Apparatus for recovering and conditioning thermal energy of an electric vehicle having an electrochemical generator using an HVAC system

Abstract

This invention relates to a heat recovery and regulation device for an electric vehicle having an electrochemical generator in which fluid circulates. The air conditioning circuit includes at least one external condenser / evaporator (2), a compressor (4), an internal condenser (6) for heating the passenger compartment, a first expansion orifice (8) located downstream of the internal condenser (6), an internal evaporator (14) for cooling the passenger compartment, and a second expansion orifice (12) located upstream of the internal evaporator (14). The regulation device also includes a first heating circuit for heating or heat recovery of the electrochemical generator, motor (5), electronic circuit (7), and braking circuit (9), and a second cooling circuit for heating or heat recovery of the electrochemical generator, motor, electronic circuit, and braking circuit. Multiple valves (24, 28, 32, 20) are arranged to enable the air conditioning circuit to communicate with one or the other of the first heating circuit and the second cooling circuit, and the means for controlling the valves (24, 28, 32, 20) are arranged to allow fluid from the air conditioning circuit to circulate in the first heating circuit for heating operation based on the temperature of the electrochemical generator (1), the electric motor, the electronic circuit and the braking circuit, while allowing fluid from the air conditioning circuit to circulate in the second cooling circuit for cooling operation.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an apparatus for recovering and regulating thermal energy in an electric vehicle with an electrochemical generator such as a battery, fuel cell, or hybrid power source using an HVAC system. The apparatus for recovering and regulating thermal energy includes an air conditioning circuit for an HVAC (heating-ventilation-air conditioning-cooling) system for the vehicle's passenger compartment, in which fluid circulates. The air conditioning circuit includes at least one external condenser-evaporator, a compressor, an internal condenser for heating the passenger compartment, a first expansion orifice disposed downstream of the internal condenser between the internal condenser and the external condenser / evaporator, an internal evaporator for cooling the passenger compartment, and a second expansion orifice disposed upstream of the internal evaporator between the external condenser / evaporator and the internal evaporator. Background Technology

[0002] Such devices are known to those skilled in the art and are particularly used in electric or hybrid vehicles to replace electric heating systems with power-consuming heating elements. HVAC systems also have the advantage of converting themselves into air conditioning in the summer. HVAC systems are most effective for regulating passenger compartment temperature while optimizing vehicle energy consumption. Therefore, they can increase driving range.

[0003] To further increase the driving range of electric or hybrid vehicles, efforts are being made to optimize the energy efficiency of the electrochemical generator by regulating its temperature. This is because temperature significantly impacts the function of the electrochemical generator: it must be cooled when the temperature is too high or heated when the temperature is too low. Especially in winter, excessively low temperatures can lead to a significant drop in efficiency, potentially halving the vehicle's driving range. Furthermore, when the electrochemical generator is a battery, the relationship between the battery's state of charge and charging time shows that charging time increases with temperature. Additionally, due to the temperature rise during charging, reaching 80% charge is relatively quick, but reaching 100% charge takes a long time.

[0004] In this regard, patent CH 711 726 B1 describes a device for regulating the temperature of an electrochemical generator, such as a battery, fuel cell, or hybrid power source, in an electric vehicle as shown in Figures 1 to 5, as detailed below as prior art.

[0005] Referring, for example, to Figure 1, a device for regulating the temperature of an electrochemical generator in an electric or hybrid vehicle includes an air conditioning circuit for the HVAC system in the vehicle's passenger compartment. Figure 1 illustrates a method for heating, for example, a battery that is being charged when the vehicle is stationary.

[0006] More specifically, the air conditioning circuit in the first loop includes an external condenser / evaporator 2 (typically located at the front of the vehicle), an accumulator 3, a compressor 4 (preferably a high-speed compressor), an internal condenser 6 for heating the passenger compartment, and a first expansion orifice 8 located downstream of the internal condenser between the internal condenser 6 and the external condenser / evaporator 2. A bypass 10 is provided at the first expansion orifice 8 between the internal condenser 6 and the external condenser / evaporator 2. The second loop includes a second expansion orifice 12 located upstream of the internal evaporator 14 between the external condenser / evaporator 2 and the internal evaporator 14 for cooling the passenger compartment. A fan 16 of the air conditioning unit is located at the internal evaporator 14. The various components are connected together by pipes through which a refrigerant fluid, such as refrigerant gas, circulates. The circulation in the first loop or the second loop and the bypass is controlled by a set of valves 18, 20, 21, 28, 32, 36, and 38. Valves 18 and 20 are disposed in the first loop and the second loop, and valve 21 is disposed upstream of the first expansion orifice 8 at the intersection of the first loop and the bypass 10. These valves are, for example, solenoid valves with at least three channels, except for valve 20, which has at least four channels.

[0007] It should be noted that in this embodiment, for the method of heating a battery that is in a charging state when the vehicle is stopped, the circulation of the gaseous fluid in the pipe is shown by the darker line in Figure 1. The same is true for Figures 2 to 5 below.

[0008] The regulating device further includes a first circuit for heating the electrochemical generator 1, in which the same fluid as in the air conditioning circuit can circulate. The first circuit for heating the electrochemical generator includes, in the direction of fluid circulation, a first conduit for supplying fluid 22 to a heat transfer element associated with the electrochemical generator 1. The first supply conduit 22 is connected by means of a three-way valve 24 to a first outlet disposed between the compressor 4 and the internal condenser 6, and a first discharge conduit 26 is used to discharge fluid from the heat transfer element. The first discharge conduit 26 is connected by means of a three-way valve 28 to a first inlet disposed between the internal condenser 6 and the first expansion orifice 8.

