Variable orifice flow control device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current compressor systems experience inefficiencies due to drag and windage losses from fixed-size holes used for cooling gas flow, which do not adapt to varying cooling demands of compressor parts like the motor and bearings based on speed and pressure.
Innovation Solution
A flow control device with a shuttling valve assembly is introduced between the volute and motor housings, featuring sections with different cross-sectional areas and controlled by gas pressure and/or springs, allowing dynamic adjustment of the orifice size to optimize coolant flow based on compressor needs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If fixed-size holes are used to allow compressed gas to cool compressor components, then cooling is provided to motor, shaft and bearings, but drag and windage losses increase due to excessive gas flow
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by replacing fixed-size cooling holes with a variable orifice flow control device that dynamically adjusts the opening size based on compressor operating conditions. The shuttling valve assembly responds to pressure differentials and spring forces to modulate gas flow, enabling the system to adapt cooling delivery to actual thermal demands while minimizing excessive flow that causes drag and windage losses.
2Adaptability or versatility
If fixed-size holes are used for cooling gas flow, then the structure is simple, but the cooling system cannot adapt to variable cooling demands at different speeds and pressures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the self-service principle by designing a flow control system that automatically regulates its own operation based on inherent pressure differentials and mechanical spring forces. The shuttling valve assembly responds to changing compressor conditions without external control signals, self-adjusting the orifice opening to match cooling demands. This autonomous regulation achieves adaptability while keeping the control mechanism relatively simple and reliable.
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 solution reduces drag and windage losses while ensuring variable cooling needs are met, enhancing compressor efficiency by dynamically controlling the flow of coolant.
Implementation Method 1
The position of the shuttling valve may be controlled by a spring and/or gas pressure
Implementation Method 2
The position of the shuttling valve may be controlled by a spring and/or gas pressure
Implementation Method 3
the flow of compressed gas may cause inefficiency due to drag and windage losses
Data Source
AI summary
A variable orifice flow device controls the flow of a fluid between a volute casing and a compressor motor casing in a compressor. The variable orifice flow device may be a shuttling valve, with positions controlled by, for example, valves controlling the flow of the fluid into a space opposite a side within the shuttling valve assembly. The variable orifice flow device may have one or more orifices through which a fluid can enter the compressor motor casing, and the surface area of the orifices may be controlled by the position of the shuttling valve.