Thermal management module

Abstract

The invention relates to a rotary drive device for a distributor (D) provided with an output shaft (29), said drive device comprising: - a drive element (18), in rotation about an axis of rotation (AA', 19) aligned with the output shaft (29); - an actuator (S, 16) with linear movement along an axis (BB') different from the axis of rotation (AA', 19); - means (140, 142) for coupling between the actuator (S, 16) with linear movement and the drive element (18) for actuating the drive element (18) in the direction of the output shaft (29) of the distributor body; - means (127, 129) for engaging the axis of rotation (AA', 19) and the output shaft (29).

Description

[0001] DESCRIPTION

[0002] Title: THERMAL MANAGEMENT MODULE

[0003] TECHNICAL FIELD AND PRIOR ART

[0004] The invention relates to the field of managing one or more fluids, for example water and / or oil, in communicating or independent thermal management systems, for example used to heat or cool subsystems in an electrified or non-electrified motor vehicle, such as electrochemical storage systems, motor(s), converters, etc.

[0005] Currently, the control of the flow of fluid such as water in a vehicle cooling circuit can be achieved by:

[0006] - A set of motorized actuators and On / Off valves;

[0007] - or multi-input - multi-output valves;

[0008] - or independent regulation modules with one or more actuators.

[0009] These systems must be connected to each other most of the time by pipes which can be expensive and heavy. These systems require management of the fluid(s) by zone with often complex control.

[0010] The problem therefore arises of finding a simpler system or device for driving a rotating member or for controlling such a device or a system which contains it, whether for example it is an application to a cooling circuit or to another fluid circuit(s) (or hydraulic circuit).

[0011] There is also the problem of finding a device or system for managing or controlling the distribution of one or more fluids in a fluid circuit, simpler than known systems, and which can be applied to different types of fluids (glycol water, oil, dielectric fluid, hydrogen, air).

[0012] There is also the problem of finding a new device for distributing one or more fluids, capable of being integrated into a distribution system, and which can be applied to different types of fluids (glycol water, oil, dielectric fluid, hydrogen, air)

[0013] The problem also arises of finding a new rotary device for driving a rotary member, for example for a rotary distributor for the distribution of one or more fluids and / or for a toothed wheel of a gear, for example in a system for distributing one or more fluids. Such a rotary drive device preferably comprises a clutch and disengagement mechanism, for example for driving this rotary distributor.

[0014] Another problem is the size of a module for managing one or more fluids. Such a system is often bulky: in some designs, the available height above the fluid distributor itself may be limited. We are therefore looking for another, less bulky system.

[0015] STATEMENT OF THE INVENTION

[0016] The invention firstly relates to a rotary drive device for a rotary member, said drive device comprising:

[0017] - a drive element, for example a toothed wheel, rotating around an axis of rotation or extended by an axis around which it is rotating;

[0018] - an actuator with linear motion along an axis, which may be different from said axis of rotation, for actuating said drive element towards or along the axis of rotation;

[0019] - means for engaging the rotation axis (or the drive element), for example of the type comprising a tooth and groove coupling device (or era bot).

[0020] The rotation axis will be aligned with an output axis of said rotary member when the rotary drive device and the rotary member are combined, the rotary member also comprising means for engaging its output axis, for example of the type comprising a tooth and groove coupling device (or dog clutch). The invention also relates to a rotary drive device for a rotary member provided with an output axis, said drive device comprising:

[0021] - a drive element, for example a toothed wheel, rotating about an axis of rotation or extended by an axis about which it is rotating aligned with the output axis of said rotary member; - an actuator with linear movement along an axis, which may be different from said axis of rotation, for actuating said drive element in the direction of the output axis of the distributor body;

[0022] - means for engaging the rotation shaft (or the drive element) and the output shaft, for example of the type comprising a tooth and groove coupling device (or dog clutch).

[0023] The invention also relates to a rotary drive device, for example for a rotary member provided with an output shaft, said drive device comprising:

[0024] - a drive element, for example a toothed wheel, rotating around an axis of rotation or extended by an axis around which it is rotating, this axis being for example aligned with an output axis of one or said rotating member;

[0025] - an actuator with linear motion along an axis, which may be different from said axis of rotation, for actuating said drive element linearly along said axis of rotation and / or in the direction of the output axis of the distributor body;

[0026] - means for engaging the rotation shaft (or the drive element), and possibly the output shaft, for example of the type comprising a tooth and groove coupling device (or dog clutch).

[0027] The clutch means of the rotary drive device and / or the output shaft may comprise teeth which may or may not be integrated or integral with the drive element and / or the output shaft. The top of each tooth may be flat or have a relief. The side faces of each tooth preferably have a relief, thus facilitating decoupling.

[0028] More generally, the clutch means of the rotation shaft and / or the output shaft may comprise a coupling device by teeth and grooves or a coupling device by key(s).

[0029] Coupling means may be provided between the linear motion actuator and the drive element, to actuate the latter or the end of the axis of rotation thereof, for example in the direction of the output shaft of the rotary member. This is the case, for example, if the actuator has linear motion along an axis different from said axis of rotation, for example along an axis parallel to the axis of rotation and distant from it by a non-zero distance d.

[0030] The coupling means may comprise a lever pivoting about a pivot, this lever connecting the actuator and the drive element. Such a lever may have arms of equal length, or arms of different lengths, on either side of the pivot.

[0031] Such a device according to the invention may further comprise return means for maintaining the clutch means of the rotation shaft and the output shaft in the disengaged position; for example, said actuator and said drive element compress these return means to engage the rotation shaft and the output shaft. These return means may be arranged at least partly in a compartment, one end of which is provided with a part of the clutch means.

[0032] Said linear motion actuator is for example:

[0033] - of the electromagnetic actuator type, comprising a coil and a plunger which interacts with the field generated by the coil when a current flows through it, for example to compress the return means;

[0034] - or pneumatic or hydraulic type.