[0009] The regulating device further includes a second circuit for cooling the electrochemical generator 1, in which the same fluid as in the air conditioning circuit can circulate. The second circuit for cooling the electrochemical generator 1 includes, in the fluid circulation direction, a second conduit for supplying fluid 30 to a heat transfer element associated with the electrochemical generator 1. The second supply conduit 30 is connected by means of a three-way valve 32 to a second outlet located between the second expansion orifice 12 and the internal evaporator 14, and a second discharge conduit 34 is used to discharge fluid from the heat transfer element. The second discharge conduit 34 is connected by means of a valve 20, which is a four-way valve, to a second inlet located downstream of the internal evaporator 14, between the internal evaporator 14 and the compressor 4.

[0010] It should be noted that, for this description, it must be understood that the air conditioning circuit includes a first heating circuit and a second cooling circuit, although, generally speaking, for an air conditioner, this mainly involves gas passing through the second expansion orifice 12 (pressure reducer). The first heating circuit and the second cooling circuit are nested together and rely on the control device to control various valves to achieve their functions.

[0011] The first conduit 22 and the second conduit 30, which supply fluid to the heat transfer element of the electrochemical generator 1, are connected to the heat transfer element only via a three-way valve 36. Similarly, the first conduit 26 and the second conduit 34, which discharge fluid from the heat transfer element, are connected to the heat transfer element only via a three-way valve 38. Separate and independent connections from the heat transfer element can also be provided. An exchanger can also be provided between valves 36, 38 and the electrochemical generator 1 to facilitate heat exchange.

[0012] Valves 24, 28, 32 and 20 are configured to connect the air conditioning circuit to one or the other of the first heating circuit and the second cooling circuit of the electrochemical generator 1.

[0013] The regulating device includes means for controlling valves 24, 28, 32, 20, 36 and 38, which are arranged to allow fluid in the air conditioning circuit to circulate in a first heating circuit to heat the electrochemical generator 1, and / or allow fluid in the air conditioning circuit to circulate in a second cooling circuit to cool the electrochemical generator 1, thereby regulating its temperature.

[0014] In addition to regulating the temperature of the electrochemical generator, a device is provided for activating the valves 18, 20 and 21 to regulate the temperature of the passenger compartment, as well as other valves for controlling the air conditioning circuit.

[0015] The control device is associated with a temperature sensor of the electrochemical generator 1 to actuate valves based on the desired effect, whether the vehicle is stopped or in motion, and the presence or absence of a battery or fuel cell. According to Figures 1-5, the circulation of gaseous fluid in the pipes in the embodiment is shown with darker lines. Figure 1 shows a heating mode for the battery 1 in a charging state when the vehicle is stopped. Figure 2 shows a cooling mode for the battery 1 in a charging state when the vehicle is stopped. Figure 3 shows a heating mode for the passenger compartment and heating of the battery 1 when the vehicle is in motion. Figure 4 shows a mode for air conditioning the passenger compartment and cooling the battery 1 when the vehicle is in motion. Finally, Figure 5 shows a mode for heating the passenger compartment and cooling the battery 1 when the vehicle is in motion.

[0016] More specifically, when the vehicle stops, the devices for controlling the valves, compressor 4, and all electronic components are arranged to act on the main line, with the vehicle either connected or not connected to the main line.

[0017] When the vehicle is stopped, the device for controlling the valves can be arranged so that the internal condenser 6 and the internal evaporator 14 do not regulate the temperature of the passenger compartment, so that only the battery heating or cooling mode is operable.

[0018] When the outside temperature is low, the battery or fuel cell needs to be heated to start the vehicle and to improve its charging efficiency. In the heating mode of the electrochemical generator 1, the vehicle is stopped, while in the case of the battery, the battery can be charged. According to Figure 1, the device for controlling the valves is arranged such that fluid passing through the external condenser / evaporator 2, which is in contact with cold air A, flows via valves 18 and 20 to the accumulator 3, then into the compressor 4, where it is compressed and thus heated. It is then sent via valve 24 into the first pipe 22, thereby supplying the heating circuit of the electrochemical generator and via valve 36 all the way to the heat transfer element of the electrochemical generator 1. During fluid passage, the fluid reheats the heat transfer element, which in turn heats the electrochemical generator 1. The fluid then circulates via valve 38 in the first discharge pipe 26 of the heating circuit of the electrochemical generator 1, enters the air conditioning circuit via valves 28 and 21, and returns to the external condenser / evaporator 2 through the first expansion orifice 8. In this mode, the internal condenser 6 and evaporator 14 are inactive.

[0019] If the electrochemical generator overheats during startup, or if the battery becomes too hot due to overheating of the outside air during charging, necessitating cooling of the electrochemical generator, the control valve is configured to enter the electrochemical generator cooling mode when the vehicle is stopped. In the case of the battery, as shown in Figure 2, the battery can be in a charging state. The control valve is then arranged such that fluid passing through the external condenser / evaporator 2 in contact with hot air B circulates towards the second conduit 30, thereby being supplied via valve 18 to the cooling circuit of the electrochemical generator, to the second expansion orifice 12 where it is cooled, and then to valve 32, and via valve 36 all the way to the heat transfer element of the battery 1. As the fluid passes through, it cools the heat transfer element, which in turn cools the electrochemical generator 1. The fluid then flows through valve 38 into the second discharge pipe 34 of the cooling circuit and is reintroduced into the air conditioning circuit via valve 20, passing through accumulator 3 and compressor 4, where it is compressed. It then passes through valve 24 to the internal condenser 6, which, by means of a shut-off valve 40, does not regulate the cabin temperature. The fluid then flows through valves 21 and 28 into bypass 10 and then back to the external condenser / evaporator 2 without passing through the first expansion orifice 8. In this mode, the internal condenser 6 and evaporator 14 do not regulate the cabin temperature.

