Scroll-type machine

Abstract

A scroll-type displacement machine, e.g. scroll compressor, has fixed and orbiting scrolls and an Oldham ring to prevent relative rotation between scrolls. A drive module positioned between the orbiting scroll and drive shaft incorporates an eccentric drive system and first and second counterweights for dynamic balancing. The motor, motor bearings, and motor shaft (i.e., drive shaft) are packaged as a separate, modular unit (e.g. “off-the-shelf” motor) that attaches to the compressor frame. The machine is configured as a high-side machine with a low-pressure port at a radial outer portion of the fixed scroll and a high-pressure port or discharge port located in the floor of the orbiting scroll at its axis, with high pressure flow passing over and around the eccentric drive bearing and drive mechanism. The Oldham ring is distributed on a lateral or radial plane of the scroll pair with a portion surrounding a portion of the fixed scroll and another portion surrounding a portion of the orbiting scroll. The ring may be formed as four arcuate members arranged on two levels, to occupy otherwise unused space in the scroll-type machine.