portion 1787 of the end plate 1786 of the non-orbiting scroll 1772 may cooperate with the floating seal assembly 31 to define an axial biasing chamber 1809 (similar or identical to axial biasing chamber 109).

[0269] The capacity modulation system 1733 may include a first piston 1820, a second piston 1821 , a first control valve 1822, and a second control valve 1823 (see Figure 57). As will be described in more detail below, the first piston 1820 is movable between an open position (to allow ports 1799 to vent to a suction-pressure region) and a closed position (to prevent ports 1799 from venting to the suction-pressure region). Similarly, the second piston 1821 is movable between an open position (to allow ports 1800, 1802 to vent to the suction-pressure region) and a closed position (to prevent ports 1800, 1802 from venting to the suction-pressure region). The first control valve 1822 is movable between a first position (which causes the first piston 1820 to move to the open position) and a second position (which causes the first piston 1820 to move to the closed position). Similarly, the second control valve 1823 is movable between the first positionAttorney Docket No. 0315-001113-WO-POA(which causes the second piston 1821 to move to the open position) and the second position (which causes the second piston 1821 to move to the closed position).

[0270] As shown in Figures 57-59, the pistons 1820, 1821 may be cylindrical members and may be slidably received in respective recesses 1824, 1825 in the second portion 1787 of the end plate 1786 of the non-orbiting scroll 1772. The second portion 1787 may also include a recess or vent passage 1826 (Figures 57 and 59) recessed into a bottom surface of the second portion 1787 of the end plate 1786. The modulation ports 1799 are in fluid communication with the vent passage 1826 when the first piston 1820 is in the open position and are fluidly isolated from the vent passage 1826 when the first piston 1820 is in the closed position. The modulation ports 1800, 1802 are in fluid communication with the vent passage 1826 when the second piston 1821 is in the open position and are fluidly isolated from the vent passage 1826 when the second piston 1821 is in the closed position. The vent passage 1826 in the second portion 1787 of the end plate 1786 is also in fluid communication with the suction-pressure region (e.g., the suction chamber 39 or a suction inlet of the scroll 1772).

[0271] Each piston 1820, 1821 is a symmetrical body. That is, the piston 1820, 1821 is rotationally symmetrical and symmetrical about an axis A (see Figure 59) this is disposed equidistant between opposing axial ends of the piston 1820, 1821. Each piston 1820, 1821 may include an annular groove 1828 that receives an annular seal 1829. The annular groove 1828 may be centered on the axis A. The seal 1829 sealingly engages the piston 1820, 1821 and the inner diametrical surface of the respective recess 1824, 1825. As shown in Figure 58, each of the pistons 1820, 1821 may include a spring 1838 that biases the piston 1820, 1821 toward the open position. The spring 1838 may may be received within an aperture 1840 in the first portion 1785 of the end plate 1786. Because the pistons 1820, 1821 are symmetrical (rotationally and about axis A) and because the springs 1838 are disposed within apertures 1840 in the first portion 1785 of the end plate 1786, it is impossible to install the pistons 1820, 1821 in the wrong orientation in the recesses 1824, 1825 when the compressor is being assembled. In other words, these features provide a poka-yoke feature that reduces assembly errors.

[0272] A surface 1839 within each recess 1824, 1825 (e.g., a surface of the second portion 1787 that defines an upper end of the recess 1824, 1825) may include a protrusion 1837 (Figure 58) that extends downwardly toward the piston 1820, 1821 and acts as a hard stop to limit the range of motion of the piston 1820, 1821.Attorney Docket No. 0315-001113-WO-POA

[0273] As shown in Figure 58, each piston 1820, 1821 cooperates with the surface 1839 of the respective recess 1824, 1825 to form an actuation chamber 1834. The second portion 1787 of the end plate 1786 may include first passages 1842 (similar or identical to passages 142) that each fluidly communicate with a respective one of the actuation chambers 1834. One of the first passages 1842 extends from the first control valve 1822 to the actuation chamber 1834 defined by the first piston 1820. The other first passage 1842 extends from the second control valve 1823 to the actuation chamber 1834 defined by the second piston 1821. The second portion 1787 of the end plate 1786 may also include second passages 1844 (similar or identical to passages 144) that each fluidly communicate with the axial biasing chamber 1809. One of the second passages 1844 extends from the first control valve 1822 to the axial biasing chamber 1809. The other second passage 1844 extends from the second control valve 1823 to the axial biasing chamber 1809.

