Cycle process device, axle assembly, vehicle and process

Abstract

Cyclic process device (10), in particular a heat pump, for a vehicle, in particular an electric vehicle or a hybrid vehicle, comprising: at least two heat exchangers (11a, 11b) for transferring thermal energy, a compressor unit (12) for compressing a fluid, an expansion valve (13) for reducing a pressure of the fluid, a housing (14) for accommodating the compressor unit (12).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a cycle process device, an axle assembly, a vehicle and a method.

[0002] Cyclic process devices, particularly heat pumps, are well known. Heat pumps, for example, consist of a compressor that can be mechanically or electrically driven and that draws in a gaseous fluid to compress it and then feeds it via a line or hose to a heat exchanger, for example a condenser. In the condenser, thermal energy is extracted from the fluid. This causes the fluid to cool until it falls below the boiling point, causing the fluid to undergo a phase change and become at least partially liquid. The liquid fluid is then expanded by an expansion valve. The fluid is then fed to another heat exchanger, a evaporator, and energy is added to the fluid so that it returns to the gaseous state. The compressor draws in the fluid, and the process begins again.

[0003] It is known to assemble such devices or systems from standardized components or from modified individual components. Furthermore, the individual components are connected with lines, especially hoses or pipes. These systems therefore require a large amount of installation space, as the individual and standard components cannot be adequately adapted in terms of shape and size. This results in low power density and high weight. Furthermore, numerous interfaces are required, which represent sources of error or inevitably result in leakage. These systems require regular maintenance and can cause fluid to escape into the environment.

[0004] It has therefore become apparent that there is a need to provide an improved, particularly more compact, cycle process device.

[0005] The object of the present invention is to provide a cycle process device. It is also the object of the present invention to provide an axle assembly, a vehicle, and a method.

[0006] Within the scope of the invention, the object is achieved with regard to the cycle process device by independent claim 1, the axle assembly by independent claim 8, the vehicle by independent claim 9, and the method by independent claim 10.

[0007] One aspect of the present invention relates to a cycle device, in particular a heat pump, for a vehicle, in particular an electric vehicle or a hybrid vehicle, comprising: at least two heat exchangers for transferring thermal energy, a compressor unit for compressing a fluid, in particular a gaseous fluid, an expansion valve for regulating a pressure of the fluid, a housing for accommodating the compressor unit.

[0008] In contrast to the known prior art, this method makes it possible to provide a cycle process device that enables a more compact, particularly space-saving, design and more efficient operation. In other words, a very compact refrigeration circuit with a low charge volume and high power density can be achieved. Furthermore, the more compact design can reduce or prevent leaks and corrosion of fluid lines, as the distances between the individual components of the heat exchanger, and thus the fluid lines, can be shortened.

[0009] The cycle device is preferably a heat pump for a vehicle, in particular an electric vehicle or a hybrid vehicle. The cycle device comprises at least two heat exchangers. The heat exchangers can also be referred to as heat transfer devices. The two heat exchangers are preferably designed as an evaporator for evaporating a fluid and / or as a condenser for liquefying a fluid. The two heat exchangers are configured to transfer thermal energy from a refrigerant circuit to at least one coolant circuit. For example, the heat exchangers can each be thermally coupled to a cooling circuit of a thermal management system of a vehicle. In particular, a high-temperature circuit can be thermally coupled to the condenser and a low-temperature circuit to the evaporator.

[0010] The following should be noted regarding the housing: The housing is the part of the cycle device that is located on the outside and is intended to protect the enclosed space. It is formed by the entirety of the external wall sections. In particular, there can be a housing section that accommodates the compressor unit. The housing section that accommodates the compressor unit has at least one opening, in particular to enable additional components of the cycle device to be installed or attached. The housing section for closing the opening is also referred to as the cover. However, the term housing is usually also used for the housing section that accommodates the compressor unit alone. In the present invention, "outside the housing" with reference to the heat exchangers means "outside the housing section that accommodates the compressor unit".“Within the housing” may mean “within a cover” or “within the housing section accommodating the compressor unit” or “within another housing section”.

[0011] The compressor unit is designed, in particular, to compress a fluid. The compressor unit can preferably comprise a drive unit. The drive unit can be designed, for example, as an electric motor. The drive unit can be arranged with the compressor unit in the housing, in particular in the housing section accommodating the compressor unit. The compressor unit and the drive unit are preferably formed in one piece, i.e., arranged in a housing section or at least next to one another. Alternatively, the drive unit can be arranged outside the housing and mechanically coupled to the compressor unit.

[0012] The housing section accommodating the compressor unit is preferably constructed as a single piece. Single piece means that it cannot be divided into two or more parts without damaging them. However, it can be constructed from multiple parts, and the parts can be permanently connected to one another.

