Scroll Compressor Variable Volume Ratio via Intermediate Cavities

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing scroll compressors with variable volume ratio (VVR) functions face challenges due to limited installation space and complex structures, which hinder the realization of the VVR function and increase costs.

Innovation Solution

A scroll compressor design that includes a movable and fixed scroll with intermediate compression cavities connected by a fluid channel, allowing for a variable volume ratio mechanism without the need for additional space or complex structures.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If a VVR valve is provided to achieve variable volume ratio function, then the compressor efficiency is improved by avoiding over-compression, but the device complexity and installation space requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompressor efficiencyVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the VVR function with the existing scroll compressor structure by integrating intermediate compression cavities into the scroll mechanism itself. The fluid channel connects these intermediate cavities to the discharge area, eliminating the need for separate VVR valves and reducing structural complexity while maintaining compressor efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The scroll compressor structure is designed to perform multiple functions: compression and VVR control are integrated into a single mechanism. The intermediate compression cavities serve both as compression chambers and as pressure regulation zones, allowing the same structure to achieve both compression and variable volume ratio control without additional dedicated components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Productivity

If a VVR valve is provided to achieve variable volume ratio function, then the compressor efficiency is improved, but the installation space is exceeded

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompressor efficiencyVSAvoidinstallation space
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The intermediate compression cavities are nested within the existing scroll compressor structure, utilizing the internal space of the scroll mechanism. The fluid channel is integrated into the scroll housing, allowing the VVR function to be embedded within the existing compact design without requiring additional external space.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

3Productivity

If a complex structure is used to realize VVR function, then the compressor efficiency is improved, but the manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompressor efficiencyVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

By merging the VVR function into the existing scroll compressor structure, the patent eliminates the need for separate VVR valves and associated components. This integration reduces the total number of parts, simplifies manufacturing processes, and lowers assembly costs while maintaining the efficiency benefits of variable volume ratio control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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

The design enables the realization of the VVR function without space constraints, simplifies the structure, reduces development complexity and costs, and ensures reliable operation with low leakage.

Implementation Method 1

the first intermediate compression cavity and the second intermediate compression cavity are directly communicated through the fluid channel

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFluid communication:

Data Source

PatentEP3978754B1Scroll compressor
Publication Date: 2025.02.12 COPELAND CLIMATE TECN (SUZHOU) CO LTD
  • EP3978754B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3978754B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3978754B1 patent drawingFigure 3A~3B

AI summary

Disclosed is a scroll compressor, comprising: an orbiting scroll (50A, 50C) having an orbiting scroll end plate (54A) and an orbiting volute (56C) formed on one side of the orbiting scroll end plate, and a fixed scroll (40A, 40B, 40C) having a fixed scroll end plate (44A, 44B) and a fixed volute (46C) formed on one side of the fixed scroll end plate. The fixed scroll and the orbiting scroll match each other in order to form a series of compression cavities therebetween, the series of compression cavities comprise a central compression cavity (C1) and a middle compression cavity located on a radial outer side of the central compression cavity, and the middle compression cavity comprises at least a set of a first middle compression cavity (C2) and a second middle compression cavity (C3); and a fluid channel (300, 300C1, 300C2) selectively communicating with a discharge area is provided between the first middle compression cavity and the second middle compression cavity, and the first middle compression cavity directly communicates with the second middle compression cavity by means of the fluid channel.