[0274] The control valves 1822, 1823 may be solenoid-actuated valves having a valve member movable between first and second positions. When the first control valve 1822 is in the first position (when the solenoid is energized), the first control valve 1822 may provide intermediate-pressure working fluid (e.g., from the axial biasing chamber 1809 and second passage 1844) to the actuation chamber 1834 defined by the first piston 1820 via the respective first passage 1842, which moves the piston 1820 to the closed position. When the first control valve 1822 is in the second position (when the solenoid is de-energized), the first control valve 1822 may vent the actuation chamber 1834 to the suction chamber 39, which allows the spring 1838 to move the piston 1820 to the open position.

[0275] Similarly, when the second control valve 1823 is in the first position (when the solenoid is energized), the second control valve 1823 may provide intermediatepressure working fluid (e.g., from the axial biasing chamber 1809 and second passage 1844) to the actuation chamber 1834 defined by the second piston 1821 via the respective first passage 1842, which moves the piston 1821 to the closed position. When the second control valve 1823 is in the second position (when the solenoid is deenergized), the second control valve 1823 may vent the actuation chamber 1834 to the suction chamber 39, which allows the spring 1838 to move the piston 1821 to the open position.

[0276] As stated above, the first portion 1785 of the end plate 1786 of the scroll 1772 includes a plurality of recesses 1803 (see Figures 58-60).Attorney Docket No. 0315-001113-WO-POA

[0277] The recesses 1803 reduce the surface area that sealingly contacts a bottom surface 1850 of the piston 1820, 1821 , thereby reducing the contact area of the piston 1820. This reduces the amount of force necessary to hold the piston 1820 in sealing contact with the surface 1852 of the first portion 1785 of the non-orbiting scroll 1772 (i.e., to hold the piston in the closed position). Reducing the contact area between piston 1820, 1821 and the surface 1852 also reduces stiction therebetween. As shown in Figure 60, the recesses 1803 may extend outward beyond the outer edge of the piston 1820, 1821 and may fluidly communicate with recess 1826 so that the recesses 1803 are in fluid communication with the suction chamber 39 regardless of whether the piston 1820, 1821 is in the open or closed position. This reduces suction between the piston 1820, 1821 and the surface 1852 of the first portion 1785 of the scroll 1772.

[0278] While the capacity modulation system 1733 are described above as having two pistons 1820, 1821 and two control valves 1822, 1823, in some configurations the capacity modulation system 1733 could have only one piston 1820 and only one control valve 1822. In still other configurations, the capacity modulation system 1733 could have two pistons 1820, 1821 that are both controlled by a single control valve 1822.

[0279] Referring now to Figure 61 , another first portion 1985 of a non-orbiting scroll is provided. The first portion 1985 can replace the first portion 1785 of the non-orbiting scroll 1772 in conjunction with the capacity modulation system 1733 described above.

[0280] Like the first portion 1785, the first portion 1985 includes recesses 2003 (similar to recesses 1803) and a spring aperture 2040 (similar or identical to aperture 1840 that houses spring 1838). As shown in Figure 61 , however, at least one of the recesses 2003 extends into the spring aperture 2040, which allows the spring aperture 2040 to be vented to suction chamber 39 via recess 1826. In this manner, as the piston 1820 moves into the closed position, pressurized fluid in the recess spring aperture 2040 is allowed to vent to the suction chamber 39 via recess 2003 and recess 1846. This prevents a buildup of pressurized fluid in the spring aperture 2040 from hindering sealing of the piston 1820 against first portion 1985 of the non-orbiting scroll.