[0013] The cycle device further comprises at least one expansion valve for regulating a pressure of the fluid. The expansion valve may comprise a valve, an orifice, and / or a throttle. The term "regulation" can be understood as regulating or controlling a variable to be adjusted, for example a pressure. Regulation can, for example, involve maintaining a setpoint or a predetermined value through continuous interventions or adjustments made based on measurements of an actual value or a measured value of this variable. In other words, the controller's task is to measure a variable to be controlled and compare it with a setpoint. In the event of deviations, a manipulated variable can be changed so that the setpoint and the actual value of the variable to be controlled match, or the difference between the two values ​​is minimized.Control is a process in which a controlled variable is influenced by another variable. Deviations from the set value that occur due to disturbances are not recorded and used for correction. Control is therefore a process in which an input variable influences an output variable in a device or system in a specific way.

[0014] The housing, in particular the housing section accommodating the compressor unit, can preferably be made of aluminum. The housing, in particular the housing section accommodating the compressor unit, can be produced by deep drawing, roll forming, die casting, or other manufacturing methods. The housing is preferably hermetically sealed, in particular fluid-tight, preferably gas-tight. This means that nothing can enter or escape to the outside. In particular, the housing can be welded and / or soldered. The housing enables the cycle device to be handled as a unit. In other words, the cycle device can, for example, be designed as a heat pump and mounted as a unit in a vehicle. Furthermore, the housing can have a fluid-tight orThere will be a gas-tight area in which the compressor unit and other components of the refrigeration circuit are located, and another area in which, for example, electrical components such as a control device can be located. The control device is then outside the gas-tight area.

[0015] The two heat exchangers, in particular the condenser and / or the evaporator, are preferably arranged in the housing. Additionally, further components can be arranged in the housing. This means that the two heat exchangers are at least partially enclosed by the housing. Furthermore, the two heat exchangers are preferably formed integrally with the housing. This means that the two heat exchangers are at least partially part of the housing or form the housing. In other words, an outer wall of a heat exchanger can form an outer wall of the housing. The two heat exchangers can be formed integrally with the housing, at least partially. In particular, the two heat exchangers cannot be separated from the housing without destruction. Alternatively, the two heat exchangers can be connected to the housing in a form-fitting, force-fitting and / or material-fitting manner.Preferably, at least one of the two heat exchangers is arranged outside the housing section accommodating the compressor unit but inside the housing. For example, at least one of the heat exchangers can be arranged in a cover or an end housing section.

[0016] Advantageously, a housing section, in particular the housing section accommodating the compressor unit, can have at least one opening, and one of the heat exchangers can be arranged in a cover for closing the opening. In a first embodiment, the housing section has exactly one opening. In a second embodiment, the housing section has exactly two openings, and two heat exchangers are each arranged in a cover for closing the openings. In a further embodiment, the housing section has more than two openings, and two heat exchangers are each arranged in a cover for closing two of the openings. Alternatively, one of the housing sections used as a cover can also have an opening that is closed by the expansion valve.

[0017] In one embodiment, the compressor unit and / or the expansion valve are / is designed to be at least partially integral with the housing. For example, an outer wall of the compressor unit and / or the expansion valve can form an outer wall of the housing. In other words, the compressor unit and / or the expansion valve are each part of the housing or form part of the housing. The compressor unit and / or the expansion valve can be designed to be at least partially integral with the housing. In particular, the compressor unit and / or the expansion valve cannot be separated from the housing without destruction. Alternatively, the compressor unit and / or the expansion valve can be connected to the housing in a form-fitting, force-fitting and / or material-fitting manner. In particular, the compressor unit and / or the expansion valve can be designed to be at least partially integral with a housing section.

[0018] Preferably, at least one cooling section, in particular a cooling channel, can be formed on or in the housing. In one embodiment, the housing, in particular the housing section accommodating the compressor unit, has a cooling section, wherein the cooling section preferably encompasses at least in sections an outer surface, in particular a jacket surface, of the housing. The cooling section is designed to cool at least one region of the cycle device. The cooling section can, for example, extend circumferentially over the entire jacket surface or outer surface of the housing.

[0019] The cooling section is preferably arranged in the region of the compressor unit, in particular in the region of a drive unit of the compressor unit. This allows the compressor unit or the drive unit to be cooled directly. Alternatively or additionally, electronics can be arranged in the cycle device, and the cooling section can be designed to cool the electronics. The electronics can, for example, be arranged in a ring-shaped or circular arc-shaped manner in the region of the outer wall of a substantially cylindrical cycle device.

[0020] Alternatively, the housing may have a cooling section arranged in the housing wall. The cooling section may preferably be arranged in the housing section in which the compressor unit and / or the drive unit of the compressor unit and / or electronics are located.

