Scroll compressor with integrated refrigerant pump
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cooling systems for data centers are bulky, costly, and time-consuming to install due to the need for separate refrigerant pumps and compressors, which complicates operation across different climate modes.
Innovation Solution
A scroll compressor unit integrated with a refrigerant pump, driven by a single motor with electromagnetic clutches that selectively engage and disengage to operate in DX, hybrid, and thermosiphon modes, reducing the need for separate components and simplifying installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If separate refrigerant pump and compressor are used, then system functionality is achieved, but system size and installation complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the refrigerant pump and compressor into a single integrated unit with a common casing, shared motor, and integrated control system. This merging reduces the number of separate components, simplifies installation, and decreases system footprint while maintaining the ability to operate in multiple modes (DX, hybrid, and thermosiphon) through selective engagement of the pump and compressor functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated unit serves multiple functions: it can operate as a compressor only, as a pump only, or both simultaneously, depending on the operational mode required. This multi-functionality is achieved through a single motor that can selectively drive either the compressor or the pump, eliminating the need for separate dedicated components for each function.
2Adaptability or versatility
If additional refrigerant pump is installed, then thermosiphon mode operation is enabled, but cost and installation time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the refrigerant pump and compressor into a single pre-assembled unit that can be installed as one component rather than multiple separate components. This reduces installation time and complexity while enabling thermosiphon mode operation through the integrated pump function.
Solution Approach 2:
The pump and compressor are pre-integrated into a single unit during manufacturing, with shared mounting structures, common electrical connections, and coordinated control systems already configured. This preliminary integration eliminates the need for complex on-site assembly and reduces installation time while maintaining full operational versatility.
3Reliability
If separate pump and compressor are used, then system functionality is achieved, but system cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the refrigerant pump and compressor into a single integrated unit with shared components including the motor, casing, mounting structure, and control system. This reduction in component quantity maintains full system functionality while lowering overall system cost through economies of scale and reduced material requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated unit provides universal functionality for both compression and pumping operations, eliminating the need for separate dedicated components. This multi-functionality is achieved through selective engagement mechanisms that allow a single motor to drive either the compressor or the pump based on operational requirements, thereby reducing total component count and cost.
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 integrated scroll compressor unit reduces system size, cost, and installation time while enabling efficient operation across varying outdoor temperatures, enhancing energy efficiency and reducing energy consumption.
Implementation Method 1
The drive shaft may be connected to the scroll compressor by a first electromagnetic clutch. The drive shaft may be connected to the refrigerant pump by a second electromagnetic clutch.
Data Source
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AI summary
A cooling system is configured to operate in one of three modes, a DX mode of operation when outdoor air is too hot or too humid and the cooling system operates as a normal closed circuit system, a hybrid mode of operation when outside temperatures cool down and the cooling system operates as a partial reduced normal closed circuit system and a free cooling system, and a thermosiphon mode of operation when the outside temperature is below a predetermined temperature and the cooling system operates without the normal closed circuit system. The cooling system includes a scroll compressor unit having a main casing, a scroll compressor supported by the main casing, and a refrigerant pump supported by the main casing. The scroll compressor unit is configured to selectively engage the scroll compressor and the refrigerant pump to achieve one of the DX mode, the hybrid mode, and the thermosiphon mode.