[0020] When the electrochemical generator is a battery, the control valve is arranged to allow fluid to circulate in a first heating circuit to heat the battery until it reaches its optimal charging temperature, and to allow fluid in the air conditioning circuit to circulate in a second cooling circuit to cool the battery, thereby restoring it to its optimal charging temperature for charging the battery in the shortest possible time. In this case, the control valve is arranged to switch from a battery heating mode (as shown in Figure 1) where the vehicle is stopped and the battery is charging, to a battery cooling mode (as shown in Figure 2) where the vehicle is stopped and the battery is charging, and vice versa, based on the desired optimal battery temperature, to charge the battery in the shortest possible time. The optimal charging temperature of the battery is likely between 5 and 25°C.

[0021] In all the above situations, the control valve device is automatically managed without any human intervention. This is especially useful for maintaining the battery temperature at the ideal charging temperature.

[0022] When the vehicle is stopped, the temperature of the passenger compartment can be regulated using the heat energy provided by the electrochemical generator 1. Therefore, the battery charging time can be programmed to adequately heat the battery, and the passenger compartment can be adequately heated or cooled by the heat released by the battery during charging, and cooled by the cold energy released by the battery during charging. In this configuration, the control valves are arranged to allow the internal condenser 6 and internal evaporator 14 to operate when the vehicle is stopped, and to regulate the passenger compartment temperature in addition to the temperature of the electrochemical generator 1. Therefore, the temperature of the passenger compartment is comfortable when the user is seated in the vehicle to start it.

[0023] When the vehicle is in motion, the control valve device and compressor 4 are arranged to function in relation to the electrochemical generator.

[0024] According to another variant, the control valve device is arranged to allow the internal condenser 6 and internal evaporator 14 to function while the vehicle is in motion and to regulate the temperature of the passenger compartment in addition to the temperature of the electrochemical generator.

[0025] More specifically, when the outside temperature is cold, the control valve is arranged to switch the HVAC system to passenger compartment heating mode while the vehicle is in motion, and to allow fluid from the air conditioning circuit to circulate in the first heating circuit of the electrochemical generator to heat the passenger compartment and the electrochemical generator, as shown in Figure 3. In this mode for heating the passenger compartment and the electrochemical generator, the control valve is arranged such that fluid passing through the condenser / evaporator 2, which is in contact with the cold air A, flows via valves 18 and 20 to the accumulator 3, and then into the compressor 4, where it is compressed and thus heated. It is then first fed into the first conduit 22 via valve 24, thereby supplying the heating circuit of the electrochemical generator and then via valve 36 to the heat transfer element of the electrochemical generator 1, and then into the internal condenser 6. The fan of the air conditioning unit 16 is arranged to be turned on, so that the cold air entering at point C is heated by passing through the internal condenser 6 and then fed into the passenger compartment to heat it. The fluid then exits again along the direction of the external condenser / evaporator 2, passing through the first expansion orifice 8. In the heating circuit of the electrochemical generator, the fluid reheats the heat transfer elements, thereby heating the electrochemical generator 1. The fluid then flows through valve 38 into the first discharge pipe 26 of the heating circuit of the electrochemical generator, re-enters the air conditioning circuit via valves 28 and 21, and returns to the external condenser / evaporator 2 after passing through the first expansion orifice 8. In this mode, the internal condenser 6 regulates the temperature of the passenger compartment. In this mode, the regulating device can generate heat to heat the passenger compartment on one hand, and heat the electrochemical generator on the other hand to maintain it at an optimal temperature, thus ensuring better efficiency.

[0026] If the electrochemical generator overheats during vehicle operation, for example due to very high traction power load or excessively hot outside air, requiring cooling, the control valve is arranged to switch the HVAC system to passenger compartment air conditioning mode. Additionally, according to Figure 4, this allows the fluid in the air conditioning circuit to circulate in the second cooling circuit of the electrochemical generator to cool the passenger compartment and the electrochemical generator. The control valve is then arranged such that fluid passing through the external condenser / evaporator 2 in contact with hot air B is directed via valve 18 to the second expansion orifice 12, where it is cooled, and then directed to valve 32, where the fluid is first diverted towards the second conduit 30 to supply the cooling circuit of the electrochemical generator and via valve 36 to the heat transfer elements of the electrochemical generator 1, and then diverted towards the internal evaporator 14. The fan of the air conditioning unit 16 is arranged to turn on, so that the hot air entering at point D is cooled by passing through the internal evaporator 14 and then sent into the passenger compartment to cool it. The fluid then re-enters the air conditioning circuit via valve 20. Along the cooling circuit of the electrochemical generator 1, after cooling the electrochemical generator 1, fluid flows through valve 38 into the second discharge pipe 34 of the cooling circuit, and is reintroduced into the air conditioning circuit via valve 20, so that it passes with fluid from the internal evaporator 14 through the accumulator 3, through the compressor 4, where it is compressed, and through valve 24 through the internal condenser 6, which, by means of the shut-off valve 40, does not regulate the passenger compartment. The fluid then flows through valves 21 and 28 into the bypass 10, and then returns to the external condenser / evaporator 2 without passing through the first expansion orifice 8. In this mode, the regulating device can generate cooling capacity to cool both the passenger compartment and the electrochemical generator on the one hand, so as to maintain them at the optimal temperature for ensuring better efficiency.