[0021] Preferably, the cooling section can be part of a cooling circuit of the cycle device. The cycle device itself has a cooling circuit. This is connected, in particular via heat exchangers, to at least one cooling circuit. Typically, an electric traction motor, an inverter, a battery, and other components of a motor vehicle are cooled in this way. The cycle device cools itself in the manner described.

[0022] The cooling of the housing, in particular of the compressor unit, can be ensured by a coolant cooling system that is connected to a coolant circuit of a cooling system and is designed, for example, as jacket cooling. Additionally or alternatively, the cooling section can have a can. The coolant can preferably be taken from a condenser return. Alternatively, the entire volume flow of the condenser return can be used for cooling. By supplying energy downstream of the cycle device directly into the coolant, optimal energetic conditions at the heat exchangers are ensured and thus the highest level of efficiency can be achieved. Furthermore, for example, the cooling water from the flow to the condenser or from the flow to the evaporator can be used. If an electronic control unit orIf power electronics is part of the cycle device, the flow can be carried out upstream of or parallel to the compressor unit so that the entire power loss can be transferred to the coolant. The cooling section has the advantage that the temperature of the refrigerant upstream of the compressor unit is not further increased, and thus the density of the refrigerant is not reduced. This reduces the drive power of the compressor unit accordingly, and consequently also the power loss to be dissipated.

[0023] The cooling section is preferably arranged in a cooling circuit of the cyclic process device. As already described, a high-temperature circuit and / or a low-temperature circuit can be present. If the cooling section is arranged in the high-temperature circuit, it is preferably located downstream of the condenser in the direction of flow. It therefore cools the compressor and / or the drive device and / or the electronics only after passing through the condenser. If the cooling section is arranged in the high-temperature circuit, it is preferably located upstream of the evaporator in the direction of flow. The cooling medium can thus transfer heat to the refrigerant before it reaches the evaporator.

[0024] In particular, a high-temperature circuit can be thermally coupled to the condenser and a low-temperature circuit to the evaporator

[0025] In one embodiment, the housing has a substantially cylindrical geometry. In particular, the housing has a cylindrical geometry at least in sections. This means that the housing has, at least in sections, a central longitudinal axis that runs through a center point of a cross-section of a cylindrical body. It is also conceivable for further shapes or elements to be arranged on or protrude from the cylindrical geometry. Furthermore, the housing can have at least one step-like shoulder extending over a circumference. Alternatively or additionally, the housing can have a polygonal geometry in sections. Preferably, the two heat exchangers and / or the compressor unit are adapted to the geometry of the housing or have a geometry that corresponds to it at least in sections.

[0026] In the context of the present invention, the term “essentially” can be understood to mean a deviation between + / -15%, in particular between + / -10%, in particular between + / -5%.

[0027] In one embodiment, at least one of the two heat exchangers is designed as a plate heat exchanger, in particular wherein plate elements of the plate heat exchanger are layered in a radial and / or axial direction. The phrase "layered in a radial direction" means that the plates are layered in a radial direction away from a central longitudinal axis. In other words, the plates each face toward the central longitudinal axis. It is possible for the individual plates to have a circular arc shape in cross-section.

[0028] The phrase "layered in an axial direction" means that the plates are layered along the central longitudinal axis. In other words, the central longitudinal axis is arranged orthogonally to the plates. This means that the central longitudinal axis penetrates the plates.

[0029] In one embodiment, the compressor unit borders on at least one of the two heat exchangers in the axial direction of the housing. In particular, the compressor unit borders directly or immediately on at least one of the two heat exchangers. The terms "direct" and "immediate" mean that, at least in some sections, no further element or component is arranged between the compressor unit and the heat exchanger. It is possible for a gap or free space or a fluid line to be arranged between the compressor unit and the heat exchanger. It is also possible for the compressor unit and the heat exchanger to touch or be in contact with each other, at least in some sections.

[0030] In one embodiment, the two heat exchangers are arranged parallel to one another in the axial direction, at least in sections. This means that the heat exchangers are preferably arranged next to one another. In particular, the heat exchangers can be arranged next to one another parallel to a central longitudinal axis. In other words, the two heat exchangers are arranged on the same side of the compressor unit and overlap at least in sections in the axial direction. The heat exchangers are preferably designed as plate heat exchangers. It is also possible for the heat exchangers to be arranged offset from one another, at least in sections. This enables a compact form of the cycle device.