[0035] A device according to the invention may further comprise means for guiding the drive element, to guide it in translation along the axis of rotation. Said means for guiding this drive element comprise, for example, a centering support which guides an inner surface of this element; for example, if this element comprises a toothed wheel, this support guides an inner surface of the wall of the wheel which is provided with teeth.

[0036] Alternatively, the output shaft of the rotary member may be extended by a guide shaft to penetrate into said drive element.

[0037] In a rotary drive device according to the invention:

[0038] - the drive element may comprise a toothed wheel, the device further comprising means for driving this wheel, forming therewith a gear with a vertical axis;

[0039] - and / or braking means for braking the member or the toothed wheel when it is disengaged. In an example of a device according to the invention, the rotating member comprises a toothed wheel.

[0040] The invention also relates to a distributor comprising a rotating distributor body, comprising at least one inlet and at least one outlet, the sum of the number of inlets and the number of outlets being for example greater than or equal to 3, an outlet axis, around which the distributor can be rotated, and a rotating drive device according to the invention.

[0041] This type of distributor can distribute one or more fluids in a plane, perpendicular to the axis of rotation of a rotary drive device according to the invention, that is to say that the fluid(s) thus distributed exit the distributor with a flow direction which is in this plane perpendicular to this axis of rotation. Similarly, the fluid to be distributed enters the distributor with a flow direction which is in this same plane perpendicular to this axis of rotation.

[0042] For example, the inlet, respectively the inlets, and the outlets, respectively the outlet, for example one inlet and 2 outlets, direct the fluid(s) in a flow direction which is perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the rotary drive device.

[0043] The invention also relates to a system for controlling the flow of at least one fluid in a hydraulic circuit, comprising:

[0044] - a motor, for example a brushless motor or a stepper motor;

[0045] - a plurality of distributors (Di-Dd) of said fluid, including at least one distributor as described above or in the remainder of the present application, at least one distributor comprising a rotary drive device according to the invention.

[0046] Such a system may further comprise a plurality of gear trains, each train ensuring the transmission of the movement of the engine to one of said distributors, each gear train comprising means for directly engaging or disengaging the associated distributor or a gear of this train, these means for engaging or disengaging a gear of this train, or the associated rotary distributor, comprising at least one device according to the invention. Such a system is simpler than known systems since the same engine can actuate different distributors.

[0047] Each gear train can include:

[0048] - a first gear stage (Ei.i - Ei.d), each gear of which is driven by said motor;

[0049] - a second gear stage (E2.1 - Ez.d), each gear of which is driven by the first stage.

[0050] For example :

[0051] - in the first gear stage (E1.1 - Ei.d), each gear of this first stage can be driven by said motor and be associated with a disengageable shaft (A1.1 - Ai.d) and / or with disengaging means;

[0052] - a second gear stage (E2.1 - Ez.d), each gear of which is driven by a gear, or a shaft associated with a gear, of the first gear stage.

[0053] A system according to the invention makes it possible to direct the flow of a fluid, for example water, via d distributors independently controlled by the same motor. For example, this fluid comes from p pumps and is distributed using m inputs (the sum of the number of inputs of all the distributors) and n outputs (the sum of the number of outputs of all the distributors in the system).

[0054] According to particular embodiments:

[0055] -each distributor (Di) can have n ei inputs and n Si exits;

[0056] - and / or each distributor (Di) may include or be associated with a position sensor (Ci- C d ) ;

[0057] - and / or the system may include electronic means for controlling the engine; in even more specific embodiments, these electronic means are capable of:

[0058] * to control the motor according to a signal or signals from one or more of said position sensors (Ci-Cd).

[0059] * and / or to:

[0060] - receive an operating mode instruction;

[0061] - determine a target movement for each of the distributors;

[0062] - control the engine according to the target displacement of each distributor. According to other particular embodiments, each shaft:

[0063] -is associated with a solenoid to engage or disengage it;

[0064] - and / or can be held in the rest position by a compression spring (Ri,...Rd). A system for distributing one or more fluids according to the invention, in a fluid circuit, may comprise:

[0065] - at least one pump;

[0066] - a system for controlling the distribution of said fluid according to the invention, as defined above or in the present application.

[0067] Such a distribution system may, for example, include one or more systems enabling an exchange of thermal energy.

[0068] The invention also relates to a vehicle comprising:

[0069] - a thermal or electric engine, which may for example include at least one electrochemical storage system and a converter;

[0070] - at least one fluid circuit and at least one distribution system, according to the invention, of a fluid in this fluid circuit, as defined above or in the present application.

[0071] The invention also relates to a method for controlling the distribution of at least one fluid in a fluid or hydraulic circuit, implementing a system according to the invention, as described above or in the present application, and / or in a vehicle according to the invention, as described above or in the present application.

[0072] Preferably, such a method comprises:

[0073] - the determination and / or selection of one or more distributors to be operated;

[0074] - the actuation of said distributor(s) using the motor and the means for engaging this or these distributor(s).

[0075] Such a method may further comprise selecting or determining a direction and / or an angle of rotation of one or more distributors to be actuated and actuating said rotary distributor(s) in this direction and / or this angle of rotation.

[0076] An instruction or control signal may be previously received, defining a mode of operation, or a combination of valve positions to be achieved to dispense fluid as desired or defined by the instruction or signal.

[0077] The position of one or more distributors can be known by a measurement, for example by one or more position sensors associated with one or more distributors. According to one embodiment, the fluid(s) can be water, but other fluids can be involved, for example oil, dielectric fluids, or a mixture comprising glycol or a gas, for example air or hydrogen.

