Direct-Drive Iris Diaphragm Compressor for Broad Characteristic Maps

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional compressors for internal combustion engines face challenges in simultaneously achieving a broad characteristic map, minimal moment of inertia, and maximum efficiency, especially during transient operating conditions, while maintaining stable performance and minimizing structural complexity and cost.

Innovation Solution

The compressor integrates an adjusting ring that serves as both the rotor of an electric motor and the actuator for the iris diaphragm mechanism, allowing direct control of the slats to adjust the inlet cross-section, reducing the need for separate components and synchronizing mechanisms, thus enhancing responsiveness and durability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a conventional compressor design is used, then the structure is simple, but the moment of inertia cannot be minimized and efficiency is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompressor efficiencyVSAvoidcompressor structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a variable iris diaphragm mechanism that dynamically adjusts the inlet cross-section area during compressor operation. The iris diaphragm can change its opening area continuously to adapt to different operating conditions, transforming the static inlet structure into a dynamic one that optimizes airflow characteristics across the operating range, thereby improving compressor efficiency without requiring complete structural redesign

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The adjusting ring serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as the rotor for the electric motor and as the actuating mechanism for the iris diaphragm. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, minimizing the moment of inertia while maintaining the ability to control the inlet area for efficiency optimization

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If additional measures such as adjustable guide vanes are added, then the characteristic map is broadened, but the device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecharacteristic map widthVSAvoidadjustment mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the motor rotor and the iris diaphragm actuator into a single integrated adjusting ring component. This merging eliminates the need for separate link mechanisms, coupling rods, and synchronization devices that would otherwise be required to coordinate multiple independent components, thereby broadening the characteristic map while keeping the adjustment mechanism simple and cost-effective

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The adjusting ring performs multiple functions: it serves as the motor rotor, the actuating lever, and the synchronization mechanism for all iris slats. This universal component approach achieves broad adaptability in controlling inlet area without requiring complex adjustment mechanisms or multiple synchronized components

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Manufacturing precision

If a link mechanism with coupling rods is used to synchronize the iris slats, then the adjustment is precise, but the friction and wear increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveslat synchronizationVSAvoidmechanism durability
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the traditional mechanical link mechanism with coupling rods and pivots with a direct-drive electromagnetic system. The electric motor mounted on the adjusting ring directly actuates the iris slats through magnetic coupling or direct mechanical connection, eliminating the need for extensive mechanical linkages. This substitution reduces friction and wear points while maintaining precise synchronization of the slats through electronic control

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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 integration results in reduced friction, lower costs, improved durability, and enhanced responsiveness with minimal installation space, while maintaining stable operation during engine load changes, reducing wear and noise.

Implementation Method 1

an electric motor, having a rotor which is formed by the adjusting ring

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentEP3810937B1Compressor with directly driven variable iris diaphragm, and charging device
Publication Date: 2025.07.09 SCHAEFFLER TECHNOLOGIES AG & CO KG
  • EP3810937B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3810937B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention relates to a compressor for a charging device of an internal combustion engine and to a charging device. The compressor has an iris diaphragm mechanism which has a special drive. The drive comprises an adjustment ring as an integral component of an actuator of the drive and is designed as a rotor of an electric motor, said rotor surrounding an air supply channel. In this manner, a substantially simplified design of the drive is provided.