[0031] The heat exchangers can preferably be arranged on different sides of the compressor unit. The heat exchangers and the compressor unit can, for example, be arranged in an L-shape. The compressor unit is preferably arranged between the two heat exchangers in an axial direction of the cycle device. More precisely, the compressor unit is enclosed in the axial direction by a heat exchanger or is delimited by a heat exchanger. In other words, the compressor unit can be arranged in a sandwich-like manner between the heat exchangers. The compressor unit therefore borders on a heat exchanger in the axial direction. The compressor unit and at least one of the or both heat exchangers are preferably arranged directly or immediately adjacent to one another. In other words, the heat exchangers and the compressor unit can be arranged axially one behind the other in the housing.The arrangement of the heat exchanger designed as a condenser at an outlet of the compressor unit, followed by the heat exchanger designed as an evaporator, is advantageous. This is particularly true because the expansion valve can be placed downstream of the condenser in the direction of fluid flow. Preferably, one heat exchanger is arranged in the region of each axial end of the housing.

[0032] Arranged directly next to the compressor unit means that no other component of the cycle device is arranged between the compressor unit and the heat exchanger. In one embodiment, a gap or general distance may be present between the compressor unit and the heat exchanger. Alternatively, the compressor unit and the heat exchanger may touch at least at certain points, particularly in a flat area.

[0033] In one embodiment, the housing, in particular the housing section accommodating the compressor unit, comprises at least one fluid line and / or forms a fluid line that is designed to fluidically connect the two heat exchangers, the compressor unit, and / or the expansion valve. In other words, at least one fluid line can be integrated into the housing. Furthermore, the housing can have or form a plurality of fluid lines. The at least one fluid line makes it possible to reduce the use of external fluid lines or to dispense with external fluid lines. The at least one fluid line can be provided for a fluid, for example a refrigerant and / or a coolant. The fluid can be a gas and / or a liquid. Alternatively or additionally, the housing can have at least one connection for at least one fluid line.

[0034] The housing, in particular the housing section accommodating the compressor unit, can preferably comprise two fluid lines and / or form two fluid lines. The fluid lines are preferably arranged parallel and / or directly next to one another in one section. The fluid lines can be arranged straight or curved in the parallel region. In particular, they can be arranged semicircularly in part of the parallel section. A meandering structure is also possible. The fluid lines are preferably designed to fluidically connect the two heat exchangers, the compressor unit and / or the expansion valve. This forms an internal heat exchanger. Advantageously, the fluid line connected to the outlet of the condenser can be arranged radially on the outside. Liquid refrigerant flows in this fluid line during operation of the cycle device.Preferably, the fluid line connected to the evaporator outlet can be arranged radially inward. In this fluid line, the refrigerant is gaseous. The liquid refrigerant can then transfer heat to the gaseous refrigerant.

[0035] The inlet of the compressor device connected to the evaporator can be located on a side facing away from the evaporator inlet. This "detour" is chosen to create an internal heat exchanger, as described, while still being arranged in a space-saving manner. The fluid line then preferably runs outside the compressor device.

[0036] The term "heat exchanger" without the suffix "internal" refers to the heat exchangers described above, in particular the evaporator and / or condenser, which are located within the housing. The internal heat exchanger is the heat exchanger formed by fluid lines.

[0037] In one embodiment, the compressor unit comprises a scroll compressor, a rotary piston compressor, or a turbo compressor. Other suitable compressor types are also possible. The selected compressor can preferably be integrated as one piece with the housing to provide a one-piece cycle device.

[0038] In one embodiment, the cycle device comprises at least one interface for transmitting electrical energy and / or for transmitting a signal. For example, this interface can be used to supply power to the compressor or provide a signal connection to a control unit.

[0039] In one embodiment, the housing comprises at least partially aluminum. In other words, the housing is at least partially made of aluminum. Other suitable metals or alloys may also be used. The housing or its parts can preferably be manufactured by deep drawing and / or roll forming, and / or another suitable process, e.g., die casting or extrusion.

[0040] Preferably, an electrical control device can be arranged in the housing. The control device can be designed to control the cycle device. In one embodiment, the control device is arranged in a fluid-tight, in particular gas-tight, region of the housing. Alternatively, the control device can be arranged in the housing but outside a fluid-tight region of the housing. In particular, the control device is arranged in a housing section, preferably in the housing section that has or houses the compressor unit.

[0041] A further aspect of the present invention relates to an axle assembly with a cycle process device according to one of the preceding embodiments.

[0042] The axle assembly can preferably comprise an electric motor as the traction drive. Furthermore, the axle assembly can comprise an inverter for supplying the electric motor with alternating current. Furthermore, the axle assembly can comprise a transmission for converting the torque output by the electric motor. The transmission can comprise a reduction gear. Furthermore, the transmission can comprise a differential. The reduction gear and the differential can preferably be integrated.

[0043] A further aspect of the present invention relates to a vehicle having an axle assembly according to the preceding embodiment and / or a cycle process device according to one of the preceding embodiments.

[0044] A further aspect of the present invention relates to a use of a cycle process device in an axle assembly, in particular according to the preceding embodiment and / or in a vehicle, in particular according to the preceding embodiment.