[0078] In a device or method according to the invention, the hydraulic circuit or the fluid circuit may be, for example, a circuit allowing thermal management or a circuit for distributing a fluid in a circuit allowing such thermal management (heating or cooling) or a circuit for distributing oil, dielectric fluid or hydrogen or air of a vehicle or a device, for example of the domestic type such as a heat pump.

[0079] Preferably, in a device or method according to the invention:

[0080] - when the actuator is activated, the drive element, or rotational axis, is engaged with the output axis or shaft;

[0081] - when the actuator is deactivated, the drive element, or rotation axis, is disengaged from the output axis or shaft.

[0082] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0083] [FIG 1] represents an exemplary embodiment of a system to which a rotary drive device according to the invention can be applied;

[0084] [FIG 2] shows an example of the embodiment of a gear train in combination with a motor.

[0085] [FIG 3A], [FIG 3B] and [FIG 3C] represent an example of a rotary distributor which can be implemented in a system according to the invention;

[0086] [FIG 4] represents an exemplary embodiment of a drive device according to the invention, or at least certain aspects of which can be used in combination with a drive device according to the invention and / or for or with a rotary distributor according to the invention.

[0087] [FIG 5A], [FIG 5B], [FIG 5C] and [FIG 5D] represent another exemplary embodiment of a drive device according to the invention or at least certain aspects of which can be used in combination with a drive device according to the invention and / or for or with a rotary distributor according to the invention.

[0088] [FIG 6] shows an exploded view of a clutch and disengage mechanism of a drive device according to the invention, or at least certain aspects of which can be used in combination with a drive device according to the invention and / or for or with a rotary distributor according to the invention.

[0089] [FIG 7A] and [FIG 7B] show another exemplary embodiment of a drive device according to the invention, or, at least certain aspects of which can be used in combination with a drive device according to the invention for a rotary distributor and / or for or with a rotary distributor according to the invention.

[0090] [FIG 8A] and [FIG 8B] represent another example of embodiment of a drive device according to the invention for a rotary distributor.

[0091] [FIG 9] represents a particular aspect of a clutch and disengagement mechanism of a drive device according to the invention.

[0092] [FIG 10] represents a clutch and disengagement system using keys.

[0093] [FIG 11A], [FIG 11B] and [FIG 11C] show another embodiment of a dog clutch that can be used in the context of the invention.

[0094] [FIG 12] represents a fluid supply system comprising a plurality of clutch and disengage mechanisms of a drive device according to the invention.

[0095] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS

[0096] Figure 1 shows an exemplary embodiment of a hydraulic system or circuit for distributing fluid(s), a rotary drive device according to the invention being able to be applied to a rotary distributor and / or to one or more gears of such a system. In this example, the hydraulic circuit comprises 2 pumps PI and P2, each distributing a fluid F1, F2, but a different number of pump(s) and fluid(s) is / are within the scope of the present application. The fluid is / are distributed by rotary distributors Di, for example of the type according to the invention and / or as described below.

[0097] Figures 3A-3C are described below and represent an example of a rotary distributor Di that can be used in the context of the present invention. Figure 4 and Figures 5A-5C, described below, represent examples of novel drive means according to the invention, including a clutch and disengage mechanism, for driving a rotary distributor, for example such as that of Figures 3A-3C.

[0098] A system for controlling the distribution of fluids in the hydraulic circuit illustrated in figure 1 comprises a motor 10, preferably brushless (or “Brushless” motor), which drives a central output shaft 14 coupled simultaneously to d gear trains (d>2).

[0099] In Figure 1, the shaft 14 is shown associated with different gear trains, but these are in fact arranged around the shaft 14 (as in the example of Figure 2 for a gear train). Electronic control means 12, for example produced in the form of a printed circuit ("PCB"), control this motor 10. The gears of the different trains are preferably straight gears, with parallel axes.

[0100] Each gear train in this example comprises a first gear (Ei.i... Ei.d) of a first gear stage.

[0101] Each of these gears Ei.i... Ei.d for example drives in rotation a shaft Ai... Ai which can be engaged / disengaged independently of the others, using an actuator, for example of the electromagnetic (solenoid) or pneumatic or hydraulic type. In Figure 1, electromagnetic actuators (or solenoids) Si,...Sd are schematically represented, but other types of actuators are possible (hydraulic, pneumatic). Each disengageable shaft can be held in the rest position for example by a compression spring Ri,...Rd. Each actuator can be controlled by the electronic control means 12. Figure 4 is described below and represents a clutch and disengagement mechanism according to the invention for a rotary distributor Di. This mechanism here comprises an actuator of the electromagnetic type, comprising a solenoid Si, but, here too, other types of actuators are possible (hydraulic, pneumatic).

[0102] In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 1, the system comprises a second stage of d gears (E2.1... E?.d). Each of these second-stage gears can be connected to a disengageable shaft and drives a rotary distributor Di... Dd. These d rotary distributors are therefore driven independently of each other.

[0103] It may be noted that the actuator may be associated with any of the toothed wheels or shafts of each gear train; in Figure 1 it is the wheel immediately preceding the distributor, but in Figure 4 it is the wheel associated with the distributor itself. Any toothed wheel of each gear train may be associated with the clutch and disengagement means, thereby disengaging or engaging the corresponding distributor.

[0104] Each of the distributors can be associated with a position sensor Ci-Cd which makes it possible, preferably at any time, to know the position of the distributor with which it is associated. A position signal is sent to the means 12.

[0105] Each rotary distributor Di has n ei entries (n ei >1) and n Si outputs (nsi >1), a single-input distributor (n ei = 1) with several outputs (n Si >2) and a single-outlet distributor (n Si = 1) with several entries (n ei>1). The outlets are connected to conduits that bring the fluid to a given application, for example a cooling circuit or a circuit that must be supplied with oil or air (for example an air conditioning circuit) or hydrogen (for example a fuel cell supply circuit). In the example of Figure 1, the distributor Di has one inlet and 2 outlets, the distributor D2 has 2 inlets and one outlet, the distributor Dd has 2 inlets and 3 outlets; any other combination of inlets / outlets can be made. In Figure 1, the outlets of the distributors are directed to other components of the hydraulic system; but, alternatively (not shown), one or more outlets of one or more distributors are directed to one or more inlets of another or several other distributors.An example of a rotary distributor that can be implemented within the framework of the present invention is described in the application filed under number FR-202101137; its structure is recalled in figures 3A-3C, see the explanations below.