[0281] Referring now to Figures 62 and 63, a piston 2220, piston housing 2219, and spring 2238 are provided that can be incorporated into the non-orbiting scroll 472 and capacity modulation system 433 (see Figure 14) instead of the piston 520, piston housing 519, and spring 538. The functions of the piston 2220, piston housing 2219, and spring 2238 may be similar or identical to the function of the piston 520, piston housing 519, and spring 538.Attorney Docket No. 0315-001113-WO-POA

[0282] Piston 2220 includes an annular seal 2243 that seals against the piston 2220 and the inner diametrical surface of the recess 524. The piston housing 2219 includes an annular seal 2241 that seals against the piston housing 2219 and the piston 2220. The piston housing 2219 also includes annular seal 2242 that seals against the piston housing 2219 and the inner diametrical surface of the recess 524. The seals 2241 , 2242, 2243, the piston 2220, and the piston housing 2219 cooperate to define an actuation chamber 2234. The actuation chamber 2234 is in fluid communication with the passage 542 and selectively receives and vents intermediate-pressure working fluid in the same manner as described above with respect to actuation chamber 534.

[0283] In this application, including the definitions below, the term “control module” or the term “controller” may be replaced with the term “circuit.” The term “module,” “control module,” “controller,” “control circuitry,” or “control system” may refer to, be part of, or include: an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC); a digital, analog, or mixed analog / digital discrete circuit; a digital, analog, or mixed analog / digital integrated circuit; a combinational logic circuit; a field programmable gate array (FPGA); a processor circuit (shared, dedicated, or group) that executes code; a memory circuit (shared, dedicated, or group) that stores code executed by the processor circuit; other suitable hardware components that provide the described functionality; or a combination of some or all of the above, such as in a system-on-chip.

[0284] The module may include one or more interface circuits. In some examples, the interface circuits may include wired or wireless interfaces that are connected to a local area network (LAN), the Internet, a wide area network (WAN), or combinations thereof. The functionality of any given module of the present disclosure may be distributed among multiple modules that are connected via interface circuits. For example, multiple modules may allow load balancing. In a further example, a server (also known as remote, or cloud) module may accomplish some functionality on behalf of a client module.

[0285] The term code, as used above, may include software, firmware, and / or microcode, and may refer to programs, routines, functions, classes, data structures, and / or objects. The term shared processor circuit encompasses a single processor circuit that executes some or all code from multiple modules. The term group processor circuit encompasses a processor circuit that, in combination with additional processor circuits, executes some or all code from one or more modules. References to multiple processor circuits encompass multiple processor circuits on discrete dies, multiple processorAttorney Docket No. 0315-001113-WO-POAcircuits on a single die, multiple cores of a single processor circuit, multiple threads of a single processor circuit, or a combination of the above. The term shared memory circuit encompasses a single memory circuit that stores some or all code from multiple modules. The term group memory circuit encompasses a memory circuit that, in combination with additional memories, stores some or all code from one or more modules.

[0286] The term memory circuit is a subset of the term computer-readable medium. The term computer-readable medium, as used herein, does not encompass transitory electrical or electromagnetic signals propagating through a medium (such as on a carrier wave); the term computer-readable medium may therefore be considered tangible and non-transitory. Non-limiting examples of a non-transitory, tangible computer-readable medium are nonvolatile memory circuits (such as a flash memory circuit, an erasable programmable read-only memory circuit, or a mask read-only memory circuit), volatile memory circuits (such as a static random access memory circuit or a dynamic random access memory circuit), magnetic storage media (such as an analog or digital magnetic tape or a hard disk drive), and optical storage media (such as a CD, a DVD, or a Blu-ray Disc).

[0287] In this application, apparatus elements described as having particular attributes or performing particular operations are specifically configured to have those particular attributes and perform those particular operations. Specifically, a description of an element to perform an action means that the element is configured to perform the action. The configuration of an element may include programming of the element, such as by encoding instructions on a non-transitory, tangible computer-readable medium associated with the element.

[0288] The apparatuses and methods described in this application may be partially or fully implemented by a special purpose computer created by configuring a general-purpose computer to execute one or more particular functions embodied in computer programs. The functional blocks, flowchart components, and other elements described above serve as software specifications, which can be translated into the computer programs by the routine work of a skilled technician or programmer.

