REFRIGERANT CIRCUIT CONSTITUTING A THERMAL TREATMENT SYSTEM

Abstract

The present invention relates to a refrigerant circuit (2) traversed by a refrigerant (FR) and comprising a main branch (10) which comprises a compression device (4) and a first heat exchanger (31). The refrigerant circuit (2) comprises a first branch (11) which comprises a first valve (15), an expansion device (7) and a second heat exchanger (32), as well as a second branch (12) which comprises a first expansion member (41), a third heat exchanger (33) and a fourth heat exchanger (34) configured to carry out a heat exchange between the refrigerant (FR) and the outside air flow (16). The main branch (10) comprises a first accumulation device (6) interposed between a convergence point (20) and the compression device (4).The second branch (12) comprises a second accumulation device (17) interposed between a bypass point (23) and the fourth heat exchanger (34). Figure 1.

Description

Title of the invention: REFRIGERANT FLUID CIRCUIT CONSTITUTING A HEAT TREATMENT SYSTEM

[0001] The field of the present invention is that of heat treatment systems used to heat or cool an enclosure or a component of a vehicle, in particular a component of a powertrain of this vehicle.

[0002] Motor vehicles are commonly equipped with a heat treatment system comprising a refrigerant circuit and a heat transfer fluid circuit, both used to participate in a thermal modification of different zones or different components of the vehicle. It is in particular known to use the refrigerant circuit and / or the heat transfer fluid circuit to heat treat an internal air flow sent into a passenger compartment of the vehicle equipped with such a circuit.

[0003] In another application of this circuit, it is known to use the heat transfer fluid circuit to modify a temperature of the components of the vehicle's powertrain, such as for example an electrical storage device, the latter being used to supply energy to an electric motor capable of setting the vehicle in motion. The heat treatment system thus supplies the energy capable of cooling the electrical storage device during its use in the driving phase.

[0004] Automobile manufacturers are in a spirit of continuous improvement of their vehicles. These improvements involve in particular the design of fluid circuits allowing thermal exchanges to be carried out that can meet a plurality of objectives. Thus, it is desirable to have a heat treatment system capable of operating in various modes, to alternately heat or cool the passenger compartment of the vehicle and / or the components of the powertrain.

[0005] It is thus sought to optimize a distribution of a circulating mass of refrigerant fluid inside the refrigerant fluid circuit, whatever the operating mode of the heat treatment system, and more particularly a mode of operation of the refrigerant fluid circuit.

[0006] It is more particularly desired to control a location of at least one fraction of refrigerant fluid in the liquid state inside the refrigerant fluid circuit, so that the location of this fraction of refrigerant fluid in the liquid state contributes to an optimization of the thermal treatment of the passenger compartment of the vehicle and / or components of the powertrain, regardless of the operating mode of the refrigerant circuit.

[0007] The present invention falls within this context and aims to propose a refrigerant circuit constituting a heat treatment system of a vehicle, in particular an automobile. The refrigerant circuit is traversed by a refrigerant. The refrigerant circuit comprises a main branch which extends between a point of convergence and a point of divergence. The main branch comprises a compression device and a first heat exchanger configured to carry out a heat exchange between the refrigerant and an internal air flow or a first heat transfer liquid. The refrigerant circuit comprises a first branch which extends between the point of divergence and the point of convergence. The first branch comprises a first valve, an expansion device and a second heat exchanger configured to carry out a heat exchange between the refrigerant and the internal air flow.The refrigerant circuit comprises a second branch which extends between the divergence point and a junction point interposed between the first valve and the expansion device. The second branch comprises a first expansion member, a third heat exchanger configured to carry out a heat exchange between the refrigerant and an air flow outside a passenger compartment of the vehicle or between the refrigerant and a second heat transfer liquid, the second branch also comprising a fourth heat exchanger configured to carry out a heat exchange between the refrigerant and the outside air flow. The refrigerant circuit comprises a third branch which extends between a bypass point, interposed between the third heat exchanger and the fourth heat exchanger, and the convergence point. The third branch comprises a second valve.The main branch comprises a first accumulation device interposed between the convergence point and the compression device. The second branch comprises a second accumulation device interposed between the bypass point and the fourth heat exchanger. The refrigerant circuit comprises a fourth branch which extends between the junction point and the convergence point. The fourth branch comprises a second expansion member and a fifth heat exchanger. The fifth heat exchanger is configured to carry out a heat exchange between the refrigerant and a heat transfer fluid circulating within a heat transfer fluid circuit of the vehicle.

[0008] According to such an architecture, it is possible to distribute a circulating mass of refrigerant fluid inside the refrigerant fluid circuit, regardless of an operating mode of the heat treatment system. More particularly, a fraction of refrigerant fluid in the liquid state is either contained inside the first accumulation device arranged upstream of the compression device on the branch main, is contained inside the second accumulation device arranged upstream of the fourth heat exchanger, the third branch provided with the second valve allowing the refrigerant fluid leaving the third heat exchanger to bypass the fourth heat exchanger when the second valve is open.

