HEAT CONTROL MODULE FOR A SYSTEM FOR THE HEAT CONTROL OF THE WHOLE OR A PART OF A PERSON'S BODY AND SYSTEM AND MOTORCYCLE WITH SUCH A MODULE

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The field of the invention is that of the thermal regulation of all or part of an individual's body.

[0002] More specifically, the invention relates to a thermal regulation module for a thermal regulation system for all or part of an individual's body, particularly a motorcyclist's. The module is adapted to cooperate with thermal regulation clothing. The invention also relates to a system comprising such a module coupled with thermal regulation clothing. Furthermore, the invention relates to a motorcycle equipped with such a system.

[0003] The invention finds applications, in particular, in the thermal regulation of all or part of an individual's body. Specifically, the trunk and / or lower limbs of the individual's body are thermally regulated. Thermal regulation can correspond to the supply of heat to the individual's body, i.e., its purpose is to warm it, just as it can correspond to the removal of heat from the individual's body, i.e., its purpose is to cool it. The thermal regulation system according to the invention is therefore reversible. STATE OF THE ART

[0004] It is known from the prior art of thermoregulation techniques, particularly those involving the body. For example, some techniques involve thermoregulating clothing, such as jackets or trousers, through which a heat transfer fluid can circulate. The fluid, which is usually a liquid, is cooled or heated in a module external to the garment.

[0005] Such a module requires an energy source, particularly electrical, in order to carry out energy transfer and remove, or supply, calories from the heat transfer fluid to the environment, or from the environment to the heat transfer fluid.

[0006] A well-known technique involves using thermoelectric devices, or modules, with the Peltier effect. A Peltier device is a semiconductor structure composed of a series of PN junctions (i.e., positively and negatively doped semiconductors). When a direct current flows through it, such a structure has the property of producing heat when the current flows from a P-type semiconductor to an N-type semiconductor (i.e., the junction behaves as a heat source), and of absorbing heat when the current flows from an N-type semiconductor to a P-type semiconductor (i.e., the junction behaves as a heat sink). By grouping the P-to-N and N-to-P junctions, it is possible to obtain a device with two faces, one of which can heat up and the other cool down when an electric current flows through the device.By reversing the direction of the direct electric current, the device is made reversible.

[0007] As part of a thermal regulation system module by heat transport in a heat transfer fluid, one of the faces of the Peltier device is thermally connected to the heat transfer fluid, in order to transport the heat to the individual.

[0008] A hydraulic circuit adapted for such transport is also part of such a thermal regulation system.

[0009] The electrical power source for a Peltier device is usually an electrical accumulator, also often called a battery, especially when the system is portable. Portable systems for regulating a motorcyclist's body temperature are common examples. In these cases, the electrical power source is usually the motorcycle's battery.

[0010] For example, US patent 2009 / 308082 A1 describes a technique for heating a motorcyclist's body using the following steps: transferring heat from the atmosphere to a heat-conducting element mounted on a motorcycle via the Peltier effect; and circulating a working fluid in a closed loop from the heat-conducting element, through clothing worn by the motorcyclist via an inlet and outlet fitting, and back to the heat-conducting element. In another configuration, the process is reversed to cool the motorcyclist's body.

[0011] Although known systems are satisfactory in terms of thermal regulation performance, their integration on vehicles such as motorcycles remains unsatisfactory.

[0012] Indeed, firstly, the known techniques require adaptation to each type or model of motorcycle, depending on the available space, and the technical constraints dictated by each motorcycle manufacturer.

[0013] Thus, although a satisfactory integration solution can be found for each particular type or model of motorcycle, this approach involves high design and manufacturing costs, logistical, maintenance, and after-sales service difficulties, and does not satisfy all motorcycle users.

[0014] Therefore, there is a need for a single thermal regulation system that adapts to a large number of motorcycles.

[0015] Secondly, the known techniques are not easily removable or replaceable. Indeed, some proposed solutions involve replacing original vehicle parts with modified parts, including components of the thermal management system.

[0016] Such a solution has disadvantages in terms of homologation of replacement parts, and it also has disadvantages for the user who must keep the original part to install in place of the regulation system when he wants to dismantle it, for example when he no longer wants to use it temporarily, or when he wants to sell his vehicle.

[0017] Therefore, there is a need for a thermal regulation system that can be integrated onto a motorcycle without requiring modification of the motorcycle, or replacement of any of its parts.

[0018] Thirdly, the known techniques are not entirely satisfactory in their size / heat dissipation ratio. Indeed, current systems are either relatively bulky, in order to provide sufficient heat dissipation surfaces and heat circulation channels, or, when attempts are made to reduce their size, current systems are no longer as efficient in terms of heat dissipation, particularly in extreme temperature ranges (i.e., significant cooling in a hot environment, such as in summer, or conversely, significant heating in a cold environment, such as in winter).

[0019] Therefore, there is a need for a thermal regulation system that is both efficient in terms of heat dissipation and compact.

[0020] None of the current systems can simultaneously meet all the required needs, namely to offer a thermal regulation system technique that adapts to a large number of motorcycles, without requiring modification of the motorcycle, and that is compact but efficient in terms of heat dissipation. DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0021] The present invention aims to remedy all or part of the drawbacks of the prior art mentioned above.

