Patent Description:
A compressor may be used in a refrigeration, heat pump, HVAC, or chiller system (generically, "climate control system") to circulate a working fluid therethrough. The compressor may be one of a variety of compressor types. For example, the compressor may be a scroll compressor, a rotary-vane compressor, a reciprocating compressor, a centrifugal compressor, or an axial compressor. Some compressors include a motor assembly that rotates a driveshaft. In this regard, compressors often utilize a motor assembly that includes a stator surrounding a central rotor that is coupled to the driveshaft below the compression mechanism. <CIT> discloses a variable capacity scroll compressor. <CIT> discloses a scroll compressor with reduced inlet pressure drop. Regardless of the exact type of compressor employed, consistent and reliable operation of the compressor is desirable to effectively and efficiently circulate the working fluid through the climate control system. The present disclosure provides an improved compressor having a motor assembly that efficiently and effectively drives the compression mechanism while reducing the overall size of the compressor.

The invention is defined in the claims. The present invention provides a compressor according to the subject-matter of independent claim <NUM>. Alternative embodiments are defined by the dependent claims,.

The present disclosure provides a compressor that includes a first scroll member, a second scroll member, a first bearing housing, a second bearing housing and a motor assembly. The first scroll member includes a first end plate and a first spiral wrap extending from the first end plate. The second scroll member includes a second end plate and a second spiral wrap extending from the second end plate and intermeshed with the first spiral wrap to define compression pockets therebetween. The first bearing housing supports the first scroll member for rotation about a first rotational axis. The second bearing housing supports the second scroll member for rotation about a second rotational axis that is offset from the first rotational axis and may be parallel to the first rotational axis. The motor assembly engages one of the first and second scroll members and drives rotation of the first and second scroll members about the first and second rotational axes respectively. The first bearing housing includes a radially extending suction passage providing fluid communication between a suction inlet of a shell of the compressor and a suction inlet opening in the first end plate. Working fluid exits the radially extending suction passage at a location that is disposed radially inward relative to the suction inlet opening such that windage produced by rotation of the first scroll member aids in forcing the working fluid radially outward toward the suction inlet opening.

The motor assembly may be disposed axially between the first and second bearing housings and may include a rotor attached to the first scroll member. The rotor may surround the first end plate and the second end plate.

Optionally, the rotor includes a radially extending portion that extends radially relative to the first rotational axis and an axially extending portion that extends parallel to the first rotational axis.

Optionally, the axially extending portion engages the first end plate and surrounds the second scroll member.

Optionally, the compressor includes a seal engaging the rotor and the second scroll member. The radially extending portion may engage the seal. The second end plate may be disposed between the first end plate and the radially extending portion in a direction extending along the first rotational axis.

Optionally, the radially extending portion includes an annular recess that encircles the first and second rotational axes. The seal may be at least partially disposed within the annular recess.

Optionally, the annular recess is in fluid communication with a passage formed in the second end plate. The passage may be in fluid communication with intermediate-pressure fluid in one of the compression pockets. The intermediate-pressure fluid is at a pressure greater than a suction pressure at which the fluid enters the compressor and less than a discharge pressure at which the fluid exits the compressor. The intermediate-pressure fluid in the recess biases the second end plate in an axial direction toward the first end plate and away from the radially extending portion of the rotor.

Optionally, the compressor includes a shell (e.g., a shell assembly) cooperating with the first bearing housing to define a discharge chamber and a suction chamber. The discharge chamber receives fluid discharged from a radially inner one the compression pockets. The suction chamber provides fluid to a radially outer one of the compression pockets. The first bearing housing may define a high-side lubricant sump disposed within the discharge chamber.

Optionally, the first bearing housing includes an axially extending lubricant passage and a first radially extending lubricant passage in fluid communication with the high-side lubricant sump. The second bearing housing may include a second radially extending lubricant passage in fluid communication with the axially extending lubricant passage. The first radially extending lubricant passage may provide lubricant to a first bearing rotatably supporting the first scroll member. The second radially extending lubricant passage may provide lubricant to a second bearing rotatably supporting the second scroll member.

Optionally, the compressor includes a valve mounted to the first bearing housing and controlling fluid flow through the axially extending lubricant passage.

Optionally, the compressor includes an Oldham coupling engaging the second scroll member and either the first scroll member or the rotor.

Optionally, the first bearing housing includes a flange portion and an annular wall. The annular wall may surround the first end plate. The flange portion may be disposed at an axial end of the annular wall and may include a central hub that rotatably supports the first scroll member. The radially extending suction passage may extend radially through the flange portion and may include a first end disposed radially outward relative to the annular wall and a second end disposed radially inward of the annular wall.

Optionally, the annular wall defines a suction baffle that directs working fluid from the suction inlet of the shell to the radially extending suction passage. The first end of the radially extending suction passage may be disposed between first and second walls of the suction baffle.

Optionally, the second end of the radially extending suction passage is disposed radially inward relative to an annular shroud mounted to the first end plate.

The present disclosure also provides a compressor that includes a first scroll member, a second scroll member, a first bearing housing, a second bearing housing, a motor assembly, and may include a seal. The first scroll member includes a first end plate and a first spiral wrap extending from the first end plate. The second scroll member includes a second end plate and a second spiral wrap extending from the second end plate and intermeshed with the first spiral wrap to define compression pockets therebetween. The first bearing housing supports the first scroll member for rotation about a first rotational axis. The second bearing housing supports the second scroll member for rotation about a second rotational axis that is offset from the first rotational axis and may be parallel to the first rotational axis. The motor assembly engages one of the first and second scroll members and drives rotation of the first and second scroll members about the first and second rotational axes respectively. The first bearing housing includes a radially extending suction passage providing fluid communication between a suction inlet of a shell of the compressor and a suction inlet opening in the first end plate. Working fluid exits the radially extending suction passage at a location that is disposed radially inward relative to the suction inlet opening such that windage produced by rotation of the first scroll member aids in forcing the working fluid radially outward toward the suction inlet opening. The motor assembly may include a rotor attached to the first scroll member.

Optionally, a seal may engage the rotor and the second scroll member, and the radially extending portion engages the seal. The second end plate may be disposed between the first end plate and the radially extending portion in a direction extending along the first rotational axis.

Optionally, the second end plate is disposed between the first end plate and the radially extending portion in a direction extending along the first rotational axis.

The compressor includes a first bearing housing supporting the first scroll member for rotation about a first rotational axis. The first bearing housing includes a radially extending suction passage providing fluid communication between a suction inlet of the shell and a suction inlet opening in the end plate of the first scroll member.

Optionally, the first bearing housing includes a flange portion and an annular wall. The annular wall may surround the end plate of the first scroll member. The flange portion may be disposed at an axial end of the annular wall and may include a central hub that rotatably supports the first scroll member. The radially extending suction passage may extend radially through the flange portion and may include a first end disposed radially outward relative to the annular wall and a second end disposed radially inward of the annular wall and radially inward relative to an annular shroud mounted to the end plate of the first scroll member.

The description and specific examples in this summary are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only of selected embodiments and not all possible implementations, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that specific details need not be employed, that example embodiments may be embodied in many different forms and that neither should be construed to limit the scope of the invention of the invention that is defined by the appended claims.

With reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, a compressor <NUM> is provided that includes a first bearing housing <NUM>, a second bearing housing <NUM>, a compression mechanism <NUM>, and a motor assembly <NUM>, and may include a shell assembly <NUM>. The shell assembly <NUM> may include a first shell body <NUM> and a second shell body <NUM>. The first and second shell bodies <NUM>, <NUM> may be fixed to each other and to the first bearing housing <NUM>. The first shell body <NUM> and the first bearing housing <NUM> may cooperate with each other to define a suction chamber <NUM> in which the second bearing housing <NUM>, the compression mechanism <NUM> and the motor assembly <NUM> may be disposed. A suction inlet fitting <NUM> (<FIG>) may engage the first shell body <NUM> and may be in fluid communication with the suction chamber <NUM>. Suction-pressure working fluid (i.e., low-pressure working fluid) may enter the suction chamber <NUM> through the suction inlet fitting <NUM> and may be drawn into the compression mechanism <NUM> for compression therein. The compressor <NUM> may be a low-side compressor (i.e., the motor assembly <NUM> and at least a majority of the compression mechanism <NUM> are disposed in the suction chamber <NUM>).

