Refrigerant distribution module

Abstract

The invention relates to a refrigerant distribution module (50), comprising: - a first refrigerant circulation channel (11) connecting a first inlet (E1) and an outlet (S); - a second channel (12) connecting a second inlet (E2) and a first connection zone (C1) arranged on the first channel (11) between the first inlet (E1) and the outlet (S); - a third channel (13) connecting a third inlet (E3) and a second connection zone (C2) arranged on the first channel (11) between the first connection zone (C1) and the outlet (S), the first channel (11) comprising a one-way valve (17) arranged between the first connection zone (C1) and the second connection zone (C2), the one-way valve (17) being configured to allow a flow of refrigerant from the first connection zone (C1) to the second connection zone (C2) and being configured to prevent a flow of refrigerant from the second connection zone (C2) to the first connection zone (C1).

Description

REFRIGERANT DISTRIBUTION MODULE Technical field [1] The present invention relates to the field of thermal conditioning systems. These systems can in particular equip a motor vehicle. Such systems make it possible to achieve thermal regulation of different parts of the vehicle, such as for example the passenger compartment or an electrical energy storage battery, when the vehicle is electrically powered. Heat exchanges are managed mainly by the compression and expansion of a refrigerant fluid within different heat exchangers making it possible to selectively heat or cool different parts of the vehicle. Prior art [2] Thermal conditioning systems use a refrigerant circuit comprising a main refrigerant circulation loop and multiple bypass branches. Various heat exchangers and refrigerant expansion devices are used to control the heat exchanges within the thermal conditioning system. A set of valves allows for different combinations of refrigerant circulation in the refrigerant circuit and allows for different operating modes, i.e., for selecting which exchangers participate in the heat exchanges, and the direction of these heat exchanges. Each operating mode can be selected according to the thermal conditions encountered by the vehicle and its occupants, as well as according to the driving conditions.It is thus possible to implement different operating modes, such as a passenger compartment heating mode, a passenger compartment cooling mode, a passenger compartment dehumidification mode or even a cooling mode for an element of the vehicle's powertrain. [3] Integrating the thermal conditioning system into the vehicle is generally difficult. Indeed, the space available for the installation of the entire thermal conditioning system tends to decrease, while the number of components to be installed tends to increase. Mounting the system in the vehicle thus becomes more difficult. In addition, adapting an existing system to a new one vehicle may require substantial modifications to integrate into the new environment, which increases the duration and cost of development activity. [4] It is therefore desirable to have thermal conditioning systems that are easier to integrate, allowing the use of standardized components, and offering optimized thermodynamic performance. Summary [5] To this end, the present invention proposes a low-pressure refrigerant fluid distribution module, comprising: - a first refrigerant fluid circulation channel, connecting a first inlet and an outlet, - a second channel connecting a second input and a first connection zone arranged on the first channel between the first input and the output, - a third channel connecting a third inlet and a second connection zone arranged on the first channel between the first connection zone and the outlet, the first channel comprising a one-way valve arranged between the first connection zone and the second connection zone, the one-way valve being configured to allow circulation of refrigerant fluid from the first connection zone to the second connection zone, the one-way valve also being configured to prohibit circulation of refrigerant fluid from the second connection zone to the first connection zone. [6] The distribution module allows the different low-pressure refrigerant gas flows to be grouped together in order to transfer them to another component, such as a refrigerant compression device. The same module can be used for multiple configurations, which allows for standardization. [7] The features listed in the following paragraphs may be implemented independently of each other or in any technically possible combination: [8] According to one aspect of the refrigerant distribution module, the first refrigerant circulation channel, the second refrigerant circulation channel and the third refrigerant circulation channel are formed by an internal recess of a body of the module. [9] The number of hoses and fittings required to ensure the circulation of the refrigerant fluid is reduced, since the connections between channels and the channels themselves are provided directly by the body of the distribution module.

[0010] According to one embodiment of the refrigerant distribution module, the body of the module comprises a set of flat exterior surfaces.

[0011] This makes it easier to attach brackets for holding the tubes or hoses bringing the refrigerant fluid to the module inlets, or for returning the refrigerant fluid from the module.

[0012] According to an exemplary embodiment of the refrigerant distribution module, the body of the module is of substantially parallelepipedal shape.

[0013] The module is thus compact, which facilitates its integration.

[0014] According to an exemplary embodiment, the first input is arranged on a flat face of the module body.

[0015] According to an exemplary embodiment, the second input is arranged on a flat face of the module body.

[0016] According to an exemplary embodiment, the third input is arranged on a flat face of the module body.