[0022] To this end, the invention relates to a thermal regulation module for a thermal regulation system of all or part of an individual's body, particularly that of a motorcyclist, comprising an open fluidic circuit including: a compensation tank adapted to contain a volume of heat transfer fluid, a pump adapted to circulate said heat transfer fluid in said open fluidic circuit, a heat exchange element adapted for the circulation of said heat transfer fluid, said heat exchange element being in thermal connection with a first heat exchange face of a Peltier thermoelectric device adapted to be electrically connected to a direct current source, the thermoelectric device having a second heat exchange face with the environment, said reservoir, said pump and said heat exchange element being fluidically connected and arranged in the body of a casing, and said open fluidic circuit having an inlet opening and an outlet opening respectively from said casing, the inlet and outlet openings being adapted to be connected, directly or indirectly via a flexible conduit, respectively to one end of a conduit of a thermal regulation garment so as to form a closed fluidic circuit, said housing comprises a lower face having a plurality of anchorage points on a structural element of a motorcycle, in particular on a mounting support for a motorcycle luggage element of the type "top case" or saddlebag, and an upper face having a plurality of attachment points for a motorcycle luggage element of the type "top case" or saddlebag, said lower face and upper face being separated by a height h, said housing includes a mounting location for the heat exchange element having a means of distancing the heat exchange element from the walls of the housing, said heat exchange face with the environment is in thermal connection with at least one "heat pipe" type radiator extending in a direction orthogonal to the height h.

[0023] Thanks to these arrangements, the height h is minimized and the heat exchange with the environment is maximized.

[0024] Indeed, the case as proposed by the invention allows the "sandwich" or pincer-like fixing between a motorcycle structure and a motorcycle luggage element, in a totally innovative way compared to the known prior art.

[0025] The case is designed, on its upper and lower surfaces, to take advantage of a standard motorcycle luggage mounting system. This results in a particularly flexible system that integrates easily and without significant modifications to a motorcycle.

[0026] The height h of the casing must be as low as possible, so that the module according to the invention is as compact as possible, so as not to hinder the use of the luggage element, and to preserve the aesthetic appearance of the motorcycle.

[0027] Positioning the heat exchanger away from the casing walls improves heat transfer within a compact enclosure. Connecting the thermoelectric device to a heat pipe radiator oriented perpendicularly maximizes heat transfer in a confined space, thanks to the specific choice of radiator orientation and type.

[0028] These features enable highly efficient and effective thermal regulation, even in extreme temperature ranges, while simultaneously reducing the overall height of the casing. Such a result would not have been possible given the solutions proposed in the prior art, where reducing the size of a thermal regulation module always implies a decrease in thermal regulation performance.

[0029] According to a preferred embodiment, the anchor points are presented on a lower plate removably fixed to the body of the housing.

[0030] In this way, the module becomes even more adaptable, very simply, to specific or proprietary manufacturer anchoring systems. It is enough to change the lower plate to adapt to a new anchoring system.

[0031] According to a preferred embodiment, the fixing points are presented on a top plate removably fixed to the body of the case.

[0032] In this way, the module is even more easily adaptable to specific or proprietary manufacturer mounting systems. Simply changing the top plate is enough to accommodate a new piece of luggage. Generally, the top and bottom plates correspond to the same luggage attachment system and are designed in matching pairs.

[0033] According to a preferred embodiment, the anchor points are arranged according to an anchoring scheme reproduced in at least two distinct positions, so as to allow the fixing in at least two fixing positions of the housing to said structural element.

[0034] In this way, it is possible to adjust the position of the module, and indirectly of the luggage unit, by choosing one of the two anchoring schemes. Generally, a second scheme is obtained by translating the first scheme along a longitudinal direction of the module, corresponding to the direction of travel of the motorcycle when the module is mounted on the motorcycle.

[0035] According to a preferred embodiment, said distancing means is formed by a plurality of pads molded on a lower wall of the housing body, the pads being adapted to support said heat exchange element.

[0036] In this way, the remote control mechanism and part of the housing are provided in a single component, thus reducing manufacturing and assembly steps. Furthermore, there is no risk of the remote control mechanism shifting. The pads are advantageously very flat relative to the height of the heat exchange element, and preferably less than 1 millimeter high. In this embodiment, it is particularly advantageous for the housing body to be made of molded plastic.

[0037] According to an alternative embodiment, said distancing means is a layer of insulating material disposed against a lower wall of the housing body.

[0038] This method offers the advantage of simpler manufacturing of the housing body and allows for the selection of an insulating material with specific properties. The insulating layer could, for example, be an insulating foam.

[0039] In a preferred embodiment, the heat exchange element is substantially centered on a lower wall of the housing, and the heat exchanger extends at least on either side of this location, substantially to the side walls of the housing. By this arrangement, the heat exchange element is centrally located. The thermoelectric device is positioned on the heat exchange element, on which the heat exchanger is mounted. The thermoelectric device is thus also centered on the lower wall of the housing, and the heat exchanger can extend on either side to optimize its operation. Preferably, the heat exchanger also extends above the thermoelectric device, with which it is thermally connected, and therefore above this location.Indeed, the ends of the heat pipes are located at a maximum distance from the thermoelectric device, while maximizing the heat exchange surface area.

[0040] According to a preferred embodiment, said reservoir is directly integrated into the lower wall of said housing body.

[0041] Thus, it is possible to save on a tank wall, and to further significantly reduce the height h. It is also possible to mold all or part of the tank directly with the housing body, thus further reducing the manufacturing and assembly steps.

[0042] According to a preferred embodiment, the housing body includes a magnetic area on one of its side walls.

[0043] In this way, it is possible to hold in position, for storage purposes, one end of the flexible conduit protruding from the module. The end of the conduit is then also magnetized, or metallic.

[0044] According to a preferred embodiment, the housing includes a hatch on one of its side walls, accessible from outside the housing, opening onto a cavity adapted to contain a flexible conduit for connecting to a thermal regulation garment in a storage position.

[0045] This improves the storage of the flexible conduit connecting the module to the garment. The risk of damage to the conduit is reduced, and the module's aesthetics are preserved.

[0046] According to a preferred embodiment, the housing includes an automatic winder, preferably spring-loaded, of a flexible conduit for connection to a thermal regulation garment, and a means for locking said flexible conduit in a variable unwound position.