[0045] A further aspect of the present invention relates to a method for producing a cycle process device, in particular according to a preceding embodiment, comprising the step: producing a cycle process device, wherein at least two heat exchangers are designed integrally with a housing.

[0046] Within the scope of one embodiment of the invention, a heat pump is provided which comprises a housing, wherein at least one compressor, at least one electric drive motor, at least one evaporator and at least one condenser as well as at least one expansion valve are accommodated in the housing. The heat exchangers are both coolant-guided. The compressor is the central element, to which the movable part of the compressor, its drive and bearings and the motor are connected on one side. Optionally, electronics for controlling and operating the drive motor can also be attached. On the opposite side of the compressor are the heat exchangers (condenser and evaporator) and the at least one expansion valve. A design of the heat exchangers which is based on a circular basic shape and continues the basic shape of the compressor housing is particularly advantageous.This means that the condenser and evaporator can be formed from a circular segment-shaped basic form. The transfer surfaces or the output of the condenser is preferably larger than the transfer surfaces or the output of the evaporator. This can be achieved by adjusting the circular segment ratios of the evaporator and condenser, whereby the evaporator has a smaller segment angle than the condenser in order to be able to make the heat exchangers the same in the axial direction. Furthermore, the expansion valve can be integrated between the two heat exchangers. In a modification, it is possible to design the condenser and evaporator in a semi-circular shape and position them directly next to one another, but to make the evaporator axially shorter so that the output ratios are right and the expansion valve is arranged axially on the evaporator side. The refrigerant flow orThe refrigerant line is particularly advantageously integrated into the housing, so that no additional lines or hoses are required. The compressor draws in the refrigerant radially from the outside, compresses it, and discharges it into a high-pressure chamber located radially inward, which is fluidly connected to the condenser inlet. The hot, highly pressurized, gaseous refrigerant flows through the condenser and transfers thermal energy to the coolant. The fluid then flows to the expansion valve, where the pressure drops and with it the temperature level in the refrigerant. Next, it flows through the evaporator, where the fluid absorbs thermal energy from the coolant. The evaporator then discharges the refrigerant in gaseous form into the intake area of ​​the compressor.The intake section thus has a connection to the evaporator, which is preferably integrated into the housing or formed within the housing, but has no connection to the high-pressure section. This allows for a very compact refrigeration circuit with a low charge volume and high power density.

[0047] The drive is preferably cooled using refrigerant, whereby the gas is passed through the drive motor or its stator before entering the compressor, absorbing heat energy in the process. Alternatively, the drive can also be cooled using a coolant cooling system connected to the coolant circuit of the cooling system and designed, for example, as a jacket cooling system. To reduce the refrigerant volume, it is conceivable to use a type of canned drive motor, which separates the stator space from the refrigerant-filled space. This allows the rotor to be cooled using refrigerant. A combination of jacket cooling and can cooling enables optimal cooling of the drive motor.

[0048] A second embodiment may have a circular basic shape of the heat exchangers, wherein the heat exchangers are arranged axially adjacent in the housing.

[0049] The condenser is advantageously located on the high-pressure side of the compressor unit, followed by the evaporator. This allows the expansion valve to be placed inside the evaporator, upstream of the evaporator inlet. This provides a favorable flow pattern within the heat exchanger.

[0050] A further aspect of the present invention relates to a method for assembling a cycle process device, in particular a cycle process device as described, in a vehicle, comprising the steps: - Providing a cycle device with a compressor unit and at least two heat exchangers, in which the compressor unit and the two heat exchangers are designed as an assembly unit, and - Installation of the cycle device in the vehicle.

[0051] An assembly unit exists when the compressor unit and the heat exchangers are firmly connected and mounted together. They are therefore connected before assembly; after assembly, no further steps are required to connect the components of the assembly unit. However, it will usually be necessary to connect the cycle device to the vehicle, for example, with a water inlet or outlet, or an electrical connection to the control unit.

[0052] Advantageously, the cycle device can be connected to mounting points that are present exclusively on the housing section in which the compressor unit is located. The compressor unit is the heaviest component of the cycle device. This allows the heaviest component to be directly supported and held.

[0053] Alternatively, the cycle device can be connected at mounting points, at least one of which is provided on a housing section in which a heat exchanger is arranged. By shaping the outer housing sections, in particular the cover, with a kind of projection toward the center, a mounting of the middle housing section, or the section that accommodates the compressor unit, can also be achieved.

[0054] Advantageously, elastic elements, such as rubber elements, can be arranged between the circulating process device and the support points on the vehicle. This can keep vibrations of the circulating process device away from the rest of the vehicle.

[0055] Individual features and embodiments of the present invention can be combined with other features in other embodiments to form new embodiments. Advantages and developments mentioned for the features or embodiments also apply analogously to the new embodiments. Developments and advantages mentioned in connection with the device also apply analogously to the method, and vice versa.

