Reciprocating Compressor Axial Space Reduction via Nested Carrier
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Solution Overview
Problem
Reciprocating compressors driven by internal combustion engines face challenges in minimizing axial installation space and complexity, particularly due to the need for additional flanges and coupling devices that increase length and require more space.
Innovation Solution
The compressor design integrates a carrier part between the A bearing and crankshaft housing, eliminating the need for external flanges and using a centering shoulder and flange connection for direct coupling to the engine, with an optional switchable clutch and simplified lubrication system, reducing alignment tolerances and manufacturing complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a flange is provided on the crankcase for coupling the compressor to the engine, then the compressor can be securely coupled to the engine, but the axial installation space is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The flange connection is merged directly into the crankshaft housing structure, eliminating the need for a separate flange component. The crankshaft housing includes an integrated flange connection that directly couples to the engine, reducing axial space while maintaining secure coupling.
Solution Approach 2:
The carrier part is pushed into the crankshaft housing and centered by it, with the flange connection provided on the crankshaft housing for coupling. This nested arrangement where the carrier part fits within the crankshaft housing eliminates the need for external flanges and reduces axial installation space.
2Power
If additional coupling devices are installed between the compressor and drive motor, then power transmission is enabled, but the axial installation space is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The clutch is integrated into the carrier part structure, merging the power transmission function with the structural support function. The clutch is arranged between the crankshaft and the carrier part, eliminating the need for separate external coupling devices and reducing axial space.
3Ease of manufacture
If a carrier part with flange connection is used instead of external flanges, then the structure is simplified and assembly is easier, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The carrier part is designed as a separate component that can be easily manufactured and assembled. The simplified structure with integrated flange connection reduces manufacturing complexity and allows for easier assembly, though it does require precise alignment during installation.
4Ease of repair
If the clutch is arranged outside the crankcase, then the clutch can be accessed for maintenance, but the axial installation space is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The clutch is nested within the carrier part structure, which itself is pushed into the crankshaft housing. This nested arrangement allows the clutch to be accessible for maintenance through the carrier part opening while minimizing the axial space required compared to external coupling devices.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a reciprocating compressor, to be installed on and driven via an internal combustion engine, comprising a crankcase, a support part and a crankshaft, which is mounted rotatably with respect to the crankcase by means of an A bearing and a B bearing. The A bearing is arranged between the compressor and internal combustion engine. The invention proposes that the support part is arranged between the A bearing and the crankshaft case, wherein the support part is substantially inserted in the crankshaft case and is centred by same.