[0047] Thanks to these features, storing the flexible duct is even easier, as the reel automatically retracts the duct when it is detached from the garment. Furthermore, a suitable duct length can be selected using the locking mechanism, preventing the duct from being inconvenient to the user due to an inappropriate length.

[0048] According to a preferred embodiment, the module also includes a control unit connected to said thermoelectric device and to said pump, and configured at least to turn said module on and off, and to regulate a service temperature or to regulate a power consumed by the thermoelectric device.

[0049] Thus, the user can choose different levels of module operation, adapted to the circumstances.

[0050] According to a preferred embodiment, the control unit includes a wireless communication means with a remote control of said module, said remote control being configured at least to turn said module on and off, and to set a setpoint temperature for the individual's body or to regulate a level of power consumed by the thermoelectric device.

[0051] In this way, the user can comfortably regulate the operating level while riding the motorcycle, for example when the remote control is attached to the motorcycle's steering wheel.

[0052] According to a preferred embodiment, the control unit is configured to detect background noise in the electronic signal from the DC power source, where the DC power source is an external battery to said module, in particular a motorcycle battery; and when no background noise is detected; Turn off the module.

[0053] This prevents the module from activating when the motorcycle engine, which powers the module via its battery, is not running. This avoids draining the motorcycle's battery, which would prevent the user from restarting their vehicle.

[0054] The invention also relates to a thermal regulation system for all or part of an individual's body, in particular a motorcyclist, comprising a thermal regulation module according to the invention, and a thermal regulation garment, the inlet and outlet openings of said module being connected, directly or indirectly via a flexible conduit, respectively to one end of a conduit of the thermal regulation garment.

[0055] According to a preferred embodiment, the thermal regulation garment comprises a double skin closed by stitching around the periphery of the garment, and in which the conduit of the thermal regulation garment is glued to the inner skin of the double skin, so as to be inside the double skin.

[0056] Thus, a very aesthetically pleasing result can be achieved, since the garment's ventilation channel is no longer directly visible from the outside. Furthermore, this manufacturing method is also much simpler, as it only requires closing the double layer rather than gluing the two layers together, as was done in previous techniques.

[0057] According to a preferred embodiment, the thermal regulation garment is also a safety garment and includes an "airbag" type inflatable cushion, the conduit of the thermal regulation garment being welded, preferably by high-frequency welding, onto an inner face of said inflatable cushion.

[0058] Thus, a particularly advantageous user safety function is achieved. Contrary to what prior art suggested, it appears that the coexistence of a thermal regulation function and a safety function is possible, without hindering the operation of either function, and without increasing the overall bulk of the garment.

[0059] The invention also relates to an assembly comprising a motorcycle and a thermal regulation system for all or part of an individual's body, in particular a motorcyclist, according to the invention, and in which said module is electrically connected to a battery of the motorcycle, and mechanically connected to a structural element of the motorcycle, in particular to a mounting bracket for a motorcycle luggage element of the "top-case" type or saddlebag, via said plurality of anchor points on a structural element of a motorcycle.

[0060] According to a preferred embodiment, the assembly further comprises a motorcycle luggage element of the type "top case" or pannier fixed to said module via said plurality of fixing points of a motorcycle luggage element of the type "top case" or pannier, so that said case is "sandwiched" between said motorcycle structural element and said motorcycle luggage element. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0061] Other advantages, purposes and particular features of the present invention will become apparent from the following non-limiting description of at least one particular embodiment of the devices and methods of the present invention, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: there [ Fig 1 ] is a schematic representation of the operation of a thermal regulation system, the [ Fig 2 ] is a schematic perspective representation of the module, the [ Fig 3] is a schematic side-view representation of the module, the [ Fig 4 ] is a schematic representation in two views of a motorcycle equipped with a module, the [ Fig 5 ] is a schematic representation of a motorcycle equipped with a module, on which a luggage element is attached, the [ Fig 6 ] is a bottom view of the module, showing the underside of the casing, the [ Fig 7 ] is a top view of the module, showing the top face of the casing, the [ Fig 8 ] is a schematic representation in partial perspective of the open module, the [ Fig 9 ] is a detailed cross-sectional view of the module's tank according to a particular embodiment, the [ Fig 10 ] is a schematic perspective representation of the flat bottom of the module, the [ Fig 11 ] is a schematic partial perspective representation of the module, on which a heat pipe radiator notably appears. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0062] This description is not exhaustive.

[0063] It should be noted from the outset that the figures are not to scale. Example of a particular embodiment

[0064] There figure 1 schematically represents the operation and structure of a thermal regulation system 10.

[0065] A 100 thermal regulation module comprises an open fluidic circuit. The fluid circulating in the circuit is a heat transfer fluid. In particular, the fluid is a liquid, such as water for example.

[0066] The open fluid circuit begins, in the direction of fluid flow, with an inlet opening of a duct leading to a reservoir 110 located inside the module 100. Reservoir 110 is a compensating reservoir designed to hold a volume of heat transfer fluid. Reservoir 110 serves to compensate for volume differences in the heat transfer fluid that may occur during the operation of the thermal control system, primarily due to temperature variations.

[0067] An outlet pipe from the reservoir 110 connects it to a pump 120. The pump 120 is suitable for circulating the heat transfer fluid in the open fluid circuit, but also in the closed fluid circuit as described later. The pump 120 is preferably driven by an electric motor 121.

[0068] In a preferred variant, the pump 120 is positioned directly within the tank 110. This allows for a particularly compact arrangement. Furthermore, the risk of leaks is reduced by minimizing the number of pipes and connectors.