[0289] The computer programs include processor-executable instructions that are stored on at least one non-transitory, tangible computer-readable medium. The computer programs may also include or rely on stored data. The computer programs may encompass a basic input / output system (BIOS) that interacts with hardware of the special purpose computer, device drivers that interact with particular devices of the specialAttorney Docket No. 0315-001113-WO-POApurpose computer, one or more operating systems, user applications, background services, background applications, etc.

[0290] The computer programs may include: (i) descriptive text to be parsed, such as HTML (hypertext markup language), XML (extensible markup language), or JSON (JavaScript Object Notation) (ii) assembly code, (iii) object code generated from source code by a compiler, (iv) source code for execution by an interpreter, (v) source code for compilation and execution by a just-in-time compiler, etc. As examples only, source code may be written using syntax from languages including C, C++, C#, Objective-C, Swift, Haskell, Go, SQL, R, Lisp, Java®, Fortran, Perl, Pascal, Curl, OCaml, Javascript®, HTML5 (Hypertext Markup Language 5th revision), Ada, ASP (Active Server Pages), PHP (PHP: Hypertext Preprocessor), Scala, Eiffel, Smalltalk, Erlang, Ruby, Flash®, Visual Basic®, Lua, MATLAB, SIMULINK, and Python®.

[0291] The foregoing description of the embodiments has been provided for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure. Individual elements or features of a particular embodiment are generally not limited to that particular embodiment, but, where applicable, are interchangeable and can be used in a selected embodiment, even if not specifically shown or described. The same may also be varied 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.

Claims

Attorney Docket No. 0315-001113-WO-POACLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A compressor comprising:a first scroll having a first end plate and a first spiral wrap extending from the first end plate;a second scroll having a second end plate and a second spiral wrap extending from the second end plate, wherein the first and second spiral wraps cooperate to define a plurality of fluid pockets, wherein during operation of the compressor, the fluid pockets move from a radially outer position to radially intermediate positions to a radially inner position, wherein the second end plate includes a modulation port and a vent passage, wherein the modulation port is in fluid communication with one of the fluid pockets at one of the radially intermediate positions, and wherein the vent passage is in fluid communication with the modulation port and a suction-pressure region; anda capacity modulation system operable in a first capacity mode and a second capacity mode, the capacity modulation system including a control valve and a piston, wherein:the piston is movable between an open position in which fluid communication between the modulation port and the vent passage is allowed and a closed position in which fluid communication between the modulation port and the vent passage is prevented,movement of the control valve between a first position and a second position causes movement of the piston between the open and closed positions, the piston is movably disposed within a first recess that extends into the second end plate, wherein the piston seats against a surface of the second end plate in the closed position, wherein the piston partially defines an actuation chamber within the first recess,the second end plate includes a first passage, a second passage, and a third passage,the first passage extends from the first recess to the control valve and is in fluid communication with the actuation chamber and the control valve,the second passage is in fluid communication with and extends between the control valve and an axial biasing chamber, wherein the axial biasing chamber is defined by a floating seal assembly and the second scroll, andAttorney Docket No. 0315-001113-WO-POAthe third passage extends from the first recess and vents a space within the first recess.

2. The compressor of claim 1 , wherein the actuation chamber is disposed between the vent passage and the space within the first recess.

3. The compressor of claim 1 , wherein the capacity modulation system includes a piston housing disposed within the first recess, wherein the piston housing movably receives the piston.

4. The compressor of claim 3, wherein a passage in the piston housing fluidly connects the first passage and the actuation chamber.

5. The compressor of claim 4, wherein the piston housing includes an annular main body and an annular ledge that extends radially inwardly from the annular main body.

6. The compressor of claim 5, wherein the annular ledge and an inner diametrical surface of the annular main body cooperate with the piston to define the actuation chamber.

7. The compressor of claim 6, wherein the piston includes a body portion and a flange portion that extends radially outward from the body portion, and wherein the annular ledge and the inner diametrical surface of the annular main body of the piston housing cooperate with the body portion and the flange portion of the piston to define the actuation chamber.

