Abstract: A scroll compressor includes an eccentric pin extending into a slider block, wherein the bore of the slider block is configured to cause the orbiting scroll to move out of contact with the non-orbiting scroll when there is reverse rotation. The bore in the slider block is configured to have two distinct circular portions. One of the circular portions has a greater radius than the other. The portion with the greater radius provides space to accommodate pivoting movement of the slider block relative to the eccentric pin when reverse rotation occurs. The second portion having the smaller radius ensures that a pivot pin on the inner periphery of the slider block bore is relatively thick.

Abstract: A simplified drive arrangement is provided to allow a scroll compressor to be operated at two capacity levels by a reversible electric motor. A pair of one-way clutches are positioned on a pair of parallel shafts. When the motor is driven in a forward direction drive passes through one of the one-way clutches and directly to the orbiting scroll. However, when the motor is driven in a reverse direction, drive passes through a countershaft, which in turn passes through a second one-way clutch. The drive passing through the second one-way clutch will result in the orbiting scroll being driven at a distinct speed then when the motor is driven in a reverse direction. In this way, capacity modulation is achieved with a very simple mechanism.

Abstract: A scroll compressor is provided with structure between its slider block and its eccentric pin that allows relative movement, but limits such movement. In one embodiment, a spring biased piston resists relative movement between the slider block and the eccentric pin. In another embodiment, incrementally spaced indexed surfaces are defined. With either embodiment the amount of relative movement of the slider block is limited relative to the eccentric pin and hence between the wraps of the orbiting scrolls. This will result in quieter operation.

Abstract: A low noise scroll compressor assembly has an orbiting scroll supported for movement about an axis, and a non-orbiting scroll mounted to the crankcase housing along the axis. The non-orbiting scroll is mounted to the crankcase housing by at least one guide bushing that allows axial movement of the non-orbiting scroll relative to the orbiting scroll. A plurality of openings are arranged radially within mounting flanges projecting outward from the non-orbiting scroll. Each opening includes a guide bushing and a dampening bushing. The dampening bushing comprises a material that will absorb an impact force between the non-orbiting scroll and the guide bushing. Absorption of impact forces by the dampening bushing prevents the transmission of vibrations, thereby minimizing or preventing noise.

Abstract: An improved scroll compressor having an axially movable non-orbiting scroll eliminates the need for a separator plate. With the elimination of the separator plate, a back pressure chamber is provided to resist the discharge pressure which will be directed against a rear face of the non-orbiting scroll. In other embodiments, a seal on the rear of the non-orbiting scroll contacts the inner periphery of the end cap. Various ways of increasing the discharge pressure volume, or eliminating undesirable noise are also disclosed. Further, several ways of connecting the end cap to the center shell are also disclosed.

Abstract: An improved housing for scroll compressor has the end cap housing formed integrally with the fixed scroll member. The end cap housing is preferably welded to a tubular housing enclosing the scroll compressor. Most preferably, the end housing has inner and outer tubular portions and the tubular housing extends upwardly into a channel between the inner and outer tubular portions. A muffler is preferably formed integrally with the end cap and extends to a side of the end cap. The present invention further includes heat transfer fins extend from the end cap. The positioning of the muffler to the side decreases the overall length of the compressor. The use of the fins increases the efficiency of compression as heat is removed from the compression chambers. The use of the unique combined end cap and fixed scroll which is welded to the tubular housing simplifies assembly.

Abstract: A number of improvements increase the flow of lubricant within a scroll compressor. A centrifugal oil separator is mounted on the discharge port to remove oil from the refrigerant. The oil is returned through a leak path such that the oil can easily return back to a suction pressure chamber. The leak path is preferably upstream of a check valve. Thus, at shutdown, the leak path will not allow upstream components to also equalize in pressure with the suction pressure chamber of the compressor. Further, a number of embodiments include ways of resisting flow of refrigerant through the leak path, while still allowing oil flow. A number of valve elements are described which perform this function. Alternatively, labyrinth flow paths, or positioning of the return paths such that it will be closed when the compressor is shut down are disclosed.

Abstract: An improved scroll compressor having an axially movable non-orbiting scroll eliminates the need for a separator plate. With the elimination of the separator plate, a back pressure chamber is provided to resist the discharge pressure which will be directed against a rear face of the non-orbiting scroll. In other embodiments, a seal on the rear of the non-orbiting scroll contacts the inner periphery of the end cap. Various ways of increasing the discharge pressure volume, or eliminating undesirable noise are also disclosed. Further, several ways of connecting the end cap to the center shell are also disclosed.

Abstract: Scroll compressors having a non-orbiting scroll the type that moves axially for a limited distance are provided with an economizer fluid tube. The economizer tube is received within an opening in the non-orbiting scroll such that the non-orbiting scroll can move relative to the tube. This is an improvement over the prior art, and provides a more secure and simple connection.

Abstract: A unique protection circuit for a sealed compressor incorporates oil structure which directs a heated oil onto a motor protection circuit. The motor protection circuit is of the type which shuts down operation of an electric motor when a predetermined temperature is sensed. The motor protection circuit is positioned adjacent to an oil return path which is opened when a high temperature is experienced in the compressor pump unit. The valve in the path opens to allow flow of the returned oil onto the motor protection switch. The motor protection switch is then actuated to stop further operation of the motor. In another embodiment, the motor protection switch is immersed in the oil sump. Again, when the oil temperature increases to a predetermined amount, the motor protection switch stops further operation of the motor.

Abstract: A scroll compressor back pressure chamber seal protector is operable to prevent the seal from moving away from a separator plate during reverse rotation. During reverse rotation, a check valve associated with the seal communicates a higher pressure fluid into the back pressure chamber such that a low pressure from an intermediate pressure chamber will not pull the seal away from the separator plate. In this way, the seal is maintained in contact with the separator plate during reverse rotation.

Abstract: A series of check valves are disclosed for use in a scroll compressor which control and dampen the closing of the check valve to reduce noise during rapid pressure fluctuations encountered during normal operation and to control loss of gas in a discharge passage. In one check valve, a reed valve or poppet valve is employed to control the motion of a main valve to a closed position. In another check valve, suction pressure is used to reduce the closing force of the main valve. In another check valve, the main refrigerant flow passes through a converging, diverging passage to create a relatively low pressure chamber to reduce the closing force of the main valve. In another check valve, the reverse flow from the discharge plenum either does not act to close the valve or acts on a reduced surface area.