[0069] An outlet conduit from the pump 120 connects it to an inlet opening of a heat exchanger 130. The heat exchanger 130 is a compartment in which the heat transfer fluid can circulate. The heat exchanger 130 is, in particular, substantially rectangular in shape and of low height. It is advantageous for the heat exchanger 130 to have at least one face with dimensions significantly larger than the other faces, especially the lateral faces, in order to provide the largest possible heat exchange surface area.

[0070] Such a heat exchange element 130 is sometimes called a "Waterblock" in English terminology, in the case of an element that can contain water as a heat transfer fluid.

[0071] An outlet conduit from the heat exchange element 130 extends until it opens out of module 100, and at that point forms an outlet opening for the open fluidic circuit.

[0072] The open fluidic circuit thus has an inlet and an outlet, which can be connected to the inlet and outlet of a thermal regulation garment, or thermoregulating garment. Specifically, the opening and outlet of the open fluidic circuit may extend slightly beyond the module and take the form of flexible tubes to which fittings can be attached, as described below.

[0073] The garment 200 contains at least one heat transfer fluid circulation channel. This channel has an inlet and an outlet, which can be connected to the outlet and inlet openings of module 100, respectively. The open fluid circuit of module 100 and the channel in garment 200, which represents another open fluid circuit, then form a closed fluid circuit. The heat transfer fluid can circulate within this closed fluid circuit, heating or cooling the wearer of garment 200.

[0074] The connection of module 100 to garment 200 is preferably made using a fitting 300. Fitting 300 is designed to form a valve that opens when a connection is made between an inlet and an outlet, and remains closed when module 100 and garment 200 are separated. Thus, the heat transfer fluid contained in module 100 and garment 200 cannot flow out when the fluid circuits are open. Preferably, fitting 300 is also designed to decouple module 100 from garment 200 when a voltage exceeding a predefined threshold is applied to the fitting, for example, in the event of a fall or if decoupling is forgotten. Fitting 300 can be designed to combine the fluid inlet and outlet of module 100, or it can be in the form of separate inlet and outlet fittings.

[0075] Alternatively, or in addition to fitting 300, a fitting 310 can also be installed near garment 200. Fitting 310 can be similar in design to fitting 300. When both fittings 300 and 310 are used, the connection between module 100 and garment 200 is made indirectly via a conduit, such as a flexible connecting or linking conduit.

[0076] Module 100 also includes a Peltier thermoelectric device 140, or Peltier device 140. The thermoelectric device 140 is adapted to be electrically connected to a direct current source for its power supply.

[0077] As described in the prior art presentation, a Peltier device is a semiconductor structure composed of a succession of PN junctions, which are arranged so that the device has one face that can heat up, and another face that can cool down, when the device is traversed by an electric current in one direction, and conversely, when the device is traversed by an electric current in the second direction.

[0078] The thermoelectric device 140 has a first heat exchange face 141. This first face 141 is thermally connected to the heat exchange element 130. The thermal connection can be made by simple contact, possibly supplemented by the application of thermal paste to improve thermal conduction.

[0079] The thermoelectric device 140 has a second heat exchange face 142. This second face 142 is a heat exchange face with the environment. In particular, the second face 142 is responsible for dissipating heat when the module 100 is used for cooling.

[0080] To improve heat dissipation, the second face 142 is thermally bonded to a radiator 150. Here too, the application of thermal paste can be considered.

[0081] To improve heat dissipation, one or more fans 160 may be provided near the radiator 150, so as to transport heat by convection out of the module 100.

[0082] The Module 100 is preferably powered by one or more external batteries. For example, one or more external batteries can be contained within a 400 motorcycle battery. However, it is possible to use other types of external batteries, including a dedicated battery. Such a dedicated battery can also be internal to the Module 100.

[0083] Advantageously, the battery 400 also provides power to other components of the module 100, such as the motor 121 of the pump 120, one or more fans 160, or even a control unit 170 of the module 100.

[0084] The control unit 170 is electrically connected to the motor 121 and the thermoelectric device 140, as well as to the fans 160 when the module 100 is equipped with them. In particular, it is also electrically connected to the battery 400, so as to distribute power to the various components of the module 100. On the figure 1 Electrical connections are represented schematically by dotted lines.

[0085] The control unit includes, in particular, a computer or processor

[0086] The control unit 170 is configured to switch module 100 on and off, and to regulate a setpoint temperature. To regulate the setpoint temperature, the control unit 170 can compare a setpoint temperature of the individual's body with a measured temperature. The measured temperature can be taken either from the fluid circuit of module 100 or from the garment level 200. Depending on the result of the comparison, the setpoint temperature is increased or decreased.

[0087] The control unit 170 can also be configured, at a minimum, to switch the module 100 on and off and to regulate the electrical power level of the thermoelectric device 140. Specifically, it is designed to allow for multiple heating and cooling levels to be selected, for example, via a human-machine interface such as a remote control. Each level corresponds to a power consumption value of the thermoelectric device 140. The correspondences between these levels and power values ​​can be indexed in a table stored in the non-volatile memory of the control unit 170.

[0088] The control unit 170 can also be equipped with a wireless communication device for a remote control 500 of the module 100. The remote control 500 is configured at least to switch the module 100 on and off, and to set a target body temperature for the individual, or to regulate the power consumption of the thermoelectric device 140. The remote control 500 can be fitted with means for mounting on a motorcycle handlebar, for example, via a magnetic connection to a bracket fixed to the handlebars. Preferably, the wireless data link established between the remote control 500 and the module 100 is established using a Bluetooth (registered trademark) protocol or radio frequency. It is also possible to establish a wired data connection between the control unit 170 and the remote control 500, which can then be located remotely in a fixed position such as on the motorcycle handlebars.