8. The compressor of claim 1 , wherein a spring is disposed at least partially within the space within the first recess and biases the piston toward the closed position.

9. The compressor of claim 1 , wherein the piston sealingly engages a plurality of annular seals.

10. The compressor of claim 1 , wherein an axial end of the piston is exposed to the axial biasing chamber such that working fluid within the axial biasing chamber biases the piston toward the closed position.Attorney Docket No. 0315-001113-WO-POA11. The compressor of claim 1 , wherein when the control valve is in the first position, working fluid from the axial biasing chamber is allowed to flow through the second passage, through the first passage, and into the actuation chamber.

12. The compressor of claim 11 , wherein when the control valve is in the second position, fluid communication between the first and second passages is prevented, and working fluid in the actuation chamber is vented through the first passage.

13. The compressor of claim 12, wherein the working fluid in the actuation chamber is vented to a suction chamber of the compressor through the first passage when the control valve is in the second position.

14. The compressor of claim 12, wherein the control valve includes a solenoid, wherein energizing the solenoid causes the control valve to move to the second position, and wherein de-energizing the solenoid causes the control valve to move to the first position.

15. The compressor of claim 14, wherein:the control valve includes a valve body, a valve member, and a valve housing, when the control valve is in the first position, the working fluid flows through the valve body from the second passage to the first passage, and the valve member prevents fluid flow through an aperture in the valve housing, andwhen the control valve is in the second position, the working fluid flows from the first passage, through the valve body, and through the aperture in the valve housing, and the valve member prevents fluid flow through the valve body from the second passage to the first passage.

16. The compressor of claim 1 , wherein the piston includes a central recess that receives a peg that is fixed relative to the second end plate, wherein the piston and the peg define the actuation chamber within the central recess.

17. The compressor of claim 16, wherein a radially extending passage in the piston fluidly connects the first passage with the actuation chamber.

18. The compressor of claim 1 , wherein the third passage vents the space within the first recess to a suction chamber of the compressor.Attorney Docket No. 0315-001113-WO-POA19. The compressor of claim 1 , wherein the suction-pressure region is a suction inlet defined by the second scroll.

20. The compressor of claim 1 , wherein the capacity modulation system includes another control valve that independently controls movement of another piston to selectively vent another modulation port to the suction-pressure region, and wherein the capacity modulation system is configured to switch the compressor between the first capacity mode, the second capacity mode, and a third capacity mode.

21. A compressor comprising:a first scroll having a first end plate and a first spiral wrap extending from the first end plate;a second scroll having a second end plate and a second spiral wrap extending from the second end plate, wherein the first and second spiral wraps cooperate to define a plurality of fluid pockets, wherein during operation of the compressor, the fluid pockets move from a radially outer position to radially intermediate positions to a radially inner position, wherein the second end plate includes a modulation port and a vent passage, wherein the modulation port is in fluid communication with one of the fluid pockets at one of the radially intermediate positions, and wherein the vent passage is in fluid communication with the modulation port and a suction-pressure region; anda capacity modulation system operable in a first capacity mode and a second capacity mode, the capacity modulation system including a control valve, a piston, and a piston housing,wherein:the piston is movable between an open position in which fluid communication between the modulation port and the vent passage is allowed and a closed position in which fluid communication between the modulation port and the vent passage is prevented,movement of the control valve between a first position and a second position causes movement of the piston between the open and closed positions, the piston housing is fixedly disposed within a first recess in the second end plate,the piston is movably disposed within the piston housing, wherein the piston seats against a surface of the second end plate in the closed position,Attorney Docket No. 0315-001113-WO-POAthe piston and the piston housing cooperate to define an actuation chamber therebetween, anda passage in the piston housing is in fluid communication with the control valve.

22. The compressor of claim 21 , wherein the piston housing includes an annular main body and an annular ledge that extends radially inwardly from the annular main body.

23. The compressor of claim 22, wherein the annular ledge and an inner diametrical surface of the annular main body cooperate with the piston to define the actuation chamber.