[0027] If, during vehicle operation, the electrochemical generator becomes overheated, for example due to intensive operation, requiring cooling, but the outside air is cold and the passenger compartment must be heated, then according to Figure 5, the control valve arrangement is configured to switch the HVAC system to passenger compartment heating mode and allow fluid from the air conditioning circuit to circulate in the second cooling circuit of the electrochemical generator to heat the passenger compartment and cool the electrochemical generator. The control valve arrangement is then configured such that fluid passing through the condenser / evaporator 2, which is in contact with cold air A, is first directed via valve 18 to valve 20, then to the second expansion orifice 12, where it is cooled, and then flows via valve 32 into the second conduit 30, thereby supplying the cooling circuit of the electrochemical generator and, via valve 36, all the way to the heat transfer elements of the electrochemical generator 1. After cooling the electrochemical generator 1, the fluid flows via valve 38 into the second discharge conduit 34 of the cooling circuit and is reintegrated into the air conditioning circuit via valve 20, so that it passes through the accumulator 3, through the compressor 4, where it is compressed, and through valve 24 into the internal condenser 6, together with the fluid directly from valve 18. The fan of the air conditioning unit 16 is arranged to be turned on, so that the cold air entering at point E is heated as it passes through the internal condenser 6 and is then sent into the passenger compartment to heat it. The fluid then passes through the first expansion orifice 8 via valve 21 and returns to the external condenser / evaporator 2. In this mode, the regulating device can generate heat on the one hand to heat the passenger compartment and on the other hand to cool the electrochemical generator, thereby maintaining it at the optimal temperature to ensure best performance. The heat generated by the electrochemical generator is used to heat the passenger compartment.

[0028] Of these three modes for regulating temperature while the vehicle is in motion, the control valve device is semi-automatically managed. The user takes action to switch the HVAC system to heating mode or passenger compartment air conditioning mode, thereby regulating the passenger compartment temperature. The temperature of the electrochemical generator is automatically controlled by a temperature sensor.

[0029] US Patent 10,168,079 B2 describes a device with a cooling cycle, specifically for use with batteries. However, it does not envision recovering heat from vehicle components to heat or cool, for example, the battery or the vehicle's passenger compartment. Furthermore, the air conditioning circuit uses only a very approximate gas-air exchanger, which cannot precisely regulate the battery temperature. Summary of the Invention

[0030] The present invention aims, in particular, to overcome the various drawbacks of electrochemical generators in known electric or hybrid vehicles, and envisions connecting at least one electric motor and at least one electronic control circuit of the vehicle to an electrochemical generator for recovering and regulating thermal energy in the heating or cooling circuit, in order to optimize the overall efficiency of such vehicles and convert heat loss into useful energy for regulating the temperature inside the passenger compartment.

[0031] More precisely, one object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus for recovering and regulating thermal energy in electric vehicles with electrochemical generators such as batteries, fuel cells, or hybrid power sources using an HVAC system, which in particular allows energy recovery for the electrochemical generator to optimize its energy efficiency. It is also envisioned to recover heating or cooling thermal energy, at least for the electric motor and electronic control circuitry connected to the electrochemical generator, or even braking energy, to increase the vehicle's driving range.

[0032] When the electrochemical generator is a storage battery, another object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus for recovering heat energy during battery charging in order to optimize charging time and make it as short as possible.

[0033] Therefore, the present invention relates to an apparatus for recovering and regulating the thermal energy of an electric vehicle having an electrochemical generator, comprising the features of independent claim 1.

[0034] Specific embodiments of the heat recovery and regulation device are defined in dependent claims 2 to 11.

[0035] Therefore, the heat recovery and regulation device of the present invention can optimize the energy efficiency of the electrochemical generator and, when combined with the traction motor and electronic control circuitry, increase the vehicle's driving range. Furthermore, when the electrochemical generator is a battery, the heat recovery and regulation device of the present invention can optimize the battery charging time by minimizing the battery charging time.

[0036] One advantage of this heat recovery and regulation device is that the electronically controlled traction motor is connected to the heating or cooling circuit via the battery, which avoids any heat loss and ensures that the vehicle's range increases before the battery is recharged. Attached Figure Description

[0037] Other features and advantages of the invention will become more apparent from the following description of various embodiments of the invention, given by way of simple illustrative and non-limiting examples, and in conjunction with the accompanying drawings:

[0038] Figure 1 shows a schematic diagram of a prior art device for regulating the temperature of an electrochemical generator in an electric vehicle, wherein the vehicle is parked and the battery is charging.

[0039] Figure 2 shows a schematic diagram of a prior art device for regulating the temperature of an electrochemical generator in an electric vehicle, wherein the vehicle is parked and the battery is charging.

[0040] Figure 3 shows a schematic diagram of a prior art device for regulating the temperature of an electrochemical generator in an electric vehicle, where the vehicle is in motion.

[0041] Figure 4 shows a schematic diagram of a prior art device for regulating the temperature of an electrochemical generator in an electric vehicle, where the vehicle is in motion.

[0042] Figure 5 shows a schematic diagram of a prior art device for regulating the temperature of an electrochemical generator in an electric vehicle, where the vehicle is in motion.

[0043] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of a first embodiment of a device according to the present invention for recovering and regulating thermal energy of an electric vehicle having an electrochemical generator is shown.