[0017] According to an exemplary embodiment of the refrigerant distribution module, the outlet is arranged on a flat face of the module body.

[0018] According to one embodiment, the first inlet and the outlet are arranged on the same flat face of the module body.

[0019] The second channel is straight.

[0020] The third channel is straight.

[0021] The first canal comprises a succession of straight sections.

[0022] Each channel can thus be obtained by drilling, which allows inexpensive manufacturing of the module.

[0023] According to one embodiment, the first channel comprises a first portion extending between the first inlet and the first connection zone; the first portion of the first channel and the second channel extend along intersecting axes.

[0024] According to one embodiment, the first portion of the first channel and the second channel extend along perpendicular axes.

[0025] According to one embodiment, the first channel comprises a second portion extending between the first connection zone and the one-way valve. The second portion of the first channel and the first portion of the first channel extend along perpendicular axes.

[0026] The second portion of the first channel and the second channel are coaxial.

[0027] According to an exemplary embodiment of the refrigerant distribution module, the one-way valve is arranged in a housing opening onto one face of the body of the distribution module.

[0028] The refrigerant distribution module thus integrates a one-way valve, like a non-return valve, in a simple manner.

[0029] For example, the one-way valve housing and the second inlet are arranged on opposite sides of the distribution module body.

[0030] The various components of the module are thus distributed around the external surface of the module.

[0031] The one-way valve includes a flat portion flush with one face of the distribution module.

[0032] The one-way valve housing is cylindrical.

[0033] According to an exemplary embodiment of the refrigerant distribution module, the housing of the one-way valve extends along an axis coaxial with the axis of the second circulation channel.

[0034] According to one embodiment of the refrigerant distribution module, the first channel comprises a third portion extending between the one-way valve and the second connection zone. The third portion of the first channel and the third channel extend along perpendicular axes.

[0035] The second channel and the third channel extend along perpendicular axes.

[0036] According to an exemplary embodiment, the first channel comprises a fourth portion extending between the second connection zone and the output; the fourth portion of the first channel and the third portion of the first channel are coaxial.

[0037] According to one embodiment of the refrigerant distribution module, the first portion of the first channel and the third portion of the first channel extend along parallel axes.

[0038] In an exemplary embodiment of the refrigerant distribution module, the body of the distribution module is formed from an assembly of metal blocks.

[0039] The body of the distribution module is thus robust, inexpensive and has good sealing.

[0040] For example, metal blocks are cast.

[0041] For example, metal blocks are extruded.

[0042] Metal blocks are made of aluminum, for example.

[0043] The body of the distribution module can be single-piece.

[0044] The distribution module includes a flange for attaching the module to a support.

[0045] The distribution module comprises a first device for holding a first refrigerant fluid inlet tube in the first inlet.

[0046] The distribution module includes a second device for holding a second refrigerant outlet tube from the outlet.

[0047] The distribution module comprises a third device for holding a third refrigerant fluid inlet tube in the third inlet.

[0048] Each holding device may include a stud and a nut.

[0049] Each retaining device may include a threaded hole and a fixing screw.

[0050] The disclosure also relates to a thermal conditioning system for a motor vehicle, comprising: - a compression device comprising at least one inlet and one outlet, - a first heat exchanger configured to operate as a condenser, - a second heat exchanger configured to operate as an evaporator, - a third heat exchanger configured to operate selectively as an evaporator or condenser, - a fourth heat exchanger configured to operate as an evaporator, - a refrigerant fluid distribution module as described above, in which an outlet of the second heat exchanger is connected to the first inlet of the distribution module, an outlet of the third heat exchanger is connected to the second inlet of the distribution module, an outlet of the fourth heat exchanger is connected to the third inlet of the distribution module, and in which the outlet of the distribution module is connected to the inlet of the compression device.

[0051] In one embodiment of the thermal conditioning system, the first heat exchanger is configured to exchange heat with an airflow inside the vehicle cabin.

[0052] Alternatively, the first heat exchanger is configured to exchange heat with a heat transfer fluid of a heat transfer fluid circuit, the heat transfer fluid circuit comprising a fifth heat exchanger configured to exchange heat with an air flow inside the passenger compartment of the vehicle.

[0053] According to one embodiment of the thermal conditioning system, the second heat exchanger is configured to exchange heat with an airflow inside the passenger compartment of the vehicle.

[0054] According to one embodiment, the third heat exchanger is configured to exchange heat with an air flow outside the passenger compartment of the vehicle.

[0055] In one embodiment, the fourth heat exchanger is configured to be thermally coupled to an element of an electric powertrain of a vehicle.

