Scroll Compressor Capacity Modulation via Injection and Bypass Ports
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing scroll compressors lack efficient mechanisms for varying capacity to adapt to full or part load conditions, which is essential for seasonal variations and load requirements in conditioned spaces.
Innovation Solution
A capacity modulation system utilizing an economized vapor injection (EVI) port and a bypass port to selectively inject vapor into compression chambers or leak compressed fluid, allowing for multiple levels of capacity adjustment by controlling the positions and areas of these ports within the compressor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a scroll compressor operates at full load conditions, then it achieves maximum compression capacity, but it cannot adapt to part load conditions efficiently
Solution Approach 1:
The compression capacity is segmented into multiple discrete levels (e.g., 100%, 75%, 50%, 25% capacity) by selectively closing different combinations of suction ports. This allows the compressor to operate at various capacity levels rather than being limited to a single full-load mode, thereby resolving the contradiction between adaptability and productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The compressor incorporates dynamic capacity control through solenoid valves that can be actuated to close specific suction ports based on load requirements. This dynamic adjustment mechanism enables the system to transition between different capacity levels in response to varying refrigeration demands, achieving both adaptability and maintained productivity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If capacity modulation mechanisms are added to vary operating capacity, then adaptability to load conditions improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The existing suction ports and solenoid valve structures in the scroll compressor are designed to serve multiple functions: normal suction during full-load operation and capacity control during part-load operation. By making these existing components multi-functional, the system achieves capacity modulation without adding separate dedicated mechanisms, thus improving adaptability while minimizing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The compressor utilizes its own internal suction ports and existing solenoid valves to perform the capacity modulation function. Rather than requiring external or additional complex modulation devices, the system employs its inherent structural elements for dual purposes (suction and capacity control), thereby achieving adaptability with minimal increase in device complexity.
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
Enables precise control over compressor capacity, achieving several levels of reduction without penalties at full load conditions, improving efficiency and adaptability to varying load demands.
Implementation Method 1
A first port is in communication with a first of the plurality of compression chambers and selectively injects an injection fluid into the first of the plurality of compression chambers to increase a compressor capacity
Implementation Method 2
the second spiral wrap forms a meshing engagement with the first spiral wrap to create a plurality of compression chambers between a suction port and a discharge port of the orbiting scroll member and the non-orbiting scroll member
Data Source
AI summary
A system includes a compressor with an orbiting scroll member having a first end plate and a first spiral wrap. A non-orbiting scroll member has a second end plate and a second spiral wrap, the second spiral wrap forming a meshing engagement with the first spiral wrap to create a plurality of compression chambers between a suction port and a discharge port. A first port in communication with a first of the plurality of compression chambers selectively injects an injection fluid into the first of the plurality of compression chambers to increase a compressor capacity and selectively leaks a first compressed fluid from the first of the plurality of compression chambers to reduce the compressor capacity. A second port in communication with a second of the plurality of compression chambers selectively leaks a second compressed fluid from the second of the plurality of compression chambers to reduce a compressor capacity.