Scroll compressors with different volume indexes and systems and methods for same
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Solution Overview
Problem
Scroll compressors with a fixed volume index face efficiency challenges across varying temperature conditions and part load operations, as their efficiency curves are fixed and not adaptable to seasonal changes or environmental conditions.
Innovation Solution
A compressor arrangement comprising multiple refrigerant compressors with different volume indexes connected in parallel, where each compressor is optimized for specific temperature ranges, with a controller selectively operating them based on demand load and condensing temperature conditions to maximize isentropic efficiency and energy efficiency ratios.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed volume index compressor is used, then the compressor structure is simple and cost-effective, but the efficiency curve is fixed and cannot adapt to seasonal changes or part load operations
Solution Approach 1:
The compressor system is segmented into multiple independent compressor units, each with a different fixed volume index. Instead of making one complex adjustable compressor, the invention divides the system into simpler compressor segments (e.g., first compressor with volume index V1, second compressor with volume index V2) that can be independently operated based on environmental conditions. This resolves the contradiction by achieving adaptability through multiple simple units rather than one complex adjustable unit.
2Adaptability or versatility
If variable geometry compressors are used to adapt efficiency to different conditions, then efficiency adaptability improves, but parts count and device complexity increase substantially
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of making the compressor geometry variable and adjustable (the conventional approach), the invention inverts the approach by using multiple compressors with fixed but different volume indexes. The adaptability is achieved not by changing the compressors themselves, but by selecting which fixed-volume-index compressor to operate based on environmental conditions. This eliminates the need for variable geometry mechanisms, actuators, and controls while maintaining adaptability.
3Productivity
If a bank of compressors with different volume indexes is used, then efficiency across varying temperature conditions improves, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each compressor in the bank is designed with a specific volume index optimized for particular operating conditions (e.g., high temperature, low temperature, part load). The system achieves multi-functionality by having different compressors handle different operational scenarios. A controller selectively activates the appropriate compressor based on real-time conditions, making the system universally adaptable across various temperature and load conditions without requiring complex variable geometry mechanisms in each unit.
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 approach enhances efficiency by utilizing compressors optimized for specific temperature ranges, leading to improved Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) and Integrated Part Load Value (IPLV), and ensures optimal performance across varying load conditions.
Implementation Method 1
positive displacement machines and thereby may have a fixed and therefore non-adjustable 'volume index'. Such compressors trap a fixed volume of fluid (e.g. typically a pure gas state) on the suction side and increase the pressure by reducing the volume occupied by the fluid in a compression chamber, thereby raising the fluid pressure on the discharge side.
Data Source
AI summary
A plurality of scroll compressors with different fixed volume indexes are connected in fluid parallel circuit and configured to selectively operate to maximize isentropic efficiency at different condensing temperatures. Different quantities of scroll compressors of different volume indexes may be selected based upon typical climate or geographic location environmental conditions to attempt to maximize efficiency. A controller may selectively operate different combinations of the compressors of different volume indexes bases up load demands and condensing temperature conditions, which may be determined in a variety of ways.