Scroll Compressor Scallop Step Design to Reduce Over-Pressurization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Scroll compressors in vapor compression systems face inefficiencies due to over-pressurization of working fluids, particularly at part loads, which affects their operational efficiency.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a modified tip portion on the orbiting scroll member with a base, step, and scallop configuration that increases the flow area of the indirect pressure chamber, reducing over-pressurization and enhancing efficiency by 1% at 75% load compared to standard designs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If a standard scroll member design is used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but over-pressurization occurs reducing efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by modifying only the tip portion of the wrap member with a scallop step configuration, while the rest of the scroll member maintains its standard design. This localized modification increases the flow area at the discharge region to reduce over-pressurization, without complicating the overall structure. The base, step, and scallop portions create a gradual transition that improves fluid flow characteristics precisely where needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The scallop step configuration introduces a dimensional modification to the wrap member tip by creating a multi-level structure with base, step, and scallop portions. This dimensional change increases the flow area in the discharge region, allowing better fluid evacuation and reducing over-pressurization effects that occur in standard two-dimensional wrap configurations.
2Productivity
If the flow area of the indirect pressure chamber is increased, then over-pressurization is reduced, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The modification to the wrap member tip is segmented into three distinct portions: base, step, and scallop. This segmentation allows for controlled dimensional changes that increase flow area while maintaining manufacturability. Each segment can be defined by simple geometric parameters, making the design easier to manufacture compared to complex curved transitions.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses parameter changes by defining the scallop step configuration through specific dimensional parameters (depths and positions of base, step, and scallop portions). By controlling these geometric parameters, the flow area is increased to reduce over-pressurization, while the parameters are chosen to maintain ease of manufacturing through standard fabrication processes.
3Use of energy by moving object
If a modified tip portion with scallop step is added, then efficiency increases at part load, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The efficiency improvement is achieved by applying local quality modification only to the tip portion of the wrap member, which is the critical region for discharge flow. The base, step, and scallop configuration locally increases flow area where it is most needed, improving part-load efficiency without requiring complex modifications throughout the entire wrap member structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The scallop step configuration provides partial action by modifying only the necessary portion of the wrap member (the tip region) rather than the entire structure. This partial modification is sufficient to reduce over-pressurization and improve efficiency at part load, avoiding the excessive complexity that would result from comprehensive redesign.
Data Source
AI summary
A scroll member for a scroll compressor is disclosed. The scroll member includes a base member and a wrap member formed on a major surface of the base member. The wrap member includes a modified portion. The modified portion includes a base, a step, and a scallop. The base extends a first distance from the major surface. The step extends a second distance from the base. The scallop extends a third distance from the scallop. The scallop is located at a wrap surface of the wrap member. The wrap surface is disposed relatively away from the major surface relative to the step.