[0056] In the following, the disclosure is described by way of example with reference to the accompanying figures, in which Fig. 1: a sectional view of an embodiment of a cycle device according to the invention; Fig. 2: another sectional view of the cycle device according to Fig. 1; Fig. 3: a sectional view of an embodiment of a cycle device according to the invention; Fig. 4: a perspective view of an embodiment of a cycle device according to the invention; Fig. 5: a perspective view of an embodiment of a cycle device according to the invention; Fig. 6: a perspective view of an embodiment of a cycle device according to the invention; Fig. 7: a perspective view of an embodiment of a cycle device according to the invention; Fig. 8: a perspective view of an embodiment of a cycle device according to the invention; Fig. 9: a sectional view of the cycle device according to Fig. 8; and Fig. 10: a sectional view of an embodiment of a cycle device according to the invention.

[0057] Fig. 1 shows a sectional view of a cycle device 10. The cycle device 10 is shown sectioned in a longitudinal direction L. The cycle device 10 comprises two heat exchangers 11a and 11b, a compressor unit 12, an expansion valve 13, and a housing 14 with housing sections 14a and 14b. The cycle device 10 is designed as a heat pump. The housing 14 has a substantially cylindrical geometry. The two heat exchangers 11a and 11b, the compressor unit 12, and the expansion valve 13 are arranged in the housing 14 or are formed integrally with the housing 14.

[0058] The compressor unit 12 is arranged at an axial end of the housing 14 in the longitudinal direction L. The compressor unit 12 has a drive unit 16. The drive unit 16 is part of the compressor unit 12. The drive unit 16 is arranged at the axial end in the housing 14. The drive unit 16 can be an electric motor, for example. The drive unit 16 is intended to drive a compressor. The compressor unit 12 is formed, at least in sections, as one piece or integrally with the housing 14. In the axial direction L, the two heat exchangers 11a and 11b border the compressor unit 12.

[0059] The two heat exchangers 11a and 11b are designed as an evaporator and a condenser. The two heat exchangers 11a and 11b are adjacent to one another. More precisely, the two heat exchangers 11a and 11b are adjacent to one another in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal axis L of the cycle device 10. In other words, the two heat exchangers 11a and 11b are arranged opposite one another in a radial direction. The two heat exchangers 11a and 11b each essentially form a semicircle. The two heat exchangers 11a and 11b are fluidically separated from one another. The two heat exchangers 11a and 11b are each designed as a plate heat exchanger. The plate elements 17 extend in the longitudinal direction L of the cycle device 10. The plate elements 17 have a circular arc-shaped geometry in cross-section. Gaps 18 are formed between the plate elements 17.The gaps 18 are designed to be flowed through by a refrigerant and / or a coolant. The gaps 18 between the plate elements 17 also have a circular arc-shaped geometry. The gaps 18 extend between the axial direction L of the cycle device 10. The gaps 18 are fluidically connected to one another by means of at least one channel. The channel preferably extends transversely or orthogonally to the gaps 18. In particular, the at least one channel extends transversely or orthogonally to the longitudinal direction L of the cycle device 10.

[0060] Furthermore, a gas supply 15 is formed in the housing 14.

[0061] Fig. 2 shows a cross section of the cycle device 10 according to Fig. 1. The two heat exchangers 11a and 11b each have a plurality of plate elements 17. More precisely, the two heat exchangers 11a and 11b each comprise seven plate elements 17. Alternatively, the heat exchangers 11a and 11b can comprise any number of plate elements 17. It is possible for one of the two heat exchangers 11a or 11b to have a larger transfer area than the other heat exchanger 11a or 11b. More precisely, the individual plate elements 17 of one of the two heat exchangers 11a or 11b extend further in the longitudinal direction L of the cycle device 10 than the plate elements 17 of another heat exchanger 11a or 11b. The heat exchanger 11a with the shorter transfer area is the evaporator. The other heat exchanger 11b is the condenser.

[0062] Fig. 3 shows a further sectional view of the embodiment of the cycle device 10 according to Fig. 1. In Fig. Figure 3 shows the arrangement of the expansion valve 13. The expansion valve 13 is partially arranged on a peripheral surface of the housing. The expansion valve 13 is arranged upstream of the heat exchanger 11a, which is designed as an evaporator, in the direction of flow of a fluid, in particular a refrigerant. The expansion valve 13 is formed in sections as one piece or integrally with the housing. Alternatively, the expansion valve 13 can be an external component.

