Variable volume ratio compressor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Fixed volume ratio compressors in refrigeration systems face inefficiencies due to varying load conditions and temperature changes, leading to over or under compression, resulting in system losses and reduced energy efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A compressor design with strategically positioned and sized openings in the compression mechanism that automatically adjust the volume ratio in response to pressure differentials between the intake and discharge passages, allowing for varying the volume ratio without the use of valves or moving parts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If fixed volume ratio compressor geometry is used, then manufacturing simplicity and cost are improved, but energy efficiency deteriorates under varying load conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the discharge opening geometry variable rather than fixed. The discharge opening area changes automatically in response to pressure differential variations, allowing the compressor to adapt its volume ratio to match system conditions. This dynamic adjustment eliminates the need for multiple fixed-geometry compressors or complex control valves while maintaining optimal energy efficiency across varying load conditions.
2Productivity
If fixed volume ratio is optimized for full load, then full load performance is improved, but partial load efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by varying the discharge opening area parameter in response to changing pressure differential conditions. At full load, the discharge opening maintains an area optimized for high capacity operation. As load decreases and pressure differential changes, the effective discharge opening area automatically adjusts, maintaining optimal volume ratio and preventing both overcompression and backflow losses across the entire operating range.
3Adaptability or versatility
If volume ratio does not match system pressure conditions, then system adaptability is improved, but compression efficiency deteriorates due to over or under compression
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by using the pressure differential between suction and discharge passages as a natural feedback signal to automatically adjust the effective discharge opening area. When discharge pressure rises (indicating high side pressure buildup), the pressure differential increases, causing the discharge opening to effectively close more, reducing volume ratio to match the higher pressure conditions. This self-regulating feedback mechanism ensures continuous matching of compressor volume ratio to system pressure conditions without external control.
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 enhances energy efficiency by matching the compressor's volume ratio to changing system conditions, minimizing system losses and improving performance at partial loads and low condenser pressures, thereby optimizing energy efficiency ratings.
Implementation Method 1
the at least one opening being sized and positioned to automatically vary a volume ratio in the compressor in response to a varying pressure differential between the intake passage and the discharge passage
Data Source
AI summary
A compressor and method for controlling the volume ratio of a compressor is provided. The compressor includes a an intake passage, a discharge passage and a compression mechanism, the compression mechanism being positioned to receive vapor from the intake passage and provide compressed vapor to the discharge passage. At least one opening is positioned in the compression mechanism to bypass a portion of the vapor in the compression mechanism to the discharge passage, the at least one opening being sized and positioned to automatically vary a volume ratio in the compressor in response to a varying pressure differential between the intake passage and the discharge passage.