[0106] The fluid distribution system also includes a number p (p >1) of pump(s), connected to the different distributors according to an architecture which is specific to the fluid distribution system considered.

[0107] Each of the actuators Si,...Sd can be controlled by the means 12 according to the position of the different distributors; this position can be known thanks to the signal received by these means 12 from the corresponding position sensor.

[0108] In operation, the means 12 receive an operating mode instruction 26 from the vehicle, each operating mode is defined by the engaged or disengaged state of each distributor and by the opening and closing positions of all the inputs and all the outputs of the selected (or engaged) distributors. When all the distributors have the same number x of possible positions, the total number of modes is equal to x l . The data relating to each operating mode can be stored in storage means associated with the means 12 and the position of each distributor can be known by the sensors Ci. The selection of an operating mode therefore defines an engaged or disengaged state of each distributor and a position for each engaged distributor. Optionally, the storage means can store (or the means 12 can calculate):

[0109] - in which direction and with which angular displacement each selected distributor can be actuated to make it evolve from a state defined by a certain combination of its inputs / outputs to another state defined by another combination of its inputs / outputs;

[0110] - and / or the order in which the selected distributors are to be engaged; all may be engaged simultaneously or sequentially (and in a certain order) or a part of these distributors may be engaged simultaneously, the other part being engaged sequentially (again in a certain order). When one or more distributors must be driven in a direction opposite to the direction in which this or these distributors were previously driven, then the direction of rotation of the motor 10 is reversed. The distributors whose direction of rotation is not reversed are disengaged. When one or more distributors must be driven in a direction opposite to the direction in which one or more other distributors must be driven, then the latter are disengaged.

[0111] Depending on the operating mode selected, these means 12 can actuate the clutch or disengage means of the selected distributor(s), and actuate this or these distributors by determining, for example, the direction and angular displacement of each of the distributors concerned, as well as the order or sequence of activation (sequential or simultaneous as described above).

[0112] The motor 10 is then powered, and depending on the determined sequence and the position of each of the d distributors, the axes are engaged (or not) sequentially or simultaneously until each of the d distributors has reached the desired position.

[0113] This system therefore makes it possible to replace a product composed of several valves controlled by as many “Brushless” actuators with a set of hydraulic distributors controlled by a single motor 10, for example brushless or stepper, and a clutch and disengagement mechanism associated with each of the distributors.

[0114] The means 12, produced for example in the form of a printed circuit, may comprise for example a processor or a microprocessor programmed to control the clutch / disclutch means of each distributor and the engine 10 according to a plurality of operating modes as defined above and / or to calculate the actuation of one or more of the distributors according to an operating mode selected by an operator or a vehicle.

[0115] Figure 2 represents an exemplary embodiment of a single gear train in combination with a motor 10. This figure shows the axis 14 of the motor, as well as the first stage Ei.i. Other gear trains identical or similar to that shown in Figure 2 can be arranged around the motor. All of these elements are held or fixed on a support 11. This support can for example be made of one or more separate parts mechanically connected by welding and / or by a mechanical system and / or be composed of one or more materials.

[0116] Figures 3A-3C show an example of a rotary distributor that can be implemented in a system according to the invention.

[0117] It has one input and two outputs, but it is understood that it can have one or more inputs and one or more outputs.

[0118] This distributor comprises a housing 200 or valve body, of essentially cylindrical shape of revolution around an axis X, and a central part 400, designated core, mounted in the housing 200 and capable of rotating in the housing 200.

[0119] In the example shown, the housing 200 comprises a bottom 60 and a substantially cylindrical side wall 80 in one piece, and a cover 100 for closing the housing. The cover 100 is for example secured to the housing 200 by welding, for example by ultrasonic welding.

[0120] The housing 200 comprises an orifice 180, called the supply orifice, formed in the side wall 80 and a supply conduit 220, for example welded onto the base of the orifice 180 and intended for connection to a source of fluid, for example a pump such as one of the pumps P1, P2 of FIG. 1. On either side of this inlet orifice 180, the housing 200 also comprises:

[0121] - a first outlet orifice 210 formed in the side wall 80, extending by a conduit 240 intended to bring the liquid to a given zone, for example a zone to be cooled;

[0122] - and a second 120 outlet orifice extended by a conduit 140, intended to bring the liquid to another given zone.

[0123] These outlets are intended to distribute a fluid when one or the other of them is positioned opposite the inlet of a distribution conduit. One or the other of these outlets is brought in front of this inlet of a distribution conduit by rotating the distributor around the axis XX' and the fluid then leaves the distributor with a direction in a plane perpendicular to the axis XX'. There may be several distribution conduits and several corresponding inlets of these conduits, all arranged in this plane perpendicular to the axis XX'. In other words, this type of distributor distributes one or more fluids in this plane, that is to say that the fluid or fluids thus distributed leave the distributor with a flow direction which is in this plane perpendicular to this axis XX'. Similarly, the fluid to be distributed enters the distributor with a flow direction which is in this same plane perpendicular to this axis XX'.

[0124] The conduits 140 and 240 are for example welded to the base of the orifices 210 and 120 respectively. The housing 200 defines a hydraulic chamber 260. The outlet orifices 120 and 210 are distributed angularly on the side wall around the axis X on either side of the supply orifice 180.