The second shell body <NUM> and the first bearing housing <NUM> may cooperate with each other to define a discharge chamber <NUM>. The first bearing housing <NUM> may sealingly engage the first and second shell bodies <NUM>, <NUM> to separate the discharge chamber <NUM> from the suction chamber <NUM>. A discharge outlet fitting <NUM> may engage the second shell body <NUM> and may be in fluid communication with the discharge chamber <NUM>. Discharge-pressure working fluid (i.e., working fluid at a higher pressure than suction pressure) may enter the discharge chamber <NUM> from the compression mechanism <NUM> and may exit the compressor <NUM> through the discharge outlet fitting <NUM>. In some configurations, a discharge valve <NUM> may be disposed within the discharge outlet fitting <NUM>. The discharge valve <NUM> may be a check valve that allows fluid to exit the discharge chamber <NUM> through the discharge outlet fitting <NUM> and prevents fluid from entering the discharge chamber <NUM> through the discharge outlet fitting <NUM>.

In some configurations, a high-side lubricant sump <NUM> may be disposed in the discharge chamber <NUM>. That is, the second shell body <NUM> and the first bearing housing <NUM> may cooperate with each other to define the lubricant sump <NUM>. A mixture of discharge-pressure working fluid and lubricant may be discharged from the compression mechanism <NUM> through a discharge pipe <NUM> mounted to the first bearing housing <NUM>. The discharge pipe <NUM> may direct the mixture of discharge-pressure working fluid and lubricant to a lubricant separator <NUM> that separates the lubricant from the discharge-pressure working fluid. The separated lubricant may fall from the lubricant separator <NUM> into the lubricant sump <NUM> and the separated discharge-pressure working fluid may flow toward the discharge outlet fitting <NUM>.

The first bearing housing <NUM> may include a generally cylindrical annular wall <NUM> and a radially extending flange portion <NUM> disposed at an axial end of the annular wall <NUM>. The annular wall <NUM> may include one or more openings or apertures <NUM> (<FIG>) through which suction-pressure working fluid in the suction chamber <NUM> can flow to the compression mechanism <NUM>. The flange portion <NUM> may include an outer rim <NUM> that is welded to (or otherwise fixedly engages) the first and second shell bodies <NUM>, <NUM>. The flange portion <NUM> may include a central hub <NUM> that receives a first bearing <NUM>. The discharge pipe <NUM> may be mounted to the central hub <NUM>. The central hub <NUM> may define a discharge passage <NUM> through which discharge-pressure working fluid flows from the compression mechanism <NUM> to the discharge pipe <NUM>.

The first bearing housing <NUM> may include an axially extending lubricant passage <NUM> that extends through the annular wall <NUM> and the flange portion <NUM> and is in fluid communication with the lubricant sump <NUM>. The flange portion <NUM> may also include a first radially extending lubricant passage <NUM> that is in fluid communication with the axially extending lubricant passage <NUM> and an aperture <NUM> that extends through the first bearing <NUM>. A valve assembly <NUM> may be mounted to the flange portion <NUM> and selectively allows and prevents lubricant to flow from the lubricant sump <NUM> to the axially extending lubricant passage <NUM>. Lubricant may flow from the axially extending lubricant passage <NUM> to the first radially extending lubricant passage <NUM> and the aperture <NUM>. The valve assembly <NUM> may include a valve member (e.g., a ball) <NUM> movable within a valve housing <NUM> between open and closed positions to allow and prevent lubricant to flow from the lubricant sump <NUM> to the axially extending lubricant passage <NUM>. Fluid pressure from the lubricant and working fluid in the discharge chamber <NUM> may urge the valve member <NUM> toward the open position. A spring <NUM> may bias the valve member <NUM> toward the closed position.

The second bearing housing <NUM> may be a generally disk-shaped member having a central hub <NUM> that receives a second bearing <NUM>. The second bearing housing <NUM> may be fixedly attached to an axial end of the annular wall <NUM> of the first bearing housing <NUM> via a plurality of fasteners <NUM>, for example. The second bearing housing <NUM> may include a second radially extending lubricant passage <NUM> that is in fluid communication with the axially extending lubricant passage <NUM> in the first bearing housing <NUM> and an aperture <NUM> that extends through the second bearing <NUM>. Lubricant may flow from the axially extending lubricant passage <NUM> to the second radially extending lubricant passage <NUM> and the aperture <NUM>.

The compression mechanism <NUM> includes a first compression member and a second compression member that cooperate to define fluid pockets (i.e., compression pockets) therebetween. Specifically, the compression mechanism <NUM> is a co-rotating scroll compression mechanism in which the first compression member is a first scroll member (i.e., a driven scroll member) <NUM> and the second compression member is a second scroll member (i.e., an idler scroll member) <NUM>.

The first scroll member <NUM> includes a first end plate <NUM>, a first spiral wrap <NUM> extending from one side of the first end plate <NUM>, and may include a first hub <NUM> extending from the opposite side of the first end plate <NUM>. The second scroll member <NUM> includes a second end plate <NUM>, a second spiral wrap <NUM> extending from one side of the second end plate <NUM>, and may include a second hub <NUM> extending from the opposite side of the second end plate <NUM>. The first hub <NUM> of the first scroll member <NUM> is received within the central hub <NUM> of the first bearing housing <NUM> and is supported by the first bearing housing <NUM> and the first bearing <NUM> for rotation about a first rotational axis A1 relative to the first and second bearing housings <NUM>, <NUM>. A seal <NUM> is disposed within the central hub <NUM> and sealing engages the central hub <NUM> and the first hub <NUM>. The second hub <NUM> of the second scroll member <NUM> is received within the central hub <NUM> of the second bearing housing <NUM> and is supported by the second bearing housing <NUM> and the second bearing <NUM> for rotation about a second rotational axis A2 relative to the first and second bearing housings <NUM>, <NUM>. The second rotational axis A2 is parallel to first rotational axis A1 and is offset from the first rotational axis A1. A thrust bearing <NUM> may be disposed within the central hub <NUM> of the second bearing housing <NUM> and may support an axial end of the second hub <NUM> of the second scroll member <NUM>.

An Oldham coupling <NUM> may be keyed to the first and second end plates <NUM>, <NUM>. In some configurations, the Oldham coupling <NUM> could be keyed to the second end plate <NUM> and a rotor <NUM> of the motor assembly <NUM>. The first and second spiral wraps <NUM>, <NUM> are intermeshed with each other and cooperate to form a plurality of fluid pockets (i.e., compression pockets) therebetween. Rotation of the first scroll member <NUM> about the first rotational axis A1 and rotation of the second scroll member <NUM> about the second rotational axis A2 causes the fluid pockets to decrease in size as they move from a radially outer position to a radially inner position, thereby compressing the working fluid therein from the suction pressure to the discharge pressure.

The first end plate <NUM> may include a suction inlet opening <NUM> (<FIG>) providing fluid communication between the suction chamber <NUM> and a radially outermost one of the fluid pockets. The first scroll member <NUM> also includes a discharge passage <NUM> that extends through the first end plate <NUM> and the first hub <NUM> and provides fluid communication between a radially innermost one of the fluid pockets and the discharge chamber <NUM> (e.g., via the discharge passage <NUM> and the discharge pipe <NUM>). A discharge valve assembly <NUM> may be disposed within the discharge passage <NUM>. The discharge valve assembly <NUM> allows working fluid to be discharged from the compression mechanism <NUM> through the discharge passage <NUM> into the discharge chamber <NUM> and prevents working fluid from the discharge chamber <NUM> from flowing back into to the discharge passage <NUM>.

The second hub <NUM> of the second scroll member <NUM> may house a scavenging tube <NUM> that can scavenge oil from the bottom of the first shell body <NUM> during operation of the compressor <NUM>. That is, oil on the bottom of the first shell body <NUM> may be drawn up through the scavenging tube <NUM> and may be routed to one or more moving parts of the compressor <NUM> via one or more lubricant passages. In some configurations, the second scroll member <NUM> may include one or more oil injection passages (not shown) through which oil from the scavenging tube <NUM> can be injected into one of the compression pockets.