[0089] Module 100 includes a housing 180 comprising a body in which the aforementioned components of module 100 are arranged. The body of the housing 180 forms a closed cavity containing the essential components of module 100, such as the reservoir 110, the pump 120 and the heat exchange element 130 in particular.

[0090] THE figures 2 And 3These figures represent the exterior of module 100, in perspective and side view. Module 100 according to the invention has the particularity of being integrable onto a structural element of a motorcycle, and in particular onto a mounting bracket for a motorcycle luggage item such as a top case or pannier. Furthermore, module 100 according to the invention also has the particularity of allowing the attachment of a motorcycle luggage item such as a top case or pannier to the housing 180. In this way, module 100 is integrated onto a motorcycle without requiring any modification to the motorcycle, using existing motorcycle mounting points, while still allowing luggage items to be attached to the motorcycle.

[0091] There figure 4 represents a motorcycle 600 equipped with a module 100 according to the invention, fixed on a mounting support 610 of a luggage element of the motorcycle.

[0092] On the figure 5In addition, a luggage element 700 fixed to the module 100 has been shown. As shown, the particular design of the module 100 allows for a particularly discreet integration on the motorcycle 600. It is visible that the module 100 is sandwiched, or clamped, between the structural element of the motorcycle and the luggage element 700.

[0093] As depicted on the figure 6 To achieve attachment to the motorcycle, the housing 180 has, on its underside 181, a plurality of anchor points 182 for mounting on a structural element of the motorcycle 600. These anchor points 182 may, in particular, be threaded openings designed to receive fixing screws. The motorcycle structural element is specifically a mounting bracket for a motorcycle luggage component. The mounting brackets may be pre-existing on the motorcycle or added later.

[0094] To overcome the problem of proprietary mounting brackets from a motorcycle luggage manufacturer, which feature a specific type of anchor point, the anchor points 182 are presented on a lower plate 183 removably attached to the body of the case 180. This removable attachment is achieved using a universal mounting point system, allowing any plate to be adapted to the case 180. The attachment can be made, for example, by screwing. The lower face 181 then corresponds to the plane in which the lower plate 183, which is part of the case 180, is positioned. In this way, it is only necessary to adapt the lower plate 183 to the proprietary mounting bracket, and not the rest of the case 180.

[0095] In particular, the lower plate 183 can be made in two parts, as shown in the figure 6The lower plate 183, for example, takes the form of two fixing wings, each having three anchor points 182.

[0096] Similarly, as depicted in the figure 7 In order to secure a luggage item 700 to the case 180, the case 180 has on its upper face 184 a plurality of attachment points 185 for a luggage item 700. The attachment points 185 may in particular be formed by a retaining rail and a locking lug arranged on opposite edges of the upper face 184. Such a type of attachment is notably known for "top-case" type luggage items from the manufacturer Givi (registered trademark).

[0097] To overcome the problem of proprietary mounting systems from a motorcycle luggage manufacturer, which feature a particular type of attachment point, the attachment points 185 are presented on an upper plate 186 removably attached to the body of the case 180. The upper face 184 then corresponds to the plane in which the upper plate 186, which is part of the case 180, is located. In this way, it is only necessary to adapt the upper plate 186 to the proprietary luggage element, but not the entire case 180.

[0098] According to a preferred variant, the upper plate 186 remains unchanged for all types of luggage components, and only the attachment points 185 are adapted to the luggage component. In other words, the attachment points 185 can themselves be removable on the upper plate 186. This solution offers the advantage of very high flexibility; however, it is slightly bulkier than the aforementioned solution, which integrates the attachment points 185 directly into the upper plate 186.

[0099] For example, the upper plate 186 takes the form of a substantially rectangular ring, of dimension substantially equal to the upper face 184. Support lugs 187 of the luggage element 700 can be provided on the upper plate 186.

[0100] Preferably, it is planned to make available to a user a set of lower plates 183 and upper plates 186, since a particular type of fixing support will generally be used with a compatible luggage element 700.

[0101] According to an advantageous variant, the anchor points 182 are arranged in an anchoring pattern that is repeated in at least two distinct positions, so as to allow the housing 180 to be attached to the structural element in at least two different positions. More specifically, a set of anchor points 182 arranged in a particular pattern, corresponding to a specific type of motorcycle luggage anchoring system, is repeated in a slightly different position. In particular, the pattern is repeated at least once by translation along the axis of symmetry of the housing 180, which corresponds substantially to the axis of travel of the motorcycle. In this way, it is possible to adjust the longitudinal position of the housing 180 on the motorcycle by selecting the appropriate group of anchor points.

[0102] According to a preferred variant, as can be seen on the figures 8 And 2The body of the case 180 consists of a flat bottom 188, presenting on the outside the lower face 181 of the case 180, and an upper shell 189 fixed to the flat bottom 188. In this way, it is not possible to disassemble the case 180, in particular when a luggage element 700 is fixed to the case 180.

[0103] The upper shell 189 has openings for the passage of struts 190, or spacer struts 190, which act as spacers. The struts 190 are used to secure the upper plate 186, for example, by screwing them into the struts 190. When a luggage item is attached to the upper plate 186, the struts 190 are covered by the luggage item, and the screws securing the upper plate 186 to the struts 190 are inaccessible. This prevents theft of the case 180, as well as the luggage, which is securely attached to the upper plate 186. The lower plate 183 and the flat bottom 188 are also attached to the struts 190, particularly by screwing. In this way, the luggage element does not rest directly on the upper shell 189 of the case 180, but directly on the lower plate 183, fixed to the flat bottom 188.In other words, the upper plate 186 and the lower plate 183 are directly connected via the struts 190, with the case body, consisting of the flat base 188 and the upper shell 189, fixed between the plates. This improves the rigidity of the module 100. It also allows fresh air to reach the radiator 150, as explained below.