[0125] The core 400 is intended to be mounted in the hydraulic chamber and is capable of rotating around the axis X. It comprises two end faces 280, 300 and a lateral surface 320. It itself comprises at least one conduit which makes it possible to connect an inlet 201 and an outlet 203 (as understood from FIGS. 3B and 3C, the inlet 201, depending on the position of the core around the axis XX, can become the outlet, and vice versa for the outlet 203).

[0126] The end face 280 faces the bottom of the housing and the end face 300 faces the cover. The end face 300 comprises a hollow imprint 310 intended to receive the end of a shaft of an actuator, the shaft preferably aligned along the X axis. The cover 100 comprises an opening 330 facing the imprint 310 to allow coupling with the shaft. Alternatively, the end face 300 comprises a projecting coupling member intended to penetrate into a hollow imprint formed in the shaft of the actuator. A seal 340 is advantageously provided between the end face 300 and the cover bordering the imprint 310 to prevent fluid leaks.

[0127] The core 400 may also comprise a first seal 440 intended to close the outlet orifice 120, when they are opposite each other, and possibly a second seal 460, and intended to close the outlet orifice 210, when they are opposite each other. The first seal 440 and the second seal 460 are of identical or similar shape, as is their mounting on the core. As already explained above, this distributor makes it possible to carry out a distribution of fluid laterally, depending on the orientation, around the vertical axis XX', of the core of the distributor: the, or each of the, fluid(s) which is / are thus distributed, at the outlet of the distributor, has a flow direction in the plane perpendicular to the axis XX'. Thus, in FIG. 3B, in a l re position, the distributor brings the fluid towards the outlet 210; in figure 3C, in a 2 e position, after having rotated around the axis XX', the distributor brings the fluid towards the outlet 120.

[0128] Figure 4 represents a drive mechanism of a rotary distributor D, for example of the type described above in connection with figures 3A, 3B and 3C, provided with an output shaft or axis 29, and its actuator, here of the electromagnetic type; the latter comprises a solenoid S which, when actuated, actuates a plunger 16, along the axis XX' in the direction of the axis 29, a movement which will compress the spring R; the plunger has the magnetic properties to interact with the field generated when the solenoid is traversed by a current and thus be brought in the direction of the rotary distributor D. The plunger thus pushes an axis 19 secured to a toothed wheel 18, which then meshes with another wheel 20, mounted on a shaft A, itself actuated by the motor 10, or by drive means (this wheel itself forms part of a gear train) driven by the motor 10.The wheel 18 is extended in its central part by a compartment or a cylindrical wall T1, which comprises means (keys for example) which allow it to be coupled to the output shaft 29 of the distributor, while allowing a translation of the assembly comprising the wall T1, the wheel 18 and the axis 19, relative to the shaft 29. When the plunger has pushed the axis 19 towards the distributor D, the latter is engaged. When the action of the solenoid is released, the spring R pushes back the assembly 18-19-27 which then goes into disengagement. The device may further comprise a brake 22 which makes it possible to brake the distributor (the toothed wheel 18) when the latter is disengaged. The solenoid may be controlled by means such as the means 12 described above.Preferably, the set of actuating and driving means is arranged on a wall 150, for example of an actuator housing, of a distributor D which can be arranged below the housing, the shaft or axis 29 of this distributor passing through the wall of this housing. Such a rotary distributor D can be used in a system as described above in connection with figures 1 and 2, which can then be arranged on the wall 150.

[0129] Here, as can be seen in this figure, the output axis 29 of the distributor is aligned with the actuator or actuator means S, 16. There is therefore a vertical alignment of the distributor and the actuator or actuator means.

[0130] When the return spring pushes the means 18, 19 in the vertical direction (it pushes them back and therefore moves them away from the distributor), these means are decoupled from the distributor, but the body of the distributor itself remains in the same position.

[0131] In other words, the actuating means S, 16 are located in the axis XX' of the distributor and can be coupled to, or decoupled from, the latter without modifying the position of the latter along the vertical axis XX'.

[0132] The actuator shown here is of the electromagnetic type. However, another type of actuator, for example of the pneumatic or hydraulic type, may be chosen, which, as in Figure 4, will also be aligned with the output axis 29 of the distributor and will also have an actuation direction along the axis XX'; in particular, it will compress the return means (R) to engage the drive means with the distributor, said return means (R) on the contrary pushing the drive means to disengage them relative to the distributor, the latter always keeping the same position along the vertical axis XX'.

[0133] The toothed wheel, or crown, 18 is not always integral with the distributor: in the disengaged position, it is decoupled or disconnected from it; here again, the distributor always keeps the same position along the vertical axis XX'.

[0134] Figures 5A-5D show a variant of the drive means, including a clutch and disengagement mechanism, of a rotary distributor D, for example of the type described above in connection with Figures 3A-3C; in these Figures 5A-5D, numerical references identical to those of the preceding figures, and in particular of Figure 4, designate the same elements. The toothed wheel 18 is extended in its lateral part by a skirt 118, preferably located at the periphery of the wheel, which cooperates with a centering support 37 fixed to the support 11. For example, the centering support 37 ensures the guidance of the inner surface of the wall 118 which, on its outer surface, carries the teeth of the wheel.The clutch means comprise a dog clutch system 127, 129 (or tooth and groove coupling device) of which one part 127 is for example arranged at the end of the compartment or of the cylindrical wall T1 and the other part 129 is preferably arranged at the end of the output shaft 29 of the distributor. A more detailed representation of the part 129 is presented in figure 5D, with its teeth 131-134 and its grooves 135-138 which make it possible to accommodate the teeth of the part 127 when these 2 parts are engaged, the teeth 131-134 themselves being housed in corresponding grooves of the part 127. The other part 127 therefore comprises corresponding teeth and grooves. When these 2 parts are engaged, the distributor output shaft 29 can be driven by the wheel 18. The number of teeth shown in Figure 5D is 4, but a different number can be provided.