The motor assembly <NUM> may be a ring-motor and may include a composite stator <NUM> and a rotor <NUM>. The stator <NUM> may be an annular member fixed to an inner diametrical surface <NUM> of the annular wall <NUM> of the first bearing housing <NUM>. The stator <NUM> may surround the first and second end plates <NUM>, <NUM> and the first and second spiral wraps <NUM>, <NUM>.

The rotor <NUM> may be disposed radially inside of the stator <NUM> and is rotatable relative to the stator <NUM>. The rotor <NUM> may include an annular axially extending portion <NUM> that extends parallel to the first rotational axis A1 and a radially extending portion <NUM> that extends radially inward (i.e., perpendicular to the first rotational axis A1) from an axial end of the axially extending portion <NUM>. The axially extending portion <NUM> may surround the first and second end plates <NUM>, <NUM> and the first and second spiral wraps <NUM>, <NUM>. An inner diametrical surface <NUM> of the axially extending portion <NUM> may engage an outer periphery of the first end plate <NUM>. Magnets <NUM> may be fixed to an outer diametrical surface <NUM> of the axially extending portion <NUM>. Fasteners <NUM> may engage the radially extending portion <NUM> and the first end plate <NUM> to rotationally and axially fix the rotor <NUM> to the first scroll member <NUM>. Therefore, when electrical current is provided to the stator <NUM>, the rotor <NUM> and the first scroll member <NUM> rotate about the first rotational axis A1. Such rotation of the first scroll member <NUM> causes corresponding rotation of the second scroll member <NUM> about the second rotational axis A2 due to the engagement of the Oldham coupling <NUM> with the first and second scroll members <NUM>, <NUM>.

The radially extending portion <NUM> of the rotor <NUM> may include a central aperture <NUM> through which the second hub <NUM> of the second scroll member <NUM> extends. The radially extending portion <NUM> may also include an annular recess <NUM> that surrounds the central aperture <NUM> and the first and second rotational axes A1, A2. A first annular seal <NUM> and a second annular seal <NUM> may be at least partially received in the recess <NUM> and may sealingly engage the radially extending portion <NUM> and the second end plate <NUM>. The second annular seal <NUM> may surround the first annular seal <NUM>. In this manner, the first and second annular seals <NUM>, <NUM>, the second end plate <NUM> and the radially extending portion <NUM> cooperate to define an annular chamber <NUM>. The annular chamber <NUM> may receive intermediate-pressure working fluid (at a pressure greater than suction pressure and less than discharge pressure) from an intermediate fluid pocket <NUM> via a passage <NUM> in the second end plate <NUM>. Intermediate-pressure working fluid in the annular chamber <NUM> biases the second end plate <NUM> in an axial direction (i.e., a direction parallel to the rotational axes A1, A2) toward the first end plate <NUM> to improve the seal between tips of the first spiral wrap <NUM> and the second end plate <NUM> and the seal between tips of the second spiral wrap <NUM> and the first end plate <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, another example of a compressor <NUM> not forming part of the claimed invention is provided that may include a shell assembly <NUM>, a first bearing housing <NUM>, a second bearing housing <NUM>, a compression mechanism <NUM>, and a motor assembly <NUM>. The shell assembly <NUM> may include a first shell body <NUM> and a second shell body <NUM> that is fixed to the first shell body <NUM> (e.g., via welding, press fit, etc.). The first and second shell bodies <NUM>, <NUM> may cooperate with each other to define a discharge chamber <NUM> in which the first and second bearing housings <NUM>, <NUM>, the compression mechanism <NUM> and the motor assembly <NUM> may be disposed. Therefore, the compressor <NUM> is a high-side compressor (i.e., the motor assembly <NUM> and at least a majority of the compression mechanism <NUM> are disposed in the discharge chamber <NUM>). A bottom of the first shell body <NUM> may define a lubricant sump <NUM> that may contain a volume of lubricant.

A discharge outlet fitting <NUM> may engage the second shell body <NUM> and may be in fluid communication with the discharge chamber <NUM>. Discharge-pressure working fluid (i.e., working fluid at a higher pressure than suction pressure) may enter the discharge chamber <NUM> from the compression mechanism <NUM> and may exit the compressor through the discharge outlet fitting <NUM>. In some configurations, a discharge valve <NUM> may be disposed within the discharge outlet fitting <NUM>. The discharge valve <NUM> may be a check valve that allows fluid to exit the discharge chamber <NUM> through the discharge outlet fitting <NUM> and prevents fluid from entering the discharge chamber <NUM> through the discharge outlet fitting <NUM>.

The first bearing housing <NUM> may include a generally cylindrical annular wall <NUM> and a radially extending flange portion <NUM> disposed at an axial end of the annular wall <NUM>. The annular wall <NUM> may include an outer rim <NUM> that may be press-fit into the first shell body <NUM>. The flange portion <NUM> may include a central hub <NUM> that receives a first bearing <NUM>. The central hub <NUM> may define a suction passage <NUM> through which suction-pressure working fluid can be drawn into the compression mechanism <NUM>. The central hub <NUM> may extend through an opening in the second shell body <NUM> and may engage a suction inlet fitting <NUM>. A suction valve assembly <NUM> (e.g., a check valve) may be disposed within the suction passage <NUM>. The suction valve assembly <NUM> allows suction-pressure working fluid to flow through the suction passage <NUM> toward the compression mechanism <NUM> and prevents the flow of working fluid in the opposite direction.

The first bearing housing <NUM> may include an axially extending lubricant passage <NUM> that extends through the annular wall <NUM> and communicates with the lubricant sump <NUM> and a first radially extending lubricant passage <NUM> formed in the flange portion <NUM>. The central hub <NUM> may include a second lubricant passage <NUM> that is in fluid communication with the first radially extending lubricant passage <NUM> and an aperture <NUM> that extends through the first bearing <NUM>. The flange portion <NUM> of the first bearing housing <NUM> may also include a discharge passage <NUM> through which working fluid discharged from the compression mechanism <NUM>.

The second bearing housing <NUM> may be a generally disk-shaped member having a central hub <NUM> that receives a second bearing <NUM>. The second bearing housing <NUM> may be fixedly attached to an axial end of the annular wall <NUM> of the first bearing housing <NUM> via a plurality of fasteners <NUM>, for example. A lubricant conduit <NUM> may extend through an opening in the second bearing housing <NUM> and may provide fluid communication between the lubricant sump <NUM> and the axially extending lubricant passage <NUM> in the first bearing housing <NUM>. During operation of the compressor <NUM>, a pressure differential between low-pressure gas in the suction passage <NUM> and high-pressure gas in the discharge chamber <NUM> forces lubricant from the lubricant sump <NUM> through the lubricant conduit <NUM>, through the axially extending lubricant passage <NUM>, through the first radially extending lubricant passage <NUM>, through the second lubricant passage <NUM> and through the aperture <NUM> in the first bearing <NUM>. From the first bearing <NUM>, lubricant can be drawn into the compression mechanism <NUM>. The second bearing housing <NUM> may also include a drain passage <NUM> through which lubricant can drain from the compression mechanism <NUM> and motor assembly <NUM> back into the lubricant sump <NUM>.

The compression mechanism <NUM> may be a co-rotating scroll compression mechanism including a first scroll member (i.e., a driven scroll member) <NUM> and a second scroll member (i.e., an idler scroll member) <NUM>. The first scroll member <NUM> may include a first end plate <NUM>, a first spiral wrap <NUM> extending from one side of the first end plate <NUM>, and a first hub <NUM> extending from the opposite side of the first end plate <NUM>. The second scroll member <NUM> may include a second end plate <NUM>, a second spiral wrap <NUM> extending from one side of the second end plate <NUM>, and a second hub <NUM> extending from the opposite side of the second end plate <NUM>. The first hub <NUM> of the first scroll member <NUM> is received within the central hub <NUM> of the first bearing housing <NUM> and is supported by the first bearing housing <NUM> and the first bearing <NUM> for rotation about a first rotational axis A1 relative to the first and second bearing housings <NUM>, <NUM>. A seal <NUM> is disposed within the central hub <NUM> and sealing engages the central hub <NUM> and the first hub <NUM>. The second hub <NUM> of the second scroll member <NUM> is received within the central hub <NUM> of the second bearing housing <NUM> and is supported by the second bearing housing <NUM> and the second bearing <NUM> for rotation about a second rotational axis A2 relative to the first and second bearing housings <NUM>, <NUM>. The second rotational axis A2 is parallel to first rotational axis A1 and is offset from the first rotational axis A1. A thrust bearing <NUM> may be disposed within the central hub <NUM> of the second bearing housing <NUM> and may support an axial end of the second hub <NUM> of the second scroll member <NUM>.