24. The compressor of claim 23, wherein the piston includes a body portion and a flange portion that extends radially outward from the body portion, and wherein the annular ledge and the inner diametrical surface of the annular main body of the piston housing cooperate with the body portion and the flange portion of the piston to define the actuation chamber.

25. The compressor of claim 22, wherein the piston extends through an opening in an axial end of the piston housing when the piston is in the closed position.

26. The compressor of claim 21 , wherein a spring is disposed within the first recess and biases the piston toward the closed position.

27. The compressor of claim 21 , wherein the piston sealingly engages a plurality of annular seals.

28. The compressor of claim 27, wherein the piston housing sealingly engages the plurality of annular seals, and wherein the annular seals cooperate with the piston and the piston housing to define the actuation chamber.

29. The compressor of claim 21 , wherein:the second end plate includes a first passage, a second passage, and a third passage,the first passage extends from the first recess to the control valve and is in fluid communication with the actuation chamber and the control valve,Attorney Docket No. 0315-001113-WO-POAthe second passage is in fluid communication with and extends between the control valve and an axial biasing chamber, wherein the axial biasing chamber is defined by a floating seal assembly and the second scroll, andthe third passage extends from the first recess and vents a space within the first recess.

30. The compressor of claim 29, wherein the actuation chamber is disposed between the vent passage and the space within the first recess.

31. The compressor of claim 30, wherein the passage in the piston housing fluidly connects the first passage and the actuation chamber.

32. The compressor of claim 31 , wherein the third passage vents the space within the first recess to a suction chamber of the compressor.

33. The compressor of claim 32, wherein when the control valve is in the first position, working fluid from the axial biasing chamber is allowed to flow through the second passage, through the first passage, and into the actuation chamber.

34. The compressor of claim 33, wherein when the control valve is in the second position, fluid communication between the first and second passages is prevented, and working fluid in the actuation chamber is vented through the first passage.

35. The compressor of claim 34, wherein the working fluid in the actuation chamber is vented to a suction chamber of the compressor through the first passage when the control valve is in the second position.

36. The compressor of claim 35, wherein:the control valve includes a valve body, a valve member, and a valve housing, when the control valve is in the first position, the working fluid flows through the valve body from the second passage to the first passage, and the valve member prevents fluid flow through an aperture in the valve housing, andwhen the control valve is in the second position, the working fluid flows from the first passage, through the valve body, and through the aperture in the valve housing, and the valve member prevents fluid flow through the valve body from the second passage to the first passage.Attorney Docket No. 0315-001113-WO-POA37. The compressor of claim 21 , wherein the control valve includes a solenoid, wherein energizing the solenoid causes the control valve to move to the second position, and wherein de-energizing the solenoid causes the control valve to move to the first position.

38. The compressor of claim 21 , wherein an axial end of the piston is exposed to an axial biasing chamber such that working fluid within the axial biasing chamber biases the piston toward the closed position.

39. The compressor of claim 21 , wherein the suction-pressure region is a suction inlet defined by the second scroll.

40. The compressor of claim 21 , wherein the capacity modulation system includes another control valve that independently controls movement of another piston to selectively vent another modulation port to the suction-pressure region, and wherein the capacity modulation system is configured to switch the compressor between the first capacity mode, the second capacity mode, and a third capacity mode.

41. A compressor comprising:a first scroll having a first end plate and a first spiral wrap extending from the first end plate;a second scroll having a second end plate and a second spiral wrap extending from the second end plate, wherein the first and second spiral wraps cooperate to define a plurality of fluid pockets, wherein during operation of the compressor, the fluid pockets move from a radially outer position to radially intermediate positions to a radially inner position, wherein the second end plate includes a modulation port and a vent passage, wherein the modulation port is in fluid communication with one of the fluid pockets at one of the radially intermediate positions, and wherein the vent passage is in fluid communication with the modulation port and a suction-pressure region; anda capacity modulation system operable in a first capacity mode and a second capacity mode, the capacity modulation system including a control valve, an actuation valve, and a piston,wherein:the piston is movable between an open position in which fluid communication between the modulation port and the vent passage is allowed andAttorney Docket No. 0315-001113-WO-POAa closed position in which fluid communication between the modulation port and the vent passage is prevented,movement of the control valve between first and second positions causes movement the actuation valve between first and second positions, which causes movement of the piston between the open and closed positions,the piston is movably disposed within a first recess that extends into the second end plate, wherein the piston seats against a surface of the second end plate in the closed position, wherein the piston partially defines a first actuation chamber and a second actuation chamber within the first recess,the actuation valve is in fluid communication with the first and second actuation chambers and the control valve.