[0135] In this variant of Figures 5A-5D, the translational guidance, along the axis 19, is ensured laterally by the means 37 and 118, at a distance from the axis 19, while the coupling of the wheel 18 with the body 400 of the distributor is ensured centrally. The actuator S can therefore actuate the plunger 16, which thus pushes the axis 19 in translation, which axis is integral on the one hand with the toothed wheel 18, and on the other hand with the means 127. Thus, it is possible:

[0136] - on the one hand to mesh the wheel 18 with, for example, another wheel 20, mounted on a shaft A (as in figure 4), itself actuated for example by the motor 10, or by drive means (this wheel itself forms part of a gear train) driven by the motor 10;

[0137] - on the other hand to engage the axis 19 with the shaft 29 of the distributor.

[0138] Therefore, when the plunger has pushed the shaft 19 towards the distributor D, the latter is engaged (Figure 5A) and can be actuated to guide a fluid from an inlet to an outlet of the distributor. When the action of the solenoid S is released, the compression spring R pushes back the assembly 18-19-27-127 and the distributor D goes into disengagement (Figure 5B, the two parts 127, 129 of the clutch means being disengaged). Figure 5C shows another view of the disengaged position.

[0139] As in Figure 4:

[0140] - the device may also include a brake which makes it possible to brake the distributor (and / or the toothed wheel 18) when the latter is disengaged;

[0141] - and / or the solenoid S can be controlled by means such as the means 12 described above;

[0142] - and / or the rotary distributor may be used in a system as described above in connection with Figures 1 - 3C.

[0143] Compared to Figure 4, the device presented with Figures 5A-5D allows less wear, particularly of the gear teeth; the latter can be made of plastic, for example PPA or PPS, the clutch system described above in connection with Figures 5A-5D can be metallic, for example steel.

[0144] Figure 6 shows an exploded view of the shaft 19, the wheel 18 and the clutch / disclutch elements with the shaft 29; the references 130 and 139 respectively designate an upper spring flange and a lower spring flange. There are the upper 127 and lower 129 dogs (for example made of steel, for example hardened steel) intended to be fixed respectively to the shaft 19 of the actuator and to the rotation axis 29.

[0145] Figures 4 and 5A-5D represent drive mechanisms for a rotary distributor D. But one of these mechanisms can be applied to drive another rotary member, provided with a shaft 29, for example another toothed wheel, for example in a gearing stage such as one of those described above in connection with figures 1 or 2. One of these drive mechanisms can therefore be used to drive a gear stage, itself driving for example another gear stage or one or more distributors.

[0146] Figures 7A-7B show a variant of the drive means, including a clutch and disengagement mechanism, of a rotary distributor D (or, as explained above, of another rotary member), for example of the type described above in connection with Figures 3A-3C; in these Figures 7A-7B, numerical references identical to those of the preceding figures, and in particular Figures 4 and 5A-6, designate the same elements.

[0147] According to this variant, the translational guidance, along axis 19, is ensured centrally by an axis 29' which extends the shaft or axis 29 (and is integral with it) and which penetrates into the wheel 18 and the axis 19. As a variant, it can be ensured by a skirt and a centering support, such as the elements 118 and 37 already described above (in connection for example with figures 5A-5D).

[0148] The mechanisms set out above, in connection with figures 4-7B, although satisfactory in certain aspects, nevertheless pose a problem of compactness: in fact, the actuator S, 16 is located in the extension of the wheel 18 and its axis 19, thus increasing the overall height of the assembly or module. However, very often, an application of this type of device concerns the transmission chain of a vehicle. To solve this problem, according to another embodiment, the size is reduced by positioning the actuator along a different axis, for example parallel to the axis 19. Thus, the linear movement of the actuator is exerted parallel to the translational movement of the axis 19 and transmission means make it possible to transfer this linear movement from the actuator to the axis 19 and therefore to the drive element constituted by the toothed wheel 18.

[0149] An example of this embodiment is illustrated in Figures 8A - 8B, in which numerical references identical to those of the preceding figures, and in particular Figures 4 and 5A-7B, designate the same elements, the invention being able to implement at least certain aspects described above in connection with these Figures 4 and 5A-7B. The actuator, for example here again a solenoid S and its plunger 16, is arranged along an axis BB' parallel to the axis AA' along which the axis 19 and the toothed wheel 18 can move in translation to engage with the shaft 29. The gap between the axis AA' and the axis BB' is non-zero, for example between 30 mm and 70 mm, for example again it is approximately 50 mm. The means 140, 142, 143 make it possible to couple the outlet 16' of the plunger 16 and one end, here called the upper end, of Taxe 19.In this example, it is a pivot connection 140 around a pivot point 142, which can be located along an axis 143 positioned for example on the wall 152 of the actuator. Preferably, this axis is arranged between, on the one hand, the assembly constituted by the wheel 18, its rotation axis 19 and the shaft 29 and, on the other hand, the actuator S, 16. Thus, the vertical size of the entire device is greatly reduced. For example, the pivot connection 140 is in the shape of an inverted “V”, the ends of the 2 branches of the V being connected, for one to the end of the actuator and for the other to the end of the shaft of the rotation axis 19, while the tip of the V forms the pivot point 142 (which is therefore located at the top). Alternatively (not shown), a straight lever shape or a straight "V" shape is possible, but both take up more space than the inverted "V".

[0150] According to one example, the distance between the pivot point 142 and the axis BB' is for example between 10 mm and 50 mm, for example it is still approximately 30 mm. This distance is less than that between the axes AA' and BB'.