An Oldham coupling (not shown) may be keyed to the first and second end plates <NUM>, <NUM>. The first and second spiral wraps <NUM>, <NUM> are intermeshed with each other and cooperate to form a plurality of fluid pockets (i.e., compression pockets) therebetween. Rotation of the first scroll member <NUM> about the first rotational axis A1 and rotation of the second scroll member <NUM> about the second rotational axis A2 causes the fluid pockets to decrease in size as they move from a radially outer position to a radially inner position, thereby compressing the working fluid therein from the suction pressure to the discharge pressure.

The first scroll member <NUM> may include an axially extending suction passage <NUM> that extends through the first hub <NUM> and into the first end plate <NUM>. The axially extending suction passage <NUM> may extend axially along the first rotational axis A1 (i.e., the axially extending suction passage <NUM> may be centered on the first rotational axis A1). Radially extending suction passages <NUM> formed in the first end plate <NUM> extend radially outward from the axially extending suction passage <NUM> and provide fluid communication between the axially extending suction passage <NUM> and radially outermost fluid pockets. Accordingly, during operation of the compressor <NUM>, suction-pressure working fluid can be drawn into the suction inlet fitting <NUM>, through the suction passage <NUM> of the first bearing housing <NUM>, through the axially extending suction passage <NUM>, and then through the radially extending suction passages <NUM> to the radially outermost fluid pockets defined by the spiral wraps <NUM>, <NUM>.

The configuration of the axially extending suction passage <NUM> and the radially extending suction passages <NUM> shown in <FIG> and described above aids the introduction of the working fluid into the radially outermost fluid pockets. That is, centrifugal force due to rotation of the first scroll member <NUM> directs the working fluid from the axially extending suction passage <NUM> radially outward through the radially extending suction passages <NUM>. In other words, in addition to the pressure differential that draws the working fluid through the radially extending suction passages <NUM> toward the radially outermost fluid pockets, the centrifugal force due to rotation of the first scroll member <NUM> forces the working fluid through the radially extending suction passages <NUM> toward the radially outermost fluid pockets. Furthermore, the axially extending suction passage <NUM> and the radially extending suction passages <NUM> also shield the working fluid from centrifugal windage losses due to rotational of the scroll members <NUM>, <NUM>. Furthermore, shielding the working fluid from the centrifugal windage can prevent or reduce warming of the working fluid from heat generated by viscous shear and aerodynamic effects.

The second scroll member <NUM> may include one or more discharge passages <NUM> that extend through the second end plate <NUM> and provide fluid communication between a radially innermost one of the fluid pockets and the discharge chamber <NUM>. The second hub <NUM> of the second scroll member <NUM> may house a scavenging tube <NUM> that can scavenge oil from the lubricant sump <NUM> during operation of the compressor <NUM>. That is, oil on the bottom of the first shell body <NUM> may flow through an aperture <NUM> in the second hub <NUM> to the second bearing <NUM>.

The structure and function of the motor assembly <NUM> may be similar or identical to that of the motor assembly <NUM>. Therefore, similar features may not be described in detail again. Like the motor assembly <NUM>, the motor assembly <NUM> may be a ring motor including a composite stator <NUM> and a rotor <NUM>. The stator <NUM> may be fixed to the annular wall <NUM> of the first bearing housing <NUM> and may surround the first and second end plates <NUM>, <NUM> and the first and second spiral wraps <NUM>, <NUM>.

The rotor <NUM> may be disposed radially inside of the stator <NUM> and is rotatable relative to the stator <NUM>. Like the rotor <NUM>, the rotor <NUM> may include an annular axially extending portion <NUM> and a radially extending portion <NUM>. The axially extending portion <NUM> may surround the first and second end plates <NUM>, <NUM> and the first and second spiral wraps <NUM>, <NUM>. The axially extending portion <NUM> may engage an outer periphery of the first end plate <NUM>. When electrical current is provided to the stator <NUM>, the rotor <NUM> and the first scroll member <NUM> rotate about the first rotational axis A1. Such rotation of the first scroll member <NUM> causes corresponding rotation of the second scroll member <NUM> about the second rotational axis A2, as described above.

The radially extending portion <NUM> may include an annular recess <NUM> that surrounds the first and second rotational axes A1, A2. An annular seal <NUM> may be received in the recess <NUM> and may sealingly engage the radially extending portion <NUM> and the second end plate <NUM>. The annular seal <NUM>, the first and second end plates <NUM>, <NUM> and the radially extending portion <NUM> cooperate to define an annular chamber <NUM>. The annular chamber <NUM> may receive intermediate-pressure working fluid (at a pressure greater than suction pressure and less than discharge pressure) from an intermediate fluid pocket <NUM> via a passage <NUM> in the second end plate <NUM>. Intermediate-pressure working fluid in the annular chamber <NUM> biases the second end plate <NUM> in an axial direction (i.e., a direction parallel to the rotational axes A1, A2) toward the first end plate <NUM> to improve the seal between tips of the first spiral wrap <NUM> and the second end plate <NUM> and the seal between tips of the second spiral wrap <NUM> and the first end plate <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG> another compressor <NUM> is provided that includes a first bearing housing <NUM>, a second bearing housing <NUM>, a compression mechanism <NUM>, and a motor assembly <NUM>, and may include a shell assembly <NUM>. The shell assembly <NUM> may include a first shell body <NUM> and a second shell body <NUM>. The first and second shell bodies <NUM>, <NUM> may be fixed to each other and to the first bearing housing <NUM>. The second shell body <NUM> and the first bearing housing <NUM> may cooperate with each other to define a suction chamber <NUM> in which the second bearing housing <NUM>, the compression mechanism <NUM> and the motor assembly <NUM> may be disposed. A suction inlet fitting <NUM> may engage the second shell body <NUM> and may be in fluid communication with the suction chamber <NUM>. Suction-pressure working fluid (i.e., low-pressure working fluid) may enter the suction chamber <NUM> through the suction inlet fitting <NUM> and may be drawn into the compression mechanism <NUM> for compression therein. The compressor <NUM> may be a low-side compressor.

The first shell body <NUM> and the first bearing housing <NUM> may cooperate with each other to define a discharge chamber <NUM>. The first bearing housing <NUM> may sealingly engage the first and second shell bodies <NUM>, <NUM> to separate the discharge chamber <NUM> from the suction chamber <NUM>. A discharge outlet fitting <NUM> may engage the first shell body <NUM> and may be in fluid communication with the discharge chamber <NUM>. Discharge-pressure working fluid (i.e., working fluid at a higher pressure than suction pressure) may enter the discharge chamber <NUM> from the compression mechanism <NUM> and may exit the compressor <NUM> through the discharge outlet fitting <NUM>. In some configurations, a discharge valve <NUM> may be disposed within the discharge outlet fitting <NUM>. The discharge valve <NUM> may be a check valve that allows fluid to exit the discharge chamber <NUM> through the discharge outlet fitting <NUM> and prevents fluid from entering the discharge chamber <NUM> through the discharge outlet fitting <NUM>. The first shell body <NUM> may define a high-side lubricant sump <NUM> disposed in the discharge chamber <NUM>.

The first bearing housing <NUM> may include a generally cylindrical annular wall <NUM> and a radially extending flange portion <NUM> disposed at an axial end of the annular wall <NUM>. The annular wall <NUM> may include an outer rim <NUM> that is welded to (or otherwise fixedly engages) the first and second shell bodies <NUM>, <NUM>. The flange portion <NUM> may include a central hub <NUM> that receives a first bearing <NUM>. An oil separator (e.g., an annular shroud) <NUM> may be mounted to the central hub <NUM>. The central hub <NUM> may define a discharge passage <NUM> through which discharge-pressure working fluid flows from the compression mechanism <NUM> to the oil separator <NUM>. From the oil separator <NUM>, the discharge-pressure working fluid flows into the discharge chamber <NUM>.

