Compressor Capacity Switch Device Series Parallel Control

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional compressors with controlled capacity are technically complex, have low reliability, and high overall costs due to the complexity of capacity control mechanisms, particularly in air conditioners, refrigerators, and hot-pump type water heaters.

Innovation Solution

A double cylinder compressor with a capacity switch device and a 4way-2way solenoid valve that allows for the conversion between series and parallel connections of cylinders, using a pneumatic slide valve controlled by a solenoid valve to simplify the structure and control, reducing manufacturing costs and installation space.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional capacity control mechanisms (solenoid valve controlled openings or parallel compressors) are used, then capacity control is achieved, but device complexity increases and reliability decreases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecapacity controlVSAvoidcontrol mechanism complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the capacity control function directly into the compressor's internal structure by integrating the capacity switch device with the cylinder head and refrigerant flow paths. This eliminates the need for separate external solenoid valve assemblies or parallel compressor configurations, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining capacity control capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The capacity switch device serves multiple functions: it controls refrigerant flow distribution, enables both series and parallel compression modes, and integrates valve functions directly into the cylinder head structure. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components, simplifying the overall system.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If conventional capacity control mechanisms are used, then capacity control is achieved, but manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecapacity controlVSAvoidmanufacturing cost

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

By combining the capacity control valves and flow distribution channels directly into the cylinder head assembly, the patent reduces the total number of separate manufactured components. This integration simplifies manufacturing processes, reduces assembly steps, and lowers overall manufacturing costs compared to conventional approaches requiring separate solenoid valve assemblies.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If conventional capacity control mechanisms are used, then capacity control is achieved, but installation space increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecapacity controlVSAvoidinstallation space

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The capacity switch device is nested within the existing compressor structure, with valves and flow channels integrated into the cylinder head assembly. This nested arrangement utilizes existing internal spaces rather than requiring additional external mounting areas, thereby reducing the overall installation footprint.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

4Adaptability or versatility

If conventional capacity control mechanisms are used, then capacity control is achieved, but reliability decreases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecapacity controlVSAvoidsystem reliability

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

By integrating the capacity control function directly into the compressor's core structure rather than using separate external control systems, the patent reduces the number of connection points, seals, and interfaces that could potentially fail. This integration improves reliability by eliminating potential failure points associated with external solenoid valve assemblies or parallel compressor configurations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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

This solution simplifies the control and reliability of compressor discharge capacity, reducing costs and increasing market competitiveness by allowing easy conversion between series and parallel cylinder configurations.

Implementation Method 1

a 4way-2way solenoid valve suitable for the above mentioned compressor with controlled capacity

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSolenoid: Solenoid

Implementation Method 2

a pneumatic slide valve controlled by a solenoid valve, the said slide valve mainly includes a movable valve core controlled by a solenoid valve

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPressure differential: Pressure Gradient

Data Source

PatentUS8152478B2Compressor with controlled capacity

Publication Date: 2012.04.10 SHANGHAI HITACHI ELECTRICAL APPLIANCES CO LTD

AI summary

A double cylinder compressor with controlled capacity having a capacity switch device, and a reservoir having an inlet and two outlets which are connected with an upper and a lower cylinder of the double cylinder compressor through the capacity switch device. The capacity switch device being switched to realize the connection in series or in parallel for the cylinders of the double cylinder compressor, as a result, the discharge capacity of the compressor is that of the second stage cylinder when the connection in series, or the sum of the two cylinders when the connection is in parallel.