[0151] Figure 8A shows the wheel 18 engaged with the shaft 29, the solenoid being powered and the plunger 16 activated in the high position; this wheel 18 can then be driven by means, for example a gear, for example as described above according to one of figures 1 or 2, comprising for example the wheel 20 of figure 4. In this position, the wheel 18 pushes the spring R (each end of which is located in a housing, respectively of the wheel 18 and of the shaft 29) and drives the shaft 29, and therefore the distributor (as in figures 5A-7B, the latter is not shown), in rotation. Figure 8B shows the wheel 18 disengaged from the shaft 29, the solenoid no longer being powered, the plunger 16 being in a low position relative to its high position in Figure 8A, and the upper end of the axis 19 being in a high position relative to its low position in Figure 8A.

[0152] In other words:

[0153] - when the actuator is activated, the return means R are in compression and the wheel (or the drive element) 18 is engaged with the shaft 29; - when the actuator is deactivated, the return means R are at rest, or less compressed than when the actuator is activated, and the wheel 18 (or the drive element) is disengaged from the shaft 29.

[0154] The arms of the link 140, on either side of the pivot 142, may be of identical or different lengths di, d? (see figure 9). In a preferred embodiment di < d?, which allows, for the same translation stroke of the actuator, to achieve a translation of greater amplitude of the assembly of means 18, 19. Thus, for the same stroke of the assembly of means 18, 19, the size of the solenoid can be reduced and the quantity of copper and metal of the latter also; this results in an economic gain as well as a reduction in the weight of the entire module.

[0155] It is understood, using this example, that the activation means, or actuator, are moved into an unoccupied area, next to the clutch, which makes it possible to reduce the height footprint of the entire system or module. The actuator is therefore in an inverted position relative to the position it occupies in Figure 4-7B. As already mentioned above, the actuator presented here is of the electromagnetic type, but it could just as well be of the pneumatic or hydraulic type to provide an alternating linear movement, either along the axis 19 (realization of Figures 4-7B) or along the axis BB' (realization of Figures 8A-9). In the latter case, when the actuator is actuated, the return means R are in compression and the wheel 18 is then engaged with the rotary shaft 29; when it is deactivated, the return means R return to their rest position and push back the wheel 18 which is then disengaged relative to the rotating shaft 29.

[0156] Figures 8A-9 represent a drive mechanism for a rotary distributor D. But this mechanism can be applied to drive another rotary member, provided with a shaft 29, for example another toothed wheel, for example in a gearing stage such as one of those described above in connection with figures 1 or 2. This drive mechanism can therefore be used to drive a gear stage, itself driving for example another gear stage or one or more distributors.

[0157] The clutch between the wheel 18 and the shaft 29 can be achieved by a coupling system using teeth and grooves, or dog clutch, as illustrated above in connection with Figures 5C and 5D. Alternatively, it can be a clutch using key(s) 18a, as shown schematically in Figure 10. The upper surface of the shaft 29 has one or more orifices for inserting a key 18a and thus driving this shaft 29 in rotation. Figures 11A-11C schematically represent a variant of the drive means, including a clutch and declutch mechanism, of a rotary distributor D, for example of the type described above in connection with Figures 3A-3C, and which can be applied to a device according to the invention, for example as described in connection with Figures 8A - 8C; in these figures 11A-11C, numerical references identical to those of the preceding figures, and in particular of figure 4, or of figures 7A-9, designate the same elements.

[0158] As seen in Figure 11A, the dog clutch 129 may be integrated into the shaft 29, just as the dog clutch 127 may be integrated into the wheel 18. Flanges such as 130 and 139 may, or may not, be used to limit the torsion of the spring R.

[0159] In this embodiment, the top or upper part of each tooth 133 is flat (Figures 11B and 11C), these upper parts being able to be in the same plane, whereas, in Figure 5D, each tooth has a relief. The groove 136 is unchanged from the embodiment of Figure 5D. The lateral faces of each tooth, denoted D, preferably have a relief (Figures 11B and 11C) to facilitate decoupling. This example of a dog clutch promotes clutch engagement regardless of the direction of rotation of the wheel 18.

[0160] The drive means of Figures 11A-11C can be applied to a device according to the invention.

[0161] Figure 12 shows a fluid distribution system comprising several devices according to Figures 8A-8C, these devices being identified by the references 160, 162, 164, only the device 160 being shown in detail, in exploded view.

[0162] An application of a device or system according to the invention relates to the distribution of a flow of cooling water in a cooling circuit of a vehicle. But other applications may be concerned, for example the distribution of oil or gas (for example air or hydrogen) in a vehicle (car or truck, with a thermal or electric or hybrid engine; or boat or flying machine), or the distribution of a fluid in a domestic application, for example a heat pump.

[0163] In a hydraulic fluid distribution system or circuit as described above and / or in connection with Figure 1 or 2, each gear train may comprise at least two gear stages:

[0164] - a first gear stage Ei.i - Ei.d, each gear of which is driven by said motor 10;

[0165] - a second stage of gears E2.1 - E?.d, each gear of which is driven by the first stage, one gear being provided with means Si - Sd for engaging or disengaging it.

[0166] In a hydraulic system or circuit for distributing fluid(s) as described above and / or in connection with at least one of the figures, comprising electronic means 12 for controlling the motor 10, these electronic means 12 may be capable of:

[0167] - receive an operating mode instruction 26;

[0168] - determine a target position for each of the rotary distributors;

[0169] - control the engine 10 and the means for engaging or disengaging each rotary distributor according to the target position of each of the rotary distributors.

[0170] In a device or a hydraulic system or circuit for distributing fluid(s) as described above and / or in connection with at least one of the figures, the means for engaging or disengaging each rotary distributor, or each rotary member, may comprise an actuator, for example of the electromagnetic (Si, ...Sd) or pneumatic or hydraulic type.