[0063] The cycle device 10 has connecting elements 19. In the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, the cycle device 10 has four connection elements 19. The connection elements 19 are designed to be gas-tight and can, for example, be welded to the housing 14. Three connection elements 19 are arranged on an axial end in the longitudinal direction L on the housing 14. More precisely, the connection elements 19 are arranged on an end face of the housing 14. The connection elements 19 extend away from the housing 14 parallel to the longitudinal direction L. The connection elements 19 are arranged at the axial end opposite the compressor unit 12. This means that the connection elements 19 are arranged at the axial end at which the heat exchangers 11a and 11b are arranged. The connection elements 19 are arranged on the end face of the axial end of the housing 14. The connection elements 19 are preferably provided as an inlet and / or outlet for a coolant.A further connection element 19 is arranged on a lateral surface of the housing 14. The further connection element 19 extends away from the lateral surface of the housing 14. The further connection element 19 can be designed as an inlet or outlet for a coolant.

[0064] The housing 14 has a cooling section 20. The cooling section 20 is formed as a channel that extends in a circumferential direction of the housing 14. The channel is arranged in the region of the casing of the housing 14. The channel or

[0065] Cooling section 20 is formed integrally with an outer wall of the housing 14. The channel is arranged in the region of the compressor unit 12. The cooling section 20 is designed to cool the compressor unit 12, in particular the drive unit 16, during operation of the cycle device 10.

[0066] Fig. 4 shows a further embodiment of a cycle device10. In Fig. 4, the expansion valve 13 is the same as in the embodiment according to Fig. 3 is arranged at one axial end in the area of ​​the heat exchangers 11a and 11b. Furthermore, the cycle device 10 has Fig. 4 has three connection elements 19 arranged at one axial end and one connection element 19 arranged on the casing surface in the region of the compressor unit 12. The further connection element 19 is arranged centrally in the circumferential direction relative to the extent of the cooling section 20. The cooling section 20 is arranged in an area on the casing surface of the housing 14 opposite the connection element 19 on the casing surface. The further connection element 19 is arranged centrally in the circumferential direction relative to the cooling section 20.

[0067] Fig. 5 shows a further embodiment of a cycle process device 10, wherein the cycle process device shown here, similar to the one in Fig. 4, the cycle device 10 has three connection elements 19 at one axial end and one connection element 19 on a lateral surface in the region of the compressor unit 12. Furthermore, in Fig. 5, the cooling section 20 is shown. The cooling section 20 extends in a circular arc along the cycle device 10. The cooling section 20 forms part of the outer surface of the housing 14. The cooling section 20 extends essentially over half the circumference of the cycle device 10. In contrast to the Fig. The embodiment shown in Figure 4 is Fig. 5 in the area of ​​the connecting element 19 on the jacket surface of the cooling section 20.

[0068] Fig. 6 and Fig. 7 shows an embodiment of the cycle device 10 in which the heat exchangers 11a and 11b are adjacent to one another in the longitudinal direction L. Preferably, the heat exchanger 11b, which is provided as a condenser, is arranged between the compressor unit 12 and the heat exchanger 11a, which is provided as an evaporator. The expansion valve 13 is arranged in the transition region between the two heat exchangers 11a and 11b on the outer surface of the housing 14 or is integrated into the housing 14. The housing 14 has four housing sections 14c, 14d, 14e, and 14f. The compressor unit with compressor and drive device is arranged in the housing section 14b, the heat exchanger 11 in the housing section 14c, the heat exchanger 11a in the housing section 14d, and the expansion valve 13 in the housing section 14e.The two connection elements 19 are arranged in the longitudinal direction L at one axial end in the region of the heat exchanger 11a, which is provided as an evaporator, and two further connection elements 19 are arranged on the outer surface of the housing 14 in the region of the heat exchanger 11b, which is provided as a condenser. The connections 19 in the region of the heat exchanger 11b, which is provided as a condenser, are arranged opposite one another on the housing 14. The cooling section 20 extends circumferentially over the entire outer surface or outer surface of the housing 14. The cooling section 20 forms an enlarged diameter of the cylindrical housing 14 between the heat exchanger 11b, which is provided as a condenser, and the compressor unit 12.