[0056] The element of the electric powertrain may include an electrical energy storage battery.

[0057] According to a variant or in a complementary manner, the element of the electric traction chain may comprise an electronic module for controlling an electric traction motor of the vehicle.

[0058] According to another variant or in a complementary manner, the element of the electric traction chain may comprise an electric traction motor of the vehicle.

[0059] In one embodiment, the thermal conditioning system comprises a refrigerant circuit comprising: — a main refrigerant circulation loop, the main loop successively comprising, according to a direction of circulation of the refrigerant: — the compression device, — the first heat exchanger, — a first relaxation device, — the second heat exchanger, — a first bypass branch fluidly connecting a first connection point arranged on the main loop downstream of the first exchanger and upstream of the first expansion device to a second connection point arranged on the main loop downstream of the second heat exchanger and upstream of the expansion device compression, the first branch comprising a second expansion device arranged upstream of the third heat exchanger, - a second bypass branch fluidly connecting a third connection point arranged on the main loop downstream of the first exchanger and upstream of the first connection point to a fourth connection point arranged on the main loop downstream of the second connection point and upstream of the compression device, the second bypass branch comprising a third expansion device arranged upstream of the fourth heat exchanger.

[0060] The main refrigerant circulation loop comprises an accumulation device arranged downstream of the first heat exchanger and upstream of the third connection point.

[0061] In one embodiment of the thermal conditioning system, the first branch branch comprises an internal heat exchanger, the internal heat exchanger comprising a first heat exchange section disposed upstream of the second expansion device and a second heat exchange section disposed downstream of the third heat exchanger, the internal heat exchanger being configured to allow heat exchange between the refrigerant in the first heat exchange section and the refrigerant in the second heat exchange section. Brief description of the drawings

[0062] Other features, details and advantages will become apparent upon reading the detailed description below, and upon analyzing the attached drawings, in which:

[0063] [Fig. 1] is a schematic view of a first embodiment of a thermal conditioning system integrating a refrigerant distribution module according to the invention,

[0064] [Fig. 2] is a schematic view of a second embodiment of a thermal conditioning system integrating a distribution module according to the invention,

[0065] [Fig. 3] is a perspective view of the refrigerant distribution module shown schematically in Figures 1 and 2,

[0066] [Fig. 4] is another perspective view of the refrigerant distribution module shown schematically in Figures 1 and 2, seen from another viewing angle,

[0067] [Fig. 5] is a sectional view of the distribution module of Figures 3 and 4,

[0068] [Fig. 6] is another sectional view of the distribution module of Figures 3 and 4,

[0069] [Fig. 7] is a schematic view illustrating one mode of operation of the thermal conditioning system of Figure 1. Description of the embodiments

[0070] To facilitate reading the figures, the different elements are not necessarily represented to scale. In these figures, identical elements bear the same references. Some elements or parameters may be indexed, i.e. designated for example by first element or second element, or first parameter and second parameter, etc. This indexing is intended to differentiate similar, but not identical, elements or parameters. This indexing does not imply a priority of one element or parameter over another. Thus, the names 'first', 'second', 'third', etc. can be interchanged. Similarly, the terms primary / secondary are used for indexing and do not imply a priority of one element over another.

[0071] In the following description, the term "a first element upstream of a second element" means that the first element is placed before the second element relative to the direction of circulation, or path, of a fluid. Similarly, the term "a first element downstream of a second element" means that the first element is placed after the second element relative to the direction of circulation, or path, of the fluid in question. In the case of the refrigerant circuit, the term "a first element is upstream of a second element" means that the refrigerant passes successively through the first element, then the second element, without passing through the compression device. In other words, the refrigerant leaves the compression device, possibly passes through one or more elements, then passes through the first element, then the second element, then returns to the compression device, possibly after passing through other elements.

[0072] The expression "a second element is placed between a first element and a third element" means that the shortest path from the first element to the third element passes through the second element.

[0073] When it is specified that a subsystem includes a given element, this does not exclude the presence of other elements in this subsystem.

[0074] The expansion devices used, also called regulators, can be an electronic expansion valve, a thermostatic expansion valve, or a calibrated orifice. In the case of an electronic expansion valve, the passage section allowing the fluid to pass The refrigerant flow can be continuously adjusted between a closed position and a maximum open position. To achieve this, an electronic controller drives an electric motor which moves a movable shutter controlling the flow section offered to the refrigerant.