[0171] The invention also applies to a method for controlling the distribution of a fluid in a hydraulic system or circuit for distributing fluid(s) as described above and / or in connection with at least one of the figures, for example in a vehicle, this method comprising:

[0172] - the selection of one or more rotary distributors (Di-Dd) to be actuated;

[0173] - the actuation of said distributor(s) (Di-Dd) using the motor (10) and means for engaging this or these distributor(s). Such a method may comprise the selection or determination of a direction and / or an angle of rotation of one or more distributors to be actuated and the actuation of said rotary distributor(s) according to this direction and / or this angle of rotation.

[0174] In such a process: - the fluid is for example water or oil or glycol or a gas, for example air or hydrogen;

[0175] - and / or the hydraulic circuit is a cooling circuit or oil or hydrogen distribution circuit of a vehicle.

Claims

CLAIMS 1. Rotary drive device for a distributor (D) provided with an output axis (29), said drive device comprising: a drive element (18), extended by an axis (19) around which it is in rotation and aligned with the output axis (29); an actuator (S, 16) with linear movement along an axis (BB') different from the axis of rotation (AA', 19); means (140, 142) for coupling between the actuator (S, 16) with linear movement and the drive element (18) to actuate the end of the axis (19) of the drive element (18) in the direction of the output axis (29) of the distributor body; means (127, 129) for coupling the axis of rotation (AA', 19) and the output axis (29).

2. Device according to claim 1, the actuator (S) being linearly movable along an axis parallel to the axis of rotation (AA', 19).

3. Device according to one of claims 1 or 2, the coupling means comprising a lever (140) pivoting around a pivot (142), this lever connecting the actuator (S) and the drive element (18).

4. Device according to claim 3, the lever (140) having arms of equal length on either side of the pivot.

5. Device according to claim 3, the lever (140) having arms of different lengths on either side of the pivot.

6. Device according to one of claims 1 to 5, the means (127, 129) for coupling the rotation axis (AA', 19) and the output axis (29) comprising a device l coupling by teeth (131, 133) and grooves (134, 136) or a coupling device by key(s) (18a).

7. Device according to one of claims 1 to 6, comprising return means (R) for maintaining the means (127, 129) for engaging the rotation shaft (19) and the output shaft (29) in the disengaged position, said actuator and said drive element compressing these return means (R) to engage the rotation shaft (19) and the output shaft (29).

8. Device according to claim 7, said return means (R) being arranged at least partly in a compartment (27) one end of which is provided with part of the clutch means (127, 129).

9. Device according to one of claims 1 to 8, said linear motion actuator being: of the electromagnetic actuator type (Si, ...Sd), comprising a coil and a plunger which interacts with the field generated by the coil when a current flows through it; or of the pneumatic or hydraulic type.

10. Device according to one of claims 1 to 9, further comprising means (29', 37, 118) for guiding the drive element to guide it in translation along the axis of rotation (19).

11. Device according to claim 10, the drive element comprising a toothed wheel, said means (37, 118) for guiding this toothed wheel comprising a centering support (37) which guides an inner surface of the wall of the wheel which is provided with teeth. Device according to one of claims 1 to 10, the output shaft (29) extending by a guide shaft (29') to penetrate into said drive element (18). Device according to one of claims 1 to 12, the drive element comprising a toothed wheel, the device further comprising means (20j) for driving this wheel (18), forming therewith a gear with a vertical axis. Rotary distributor comprising a rotary distributor body (400), comprising at least one inlet (180) and at least one outlet (120, 210), the sum of the number of inlets and the number of outlets being greater than or equal to 3, an output shaft (29) and a rotary drive device according to one of claims 1 to 13.Rotary distributor according to claim 14, the inlet, respectively the inlets, and the outlets, respectively the outlet, for example one inlet and 2 outlets, directing the fluid(s) in a flow direction which is perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the rotary drive device. System for controlling the distribution of one or more fluids in a fluid circuit, comprising:. - a motor (10); - a plurality of rotary distributors (Di-Dd) of said fluid, at least one of which according to claim 14 or 15 and / or at least one of which comprises a rotary drive device according to one of claims 1 to 13. System according to claim 16, each rotary distributor (Di) comprising a position sensor (Ci-Cd). System according to one of claims 16 or 17, comprising electronic means (12) for controlling the motor (10). System according to claim 17 and claim 18, said electronic means (12) being capable of controlling the motor (10) as a function of a signal or signals from one or more of said position sensors (Ci-Cd). System according to one of claims 18 or 19, the electronic means (12) being capable of: - receive an operating mode instruction (26); - determine a target position for each of the rotary distributors; - controlling the motor (10) and / or the means for engaging or disengaging each rotary distributor as a function of the target position of each of the rotary distributors. System according to one of claims 16 to 20, the fluid circuit being a distribution circuit for one or more fluids in a thermal management circuit, or a distribution circuit for oil, dielectric fluid or hydrogen of a vehicle. System according to one of claims 16 to 21, the motor (10) being a brushless motor. System for distributing one or more fluids in a fluid circuit, comprising: - at least one pump; - a system for controlling the distribution of said fluid according to one of claims 16 to 22. Vehicle comprising a thermal or electric engine, at least one fluid circuit and at least one distribution system for at least one fluid in this circuit according to claim 23. Method for controlling the distribution of a fluid in a fluid circuit using a system according to one of claims 16 to 23 or in a vehicle according to claim 24, comprising: - the selection of one or more rotary distributors (Di-Dd) to be actuated; - the actuation of said distributor(s) (Di-Dd) using the motor (10) and means for engaging this or these distributor(s). Method according to claim 25, comprising the selection or determination of a direction and / or an angle of rotation of one or more distributors to be actuated and the actuation of said rotary distributor(s) in this direction and / or this angle of rotation. Method according to one of claims 25 or 26, in which the fluid is water or oil, or a dielectric fluid, or a mixture comprising glycol or a gas, for example air or hydrogen. Method according to one of claims 25 to T1, in which the fluid circuit is a circuit allowing thermal management or distribution circuit for oil, dielectric fluid or hydrogen or air of a vehicle.

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