[0044] Figure 7 A schematic diagram of a second embodiment of the apparatus according to the present invention for recovering and regulating thermal energy of an electric vehicle having an electrochemical generator is shown.

[0045] Figure 8 A schematic diagram of a third embodiment of the apparatus according to the invention for recovering and regulating the thermal energy of an electric vehicle equipped with an electrochemical generator is shown, and...

[0046] Figure 9 An arrangement of an electric motor, electronic equipment, electrochemical generator, and braking circuit is shown for recovering heat energy from a braking circuit and directly charging an electrochemical generator via an electric motor according to the invention. Detailed Implementation

[0047] In this specification, the term "electrochemical generator" refers to the battery and fuel cell used in electric hybrid vehicles, denoted by reference numeral 1 in the accompanying drawings, without distinguishing between the battery and the fuel cell. Additionally, a heat recovery and regulation device is defined, rather than the temperature regulation device for the electrochemical generator as described in Figures 1 to 5 with reference to the prior art.

[0048] The heat recovery and regulation device for a vehicle with an electrochemical generator of the present invention includes the same air conditioning circuit as described in Figures 1 to 5 above in the prior art. Therefore, not all components of the device and the various embodiments shown in Figures 1 to 5 will be completely repeated. The functions of all the various elements related to the air conditioning circuit of the device are identical and will not be repeated. Only novel components related to the heating or cooling circuit of the device and their ability to recover energy to supply it to another component of the device will be described in detail. The significance of the present invention lies in the ability to heat or cool, for example, the passenger compartment of an electric vehicle, using the heating or cooling thermal energy of certain components that are in operation and connected to the heating or cooling circuit, without any significant heat loss.

[0049] Figure 6 A first embodiment of a novel heat recovery and regulation device for a vehicle with an electrochemical generator 1 is shown, the device including an air conditioning circuit for the HVAC system of the passenger compartment. For example, according to... Figure 6 The first embodiment shown in Figure 5, which is identical in principle to the one described therein, proposes a method for heating the crew compartment and cooling the electrochemical generator 1, the method having at least one electric motor 5 and at least one electronic circuit 7 or electronic device. However, Figure 6 All components are described in a novel arrangement of at least an electric motor 5 and at least an electronic circuit 7 combined with an electrochemical generator 1. The electric motor or multiple electric motors 5 are used to traction the vehicle, while the electronic circuit 7 is used to control the electric motor or multiple electric motors 5.

[0050] As shown with reference to Figures 1 to 5, the air conditioning circuit thus includes the air conditioning circuit of the HVAC system for the vehicle's passenger compartment, in which fluid circulates. The fluid—such as a refrigerant, for example, refrigerant gas—circulates particularly in various ducts. The air conditioning circuit includes at least one external condenser / evaporator 2, typically located at the front of the vehicle; a compressor 4, preferably a high-speed compressor; an internal condenser 6 for heating the passenger compartment; a first expansion orifice 8 disposed downstream of the internal condenser 6 between the internal condenser 6 and the external condenser / evaporator 2; an internal evaporator 14 for cooling the passenger compartment; and a second expansion orifice 12 disposed upstream of the internal evaporator 14 between the external condenser / evaporator 2 and the internal evaporator 14.

[0051] The heat recovery and regulation device further includes a first heating or heat recovery circuit for heating, in particular, the electrochemical generator 1, and a second cooling or heat recovery circuit for cooling, in particular, the electrochemical generator 1, with fluid circulating in the first heating or heat recovery circuit and the second cooling or heat recovery circuit. According to the invention, in Figure 6 In this first embodiment, in conjunction with the air conditioning circuit and the electrochemical generator 1, at least one electric motor 5, such as a traction motor for a vehicle, and at least one electronic circuit 7, such as for controlling the one or more electric motors, are also provided. The electronic circuit 7 or electronic device relates to both electronic devices for controlling one or more electric motors 5 and means for controlling valves, control of one or more temperature sensors, DC-DC conversion devices, control of battery charging, and braking circuits or other components.

[0052] One or more electric motors 5 and at least electronic circuits 7 are also used, like the electrochemical generator 1, for the recovery of heating or cooling energy. The one or more electric motors 5 and at least electronic circuits 7 are arranged in a circuit parallel to the electrochemical generator 1, together with a first heating circuit or a second cooling circuit as described below. This is an ideal configuration because the temperature of each component can be measured individually, allowing for clearly differentiated adaptations for heating or cooling operations that recover thermal energy from one or more electric motors 5, electronic circuits 7, or the electrochemical generator 1.

[0053] A braking circuit 9 may also be provided, which is connected in parallel with one or more electric motors 5, electronic circuits or general electronic devices 7, and an electrochemical generator 1. This braking circuit 9 mainly includes a resistor through which current flows after the vehicle braking is triggered by the disc brake or by the braking of the electric motor 5. Figure 6 The resistor, symbolically shown in the diagram, is connected by wires that generate heat during braking, heating the gas or liquid surrounding the resistor. This gas or liquid is transported in conduits within a first heating circuit or a second cooling circuit, passing through the battery 1 and reaching one or more electric motors 5 and all electronic equipment 7. Thermal energy is essentially supplied and can be transported in one of the heating or cooling circuits to provide useful heating energy to the crew compartment. This thermal energy can also be used to heat the electrochemical generator 1.