[0104] It is possible to fix the lower plate 183 to the flat base 188 without simultaneously fixing the masts 190. In such a configuration, it is not possible to fix an upper plate 186. This configuration is therefore particularly suitable for cases where no luggage items need to be transported, as the size of the case 180 is reduced and the aesthetics are improved.

[0105] In particular, the upper plate 186 is at a distance from an upper wall of the case body 180. In other words, the masts 190 protrude sufficiently from the case body 180 to leave a space between the upper part of the case body 180 and the upper plate 186. Thus, a fresh air intake is created, penetrating the case 180 up to the radiator 150, particularly under the action of fans 160 when the module is equipped with them.

[0106] The lower face 181 and the upper face 184 of the housing 180 are separated by a distance h, corresponding to the height, or thickness, of the housing 180, and which is substantially constant over the entire width of the housing 180. In other words, the distance h corresponds substantially to the distance between the planes in which the anchor points 182 and fixing points 185 are located, whether or not they are presented on plates.

[0107] To further reduce the height h, the reservoir 110 can be directly integrated into the lower wall of the housing 180, as shown in the figure 9 In particular, when the flat bottom 188 is molded (the upper shell 189 generally also being molded), the tank 110 can be molded directly with the flat bottom. The lower wall of the tank 110 is thus directly formed by the flat bottom 188. This avoids the need to attach the tank 110 to the flat bottom, and in particular allows for a further reduction in height h, by eliminating the need for a lower wall of the tank 110.

[0108] A 180 case as presented allows for a particularly compact 100 module, which in particular minimizes the height h, which integrates perfectly on a motorcycle, and which adapts easily to standardized elements.

[0109] However, a compact design of the module 100 alone does not guarantee adequate operation.

[0110] In order to ensure proper operation of module 100, particularly with regard to heat dissipation, and more broadly heat exchange with the environment, while contributing to obtaining a case with a reduced height h, a number of particularly clever and effective arrangements are proposed.

[0111] First, the heat exchange element 130 is distanced from the walls of the housing 180 by means of a distancing device. Indeed, it is undesirable to allow heat transfer to or from the heat exchange element 130 on the side of the housing wall 180.

[0112] The heat exchange element 130 is disposed at a mounting location 191 of the heat exchange element 130. The mounting location 191 is preferably located on the flat bottom 188. The mounting location 191 takes, for example, the form of an area delimited by a peripheral wall extending projecting from the flat bottom 188, shaped to the heat exchange element 130 so as to hold it in place laterally, as shown in the Figure 10 . The peripheral wall can in particular be directly molded onto the flat bottom 188.

[0113] The mounting location 191 for the heat exchange element has a means 192 for distancing the heat exchange element 130 from the walls of the housing 180. In particular, the distancing means 192 can be formed by a plurality of pads. The pads can be distributed on the flat base 188 in the area of ​​the mounting location 191 so as to adequately support the heat exchange element 130. Preferably, the number of pads is between four and eight, for example, six. The pads are advantageously particularly flat, i.e., they extend from the flat base 188 to a height of less than 0.5 millimeters. Thus, the height h of the case remains as low as possible, while keeping the heat exchange element 130 slightly away from the walls of the case 180. Thus, an insulating layer of air can form between the heat exchange element and the walls of the case.This has the effect of breaking the thermal bridge that would be formed if the heat exchange element 130 were fixed directly against the walls of the housing 180.

[0114] As an alternative, a strip of insulating material, such as foam, can be used as a means of creating distance instead of the pads. However, it is preferable to use pads that can be molded directly with the flat bottom, thereby reducing the number of manufacturing steps.

[0115] Another particularly effective arrangement is the use of a "heat pipe" type radiator. According to the invention, the second heat exchange face 142 of the thermoelectric device 140 with the environment is thermally connected to at least one "heat pipe" type radiator 150.

[0116] As depicted in the figure 11 , the radiator 150 extends in a direction orthogonal to the height h.

[0117] The type 150 heat pipe radiator is a well-known technical design. It consists of one or more parallel longitudinal tubes 151, containing a fluid in a liquid-vapor equilibrium state. Heat is transferred from the hot source to the cold source by a change of state, specifically by condensation. This type of radiator allows for significantly greater heat transfer than a traditional radiator using the simple principle of conduction.

[0118] A plurality of fins 152, orthogonal to the tubes, connect the tubes 151 and allow for better heat transfer. The radiator 150 shown on the figure 11 It comprises several dozen fins, thus presenting a large heat exchange surface area. For example, a heat exchange surface area of ​​between 0.5 and 2 square meters can be achieved.

[0119] The very high efficiency induced by the use of this particular type of radiator is further enhanced by the arrangement in the width of the 180 case, and in the direction orthogonal to the height h. A large thermal transfer surface is obtained, without increasing the height h but while benefiting from a very efficient heat exchange.

[0120] This effect is further enhanced by centering the mounting location 191 of the heat exchange element 130 on the lower wall of the housing, i.e. in particular on the flat bottom 188. The radiator 150 then extends on either side of said location 191, substantially up to the side walls of the housing 180. The substantially central position makes it possible to maximize heat exchange by placing the hot source in the center, and by positioning the ends of the radiators 150, i.e. the cold sources, at the maximum distance from the hot source.

[0121] It is therefore understood that this is the central part of the 150 radiator shown in the figure 11 , of reduced height, which is thermally connected to the Peltier device 140. At this point, the heat exchange element 130, the Peltier device 140 and the radiator 150 are stacked, and form a structure similar to that schematically represented in the figure 1 On either side of the central position, the 150 radiator occupies the entire height of the stack, in order to maximize the heat exchange surfaces.