[0075] The thermal conditioning system 100 which will be described can equip a motor vehicle. An electronic control unit, not shown, receives information from various sensors measuring in particular the characteristics of the refrigerant fluid. The electronic control unit also receives instructions issued by the occupants of the vehicle, for example the desired temperature inside the passenger compartment. The electronic control unit implements control laws allowing the piloting of the various actuators, in order to ensure the control of the thermal conditioning system 100 so as to ensure the instructions received. A compression device 7 makes it possible to circulate a refrigerant fluid in a closed refrigerant circulation circuit 10. The compression device 7 can be an electric compressor, that is to say a compressor whose moving parts are driven by an electric motor.The compression device 7 comprises a suction side for the low-pressure refrigerant fluid, also called the inlet 7a of the compression device 7, and a discharge side for the high-pressure refrigerant fluid, also called the outlet 7b of the compression device 7. The internal moving parts of the compressor 7 cause the refrigerant fluid to pass from a low pressure on the inlet side 7a to a high pressure on the outlet side 7b. After expansion in one or more expansion devices, the refrigerant fluid returns to the inlet 7a of the compressor 7 and begins a new thermodynamic cycle. The compressor 7 is here a compressor having exactly one refrigerant fluid inlet and one refrigerant fluid outlet.

[0076] Each connection point allows the refrigerant to pass into one or other of the circuit sections joining at this connection point. The distribution of the refrigerant between the circuit sections joining at a connection point is done by adjusting the degree of opening of the expansion devices and the position of the shut-off valves located on each of the branches connected to this point. In other words, each connection point is a means of redirecting the refrigerant arriving at this connection point.

[0077] The refrigerant used in the refrigerant circuit is a chemical fluid such as R1234yf. Other refrigerants could be used, such as R134a, R744, or R290.

[0078] Interior airflow is understood to mean an airflow to the passenger compartment of the motor vehicle. This interior airflow can circulate in a heating, ventilation and air conditioning system, often referred to by the English term "HVAC" meaning "Heating, Ventilating and Air Conditioning". This system has not been shown in the various figures. A motor-fan unit, not shown, can be activated in order to increase the flow rate of the interior airflow Fi if necessary.

[0079] Outside air flow Fe is defined as an air flow that is not directed into the vehicle interior. In other words, the air flow Fe remains outside the vehicle interior. Another motor-fan unit, also not shown, can be activated to increase the flow rate of the outside air flow Fe if necessary.

[0080] Figure 1 shows a schematic diagram of a thermal conditioning system 100 for a motor vehicle, according to a first embodiment. This thermal conditioning system 100 has a refrigerant circulation circuit 10 allowing a controlled flow of pressurized refrigerant to circulate in various heat exchangers. In normal use, the refrigerant circulation circuit is sealed and forms a closed circuit. The thermal conditioning system 100 integrates a refrigerant distribution module 50.

[0081] The 100 thermal conditioning system for motor vehicles includes: - a compression device 7 comprising at least one inlet 7a and one outlet 7b, - a first heat exchanger 1 configured to operate as a condenser, - a second heat exchanger 2 configured to operate as an evaporator, - a third heat exchanger 3 configured to operate selectively as an evaporator or a condenser, - a fourth heat exchanger 4 configured to operate as an evaporator, - a refrigerant fluid distribution module 50 which will be described later. An output 2b of the second heat exchanger 2 is connected to the first input El of the distribution module 50, an output 3b of the third heat exchanger 3 is connected to the second input E2 of the distribution module 50, an output 4b of the fourth heat exchanger 4 is connected to the third input E3 of the distribution module 50, and the output S of the distribution module 50 is connected to the input 7a of the compression device 7.

[0082] In a first embodiment of the thermal conditioning system 100, illustrated in FIG. 1, the first heat exchanger 1 is configured to exchange heat with an interior air flow Fi to the passenger compartment of the vehicle.

[0083] The interior air flow Fi can thus be heated directly, that is to say that the condensation heat of the refrigerant is transferred directly to the interior air flow Fi when the latter passes through the first exchanger 1. The first heat exchanger 1 is arranged in the heating, ventilation and air conditioning system of the vehicle, not shown in the figures.

[0084] In the illustrated example, the second heat exchanger 2 is configured to exchange heat with an interior air flow Fi in the passenger compartment of the vehicle. The second heat exchanger 2 is also arranged in the heating, ventilation and air conditioning system of the vehicle. The second exchanger 2 makes it possible to cool the interior air flow Fi in order to regulate the temperature of the passenger compartment. The second exchanger 2 is arranged downstream of the first exchanger 1 in a flow direction of the interior air flow in the heating, ventilation and air conditioning system of the vehicle.