[0054] When an electric vehicle is traveling at high speed, emergency braking using one or more electric motors 5 cannot directly charge the electrochemical generator 1 because the current flowing through the motors is too strong. For example... Figure 9 As schematically shown, energy can first be transmitted through electronic device 7 and then to resistor 9. Two wires are connected at the output of one or more motors 5 and the input of electronic device 7, with electronic device 7 connected to the resistor of braking circuit 9 via the two wires as its output. Heat energy is recovered at the output of braking circuit 9, which is connected to the HVAC system and either the first heating circuit or the second cooling circuit. When the power in one or more motors 5 decreases, the electricity output from one or more motors 5 via electronic device 7 can be used to charge electrochemical generator 1. Thus, a vehicle without hydraulic brakes can be imagined, enabling the recovery of 100% of the braking energy (whether heat or electrical energy) to charge electrochemical generator 1. Electrical or heat energy is therefore not lost and constitutes useful energy for charging or heating electrochemical generator 1.

[0055] Imagine four electric motors 5, meaning one motor in each wheel of the vehicle, performing highly reliable and independent braking on each wheel. Braking circuits 9 can be installed along with each electric motor 5 on each wheel of the vehicle.

[0056] It should be noted that Figures 6 to 8 The circulation of fluid, such as gaseous fluid, in the pipes is shown only for the second cooling circuit, as in Figure 5. The fluid circulation is shown with darker lines. However, the components of the first heating circuit or the heating heat recovery circuit are also described below.

[0057] A first heating or heat recovery circuit for heating the electrochemical generator 1 and the electric motor 5, including at least the electronic circuit 7 or even the braking circuit 9, includes a first fluid supply conduit 22. This first fluid supply conduit 22 delivers fluid to the heat transfer element associated with the electrochemical generator 1 and to the conduit of at least the electric motor 5 and at least the electronic circuit 7, or even a portion of the braking circuit 9. The first heating circuit or heating heat recovery circuit also includes a first conduit 26 for discharging fluid from the conduit portion of the heat transfer element and at least the electric motor 5 and the electronic circuit 7. The first fluid discharge conduit 26 is connected to the first inlet of a three-way reflux valve 28 between the internal condenser 6 and the first expansion orifice 8.

[0058] A first supply conduit 22 connects to the first outlet of a first three-way valve 24 and the first inlet of a second four-way valve 36, which is disposed between the compressor 4 and the internal condenser 6. Fluid is transferred from the first outlet of the second valve 36 to a heat transfer element associated with the electrochemical generator 1, and from the second outlet of the second valve 36 to the inlet of a first complementary four-way valve 37. The first outlet of the first complementary valve 37 is connected to a conduit portion of at least an electric motor 5, while the second outlet of the first complementary valve 37 is connected to a conduit portion of at least an electronic circuit 7, and the third outlet of the first complementary valve 37 is connected to a braking circuit 9 connected in parallel with the electrochemical generator 1, one or more electric motors 5, and electronic circuit 7. The outputs of at least the electric motor 5, at least the electronic circuit 7, and the braking circuit 9 are connected to the inlet of the second complementary four-way valve 39, the outlet of the second complementary four-way valve 39 is connected to the inlet of a connecting valve 41, the other inlet of which is connected to the heat transfer element of the electrochemical generator 1. The outlet of the connecting valve 41 is connected to the first inlet of the third three-way valve 38, the first outlet of the third valve 38 is connected to the air conditioning circuit via valves 28 and 21, and returns to the external condenser / evaporator 2 by passing through the first expansion orifice 8.

[0059] like Figure 6 As shown, a second cooling or heat recovery loop for cooling the electrochemical generator 1 and at least the electric motor 5, as well as at least the electronic circuit 7 and the braking circuit 9, includes a second fluid supply conduit 30. This second fluid supply conduit 30 delivers fluid to the heat transfer elements associated with the electrochemical generator 1 and to the conduit portions of at least the electric motor 5, at least the electronic circuit 7, and the braking circuit 9. The second cooling loop or cooling heat recovery loop includes a second conduit 34 for discharging fluid from the heat transfer elements associated with the electrochemical generator 1 to the conduit portions of at least the electric motor 5 and at least the electronic circuit 7 and the braking circuit 9.

[0060] According to the second cooling circuit or cooling heat recovery circuit, the fluid from the external condenser / evaporator 2 flows to the accumulator 3 via valves 18 and 20 controlled by the control device, and then flows into the compressor 4, where it is compressed and thus heated, and then sent to valve 24. The fluid also flows through valve 18 in the direction of the second expansion orifice 12. The second fluid supply pipe 30 is connected to the fourth three-way valve 32 located between the second expansion orifice 12 and the internal evaporator 14, and is connected to the second inlet of the second four-way valve 36, while the second fluid discharge pipe 34 of the heat transfer element is connected to the second inlet of the fifth four-way valve 20 located downstream of the internal evaporator 14 between the internal evaporator 14 and the compressor 4 via the second outlet of the third valve 38. The energy A provided by the external condenser / evaporator 2 is added in the compressor 4 to the energy from the electrochemical generator 1 and the components consisting of at least the electric motor 5, at least the electronic circuit 7, and the braking circuit 9. The hot fluid enters the internal condenser 6 through valve 24 and flows out of the internal condenser 6 at a cooler temperature, so as to pass through the first expansion orifice 8 via valve 21 and return to the external condenser / evaporator 2.

