Compressor Shroud Segments Cooling Airflow to Reduce Noise
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing compressors generate high noise levels and are inefficient in cooling, with multiple fans adding complexity and cost, and improper cooling gas flow paths leading to reduced performance.
Innovation Solution
A compressor assembly with a sound reduction shroud that segments cooling airflow into motor and pump streams, using a single fan for both components and directing cooling air through a sound reduction conduit to achieve a noise level of 75 dBA or less, while optimizing cooling efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If multiple fans are used to cool the motor and pump separately, then cooling effectiveness is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the cooling function for both the motor and pump into a single fan system. The fan is positioned to create a unified cooling airflow that serves both components, eliminating the need for separate fans while maintaining adequate cooling through optimized airflow paths and ducting design.
Solution Approach 2:
The single fan is designed to perform multiple cooling functions simultaneously - it cools both the motor and pump components through strategically designed airflow channels. The cooling system achieves multi-functionality by directing the same airflow source to serve multiple thermal management needs within the compressor assembly.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the compressor is enclosed in a cabinet or compressor room, then noise levels are reduced, but mobility and ventilation are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The noise reduction approach is segmented into specific localized barriers rather than a complete enclosure. The shroud creates discrete noise-blocking sections around the fan and exhaust areas, reducing noise propagation without requiring a full cabinet enclosure that would restrict mobility. This segmented approach maintains ventilation pathways while addressing noise concerns.
3Productivity
If cooling air flow paths are not properly designed, then manufacturing is simpler, but cooling efficiency and performance are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The cooling airflow paths are designed utilizing three-dimensional spatial routing rather than simple linear channels. The ducting system creates multi-dimensional airflow patterns that efficiently reach both the motor and pump from the single fan source, optimizing heat transfer surface area contact and airflow distribution through sophisticated spatial design.
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 significantly reduces noise output and enhances cooling efficiency, achieving effective heat transfer and quieter operation with reduced power requirements.
Implementation Method 1
a fan for moving cooling air from a plurality of intake ports to exhaust ports
Implementation Method 2
a sound reduction shroud accommodated in the housing and configured to segment cooling airflow into at least a motor stream and a pump stream
Data Source
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AI summary
A compressor assembly having a sound reduction shroud and a sound level of 75 dBA or less when in a compressing state. The sound reduction shroud can be a cylinder head shroud, a pump cylinder shroud, or a pump assembly shroud. The sound reduction shroud can optionally cover one or more of a compressor pump assembly, a cylinder head and a compressed gas outlet line. A compressor assembly having a sound reduction conduit and a sound level of 75 dBA or less when in a compressing state. The sound reduction conduit provides a cooling air channel directing cooling air to cool one or more portions of the compressor assembly and can direct exhaust cooling air to an exhaust port. A method for compressing a gas at a sound level of 75 dBA or less when the compressor is in a compressing state using a sound reduction shroud or a sound reduction conduit.