[0085] The third heat exchanger 3 is configured to exchange heat with an outside air flow Fe to the passenger compartment of the vehicle. The third exchanger 3 can selectively, depending on the operating modes of the thermal conditioning system 100, dissipate heat in the outside air flow Fe, when the third exchanger 3 operates as a condenser, or absorb heat from the outside air flow Fe, when the third exchanger 3 operates as an evaporator. The third exchanger 3 can for example be arranged in the front face of the vehicle, and receives the air flow generated by the forward speed of the vehicle.

[0086] The fourth heat exchanger 4 is configured to be thermally coupled to an element 6 of an electric powertrain of the vehicle. The element 6 of the electric powertrain may comprise an electrical energy storage battery. The fourth exchanger 4 makes it possible to absorb heat from the element 6. The thermal coupling may be carried out by a heat transfer fluid circulating in a circuit 30. The heat transfer fluid of the circuit 30 may for example be a mixture of water and glycol. The heat transfer fluid exchanges heat with the refrigerant fluid at the fourth exchanger 4, and exchanges heat with the element 6 of the powertrain.

[0087] Element 6 of the electric traction chain may comprise an electronic module for controlling an electric traction motor of the vehicle. Element 6 of the electric powertrain may also include an electric motor for vehicle traction.

[0088] In a second embodiment, illustrated in FIG. 2, the first heat exchanger 1 is configured to exchange heat with a heat transfer liquid of a heat transfer liquid circuit 20, the heat transfer liquid circuit 20 comprising a fifth heat exchanger 5 configured to exchange heat with an interior air flow Fi in the passenger compartment of the vehicle.

[0089] In this embodiment, the interior airflow Fi is heated indirectly, since the heat of condensation from the refrigerant is first transferred to the heat transfer fluid in circuit 20, and then the heat from the heat transfer fluid is transferred to the interior airflow Fi at the fifth heat exchanger 5. The heat transfer fluid circuit 20 includes a pump 28 capable of circulating the heat transfer fluid within the circuit 20. The fifth heat exchanger 5 is located in the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system downstream of the second heat exchanger 2, in the direction of the interior airflow Fi. The role of the other heat exchangers is the same as in the first embodiment. The heat transfer fluid circuit 20 for passenger compartment heating and the fluid circuit 30 for thermal coupling with the transmission element 6 are separate, i.e., they do not communicate.

[0090] More specifically, the thermal conditioning system 100 comprises a refrigerant circuit 10 comprising: — a main refrigerant circulation loop A, the main loop A comprising successively, according to a direction of refrigerant circulation: — the compression device 7, — the first heat exchanger 1, — a first de-escalation device 31, — the second heat exchanger 2, — a first bypass branch B fluidically connecting a first connection point 21 arranged on the main loop A downstream of the first exchanger 1 and upstream of the first expansion device 31 to a second connection point 22 arranged on the main loop A downstream of the second heat exchanger 2 and upstream of the compression device 7, the first bypass branch B comprising a second expansion device 32 arranged upstream of the third heat exchanger 3, — a second branch of derivation C fluidly connecting a third point of connection 23 arranged on the main loop A downstream of the first exchanger 1 and upstream of the first connection point 21 to a fourth connection point 24 arranged on the main loop A downstream of the second connection point 22 and upstream of the compression device 7, the second bypass branch C comprising a third expansion device 33 arranged upstream of the fourth heat exchanger 4.

[0091] The main refrigerant circulation loop A comprises an accumulation device 9 arranged downstream of the first heat exchanger 1 and upstream of the third connection point 23. In other words, the accumulation device 9 is arranged on the main loop A between the outlet of the first exchanger 1 and the third connection point 23. The fourth connection point 24 is arranged on the main loop A between the second connection point 22 and the inlet 7a of the compression device 7.

[0092] The distribution module 50 comprises a portion of the main loop A, the first branch branch B, and the second branch branch C.

[0093] The low pressure refrigerant distribution module 50 comprises: - a first channel 11 for circulating refrigerant fluid, connecting a first inlet El and an outlet S, - a second channel 12 connecting a second input E2 and a first connection zone Cl arranged on the first channel 11 between the first input El and the output S, - a third channel 13 connecting a third inlet E3 and a second connection zone C2 arranged on the first channel 11 between the first connection zone Cl and the outlet S. The first channel 11 comprises a one-way valve 17 arranged between the first connection zone Cl and the second connection zone C2. The one-way valve 17 is configured to allow a circulation of refrigerant fluid from the first connection zone C1 to the second connection zone C2. The one-way valve 17 is also configured to prohibit a circulation of refrigerant fluid from the second connection zone C2 to the first connection zone CL.