[0069] Fig. 8 and Fig. 9 show an embodiment of the cycle device 10, in which the compressor unit 12 is arranged between the two heat exchangers 11a and 11b. This means that the two heat exchangers 11a and 11b are arranged in the region of the opposite axial ends of the cycle device 10. More precisely, the two heat exchangers 11a and 11b are arranged coaxially. The compressor unit 12 is shown in the sectional view according to Fig. 9 is hidden. The cycle device 10 has a cylindrical geometry. The housing 14 of the Fig. 8 and Fig. 9 is partially hidden. The heat exchanger 11b, which is provided as a condenser, is arranged on the high-pressure side of the compressor unit 12. The heat exchanger 11a, which is provided as an evaporator, is arranged on the low-pressure side of the compressor unit 12. Each of the two heat exchangers 11a and 11b has two connections 19. The connections 19 are each arranged on opposite end faces at the axial ends of the cycle device 10. The connections 19 can be designed as an inlet and outlet for a cooling circuit. The heat exchangers 11a and 11b are designed as plate heat exchangers. The plate elements 17 of the two heat exchangers 11 are stacked in the axial direction. The plate elements 17 are circular. The two heat exchangers 11a and 11b are connected to one another by means of fluid lines 21. The fluid lines 21 extend in sections along an inner side of the outer wall.The fluid lines 21 can extend in the longitudinal direction L, in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction L, in a radial direction, and / or in a circumferential direction. Furthermore, the cycle device 10 has an expansion valve 13. The expansion valve 13 is shown in FIGS. Fig. 8 and Fig. 9 is not shown. The expansion valve 13 is arranged in the flow direction of a fluid upstream of the heat exchanger 11, which serves as an evaporator.

[0070] Fig. 10 shows a modification of the embodiment of the cycle device 10 according to the Fig. 8 and Fig. 9. Fluid lines 22 and 23 are provided radially outside the compressor unit 12, preferably in the wall of the housing section 14b. The fluid line 22, which is located radially outside, is preferably connected to the outlet of the heat exchanger 11b, which is designed as a condenser. Liquid refrigerant then flows in the fluid line 22 during operation of the cycle device 10.

[0071] The fluid line 23, which is located radially inward, is preferably connected to the outlet of the heat exchanger 11a, which is designed as an evaporator. Gaseous refrigerant then flows in the fluid line 23 during operation of the cycle device 10. The liquid refrigerant can then transfer heat to the gaseous refrigerant.

[0072] The fluid lines 22 and 23 are arranged directly next to each other. In the embodiment according to Fig. 10, they have a ring-segment-shaped design. Other shapes are also possible. In the described arrangement, the fluid lines 22 and 23 form an internal heat exchanger 24.

[0073] The housing section 14b accommodating the compressor unit 12 has one or two openings. In all embodiments, these are closed by housing sections 14a, 14c, or 14d, each of which houses at least one heat exchanger 11a and / or 11b. However, if necessary, a flat housing section, also called a cover, can also be used.

[0074] Other embodiments of the present invention are possible and can be understood and carried out by those skilled in the art when applying the claimed subject matter from a study of the figures, the disclosure, and the appended claims. In particular, the respective parts / functions of the respective embodiment described above can also be combined with one another. In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite article "a" or "an" does not exclude a plurality. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually dependent claims does not mean that a combination of these measures cannot be advantageous. Any reference signs in the claims should not be interpreted as limiting the scope of the claims. Reference symbol L longitudinal direction 10 Cycle process device 11a Heat exchanger (evaporator) 11b Heat exchanger (compressor) 12 Compressor unit 13 Expansion valve 14 housings 14a Housing section 14b Housing section 14c Housing section 14d Housing section 14e Housing section 15 Gas supply 16 Drive unit 17 plate element 18 gap 19 Connection element 20 Cooling section 21 Fluid line 22 Fluid line 23 Fluid line 24 internal heat exchanger

Claims

[1] A thermodynamic device (10), in particular a heat pump, for a vehicle, in particular an electric vehicle or a hybrid vehicle, comprising: - at least two heat exchangers (11a, 11b) for transferring thermal energy, - a compressor unit (12) for compressing a fluid, - an expansion valve (13) for reducing the pressure of the fluid, - a housing (14) for accommodating at least the compressor unit (12), - wherein the housing comprises two fluid lines (22, 23) and / or two fluid lines (22, 23) are formed on or in the housing (14). [2] Circular process device (10) according to claim 1, wherein the fluid lines (22, 23) are arranged parallel and / or directly next to each other in a section. [3] Circular process device (10) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the fluid lines (22, 23) are arranged straight at least in one section, in particular in a parallel section. [4] Circular process device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the fluid lines (22, 23) are bent, in particular in a semicircular shape, at least in one section, in particular in a parallel section. [5] Cyclic process device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a fluid line (22) is arranged radially outside and is connected to the outlet of a heat exchanger (11b) designed as a condenser. [6] Cycle process device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a fluid line (23) is arranged radially inside and is connected to the outlet of a heat exchanger (11a) designed as an evaporator. [7] Cyclic process device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the fluid lines (22, 23) are arranged as heat exchangers (24). [8] Axle assembly with a circular process device (10) according to one of claims 1 to 7. [9] Vehicle with an axle assembly according to claim 8 and / or a circular process device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 7. [10] Method for manufacturing a cyclic process device, in particular according to one of claims 1 to 7, comprising: Manufacturing a circular process device wherein at least two heat exchangers (11a, 11b) are integrally designed with a housing (14).

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