42. The compressor of claim 41 , wherein the actuation valve is in fluid communication with a discharge passage in the second end plate, and wherein the actuation valve selectively provides discharge-pressure working fluid from the discharge passage to the second actuation chamber, which moves the piston toward the closed position.

43. The compressor of claim 42, wherein the actuation valve is in fluid communication with the suction-pressure region, and wherein the actuation valve selectively vents working fluid from the second actuation chamber to the suction-pressure region, which allows the piston to move toward the open position.

44. The compressor of claim 43, wherein the control valve selectively provides intermediate-pressure working fluid to the actuation valve and the first actuation chamber to move the piston toward the open position.

45. The compressor of claim 44, wherein the control valve selectively vents working fluid from the first actuation chamber to allow the piston to move toward the closed position.

46. The compressor of claim 41 , wherein the second end plate includes a first passage, a second passage, a third passage, a fourth passage, and a fifth passage, and wherein the first passage extends from the control valve to the actuation valve.

47. The compressor of claim 46, wherein the second passage extends from the control valve to an axial biasing chamber, wherein the axial biasing chamber is defined by a floating seal assembly and the second scroll.Attorney Docket No. 0315-001113-WO-POA48. The compressor of claim 47, wherein the third passage extends from the second actuation chamber to the actuation valve.

49. The compressor of claim 48, wherein the fourth passage extends from the first actuation chamber to the actuation valve.

50. The compressor of claim 49, wherein the fifth passage extends from the actuation valve to the vent passage.

51. The compressor of claim 50, wherein the actuation valve includes a valve member having a first portion and a second portion, wherein the first portion has a larger diameter than a diameter of the second portion, wherein first and second seals engage the first and second portions, respectively, and wherein the first and second seals cooperate to define a valve chamber therebetween, wherein the valve chamber is in fluid communication with the fifth passage, and wherein the valve chamber is in fluid communication with the third passage when the actuation valve is in the first position, and wherein the valve chamber is fluid communication with the fourth passage when the actuation valve is in the second position.

52. The compressor of claim 41 , wherein the piston includes a body portion and a flange portion that extends radially outward from the body portion, and wherein the flange portion defines the first and second actuation chambers and separates the first and second actuation chambers from each other.

53. The compressor of claim 52, wherein the piston includes a first seal engaging the body portion and a second seal engaging the flange portion, wherein the first and second seals cooperate to define the first actuation chamber, and wherein the second seal defines the second actuation chamber.

54. The compressor of claim 53, wherein the capacity modulation system includes a piston housing disposed within the first recess, wherein the piston housing movably receives the piston.

55. The compressor of claim 54, wherein a passage in the piston housing is in fluid communication with the first actuation chamber.

56. The compressor of claim 55, wherein the piston housing includes an annular main body and an annular ledge that extends radially inwardly from the annular main body.Attorney Docket No. 0315-001113-WO-POA57. The compressor of claim 56, wherein the annular ledge and an inner diametrical surface of the annular main body cooperate with the piston to define the first actuation chamber.

58. The compressor of claim 57, wherein the annular main body of the piston housing cooperates with the piston to define the second actuation chamber.

59. The compressor of claim 41 , wherein the suction-pressure region is a suction inlet defined by the second scroll.

60. The compressor of claim 41, wherein the capacity modulation system includes another control valve that independently controls movement of another actuation valve and another piston to selectively vent another modulation port to the suction-pressure region, and wherein the capacity modulation system is configured to switch the compressor between the first capacity mode, the second capacity mode, and a third capacity mode.

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