Patents by Inventor Earl B. Muir

Earl B. Muir has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Patent number: 5049040
    Abstract: A variable capacity compressor in which each compression chamber has a reexpansion chamber the volume of which is selectively controlled by pressurized lubricant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 1989
    Date of Patent: September 17, 1991
    Assignee: Copeland Corporation
    Inventors: Tariq A. R. Diab, Jerry L. Miller, Earl B. Muir
  • Patent number: 4998864
    Abstract: An improved scroll compressor is disclosed which incorporates a one-way clutch operative to prevent reverse rotation of the orbiting scroll member. In one embodiment the one-way clutch also serves as a lower bearing for supporting the drive shaft whereas in another embodiment a separate bearing member is utilized in connection with the one-way clutch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 1989
    Date of Patent: March 12, 1991
    Assignee: Copeland Corporation
    Inventor: Earl B. Muir
  • Patent number: 4609334
    Abstract: There is disclosed a scroll-type machine specifically suited for use as a gaseous fluid compressor. The machine incorporates an improved rotation controlling mechanism which is extremely simple in construction, several embodiments of which are disclosed. This mechanism does not eliminate relative rotation between the scrolls but limits it to a relatively small predetermined amount. Several novel techniques for contouring the profiles of the scroll wrap flanks to give good flank sealing with the aforesaid rotation controlling mechanism are also disclosed, as are two embodiments of an improved scroll drive mechanism and an improved thrust bearing arrangement. A novel method of machining a scroll is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 1983
    Date of Patent: September 2, 1986
    Assignee: Copeland Corporation
    Inventors: Earl B. Muir, Russell W. Griffith, Gerald W. Lilienthal
  • Patent number: 4518323
    Abstract: An improved hermetic motor compressor is disclosed which incorporates an improved discharge muffler arrangement wherein the discharge muffler is intergrated with an end portion of the shell and remote from the driving motor whereby heating of the discharge gas by the motor is substantially eliminated and a relatively large surface area is provided to transfer heat to the surrounding atmosphere. Additionally, the compressor incorporates an improved lubrication system wherein in one embodiment a pressure responsive valved vent is provided for the substantially closed crankcase and operates to create a pressure differential between an oil sump and the upper end of an oil distribution passage thereby improving lubricant flow to the bearings as well as providing means for returning lubricant from the crankcase to the sump. In another embodiment a rotating valved vent is provided which operates to selectively place this upper end of an oil distribution passage in communication with the crankcase.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 1983
    Date of Patent: May 21, 1985
    Assignee: Copeland Corporation
    Inventors: John P. Elson, Earl B. Muir, Delmar R. Riffe