[0061] As described above, multiple valves 18, 20, 21, 24, 28, 32, 36, 37, 38, 39, and 41 are arranged to enable communication between the air conditioning circuit and one or the other of a first heating circuit and a second cooling circuit for the electrochemical generator 1, at least one electric motor 5, at least one electronic circuit 7, and a braking circuit 9. Additionally, means for controlling the valves 18, 20, 21, 24, 28, 32, 36, 37, 38, 39, and 41 are provided, these means being arranged to allow fluid to circulate from the air conditioning circuit to the first heating circuit or the second cooling circuit.

[0062] Based on the temperature measured by at least one temperature sensor—which is associated with a device that controls the electrochemical generator 1, at least the electric motor 5, and at least the electronic circuit 7, or even the braking circuit 9, either together or separately—fluid circulation can enter a first heating circuit to heat the electrochemical generator 1, the electric motor 5, the electronic circuit 7, and the braking circuit 9, or recover thermal energy to heat the electrochemical generator 1, the electric motor 5, the electronic circuit 7, and optionally the braking circuit 9. Fluid circulation can also enter a second cooling circuit to cool the electrochemical generator 1, the electric motor 5, and the electronic circuit 7, and even the braking circuit 9, or recover thermal energy for cooling the electrochemical generator 1, the electric motor 5, and the electronic circuit 7, and even the braking circuit 9. This is initially used to regulate the temperature of the electrochemical generator 1 and / or the electric motor 5 and / or the electronic circuit 7, but can also be used to heat or cool the vehicle's passenger compartment using heat or cold energy, particularly from the electrochemical generator 1, the electric motor 5, and the electronic circuit 7.

[0063] As indicated above with reference to Figures 1 to 5, the air conditioning circuit may also include a bypass 10 located at the first expansion orifice 8 in the first loop, between the internal condenser 6 and the external condenser / evaporator 2. A fan 16 for the air conditioning unit may be located at the internal evaporator 14. Circulation in the first loop or second loop and the bypass is managed by means of valves 18 and 20 located at the intersection of the first loop and the second loop, and valve 21 located upstream of the first expansion orifice 8 at the intersection of the first loop and the bypass 10. These valves are, for example, solenoid valves having at least a three-way or even at least a four-way configuration.

[0064] Figure 7 A second embodiment of a novel heat recovery and regulation device for a vehicle with an electrochemical generator 1 is shown, the device including an air conditioning circuit for the HVAC system of the vehicle's passenger compartment. As previously described, according to Figure 7 The second embodiment shown presents a mode for heating and cooling the crew compartment using at least one electric motor 5 and at least one electronic circuit 7 to power the electrochemical generator 1. A braking circuit 9 is also conceivable. Because of this... Figure 7 The main parts include with Figure 6 The same components and equivalent functions will be used, so only the differences from the first embodiment will be described.

[0065] At least one electric motor 5 and at least one electronic circuit 7 are arranged in series with the electrochemical generator 1 and connected to a first heating circuit or a second cooling circuit. A braking circuit 9 may also be connected in series with the electrochemical generator 1, one or more electric motors 5, and electronic circuit 7. In this configuration, temperature measurement of each component—namely, the electrochemical generator 1, the traction motor 5, the electronic control circuit 7, and the braking circuit 9—is performed by temperature sensors to provide a common temperature and allow heat or cold to be recovered from each component used to heat or cool the vehicle's passenger compartment, or even to charge the electrochemical generator 1 as described above.

[0066] The connection to the first heating circuit or the second cooling circuit is accomplished only through the second three-way valve 36 and the third three-way valve 38, because the electrochemical generator 1, the traction motor 5, the electronic control circuit 7 and the braking circuit 9 are connected in series.

[0067] Figure 8 A third embodiment of a novel heat recovery and regulation device 1 for a vehicle with an electrochemical generator 1 is shown, the device including an air conditioning circuit for the HVAC system of the vehicle's passenger compartment. As previously described, according to Figure 8 The third embodiment shown presents a mode in which the electrochemical generator 1 is used for crew compartment heating and cooling using at least one electric motor 5, at least one electronic circuit 7, and a braking circuit 9. Because of this... Figure 8 The main parts include with Figure 6The same components and equivalent functions will be used, so only the differences from the first embodiment will be described.

[0068] At least one electric motor 5, at least one electronic circuit 7, and, for example, a braking circuit 9, are arranged in series with the electrochemical generator 1 and connected via a conduit through which water or another liquid (ethylene glycol) circulates. For this purpose, a pump 13 for circulating the liquid and an exchanger 11 for receiving the liquid at the inlet of the assembly, which includes the electrochemical generator 1, the electric motor 5, the electronic circuit 7, and the braking circuit 9, are provided. Connection to a first heating circuit or a second cooling circuit is completed at the external inlet of the exchanger receiving the gaseous fluid. Advantageously, a gas-liquid exchanger 11 is used instead of a gas-air exchanger.

[0069] As previously stated, the temperature measurement of each component—namely, the electrochemical generator 1, the traction motor 5, the electronic control circuit 7, and the braking circuit 9—is performed by a single temperature sensor in order to provide a common temperature and to allow heat or cold to be recovered from each component used to heat or cool the vehicle's passenger compartment, or even to charge the electrochemical generator 1 as previously described.

[0070] Naturally, other components of the electric vehicle can be envisioned, incorporated into the closed loop of the air conditioning circuit, particularly for heat recovery. In particular, the connection to the vehicle's braking circuit can be mentioned, where a resistor capable of generating heat during braking can be used. This resistor can be configured to connect to a first heating circuit or a second cooling circuit. Under these conditions, heat can be carried away or recovered for transfer within the vehicle, thereby heating the passenger compartment. The circuit connected to the braking circuit can be directly connected to the first heating circuit or the second cooling circuit via a resistor. Therefore, any component capable of heating or cooling the electric vehicle can be combined with the air conditioning circuit to recover heat or cold, especially for transfer to the vehicle's passenger compartment.

