Variable Capacity Reciprocating Compressor with Movable Cylinder
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing climate-control systems, such as heat-pump and refrigeration systems, face inefficiencies in compressor operation, particularly in varying capacity modes, which affect their ability to provide consistent cooling and heating effects.
Innovation Solution
A reciprocating compressor design featuring a shell, first and second cylinders, and a piston, allowing for full-capacity and reduced-capacity modes by controlling communication between compression chambers through movable valves and a second cylinder that can independently change positions, enabling adjustable compression pressures and fluid flow management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If the compressor operates in reduced-capacity mode with the second cylinder positioned to allow communication between compression chambers, then energy efficiency is improved, but the structural complexity increases due to the movable second cylinder and multiple valves
Solution Approach 1:
The second cylinder is designed to be movable relative to the first cylinder, allowing it to switch between two positions: one that isolates the compression chambers (full-capacity mode) and one that allows communication between them (reduced-capacity mode). This dynamic structural change enables the compressor to adapt its capacity and improve energy efficiency without requiring a completely different compressor design for each mode.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the second cylinder is made movable to enable capacity adjustment, then adaptability is improved, but the reliability may worsen due to additional moving parts and potential failure points
Solution Approach 1:
The movable second cylinder provides adaptability by enabling the compressor to operate in different capacity modes (full-capacity and reduced-capacity) based on system demands. The cylinder can be positioned independently of the crankshaft, allowing flexible capacity adjustment while maintaining a relatively simple mechanical structure that minimizes additional failure points.
3Power
If the piston compresses fluid to higher pressure in the first compression chamber, then the cooling/heating effect is improved, but the energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system can dynamically adjust compression pressure by changing the position of the second cylinder. When the second cylinder allows communication between the first and second compression chambers, the compression pressure is reduced, lowering energy consumption. When the chambers are isolated, full compression pressure is achieved for maximum cooling/heating effect. This dynamic adjustment allows the system to optimize energy consumption based on actual demand.
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 enhances operational efficiency by allowing for adjustable compression pressures and fluid management, improving the system's ability to provide consistent cooling and heating effects while optimizing energy usage.
Implementation Method 1
motion of the piston toward the plate compresses fluid within the first compression chamber and forces fluid into the second compression chamber
Implementation Method 2
the third valve may be movable between a first position restricting communication between the first and second compression chambers and a second position allowing communication between the first and second compression chambers
Implementation Method 3
The second cylinder may be moveable relative to the first cylinder between first and second positions independently of motion of the crankshaft
Data Source
AI summary
A reciprocating compressor may include a shell, a first cylinder, a plate, a second cylinder, and a piston. The first cylinder may be disposed within the shell and may include a first valve. The plate may be fixed relative to the first cylinder and may include a second valve. The second cylinder may be axially aligned with the first cylinder and may be moveable relative to the first cylinder between first and second positions. The piston may be disposed within the second cylinder and may include a third valve. The piston may reciprocate relative to the first and second cylinders. The piston and the plate may define a first compression chamber therebetween. The piston and the first cylinder may define a second compression chamber therebetween. A fluid-injection passage extending through the first cylinder selectively provides a working fluid from a source to the second compression chamber.