The first bearing housing <NUM> may include an axially extending lubricant passage <NUM> that extends through the annular wall <NUM> and the flange portion <NUM> and is in fluid communication with the lubricant sump <NUM> via a lubricant conduit <NUM>. The flange portion <NUM> may also include a first radially extending lubricant passage <NUM> that is in fluid communication with the axially extending lubricant passage <NUM> and an aperture <NUM> that extends through the first bearing <NUM>.

The second bearing housing <NUM> may be a generally disk-shaped member having a central hub <NUM> that receives a second bearing <NUM>. The second bearing housing <NUM> may be fixedly attached to an axial end of the annular wall <NUM> of the first bearing housing <NUM> via a plurality of fasteners <NUM>, for example. The second bearing housing <NUM> may include a second radially extending lubricant passage <NUM> that is in fluid communication with the axially extending lubricant passage <NUM> in the first bearing housing <NUM> and an aperture <NUM> that extends through the second bearing <NUM>. Lubricant may flow from the axially extending lubricant passage <NUM> to the second radially extending lubricant passage <NUM> and the aperture <NUM>. The second bearing housing <NUM> may include one or more openings or apertures <NUM> through which suction-pressure working fluid in the suction chamber <NUM> can flow to the compression mechanism <NUM>.

The compression mechanism <NUM> is a co-rotating scroll compression mechanism including a first scroll member (i.e., a driven scroll member) <NUM> and a second scroll member (i.e., an idler scroll member) <NUM>. The first scroll member <NUM> includes a first end plate <NUM>, a first spiral wrap <NUM> extending from one side of the first end plate <NUM>, and may include a first hub <NUM> extending from the opposite side of the first end plate <NUM>. The second scroll member <NUM> includes a second end plate <NUM>, a second spiral wrap <NUM> extending from one side of the second end plate <NUM>, and may include a second hub <NUM> extending from the opposite side of the second end plate <NUM>. The first hub <NUM> of the first scroll member <NUM> is received within the central hub <NUM> of the second bearing housing <NUM> and is supported by the second bearing housing <NUM> and the second bearing <NUM> for rotation about a first rotational axis A1 relative to the first and second bearing housings <NUM>, <NUM>. A thrust bearing <NUM> is disposed within the central hub <NUM>.

The second hub <NUM> of the second scroll member <NUM> is received within the central hub <NUM> of the first bearing housing <NUM> and is supported by the first bearing housing <NUM> and the first bearing <NUM> for rotation about a second rotational axis A2 relative to the first and second bearing housings <NUM>, <NUM>. The second rotational axis A2 is parallel to first rotational axis A1 and is offset from the first rotational axis A1. A seal <NUM> may be disposed within the central hub <NUM> of the first bearing housing <NUM> and may sealingly engage the central hub <NUM> and the second hub <NUM> of the second scroll member <NUM>.

An Oldham coupling may be keyed to the first and second end plates <NUM>, <NUM>. The first and second spiral wraps <NUM>, <NUM> are intermeshed with each other and cooperate to form a plurality of fluid pockets (i.e., compression pockets) therebetween. Rotation of the first scroll member <NUM> about the first rotational axis A1 and rotation of the second scroll member <NUM> about the second rotational axis A2 causes the fluid pockets to decrease in size as they move from a radially outer position to a radially inner position, thereby compressing the working fluid therein from the suction pressure to the discharge pressure.

The first end plate <NUM> may include a suction inlet opening <NUM> providing fluid communication between the suction chamber <NUM> and a radially outermost one of the fluid pockets. The first end plate <NUM> may also include an annular shroud <NUM> extending axially therefrom. During operation of the compressor <NUM>, lubricant supplied to the second bearing <NUM> may drip down onto the first end plate <NUM> and may move radially outward along the first end plate <NUM> due to centrifugal force. The annular shroud <NUM> may channel this lubricant on the first end plate <NUM> into the suction inlet opening <NUM> to lubricate the first and second scroll members <NUM>, <NUM>.

The second scroll member <NUM> may include a discharge passage <NUM> that extends through the second end plate <NUM> and the second hub <NUM> and provides fluid communication between a radially innermost one of the fluid pockets and the discharge chamber <NUM>. A discharge valve assembly <NUM> may be disposed within the discharge passage <NUM>. The discharge valve assembly <NUM> allows working fluid to be discharged from the compression mechanism <NUM> through the discharge passage <NUM> into the discharge chamber <NUM> and prevents working fluid from the discharge chamber <NUM> from flowing back into to the discharge passage <NUM>.

Working fluid discharged from the compression mechanism <NUM> may flow from the discharge passage <NUM> through one or more openings <NUM> in the oil separator <NUM> and into the discharge chamber <NUM> before exiting the compressor through the discharge outlet fitting <NUM>. Lubricant mixed with the working fluid that is discharged from the compression mechanism <NUM> may separate from the working fluid when the mixture contacts walls of the oil separator <NUM>. The separated lubricant may fall from the oil separator <NUM> into the lubricant sump <NUM>.

The structure and function of the motor assembly <NUM> may be similar or identical to that of the motor assembly <NUM> described above. Therefore, similar features may not be described again in detail. Briefly, the motor assembly <NUM> may include a stator <NUM> fixed to the annular wall <NUM> of the first bearing housing <NUM> and a rotor <NUM> may be disposed radially inside of the stator <NUM> and attached to the first scroll member <NUM>. First and second annular seals <NUM>, <NUM> (similar or identical to annular seals <NUM>, <NUM>), the second end plate <NUM> and a radially extending portion <NUM> of the rotor <NUM> cooperate to define an annular chamber <NUM> that receives intermediate-pressure working fluid from an intermediate fluid pocket <NUM> via a passage <NUM> in the second end plate <NUM>. Intermediate-pressure working fluid in the annular chamber <NUM> biases the second end plate <NUM> in an axial direction toward the first end plate <NUM> to improve the seal between tips of the first spiral wrap <NUM> and the second end plate <NUM> and the seal between tips of the second spiral wrap <NUM> and the first end plate <NUM>, as described above.

With reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, another example of a compressor <NUM> not forming part of the claimed invention is provided that, apart from certain exceptions, may be substantially similar or identical to the compressor <NUM> described above. Therefore, similar features may not be described again in detail.

Like the compression <NUM>, the compressor <NUM> may include a shell assembly <NUM>, a first bearing housing <NUM>, a second bearing housing <NUM>, a compression mechanism <NUM>, and a motor assembly <NUM>. While the compressor <NUM> is a vertical compressor (i.e., the first and second rotational axes A1, A2 about which scroll members <NUM>, <NUM> rotate extend in the a vertical direction), the compressor <NUM> is a horizontal compressor (i.e., the first and second rotational axes A1, A2 about which scroll members <NUM>, <NUM> rotate extend in the a vertical direction).

Like the shell assembly <NUM>, the shell assembly <NUM> may include a first shell body <NUM> and a second shell body <NUM>. The second shell body <NUM> and the first bearing housing <NUM> may cooperate with each other to define a suction chamber <NUM> in which the second bearing housing <NUM>, the compression mechanism <NUM> and the motor assembly <NUM> may be disposed. A suction inlet fitting <NUM> may engage the second shell body <NUM> and may be in fluid communication with a suction conduit <NUM> coupled with a suction inlet passage <NUM> formed in a first hub <NUM> and a first end plate <NUM> of the first scroll member <NUM>.

The first shell body <NUM> and the first bearing housing <NUM> may cooperate with each other to define a discharge chamber <NUM>. A discharge outlet fitting <NUM> may engage the first shell body <NUM> and may be in fluid communication with the discharge chamber <NUM>. Discharge-pressure working fluid (i.e., working fluid at a higher pressure than suction pressure) may enter the discharge chamber <NUM> from the compression mechanism <NUM> and may exit the compressor <NUM> through the discharge outlet fitting <NUM>. A cylindrical portion <NUM> of the first shell body <NUM> and an annular wall <NUM> of the first bearing housing <NUM> may cooperate to define a high-side lubricant sump <NUM> disposed in the discharge chamber <NUM>. A base <NUM> may be attached to an outer wall of the cylindrical portion <NUM> and may support the weight of the compressor <NUM> relative to a ground surface or other surface upon which the compressor <NUM> is disposed. A cylindrical portion <NUM> of the second shell body <NUM> and periphery of the second bearing housing <NUM> may cooperate to define a low-side lubricant sump <NUM> disposed in the suction chamber <NUM>.