[0094] The distribution module 50 allows the various low-pressure refrigerant gas flows to be grouped together in order to pass them towards the inlet 7a of the compression device 7. The same module can be used for multiple configurations, which allows standardization. In addition, the geometry of the distribution module can be optimized in order to reduce pressure losses, and thus improve the thermodynamic performance of the thermal conditioning system on which the distribution module is integrated.

[0095] Each channel 11, 12, 13 of the refrigerant distribution module 50 is a refrigerant circulation channel. Each channel 11, 12, 13 is generally tubular in shape. The refrigerant circulating in the distribution module 50 is in contact with the surface of the different channels 11, 12, 13. Each channel 11, 12, 13 has exactly one refrigerant inlet and one refrigerant outlet. In other words, a channel is not branched. Circuit portions arranged in parallel are formed by at least two separate channels.

[0096] Each connection zone Cl, C2 establishes fluid communication between two channels that join at that connection zone. A connection zone is defined by the intersection of two channels. It is referred to as a connection zone, not a connection point, because fluid flow channels are physically volumetric elements. Each connection zone forms a branch from one channel to another.

[0097] The refrigerant fluid circulating in the distribution module 50 is a low-pressure refrigerant fluid. By “low pressure” is meant that the refrigerant fluid delivered by the compressor 7 has undergone expansion in an expansion device before reaching the distribution module 50. The pressure of the refrigerant fluid at the inlets E1, E2, E3 is for example less than 5 Bar.

[0098] The first refrigerant circulation channel 11, the second refrigerant circulation channel 12 and the third refrigerant circulation channel 13 are formed by an internal recess of a body 15 of the module 50. Each channel 11, 12, 13 is formed by an internal recess of the body 15 of the module 50. Each channel 11, 12, 13 is entirely contained inside the refrigerant distribution module 50.

[0099] The number of hoses and fittings required to ensure the circulation of the refrigerant fluid is reduced, since the connections between channels and the channels themselves are ensured directly by the body of the distribution module.

[0100] Figure 3 and Figure 4 are perspective views of an exemplary embodiment of a refrigerant distribution module 50. The viewing angle differs between Figure 3 and Figure 4.

[0101] The body 15 of the module 50 comprises a set of flat external surfaces. The fixing of brackets for holding the tubes or hoses bringing the refrigerant fluid to the inlets of the module, or for returning the refrigerant fluid from the module, is thus facilitated.

[0102] In the example shown, the body 15 of the module 50 is of substantially parallelepipedal shape. The module is thus compact, which facilitates its integration.

[0103] The module 50 comprises three refrigerant fluid inlets E1, E2, E3 and a single refrigerant fluid outlet S. The first inlet E1 is arranged on a flat face 41 of the body 15 of the module 50. The second inlet E2 is arranged on a flat face 42 of the body 15 of the module 50. The third inlet E3 is arranged on a flat face 43 of the body 15 of the module 50. The outlet S is arranged on a flat face of the body 15 of the module 50. The first inlet E1 and the outlet S are arranged on the same flat face 41 of the body 15 of the module 50.

[0104] Figure 5 and Figure 6 are sectional views of the distribution module 50, in which the refrigerant circulation channels are visible.

[0105] The second channel 12 is rectilinear. The third channel 13 is rectilinear. The first channel 11 comprises a succession of rectilinear portions. Each channel can thus be obtained by drilling, which allows inexpensive manufacturing of the module.

[0106] The first channel 11 comprises a first portion 11-1 extending between the first input El and the first connection zone CL. The first portion 11-1 of the first channel 11 and the second channel 12 extend along intersecting axes. In the example shown, the first portion 11-1 of the first channel 11 and the second channel 12 extend along perpendicular axes. In Figure 5, the symbol DI 1-1 illustrates the axis of the first portion 11-1 of the first channel 11, and the symbol D12 illustrates the axis of the second channel 12.

[0107] The first channel 11 includes a second portion 11-2 extending between the first connection zone Cl and the one-way valve 17. The second portion 11-2 of the first channel 11 and the first portion 11-1 of the first channel 11 extend along perpendicular axes. The second portion 11-2 of the first channel 11 and the second channel 12 are coaxial. The axis of the second portion 11-2 is indicated by the symbol DI 1-2.

[0108] The one-way valve 17 is arranged in a housing 14 opening onto a face 44 of the body 15 of the distribution module 50. The refrigerant distribution module thus integrates a one-way valve, such as a non-return valve, in a simple manner.