[0122] The height h, already reduced to the extreme, can be further reduced by selecting 160 fans with a reduced thickness compared to a standard fan usually used for 100 modules. The use of such particularly flat fans is only possible because of the very high performance of the proposed heat dissipation system, as it is thus possible to save on higher flow rate fans.

[0123] To allow for simplified assembly, the fan(s) 160 can simply be inserted into protruding fingers of the upper shell 189. The stacking of components between the flat bottom 188 and the upper shell 189 provides sufficient support along the thickness of the case 180 without the need for additional fixing.

[0124] In addition, perforations can be made in the flat bottom 188 and the upper shell 189 to promote the entry and exit of fresh air into the case, allowing better heat transfer.

[0125] These features ensure that the height h of the 180 enclosure is minimized and heat exchange with the environment is maximized. The result is a 180 enclosure that meets all integration requirements for motorcycles, as well as performance expectations despite the compact size of the 100 module.

[0126] It should be noted that the housing 180 can also be positioned laterally on a motorcycle structural element, particularly to be sandwiched between a side stand and a motorcycle side bag. In this case, the height h of the housing extends substantially horizontally, perpendicular to the direction of travel of the motorcycle. The lower face 181 and upper face 184 are therefore oriented laterally, respectively towards the inside and outside of the motorcycle. It is understood that the terms lower and upper used in this description are considered in the frame of reference of the housing 180, in which the lower and upper faces are separated by the height h, or thickness, of the housing.In the figures, the lower and upper faces are arranged one above the other in a direction substantially orthogonal to the ground on which the motorcycle is moving; however, in other uses the upper and lower faces may be arranged one above the other in a different direction, notably substantially parallel to the ground on which the motorcycle is moving. Other advantages and optional features

[0127] Other optional features, not shown in the figures, can also be considered. These features can be combined in any number of ways.

[0128] As mentioned above, the connection between module 100 and garment 200 can be made indirectly using a connecting conduit, for example, a flexible one. This is particularly the case when both module 100 and garment 200 have their own connectors. It is also possible for the conduit exiting module 100 to be directly extended by another conduit, especially a flexible one, and for garment 200 to have only one connector.

[0129] In both cases, it is advantageous to be able to store the conduit connecting module 100 and garment 200.

[0130] Thus, it is possible to provide a hatch on one of the side walls of the 180 case, accessible from outside the case, and opening onto a cavity suitable for containing a conduit, in particular a flexible conduit, in a storage position.

[0131] The cavity can be made in a similar way to the 110 tank, and the hatch can for example be arranged in a pivoting manner on the housing.

[0132] This allows the user to store the thermal garment connection hose when leaving their vehicle without it being inconveniently intrusive. The hose is also protected from damage. The access panel can be secured with a suitable lock.

[0133] To simplify duct storage, especially when the duct is flexible and can be wound up, an automatic winder can be used. An automatic winder is a reel onto which the duct can be wound. This reel rotates in the winding direction, for example, due to a spring. This causes the duct to be drawn into the wound position. To keep the flexible duct connecting to the thermal regulating garment in the usable position, a locking mechanism is provided to secure the flexible duct in a variable unwound position. This mechanism can, for example, directly lock the duct to prevent it from winding up, for example, by lightly pinching it, or it can directly lock the winder, for example, by using a position brake.

[0134] Furthermore, if the connecting conduit is not fully stored in the case 180 in a stowed position, a magnetic zone can be provided on one of the side walls of the case 180. In conjunction with a magnetic or metallic end of the connecting conduit, the end of the conduit can be held against the case 180. This ensures proper storage of the conduit while allowing a user to quickly and easily access it when connecting the conduit to the garment 200.

[0135] Another particularly important aspect of a thermal management system is its power consumption. The 100 module is electrically connected to a 400 motorcycle battery, which has a limited capacity. Generally, any use of the 400 battery when the motorcycle engine is off results in a rapid drop in its charge level, as it is not typically designed to power external devices. This is less critical for electric motorcycles, which generally have a larger capacity battery.

[0136] To address the problem of excessive strain on the 400 battery when the engine of a combustion engine motorcycle is off, it is planned to limit the activation of module 100 to periods when the engine is switched on.

[0137] For this purpose, the control unit 170 is configured to detect background noise in the electronic signal from the DC power source, i.e., in particular from the battery 400. Background noise refers to fluctuations in the electrical current from the battery, which indicate the presence of loads or producers connected to the battery 400. Such background noise is particularly significant when the engine's alternator is running and charging the battery 400, i.e., when the internal combustion engine is operating.

[0138] When no background noise is detected, the unit is configured to turn off module 100. Indeed, such a situation reflects the fact that the motor is no longer running, and that the risk of battery 400 discharging rapidly is high.

[0139] Finally, an important aspect concerns the thermal regulation garment itself. Indeed, existing thermal regulation garments are not very aesthetically pleasing and offer only comfort, not safety.

[0140] To overcome the first drawback, the thermal regulation garment 200 can be designed with a double-layered structure. The garment 200 then comprises a double layer, preferably closed by stitching or welding, around its perimeter. The conduit running through the thermal regulation garment 200 is then bonded to the inner layer of the double layer, that is, the side facing the wearer. The conduit is bonded to the inner layer on the inside of the double layer. In this way, the outer layer does not conform to the shape of the conduit running through the garment 200, as can occur in prior art. The result is much more aesthetically pleasing, as the outer layer is separate from the inner layer and has a smoother, more natural appearance.

[0141] To address the second drawback, the 200 thermal regulation garment is also a safety garment. More specifically, the 200 garment also has an "airbag" function designed to protect the wearer in the event of a fall. For this purpose, the 200 garment incorporates an inflatable airbag. The duct of the 200 thermal regulation garment is welded, preferably using high-frequency welding, to the inner surface of the inflatable airbag. When the airbag function is not in use, virtually nothing distinguishes the 200 thermal regulation and safety garment from a simple thermal regulation garment. Surprisingly, it has been found that the combination of thermal regulation and safety functions is possible without compromising either function, and without affecting the appearance or comfort of the 200 garment.