Like the first bearing housing <NUM>, the first bearing housing <NUM> may include an axially extending lubricant passage <NUM> (<FIG>) that extends through the annular wall <NUM> and a flange portion <NUM> of the first bearing housing <NUM> and is in fluid communication with the high-side lubricant sump <NUM> via a lubricant conduit <NUM> (<FIG>). The flange portion <NUM> may also include a first radially extending lubricant passage <NUM> (<FIG>) that is in fluid communication with the axially extending lubricant passage <NUM> and an aperture <NUM> that extends through a first bearing <NUM>.

Like the second bearing housing <NUM>, the second bearing housing <NUM> may include a second radially extending lubricant passage <NUM> (<FIG>) that is in fluid communication with the axially extending lubricant passage <NUM> in the first bearing housing <NUM> and an aperture <NUM> (<FIG>) that extends through a second bearing <NUM>. The second bearing housing <NUM> may also include a third radially extending lubricant passage <NUM> (<FIG>) that is in fluid communication with the low-side lubricant sump <NUM> and a lubricant inlet <NUM> (<FIG>) in the first end plate <NUM>. The lubricant inlet <NUM> allows lubricant from the low-side lubricant sump <NUM> to flow into a radially outermost fluid pocket (compression pocket) defined by spiral wraps of the first and second scroll members <NUM>, <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, another example of a compressor <NUM> not forming part of the claimed invention is provided that may include a shell assembly <NUM>, a first bearing housing <NUM>, a second bearing housing <NUM>, a compression mechanism <NUM>, and a motor assembly <NUM>. The compressor <NUM> may be a high-side sumpless compressor (i.e., the first bearing housing <NUM>, second bearing housing <NUM>, compression mechanism <NUM>, and motor assembly <NUM> may be disposed within a discharge chamber <NUM> defined by the shell assembly <NUM>; and the compressor <NUM> does not include a lubricant sump).

The shell assembly <NUM> may include a first shell body <NUM> and a second shell body <NUM> that is fixed to the first shell body <NUM> (e.g., via welding, press fit, etc.). The first and second shell bodies <NUM>, <NUM> may cooperate with each other to define the discharge chamber <NUM>. A suction inlet fitting <NUM> may extend through the second shell body <NUM>. A discharge outlet fitting <NUM> may engage the first shell body <NUM> and may be in fluid communication with the discharge chamber <NUM>. In some configurations, a discharge valve (e.g., a check valve) may be disposed within the discharge outlet fitting <NUM>.

The first bearing housing <NUM> may include an annular wall <NUM> and a radially extending flange portion <NUM> disposed at an axial end of the annular wall <NUM>. The annular wall <NUM> may include an outer rim <NUM> that may be fixed to the second shell body <NUM>. The flange portion <NUM> may include a central hub <NUM> that receives a first bearing <NUM> (e.g., a roller bearing). The central hub <NUM> may define a suction passage <NUM> that is fluidly coupled with the suction inlet fitting <NUM>. The compression mechanism <NUM> may draw suction-pressure working fluid from the suction inlet fitting <NUM> through the suction passage <NUM>. A suction valve assembly <NUM> (e.g., a check valve) may be disposed within the suction passage <NUM>. The suction valve assembly <NUM> allows suction-pressure working fluid to flow through the suction passage <NUM> toward the compression mechanism <NUM> and prevents the flow of working fluid in the opposite direction. The first bearing housing <NUM> may include passages <NUM> that extend through the annular wall <NUM> and one or more passages <NUM> that extend through the flange portion <NUM> to allow lubricant and working fluid discharged from the compression mechanism <NUM> to circulate throughout the shell assembly <NUM> to cool and lubricate moving parts of the compressor <NUM>.

The second bearing housing <NUM> may be a generally disk-shaped member having a central hub <NUM> that receives a second bearing <NUM> (e.g., a roller bearing). The second bearing housing <NUM> may be fixedly attached to an axial end of the annular wall <NUM> of the first bearing housing <NUM> via a plurality of fasteners <NUM>, for example. Passages <NUM> may extend through the second bearing housing <NUM> and may be in fluid communication with the passages <NUM> in the first bearing housing <NUM> to allow working fluid and lubricant to circulate throughout the shell assembly <NUM>.

The compression mechanism <NUM> may be a co-rotating scroll compression mechanism including a first scroll member (i.e., a driven scroll member) <NUM> and a second scroll member (i.e., an idler scroll member) <NUM>. The first scroll member <NUM> may include a first end plate <NUM>, a first spiral wrap <NUM> extending from one side of the first end plate <NUM>, and a first hub <NUM> extending from the opposite side of the first end plate <NUM>. The second scroll member <NUM> may include a second end plate <NUM>, a second spiral wrap <NUM> extending from one side of the second end plate <NUM>, and a second hub <NUM> extending from the opposite side of the second end plate <NUM>.

The first hub <NUM> of the first scroll member <NUM> is received within the central hub <NUM> of the first bearing housing <NUM>. A seal <NUM> is disposed within the central hub <NUM> and sealing engages the central hub <NUM> and the first hub <NUM>. A portion of the first end plate <NUM> is also received within the central hub <NUM> and is supported by the first bearing housing <NUM> and the first bearing <NUM> for rotation about a first rotational axis A1 relative to the first and second bearing housings <NUM>, <NUM>. The second hub <NUM> of the second scroll member <NUM> is received within the central hub <NUM> of the second bearing housing <NUM> and is supported by the second bearing housing <NUM> and the second bearing <NUM> for rotation about a second rotational axis A2 relative to the first and second bearing housings <NUM>, <NUM>. The second rotational axis A2 is parallel to first rotational axis A1 and is offset from the first rotational axis A1.

An Oldham coupling <NUM> may be keyed to the second end plate <NUM> and a rotor <NUM> of the motor assembly <NUM>. In some configurations, the Oldham coupling <NUM> could be keyed to the first and second end plates <NUM>, <NUM>. The first and second spiral wraps <NUM>, <NUM> are intermeshed with each other and cooperate to form a plurality of fluid pockets (i.e., compression pockets) therebetween. Rotation of the first scroll member <NUM> about the first rotational axis A1 and rotation of the second scroll member <NUM> about the second rotational axis A2 causes the fluid pockets to decrease in size as they move from a radially outer position to a radially inner position, thereby compressing the working fluid therein from the suction pressure to the discharge pressure.

The first scroll member <NUM> may include an axially extending suction passage <NUM> that extends through the first hub <NUM> and into the first end plate <NUM>. Radially extending suction passages <NUM> formed in the first end plate <NUM> extend radially outward from the axially extending suction passage <NUM> and provide fluid communication between the axially extending suction passage <NUM> and radially outermost fluid pockets. Accordingly, during operation of the compressor <NUM>, suction-pressure working fluid can be drawn into the suction inlet fitting <NUM>, through the suction passage <NUM> of the first bearing housing <NUM>, through the axially extending suction passage <NUM>, and then through the radially extending suction passages <NUM> to the radially outermost fluid pockets defined by the spiral wraps <NUM>, <NUM>.

The second scroll member <NUM> may include one or more discharge passages <NUM> that extend through the second end plate <NUM> and the second hub <NUM> and provide fluid communication between a radially innermost one of the fluid pockets and the discharge chamber <NUM>. The second bearing housing <NUM> may include one or more discharge openings <NUM> providing fluid communication between the discharge passage <NUM> and the discharge chamber <NUM>.