[0109] As shown in Figure 5, the housing 14 of the one-way valve 17 and the second inlet E2 are arranged on opposite faces 44, 42 of the module body 15 distribution 50. The different components of the module are thus distributed around the external surface of the module.

[0110] The one-way valve 17 comprises a flat portion 18 flush with a face 44 of the distribution module 50. The one-way valve 17 also comprises a stud 19 projecting from the flat portion 18. The stud 19 allows the one-way valve 17 to be gripped and allows the one-way valve 17 to be extracted from its housing, in the event of possible disassembly.

[0111] The housing 14 of the one-way valve 17 is cylindrical. The housing 14 of the one-way valve 17 extends along an axis D14 coaxial with the axis D12 of the second circulation channel 12. The housing 14 of the one-way valve 17, the second channel 12 and a part of the first channel 11 can thus be produced by drilling along the same axis, which facilitates the production of the module.

[0112] The first channel 11 comprises a third portion 11-3 extending between the one-way valve 17 and the second connection zone C2. The third portion 11-3 of the first channel 11 and the third channel 13 extend along perpendicular axes.

[0113] The second channel 12 and the third channel 13 extend along perpendicular axes. The axis of the third channel 13 is illustrated by the sign D13 in Figures 5 and 6.

[0114] The first portion 11-1 of the first channel 11, the second channel 12 and the third channel 13 extend along axes perpendicular to each other in pairs.

[0115] The first channel 11 comprises a fourth portion 11-4 extending between the second connection zone C2 and the output S; the fourth portion 11-4 of the first channel 11 and the third portion 11-3 of the first channel 11 are coaxial. In Figure 5, the sign DI 1-4 illustrates the axis of the fourth portion 11-4 of the first channel 11.

[0116] As detailed in Figure 5, the first portion 11-1 of the first channel 11 and the third portion 11-3 of the first channel 11 extend along parallel axes. These parallel axes are illustrated by the symbols DI 1-1 and DI 1-4.

[0117] The body 15 of the distribution module 50 is formed here from an assembly of metal blocks. The body of the distribution module is thus robust, inexpensive, and offers good sealing.

[0118] Metal blocks can be cast. Metal blocks can also be extruded. Metal blocks are made of aluminum, for example.

[0119] The body 15 of the distribution module 50 can be a single piece.

[0120] The distribution module 50 comprises a flange 49 for fixing the module to a support.

[0121] The distribution module 50 comprises a first device 45 for holding a first refrigerant fluid inlet tube in the first inlet EL. The distribution module 50 also comprises a second device 46 for holding a second refrigerant fluid outlet tube from the outlet S.

[0122] Likewise, the distribution module 50 comprises a third device for holding a third refrigerant fluid inlet tube in the third inlet E3, not shown in the figures.

[0123] In the example shown in Figures 3 and 4, each holding device 45, 46 comprises a stud and a nut. According to a variant not shown, each holding device may comprise a threaded orifice and a fixing screw.

[0124] In a second embodiment of the thermal conditioning system 100, illustrated in Figure 2, the first branch B comprises an internal heat exchanger 25. The internal heat exchanger 25 has a first heat exchange section 25a located upstream of the second expansion device 32 and a second heat exchange section 25b located downstream of the third heat exchanger 3. The internal heat exchanger 25 is configured to allow heat exchange between the refrigerant in the first heat exchange section 25a and the refrigerant in the second heat exchange section 25b. The internal heat exchanger 25 improves the performance of the thermal conditioning system 100.

[0125] Figure 7 illustrates the operation of the thermal conditioning system 100 in a mode of operation known as energy recovery from the traction chain. In this figure, the portions of the circuit 10 in which the refrigerant circulates are shown in solid lines. The thick solid lines correspond to the high-pressure refrigerant and the thin solid lines correspond to the low-pressure refrigerant. The portions in which the refrigerant does not circulate are shown in dotted lines.

[0126] In this operating mode, a flow Q of refrigerant fluid, shown diagrammatically by the thick line arrow, circulates in the compression device 7 where it passes at high pressure, and circulates successively in the first heat exchanger 1 where it condenses, providing heat to the interior air flow Fi, then in the accumulation device 9. At the third connection point 23, the refrigerant fluid is directed into the second bypass branch C, because the first expansion valve 31 and the second expansion valve 32 are in the closed position and block the circulation of refrigerant fluid. The refrigerant fluid circulating in the second bypass branch C circulates in the first expansion device 31 where it undergoes expansion and passes to low pressure, then in the fourth exchanger 4 where it receives heat from the element 6 of the traction chain, and enters the distribution module 50 through the third inlet E3 and joins the second connection zone C2.

