Single-Pair Scroll Plates for Combined Compression and Expansion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing scroll type devices are limited to single-stage operation and require multiple pairs of scroll plates to achieve both compression and expansion functions, making them inefficient and costly for waste heat recovery applications, such as air conditioning systems.
Innovation Solution
A novel scroll type device design that incorporates both compressor and expander functions within a single unit using a pair of interleaved scroll plates with interleaved spiral projections, allowing for eccentric orbiting and eliminating the need for gearing or shafting, enabling efficient operation in a single direction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple pairs of scroll plates are used to achieve both compression and expansion functions, then functional versatility is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by designing a single scroll plate pair that performs both compression and expansion functions. The scroll plates are configured with specific port arrangements and geometric parameters that enable them to alternately compress and expand refrigerant during different phases of the orbital motion cycle, eliminating the need for separate compressor and expander units.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the compression and expansion functions into a single integrated scroll type device. By combining these functions in one unit with a single pair of scroll plates, the patent reduces device complexity and cost while maintaining the ability to perform both compression and expansion operations through proper port configuration and orbital motion control.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple pairs of scroll plates are used to achieve both compression and expansion functions, then functional versatility is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The scroll plates are designed with universal functionality to perform both compression and expansion, reducing the total number of components that need to be manufactured and assembled. This single pair of scroll plates replaces what would traditionally require separate compressor and expander units, lowering manufacturing costs.
Solution Approach 2:
By merging compression and expansion functions into one unit, the patent reduces the total component count and assembly complexity, directly impacting manufacturing cost reduction while maintaining full functional versatility.
3Reliability
If separate expanders and compressors are used for waste heat recovery, then functional performance is improved, but system efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines compression and expansion operations in a single unit, which improves system efficiency by reducing energy losses associated with separate units and their interconnections. The integrated design allows for better thermal coupling and reduced parasitic losses, while the orbital motion mechanism ensures reliable functional performance of both compression and expansion.
Solution Approach 2:
The orbital motion of the scroll plates enables continuous alternation between compression and expansion phases without interruption, maintaining continuous useful action. This continuous operation improves system efficiency compared to separate units that would require coordination and potential idle periods.
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
This design reduces costs and increases efficiency by allowing both compression and expansion functions to be performed using a single pair of scroll plates, effectively utilizing waste heat energy for air conditioning purposes without the need for separate expanders and compressors.
Implementation Method 1
such scroll type compressors... to trap and pump or compress pockets of fluid between the scrolls... effect compression of the fluids introduced thereinto
Implementation Method 2
such scroll type devices... to serve an expansion function instead of a compression function
Data Source
AI summary
A scroll type device for operating on a fluid provided thereto that includes, as a unit, a housing with two interleaved scroll plates that are installed within such housing and that are operably movable relative to one another in an eccentric orbit, with such scroll plates including interleaved spiral projections, spiral projections include first and second portions, which portions will operate for expansion and the other of which portion will operate for compression as the unit operates in a given normal direction of movement.