An annular seal <NUM> may be received in a recess in the radially extending portion <NUM> and may sealingly engage the radially extending portion <NUM> and the second end plate <NUM>. The annular seal <NUM>, the first and second end plates <NUM>, <NUM> and the radially extending portion <NUM> cooperate to define an annular chamber <NUM>. The annular chamber <NUM> may receive intermediate-pressure working fluid (at a pressure greater than suction pressure and less than discharge pressure) from an intermediate fluid pocket <NUM> via a passage in the second end plate <NUM>. Intermediate-pressure working fluid in the annular chamber <NUM> biases the second end plate <NUM> in an axial direction (i.e., a direction parallel to the rotational axes A1, A2) toward the first end plate <NUM> to improve the seal between tips of the first spiral wrap <NUM> and the second end plate <NUM> and the seal between tips of the second spiral wrap <NUM> and the first end plate <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, a compressor <NUM> according to the claimed invention is provided that includes a first bearing housing <NUM>, a second bearing housing <NUM>, a compression mechanism <NUM>, and a motor assembly <NUM>, and may include a shell assembly <NUM>. The structure and function of the shell assembly <NUM>, first bearing housing <NUM>, second bearing housing <NUM>, compression mechanism <NUM>, and motor assembly <NUM> may be similar or identical to that of the shell assembly <NUM>, first bearing housing <NUM>, second bearing housing <NUM>, compression mechanism <NUM>, and motor assembly <NUM> described above, apart from any exceptions described below. Therefore, similar features might not be described again in detail.

Like the first bearing housing <NUM>, the first bearing housing <NUM> may include a generally cylindrical annular wall <NUM> and a radially extending flange portion <NUM> disposed at an axial end of the annular wall <NUM>. The flange portion <NUM> may include an outer rim <NUM> that is welded to (or otherwise fixedly engages) first and second shell bodies <NUM>, <NUM>. The flange portion <NUM> may cooperate with the second shell body <NUM> to define a high-side lubricant sump <NUM>. The flange portion <NUM> may include a central hub <NUM> that receives a first bearing <NUM>. The first bearing housing <NUM> cooperates with the second shell body <NUM> to define a discharge chamber <NUM>. The first bearing housing <NUM> cooperates with the first shell body <NUM> to define a suction chamber <NUM>.

Like the compression mechanism <NUM>, the compression mechanism <NUM> includes a first scroll member <NUM> that rotates about a first rotational axis A1 and a second scroll member <NUM> that rotates about a second rotational axis A2. A first end plate <NUM> of the first scroll member <NUM> may include a suction inlet opening <NUM>. The suction inlet opening <NUM> may be in fluid communication with a radially outermost compression pocket defined by first and second spiral wraps <NUM>, <NUM> of the first and second scroll members <NUM>, <NUM>. An annular shroud <NUM> may be mounted to the first end plate <NUM> and may extend axially upward therefrom. The annular shroud <NUM> may surround the suction inlet opening <NUM>. That is, the suction inlet opening <NUM> may be disposed radially between the annular shroud <NUM> and a first hub <NUM> of the first scroll member <NUM>.

The first bearing housing <NUM> includes a suction passage <NUM> that extends radially through the flange portion <NUM> between the outer rim <NUM> and the central hub <NUM>. The suction passage <NUM> may include a first end <NUM> that is disposed radially outward relative to the annular wall <NUM> and a second end <NUM> that is disposed radially inward relative to the annular wall <NUM>. The second end <NUM> may be disposed radially inward relative to the annular shroud <NUM>. In some configurations, the second end <NUM> may be at least partially radially inward relative to the suction inlet opening <NUM>. The suction passage <NUM> provides suction-pressure working fluid from a portion of the suction chamber <NUM> adjacent a suction inlet fitting <NUM> of the shell assembly <NUM> to a location proximate to the suction inlet opening <NUM> (i.e., at a location at or adjacent the central hub <NUM> and radially inward relative to the suction inlet opening <NUM>). In some configurations, the annular wall <NUM> of the first bearing housing <NUM> may include a deflector <NUM> that routes working fluid from the suction inlet fitting <NUM> toward the suction passage <NUM>.

By routing the working fluid from the suction inlet fitting <NUM> to the suction inlet opening <NUM> through the suction passage <NUM>, the working fluid is delivered to the suction inlet opening <NUM> more efficiently (i.e., less energy is required to deliver the working fluid to the suction inlet opening <NUM>). Since the working fluid exits the suction passage <NUM> (i.e., through the second end <NUM>) at a location that is radially inward relative to the suction inlet opening <NUM>, centrifugal force due to rotation of the first scroll member <NUM> forces the working fluid from the suction passage <NUM> radially outward and into the suction inlet opening <NUM>. In other words, in addition to the pressure differential that draws the working fluid toward the radially outermost fluid pocket(s) defined by the spiral wraps <NUM>, <NUM>, the centrifugal force due to rotation of the first scroll member <NUM> forces the working fluid at the second end <NUM> of the suction passage <NUM> toward the radially outermost fluid pocket(s).

Furthermore, the working fluid flowing through the suction passage <NUM> is shielded from windage produced by the rotation of the first scroll member <NUM>, the second scroll member <NUM> and the rotor of the motor assembly <NUM> as the working fluid travels radially inward from the suction inlet fitting <NUM> to the suction inlet opening <NUM>. That is, rotation of the first scroll member <NUM>, the second scroll member <NUM> and the rotor of the motor assembly <NUM> causes centrifugal windage (i.e., a rotational vortex) in a radially outward direction. Because the working fluid in the suction passage <NUM> is shielded from this windage, the working fluid does not need to overcome the force of the windage to be drawn into the suction inlet opening <NUM>. To the contrary, routing the working fluid through the suction passage <NUM> to a location radially inward of the suction inlet opening <NUM> allows the windage produced by the rotation of the first scroll member <NUM> to aid induction of the working fluid into the suction inlet opening <NUM>. Therefore, by routing the working fluid through the suction passage <NUM> to a location at or closer to the rotational axis A1, the working fluid is more efficiently delivered to the suction inlet opening <NUM>. Furthermore, shielding the working fluid from the rotational vortex windage can prevent or reduce warming of the working fluid from heat generated by viscous shear and aerodynamic effects.

In some configurations, a second end plate <NUM> of the second scroll <NUM> may include a suction passage <NUM>. The suction passage <NUM> may be in fluid communication with an axially extending passage <NUM> formed in a second hub <NUM> of the second scroll member <NUM>. The suction passage <NUM> extends radially outward from the axially extending passage <NUM>. A radially outward end <NUM> of the suction passage <NUM> may be disposed adjacent to a suction inlet opening <NUM> defined by the first scroll member <NUM> and/or the second scroll member <NUM>. Working fluid in the suction chamber <NUM> may flow into the axially extending passage <NUM>, through the suction passage <NUM> and into the suction inlet opening <NUM> to a radially outermost fluid pocket. In a similar manner as described above, routing the working fluid through the passages <NUM>, <NUM> allows centrifugal force to aid in the induction of the working fluid and shields the working fluid from windage generated by rotation of the first and second scroll members <NUM>, <NUM>.

While the compressor <NUM> shown in <FIG> includes both of the suction passages <NUM>, <NUM> and both of the suction inlet openings <NUM>, <NUM>, in some configurations, the compressor <NUM> may include only one of the suction passages <NUM>, <NUM> and only one of the suction inlet openings <NUM>, <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, another compressor <NUM> according to the claimed invention is provided that includes a first bearing housing <NUM>, a second bearing housing <NUM>, a compression mechanism <NUM>, and a motor assembly <NUM>, and may include a shell assembly <NUM>. The structure and function of the shell assembly <NUM>, first bearing housing <NUM>, second bearing housing <NUM>, compression mechanism <NUM>, and motor assembly <NUM> may be similar or identical to that of the shell assembly <NUM>, first bearing housing <NUM>, second bearing housing <NUM>, compression mechanism <NUM>, and motor assembly <NUM> described above, apart from any exceptions described below. Therefore, similar features might not be described again in detail.

Like the first bearing housing <NUM>, the first bearing housing <NUM> may include a generally cylindrical annular wall <NUM> and a radially extending flange portion <NUM> disposed at an axial end of the annular wall <NUM>. The flange portion <NUM> may include an outer rim <NUM> that is welded to (or otherwise fixedly engages) first and second shell bodies <NUM>, <NUM>. The flange portion <NUM> may include a central hub <NUM> that receives a first bearing <NUM>. The first bearing housing <NUM> cooperates with the second shell body <NUM> to define a discharge chamber <NUM>. The first bearing housing <NUM> cooperates with the first shell body <NUM> to define a suction chamber <NUM>.

