Center-Tapped Compressor Motor for Variable Horsepower Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing single phase induction motors in scroll compressors face inefficiencies due to fixed built-in volume ratios (BIVR) that lead to over or under-compression scenarios, resulting in increased motor horsepower demand and reduced efficiency across varying system pressure ratio demands.
Innovation Solution
A single phase induction motor with a center-tapped main winding and an auxiliary winding connected in series with a capacitor, controlled by a switch control module that adjusts electrical connections based on line current to optimize performance across different compression scenarios.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a fixed built-in volume ratio (BIVR) is used in the compressor, then the motor design is simplified, but the motor efficiency decreases and horsepower demand increases under varying system pressure ratio conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the motor winding configuration adjustable rather than fixed. The center-tapped main winding allows the motor to switch between different effective winding turns (full winding or half winding), enabling the motor to dynamically adapt its characteristics to match varying system pressure ratio demands. This resolves the contradiction by sacrificing some design simplicity to achieve variable performance that improves efficiency across different operating conditions.
2Device complexity
If a fixed built-in volume ratio (BIVR) is used in the compressor, then the initial motor design is simpler, but the motor horsepower demand increases under varying compression scenarios
Solution Approach 1:
The variable winding configuration enabled by the center-tapped main winding allows the motor to adjust its horsepower output to match actual compression demands. By switching between full and half winding configurations, the motor can provide higher horsepower when needed (over-compression scenarios) and reduce horsepower demand during normal operation, thereby resolving the contradiction between design simplicity and horsepower optimization.
3Use of energy by moving object
If the main winding is center-tapped to enable variable performance, then motor efficiency and horsepower controllability improve, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The main winding is segmented into two equal halves with a center tap, allowing independent connection of each half to the power supply. This segmentation enables the winding to be used in different configurations (full winding or half winding) without requiring complex additional components. The segmentation principle resolves the contradiction by dividing the winding into manageable sections that can be selectively activated, improving efficiency while keeping the added complexity minimal.
4Power
If the main winding is center-tapped to enable variable performance, then motor horsepower controllability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The center-tapped main winding segments the motor into two operational modes (full winding/half winding) that can be switched via simple relay control. This segmentation allows horsepower adjustment without complex power electronics or control systems. The added complexity is minimal, involving only relay switching logic, while achieving significant horsepower controllability to match different compression scenarios.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides controllability over motor efficiency and horsepower, optimizing performance by adjusting winding configurations to match varying system pressure ratios, thereby enhancing overall compressor efficiency and reducing energy consumption.
Implementation Method 1
a capacitor connected in series with the auxiliary winding
Implementation Method 2
single phase induction motor with a center-tapped main winding and an auxiliary winding
Data Source
AI summary
A single phase induction motor of a scroll compressor includes: a main winding that is center tapped forming: a first winding having a first end and a second end; a second winding having a third end and a fourth end; and a node between the second end of the first winding and the third end of the second winding; a first switch: including a first input to receive single phase power from a source; including a first output connected to the first end of the first winding; and including a second output; a second switch: including a second input connected to the second output of the first switch; including a third output connected to the node between the second end of the first winding and the third end of the second winding; and an auxiliary winding.