[0127] The one-way valve 17 prevents a circulation of refrigerant from the second connection zone C2 to the first connection zone Cl, that is to say from the fourth connection point 24 to the second connection point 22. Thus, a migration of the refrigerant towards the third exchanger 3 and the second exchanger 2 is avoided. Indeed, when the temperature of the indoor air flow Fi and the outdoor air flow Fe is lower than the saturation temperature of the refrigerant, the refrigerant contained in each of the second and third exchangers can occur. In the absence of a one-way valve, a progressive migration of the refrigerant towards the second and third exchangers could occur, which would reduce the exchange capacities of the thermal conditioning system.The presence of the one-way valve allows the thermal conditioning system to operate in this operating mode in which only the fourth heat exchanger 4 is active, the second and third exchangers then being inactive.

[0128] The distribution module described can also be implemented in thermal conditioning systems in which the role of the first exchanger 1, the second exchanger 2 and the third exchanger 3 is different.

Claims

Claims

1. Low pressure refrigerant fluid distribution module (50), comprising: - a first channel (11) for circulating refrigerant fluid, connecting a first inlet (El) and an outlet (S), - a second channel (12) connecting a second input (E2) and a first connection zone (Cl) arranged on the first channel (11) between the first input (El) and the output (S), - a third channel (13) connecting a third inlet (E3) and a second connection zone (C2) arranged on the first channel (11) between the first connection zone (Cl) and the outlet (S), the first channel (11) comprising a one-way valve (17) arranged between the first connection zone (Cl) and the second connection zone (C2), the one-way valve (17) being configured to allow circulation of refrigerant fluid from the first connection zone (Cl) to the second connection zone (C2), the one-way valve (17) also being configured to prohibit circulation of refrigerant fluid from the second connection zone (C2) to the first connection zone (Cl).

2. A refrigerant fluid distribution module (50) according to claim 1, wherein the first refrigerant fluid circulation channel (11), the second refrigerant fluid circulation channel (12) and the third refrigerant fluid circulation channel (13) are formed by an internal recess of a body (15) of the module (50).

3. Refrigerant fluid distribution module (50) according to the preceding claim, in which the body (15) of the module (50) comprises a set of flat exterior surfaces.

4. Refrigerant fluid distribution module (50) according to claim 2 or 3, in which the body (15) of the module (50) is of substantially parallelepipedal shape.

5. Refrigerant fluid distribution module (50) according to one of claims 2 to 4, in which the first inlet (El) and the outlet (S) are arranged on the same flat face of the body (15) of the module (50).

6. Refrigerant fluid distribution module (50) according to one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the one-way valve (17) is arranged in a housing (14) opening onto one face of the body (15) of the distribution module (50).

7. Refrigerant fluid distribution module (50) according to the preceding claim, wherein the housing (14) of the one-way valve (17) and the second inlet (E2) are arranged on opposite faces of the body (15) of the distribution module (50).

8. Refrigerant fluid distribution module (50) according to one of claims 2 to 7, in which the body (15) of the distribution module (50) is formed from an assembly of metal blocks.

9. Thermal conditioning system (100) for a motor vehicle, comprising: - a compression device (7) comprising at least one inlet (7a) and one outlet (7b), - a first heat exchanger (1) configured to operate as a condenser, - a second heat exchanger (2) configured to operate as an evaporator, - a third heat exchanger (3) configured to operate selectively as an evaporator or a condenser, - a fourth heat exchanger (4) configured to operate as an evaporator, - a refrigerant fluid distribution module (50) according to one of the preceding claims, in which an outlet (2b) of the second heat exchanger (2) is connected to the first inlet (El) of the distribution module (50), an outlet (3b) of the third heat exchanger (3) is connected to the second inlet (E2) of the distribution module (50), an outlet (4b) of the fourth heat exchanger (4) is connected to the third inlet (E3) of the distribution module (50), and in which the outlet (S) of the distribution module (50) is connected to the inlet (7a) of the compression device (7).

10. Thermal conditioning system (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein the first heat exchanger (1) is configured to exchange heat with an interior air flow (Fi) in the passenger compartment of the vehicle. and in which: - the second heat exchanger (2) is configured to exchange heat with an interior air flow (Fi) in the passenger compartment of the vehicle, - the third heat exchanger (3) is configured to exchange heat with an outside air flow (Fe) to the passenger compartment of the vehicle, and - the fourth heat exchanger (4) is configured to be thermally coupled to an element (6) of an electric powertrain of a vehicle.

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