The first bearing housing <NUM> may include an axially extending lubricant passage <NUM> that extends through the annular wall <NUM> and the flange portion <NUM> and is in fluid communication with a lubricant sump <NUM> defined by the first shell body <NUM>. The flange portion <NUM> may also include a first radially extending lubricant passage <NUM> that is in fluid communication with the axially extending lubricant passage <NUM> and an aperture <NUM> that extends through the first bearing <NUM>.

The first bearing housing <NUM> includes a suction passage <NUM> that extends radially through the flange portion <NUM> between the outer rim <NUM> and the central hub <NUM>. The suction passage <NUM> may include a first end <NUM> that is disposed radially outward relative to the annular wall <NUM> and a second end <NUM> that is disposed radially inward relative to the annular wall <NUM>. The second end <NUM> may be disposed radially inward relative to the annular shroud <NUM>. In some configurations, the second end <NUM> may be at least partially radially inward relative to the suction inlet opening <NUM>. The suction passage <NUM> provides suction-pressure working fluid from a portion of the suction chamber <NUM> adjacent a suction inlet fitting <NUM> of the shell assembly <NUM> to a location proximate to the suction inlet opening <NUM> (i.e., at a location at or adjacent the central hub <NUM> and radially inward relative to the suction inlet opening <NUM>).

In some configurations, the first bearing housing <NUM> may include a suction baffle <NUM> that routes working fluid from the suction inlet fitting <NUM> toward the suction passage <NUM>. The suction baffle <NUM> may include the annular wall <NUM> of the first bearing housing <NUM>, a first wall <NUM> protruding radially outward from the annular wall <NUM>, a second wall <NUM> protruding radially outward from the annular wall <NUM>, and a lip <NUM> protruding radially outward from the annular wall <NUM> and extending between the first and second walls <NUM>, <NUM>. Radially outer edges of the first and second walls <NUM>, <NUM> and the lip <NUM> may contact the first shell body <NUM> to form an enclosed volume <NUM> within the suction chamber <NUM>. The enclose volume <NUM> is in fluid communication with the suction inlet fitting <NUM> and the suction passage <NUM>. The first end <NUM> of the suction passage <NUM> may be disposed between the first and second walls <NUM>, <NUM>. The suction baffle <NUM> directs working fluid from the suction inlet fitting <NUM> to suction passage <NUM>.

As described above, by routing the working fluid from the suction inlet fitting <NUM> to the suction inlet opening <NUM> through the suction passage <NUM>, the working fluid is delivered to the suction inlet opening <NUM> more efficiently. Since the working fluid exits the suction passage <NUM> (i.e., through the second end <NUM>) at a location that is radially inward relative to the suction inlet opening <NUM>, centrifugal force due to rotation of the first scroll member <NUM> forces the working fluid from the suction passage <NUM> radially outward and into the suction inlet opening <NUM>. In other words, in addition to the pressure differential that draws the working fluid toward the radially outermost fluid pocket(s) defined by the spiral wraps <NUM>, <NUM>, the centrifugal force due to rotation of the first scroll member <NUM> forces the working fluid at the second end <NUM> of the suction passage <NUM> toward the radially outermost fluid pocket(s).

Furthermore, the working fluid flowing through the suction passage <NUM> is shielded from windage produced by the rotation of the first scroll member <NUM>, the second scroll member <NUM> and the rotor of the motor assembly <NUM> as the working fluid travels radially inward from the suction inlet fitting <NUM> to the suction inlet opening <NUM>. That is, rotation of the first scroll member <NUM>, the second scroll member <NUM> and the rotor of the motor assembly <NUM> causes centrifugal windage (i.e., a rotational vortex) in a radially outward direction. Because the working fluid in the suction passage <NUM> shielded from this windage, the working fluid does not need to overcome the force of the windage to be drawn into the suction inlet opening <NUM>. To the contrary, routing the working fluid through the suction passage <NUM> to a location radially inward of the suction inlet opening <NUM> allows the windage produced by the rotation of the first scroll member <NUM> to aid induction of the working fluid into the suction inlet opening <NUM>. Therefore, by routing the working fluid through the suction passage <NUM> to a location at or closer to the rotational axis A1, the working fluid is more efficiently delivered to the suction inlet opening <NUM>. Furthermore, shielding the working fluid from the rotational vortex windage can prevent or reduce warming of the working fluid from heat generated by viscous shear and aerodynamic effects.

The second bearing housing <NUM> may include a second radially extending lubricant passage <NUM> that is in fluid communication with the axially extending lubricant passage <NUM> in the first bearing housing <NUM> and an aperture <NUM> that extends through a second bearing <NUM> mounted with a central hub <NUM> of the second bearing housing <NUM>. The second radially extending lubricant passage <NUM> may receive lubricant from a lubricant pump <NUM> that draws lubricant from the lubricant sump <NUM> through a conduit <NUM>. From the second radially extending lubricant passage <NUM>, lubricant can flow through the aperture <NUM> to the second bearing <NUM> and through the axially extending lubricant passage <NUM> and the first radially extending lubricant passage <NUM> and aperture <NUM> to the first bearing <NUM>. Furthermore, the pump <NUM> may pump lubricant through a lubricant passage <NUM> that extends axially through a second hub <NUM> of the second scroll member <NUM> and radially outward through a second end plate <NUM> of the second scroll member <NUM>. The lubricant passage <NUM> in the second scroll member <NUM> may be in communication with a compression pocket defined by spiral wraps <NUM>, <NUM> via a lubricant-injection port <NUM>.

Rotation of the scroll members <NUM>, <NUM> causes lubricant to separate from the working fluid. Centrifugal force may cause separated lubricant to flow through a plurality of apertures <NUM> in the shroud <NUM> and fall onto the motor assembly <NUM> and cool the motor assembly <NUM> before draining through a lubricant drain aperture <NUM> in the second bearing housing <NUM> back into the lubricant sump <NUM>.

The motor assemblies <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> described above may be fixed-speed, multi-speed, or variable-speed motors. The ring-motor designs of the motor assemblies <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> allow the motor assemblies <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> to be more axially compact, powerful and light weight. The configuration of the stators and rotors described above and shown in the figures allow the compression members to be disposed within the rotor (i.e., the rotor radially surrounding the compression members). This allows the overall axial height of the compressors <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> to be significantly smaller than conventional compressors. The reduced axial height of the compressors <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> allows the compressors <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> to be packaged into smaller spaces within a climate-control system.

Furthermore, since the compression mechanisms and motor assemblies described above are mounted to the first and second bearing housings (rather than to the shell assembly), the compression mechanisms and motor assemblies can be assembled to the bearing housings outside of the shell assembly and tested outside of the shell assembly (i.e., prior to being installed within the shell assembly). Testing of the compression mechanism and motor assembly before being installed into the shell assembly allows for any necessary corrections and/or replacement of faulty components without having to break open a shell assembly that has been welded shut.

Claim 1:
A compressor (<NUM>) comprising:
a first scroll member (<NUM>) having a first end plate (<NUM>) and a first spiral wrap (<NUM>) extending from the first end plate (<NUM>);
a second scroll member (<NUM>) having a second end plate (<NUM>) and a second spiral wrap (<NUM>) extending from the second end plate (<NUM>) and intermeshed with the first spiral wrap (<NUM>) to define compression pockets therebetween;
a first bearing housing (<NUM>) supporting the first scroll member (<NUM>) for rotation about a first rotational axis (A1);
a second bearing housing (<NUM>) supporting the second scroll member (<NUM>) for rotation about a second rotational axis (A2) that is offset from the first rotational axis (A1); and
a motor assembly (<NUM>) engaging one of the first and second scroll members (<NUM>, <NUM>) and driving rotation of the first and second scroll members (<NUM>, <NUM>) about the first and second rotational axes (A1, A2), respectively,
characterized in that:
the first bearing housing (<NUM>) includes a radially extending suction passage (<NUM>) providing fluid communication between a suction inlet (<NUM>) of a shell of the compressor (<NUM>) and a suction inlet opening (<NUM>) in the first end plate (<NUM>), and
working fluid exits the radially extending suction passage (<NUM>) at a location that is disposed radially inward relative to the suction inlet opening (<NUM>) such that windage produced by rotation of the first scroll member (<NUM>) aids in forcing the working fluid radially outward toward the suction inlet opening (<NUM>).