[0071] Naturally, the invention is not limited to the illustrated examples, and various variations and modifications are possible, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Other combinations known with electrochemical generators, one or more traction motors, and electronic circuitry for controlling the one or more motors are of course possible.

Claims

1. A heat recovery and regulation device for an electric vehicle having an electrochemical generator (1), the electrochemical generator (1) being selected from the group consisting of a battery, a fuel cell, or a hybrid power source, the heat recovery and regulation device comprising an air conditioning circuit of an HVAC system for the vehicle's passenger compartment, in which fluid circulates, the air conditioning circuit comprising at least one external condenser / evaporator (2), a compressor (4), an internal condenser (6) for heating the passenger compartment, a first expansion orifice (8) disposed downstream of the internal condenser (6) between the internal condenser (6) and the external condenser / evaporator (2), an internal evaporator (14) for cooling the passenger compartment, and a second expansion orifice (12) disposed upstream of the internal evaporator (14) between the external condenser / evaporator (2) and the internal evaporator (14). The heat recovery and regulation device includes a first heating circuit for first heat recovery of the electrochemical generator (1) and a second cooling circuit for second heat recovery of the electrochemical generator (1). The fluid circulates in either the first heating circuit or the second cooling circuit. A plurality of valves (24, 28, 32, 20, 36, 38) are arranged to connect an air conditioning circuit to one or the other of the first heating circuit and the second cooling circuit of the electrochemical generator (1). A control device for controlling the valves (24, 28, 32, 20, 36, 38) is arranged to allow fluid from the air conditioning circuit to circulate in the first heating circuit according to the temperature of the electrochemical generator (1). The first heating circuit of the electrochemical generator (1) includes a first supply pipe (22) for supplying fluid to a heat transfer element associated with the electrochemical generator (1) and a first discharge pipe (26) for discharging fluid from the heat transfer element. The first supply pipe (22) is connected to the compressor (4) via a first valve (24) controlled by the control device. The first outlet pipe (26) is connected to the first outlet between the internal condenser (6) and the first inlet of the second valve (36) located in the heating circuit of the electrochemical generator, and to the heat transfer element on the electrochemical generator (1). The first outlet pipe (26) is connected to the first inlet between the internal condenser (6) and the first expansion orifice (8) via a third valve (21) and a fourth valve (28) connected to the third valve. The third valve and the fourth valve are controlled by a control device. The second cooling circuit of the electrochemical generator (1) includes a second fluid supply pipe (30) for supplying fluid to the heat transfer element associated with the electrochemical generator (1) via the second inlet of the second valve (36). The second fluid supply pipe (30) is connected to the second outlet located between the second expansion orifice (12) and the internal evaporator (14) via a fifth valve (32) controlled by a control device. The second fluid discharge pipe (34) is connected to the second inlet located downstream of the internal evaporator (14) between the internal evaporator (14) and the compressor (4) via a sixth valve (20) controlled by a control device. A seventh valve (18) is located between the external condenser / evaporator (2) and the sixth valve (20) and between the external condenser / evaporator (2) and the second expansion orifice (12). Its features are, The heat recovery and regulation device further includes at least one electric motor (5) and at least one electronic circuit (7), which is installed in parallel with the electrochemical generator (1) and connected to either the first heating circuit or the second cooling circuit, to facilitate the recovery of heating or cooling heat energy. The second outlet of the second valve (36) is connected to the inlet of the eighth valve (37), the first outlet of which is connected to a portion of the pipe located on at least the electric motor (5), and the second outlet of the eighth valve (37) is connected to a portion of the pipe located on at least the electronic circuit. The outlets of at least the electric motor (5) and at least the electronic circuit (7) are connected to the inlet of the ninth valve (39), the outlet of which is connected to the inlet of the connecting valve (41), the other inlet of which is connected to the heat transfer element associated with the electrochemical generator (1), the outlet of which is connected to the first inlet of the tenth valve (38), the first outlet of which is connected to the second fluid discharge pipe (34) for the heat transfer element, and the second outlet of which is connected to the first discharge pipe (26) for the heat transfer element.

2. The heat energy recovery and regulation device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The heat recovery and regulation device includes a vehicle braking circuit (9) having a resistor capable of generating heat during braking, the resistor being configured to be connected to either the first heating circuit or the second cooling circuit to recover heat energy.

3. The heat energy recovery and regulation device according to claim 2, characterized in that, At least the electric motor (5), at least the electronic circuit (7) and the braking circuit (9) are arranged in a circuit in parallel with the electrochemical generator (1) connected to the first heating circuit or the second cooling circuit, and connected to the outlet of the eighth valve (37) and the inlet of the ninth valve (39).

4. The heat energy recovery and regulation device according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that, After the electric vehicle brakes are triggered, current flows through the resistor, which heats up during braking and heats the gaseous or liquid fluid around the resistor in order to provide thermal energy for heating the passenger compartment or the electrochemical generator (1).

5. The heat energy recovery and regulation device according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that, The heat recovery and regulation device includes four traction motors, one for each wheel of the vehicle, thereby enabling reliable independent braking for each wheel while recovering more precise heat energy from the braking circuit.

6. The heat energy recovery and regulation device according to claim 5, characterized in that, A braking circuit (9) is installed on each wheel of the vehicle along with each traction motor.

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