Multi-Strand Linear Compressor Spring for Axial Load Balance

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing linear compressor designs face issues with lateral force distortion due to misaligned central axes of the actuator and resonant springs, limited reciprocation speed due to small spring sizes, and increased complexity and size due to multiple springs, which hinder efficient compression and compactness.

Innovation Solution

The design aligns the central axis of the driving assembly with the spring axis, using a spring composed of multiple strands that axially support the piston, with front and rear spring links disposed in the same planes to minimize lateral force and enhance load resistance, allowing for high-speed operation and a more compact structure.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If multiple resonant springs are provided to support the piston, then the load resistance is improved, but the device complexity and shell size increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveload resistanceVSAvoidspring configuration complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The spring is divided into multiple strands (typically three) that are arranged radially around the central axis. Each strand independently supports axial load while the radial arrangement ensures balanced force distribution, eliminating the need for multiple separate springs and reducing structural complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Multiple spring strands are combined into a single integrated spring assembly that functions as one unified component. This merged structure provides the load resistance of multiple springs while occupying less space and simplifying the overall configuration compared to using separate springs

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Adaptability or versatility

If the central axes of the actuator and resonant springs do not coincide, then the spring can be installed more flexibly, but lateral force is generated causing distortion

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespring installation flexibilityVSAvoidspring distortion
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The spring strands are arranged asymmetrically in a radial pattern around the central axis rather than being positioned symmetrically on opposite sides. This asymmetric radial arrangement naturally guides the axial force along the central axis while providing flexible installation options

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

Solution Approach 2:

The spring design creates an equipotential condition where the central axis of the spring assembly coincides with the central axis of the actuator. This alignment ensures that force is transmitted purely axially without generating lateral components, eliminating distortion while maintaining installation flexibility

Inventive Principle:
Principle #12Equipotentiality

3Volume of stationary object

If small sized resonant springs are used, then the shell size is reduced, but the reciprocation speed is limited due to inability to resist large load

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveshell sizeVSAvoidreciprocation speed
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of stationary objectVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The spring design transitions from a single-dimension coil structure to a multi-dimensional radial strand arrangement. By distributing the load-carrying function across multiple radial strands, the spring achieves high load resistance in a compact volume, enabling both small shell size and high reciprocation speed

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

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 configuration reduces lateral force on the spring, enables higher load resistance, increases compression efficiency, and simplifies the internal structure, resulting in a more compact and efficient linear compressor with improved performance.

Implementation Method 1

a spring that axially elastically supports the piston (130). The spring includes a plurality of spring strands

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS11208989B2Linear compressor with a plurality of spring strands
Publication Date: 2021.12.28 LG ELECTRONICS INC
  • US11208989B2 patent drawing
  • US11208989B2 patent drawing
  • US11208989B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A linear compressor includes a piston that reciprocates on a spring central axis extending in an axial direction and a spring that axially elastically supports the piston. The spring includes a plurality of spring strands. The spring strands each include a spring body spirally extending along a spring central axis C, a front spring link forming an end of the spring body by extending from a side of the spring body, and a rear spring link forming the other end of the spring body by extending from the other side of the spring body. Of the spring strands, the front spring links are disposed axially in the same plane P1 and the rear spring links are disposed axially in the same plane P2.