Linear Compressor Multi-Plenum Discharge Cover for Heat and Noise Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Linear compressors face issues with heat transfer from discharge refrigerant to the discharge cover and frame, reduced rigidity due to simple structure, noise from discharge pulsation and valve hitting, and challenging manufacturing of discharge covers.
Innovation Solution
The linear compressor incorporates a discharge cover assembly with multiple plenums made of materials with different heat transfer coefficients, reinforcement ribs for increased rigidity, and pulsation reduction spaces to minimize noise and heat transfer, while simplifying manufacturing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a simple structure discharge plenum is used, then device complexity is reduced, but rigidity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The discharge plenum is divided into multiple sections with partition walls, creating separate discharge spaces. This segmentation allows each section to be reinforced independently while maintaining overall structural integrity, resolving the contradiction between simplicity and rigidity.
Solution Approach 2:
The discharge plenum incorporates reinforcement ribs made of different materials with higher strength-to-weight ratios. These composite elements are integrated into the existing simple structure, enhancing rigidity without significantly increasing overall complexity.
2Temperature
If discharge refrigerant directly contacts discharge cover, then heat transfer is efficient for cooling, but temperature of discharge cover increases excessively
Solution Approach 1:
A heat transfer medium (such as a cooling fluid or thermally conductive material) is introduced as an intermediary between the discharge refrigerant and the discharge cover. This mediator facilitates controlled heat transfer, preventing excessive temperature rise while maintaining efficient thermal management.
Solution Approach 2:
The harmful thermal energy is extracted from the discharge refrigerant through dedicated heat dissipation pathways before it reaches the discharge cover. Heat sinks or cooling channels are incorporated to remove excess heat, protecting the discharge cover from excessive temperature.
3Productivity
If discharge valve is positioned to enable efficient discharge, then productivity is improved, but noise from valve hitting increases
Solution Approach 1:
A cushioning element or noise reduction structure is positioned in advance to absorb the impact noise when the discharge valve closes. This pre-positioned damping structure prevents noise generation while maintaining efficient valve operation and discharge productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
A flexible noise-damping material or thin film is introduced between the discharge valve and surrounding structures. This flexible element absorbs vibration and impact noise while allowing the valve to maintain its efficient discharge positioning, resolving the contradiction between productivity and noise.
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
Efficiently reduces heat transfer to the discharge cover and frame, enhances rigidity, decreases discharge pulsation noise, and improves manufacturing ease.
Implementation Method 1
a first discharge plenum disposed in the inner space of the discharge cover, the first discharge plenum defining a first discharge space therein, and a second discharge plenum disposed between the first discharge plenum and the discharge cover. The second discharge plenum defines (i) a second discharge space in fluid communication with the first discharge space and (ii) a third discharge space in fluid communication with the second discharge space
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 4~5
AI summary
A linear compressor includes a frame, a cylinder disposed in the frame, a piston configured to axially reciprocate in the piston, a discharge valve disposed at a front of the piston, and a discharge cover assembly coupled to the frame and disposed at the front of the piston. The discharge cover assembly includes a discharge cover including an inner space, a first discharge plenum that is disposed in the inner space of the discharge cover and defines a first discharge space inside the first discharge plenum, and a second discharge plenum disposed between the first discharge plenum and the discharge cover. The second discharge plenum defines a second discharge space in fluid communication with the first discharge space and a third discharge space in fluid communication with the second discharge space between the first discharge plenum and the second discharge plenum.