Claims

1. Thermal control module (100) for a system (10) for thermally controlling all or a portion of a person's, in particular a motorcyclist's, body, including an open fluidic circuit comprising: - a compensation reservoir (110) adapted to contain a volume of heat transfer fluid, - a pump (120) adapted to circulate said heat transfer fluid in said open fluidic circuit, - a heat exchange element (130) adapted for the circulation of said heat transfer fluid, said heat exchange element (130) being thermally connected to a first heat exchange face (141) of a Peltier-effect thermoelectric device (140) adapted to be electrically connected to a direct current source (400), the thermoelectric device (140) having a second heat exchange face (142) with the surrounding area, said reservoir (110), said pump (120) and said heat exchange element (130) being fluidically connected characterised in that said reservoir (110), said pump (120) and said heat exchange element (130) are disposed in the body of a housing (180), and said open fluidic circuit has an inlet opening and an outlet opening evacuating respectively from said housing (180), the inlet and outlet openings being adapted to be connected, directly or indirectly via a flexible conduit, respectively to an end of a conduit of an item of thermal control clothing (200) so as to form a closed fluidic circuit, - said housing (180) comprises a lower face (181) having a plurality of anchor points (182) on a structural element (610) of a motorcycle, in particular on a bracket for mounting a "top-case" or saddlebag type luggage item for a motorcycle, and an upper face (184) having a plurality of points (185) for mounting a "top-case" or saddlebag type luggage item (700) for a motorcycle, said lower (181) and upper (184) faces being separated by a height h, - said housing (180) has a location (191) for mounting the heat exchange element (130) having a means (192) for distancing the heat exchange element (130) from the walls of the housing (180), - said heat exchange face (142) with the surrounding area is thermally connected to at least one "heat-pipe" type radiator (150) extending in a direction orthogonal to the height h.

2. Module (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein the anchor points (182) are presented on a lower plate (183) mounted removably on the body of the housing (180).

3. Module (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the mounting points (185) are presented on an upper plate (186) mounted removably on the body of the housing (180).

4. Module (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the anchor points (182) are disposed according to an anchoring pattern reproduced at at least two separate positions, so as to allow the mounting in at least two mounting positions of the housing (180) on said structural element (610).

5. Module (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said distancing means is formed by a plurality of blocks (192) moulded on a lower wall of the body of the housing (180), the blocks (192) being adapted to support said heat exchange element (130).

6. Module (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein said distancing means is a layer of insulating material disposed against a lower wall of the body of the housing (180).

7. Module (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the location (191) for mounting the heat exchange element (130) is substantially centred on a lower wall of the body of the housing (180), and wherein said radiator (150) extends at least on either side of said location (191), substantially to the lateral walls of said body of the housing (180), and wherein said reservoir (110) is directly integrated in the lower wall of said housing (180) body.

8. Module (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the housing (180) body comprises a magnetised zone on one of its lateral walls.

9. Module (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the housing (180) comprises a hatch on one of its lateral walls, accessible from the exterior of the housing (180), opening onto a cavity adapted to contain the flexible conduit for connecting to the item of thermal control clothing (200) in a storage position.

10. Module (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the housing (180) comprises an automatic reel, preferably with a spring, of the flexible conduit for connecting to the item of thermal control clothing (200), and a means for locking said flexible conduit in a variable unwound position.

11. Module (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the module also comprises a control unit (170) connected to said thermoelectric device (140) and to said pump (120), and configured at least to switch said module (100) on and off, and control an operating temperature or control a power consumption by the thermoelectric device (140), and wherein, preferentially, the control unit (170) comprises a means for wireless communication with a remote control (500) of said module, said remote control (500) being configured at least to switch said module (100) on and off, and set a set-point temperature of the person's body or control a power consumption level by the thermoelectric device (140) and / or preferentially, the control unit (170) is configured to - detect a background noise of the electronic signal from the direct current source, wherein the direct current source is a battery external to said module, in particular a motorcycle battery (400); and when no background noise is detected; - switching the module (100) off.

12. System (10) for thermally controlling all or a portion of a person's, in particular a motorcyclist's, body, comprising a thermal control module (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, and an item of thermal control clothing (200), the inlet and outlet options of said module (100) being connected, directly or indirectly via a flexible conduit, respectively to an end of a conduit of the item of thermal control clothing (200).

13. System (10) according to claim 12, wherein the item of thermal control clothing (200) includes a double skin closed by stitching at the periphery of the item of clothing (200), and wherein the conduit of the thermal control clothing is bonded to the inner skin of the double skin, so as to be located inside the double skin.

14. System (10) according to claim 12, wherein the item of thermal control clothing (200) is also an item of safety clothing and includes an airbag, the conduit of the item of thermal control clothing being welded, preferably by high-frequency welding, on an inner face of said airbag.

15. Assembly comprising a motorcycle (600) and a system (10) for thermally controlling all or a portion of a person's, in particular a motorcyclist's, body according to one of claims 12 to 14, and wherein said module (100) is electrically connected to a motorcycle battery (400), and mechanically connected to a structural element (610) of the motorcycle, in particular to a bracket for mounting a "top-case" or saddlebag type luggage item for a motorcycle, via said plurality of anchor points (182), and preferentially furthermore comprising a "top-case" or saddlebag type luggage item (700) for a motorcycle mounted on said module (100) via said plurality of points (185) for mounting a "top-case" or saddlebag type luggage item for a motorcycle, such that said housing (180) is "sandwiched" between said structural element (610) of the motorcycle and said luggage item (700) for a motorcycle.