[0009] The refrigerant circuit advantageously comprises at least one of the following technical characteristics, taken alone or in combination:

[0010] - the first heat exchanger is either configured to operate an exchange of heat between the refrigerant and the internal air flow, or configured to carry out a heat exchange between the refrigerant and the first heat transfer fluid. For example, the first heat exchanger is an air condenser which is capable of heating the internal air flow intended to be sent into a passenger compartment of the vehicle. Alternatively, the first heat exchanger is a water condenser which is capable of heating the first heat transfer fluid circulating inside a first heat transfer fluid circuit. The first heat transfer fluid is for example glycolated water;

[0011] - the second heat exchanger is for example an evaporator which is capable of cool the internal airflow intended to be sent to the vehicle passenger compartment;

[0012] - the third heat exchanger is either configured to operate an exchange of heat between the refrigerant fluid and the outside air flow, or configured to carry out a heat exchange between the refrigerant fluid and the second heat transfer fluid. For example, the third heat exchanger is an air evaporator-condenser which is able to exchange calories with the outside air flow. Alternatively, the third heat exchanger is an evaporator-condenser which is able to exchange calories with the second heat transfer fluid circulating inside a second heat transfer fluid circuit. The second heat transfer fluid is for example glycolated water;

[0013] - the fourth heat exchanger is for example a subcooler capable of cooling the refrigerant to a temperature lower than that of the refrigerant inside the third heat exchanger, in particular by transferring calories to the outside air flow;

[0014] - the refrigerant fluid is circulated within the main branch by the compression device. The latter compresses the high-pressure refrigerant and circulates it through the main branch to the first heat exchanger. Since the refrigerant is at high pressure, it is also at a high temperature and therefore heats the internal airflow passing through the first heat exchanger. The first heat exchanger behaves like a radiator. The internal airflow is then sent into the vehicle's passenger compartment to heat it. The first heat exchanger therefore contributes to the comfort of the passenger compartment of the vehicle by heating the internal air flow. As such, the first heat exchanger may be arranged within a ventilation, heating and / or air conditioning installation, configured to circulate the internal air flow in order to manage the comfort of the passenger compartment of the vehicle. Said ventilation, heating and / or air conditioning installation may comprise means for guiding the internal air flow so that the latter can bypass the first heat exchanger if heating of the passenger compartment of the vehicle is not required;

[0015] - the first branch comprises the first valve for authorizing or prohibiting a circulation of the refrigerant fluid inside the first branch, the expansion device to allow expansion of the refrigerant fluid and the second heat exchanger configured to carry out a heat exchange between the expanded refrigerant fluid and the internal air flow. The second heat exchanger arranged downstream of the expansion device behaves like an evaporator. The second heat exchanger is preferably arranged inside the ventilation, heating and / or air conditioning installation upstream of the first heat exchanger in a direction of flow of the internal air flow inside said installation. The latter may comprise members for guiding the internal air flow so that the latter can bypass the second heat exchanger if cooling of the passenger compartment of the vehicle is not required;

[0016] - the second branch comprises the first trigger member for carrying out or not an expansion of the refrigerant fluid, the third heat exchanger and the fourth heat exchanger which are configured to carry out a heat exchange between the refrigerant fluid and the outside air flow. The third heat exchanger behaves either as a condenser or as an evaporator with respect to the outside air flow. The fourth heat exchanger is designed to transfer calories to the outside air flow;

[0017] - the third branch is provided to bypass the refrigerant fluid bypasses the fourth heat exchanger at the outlet of the third heat exchanger;

[0018] - the expansion device comprises a thermostatic expansion member;

[0019] - the thermostatic expansion member is associated with an all-or-nothing valve;

[0020] - the first branch comprises an internal heat exchanger comprising a first section arranged between the junction point and the expansion device, and a second section arranged between the second heat exchanger and the convergence point, the first section and the second section being arranged to allow heat exchange between the refrigerant circulating inside the first section and the refrigerant circulating inside the second section;

[0021] - the second branch comprises a non-return valve capable of allowing circulation of the refrigerant fluid inside the second branch from the point of divergence towards the junction point. The non-return valve is also capable of preventing the circulation of the refrigerant fluid in the opposite direction, i.e. from the junction point to the divergence point;

[0022] - the second accumulation device is arranged between the third heat exchanger heat and the fourth heat exchanger;

[0023] - the second accumulation device adjoins the fourth heat exchanger;

[0024] - the second accumulation device and the fourth heat exchanger form a single-piece assembly.

[0025] The present invention also relates to a heat treatment system comprising such a refrigerant circuit and the heat transfer fluid circuit. The heat transfer fluid circuit comprises a first heat transfer fluid loop comprising a first pump, a first heat exchanger associated with an electrical storage device of the vehicle and the fifth heat exchanger.

[0026] The heat treatment system advantageously comprises at least one of the following technical characteristics, taken alone or in combination:

[0027] - the heat transfer fluid circuit comprises a second heat transfer fluid loop comprising a second pump, a second heat exchanger associated with components of a vehicle powertrain and a radiator arranged downstream of the third heat exchanger in a direction of flow of the outside air flow;

[0028] - a first path extends between a first branch point of the first heat transfer fluid loop and a first connection point of the second heat transfer fluid loop. The first branch point is located between the fifth heat exchanger and the first pump. The first connection point is located between the radiator and the second pump;

[0029] - a second track extends between a second branch point of the first heat transfer fluid loop and a second connection point of the second heat transfer fluid loop. The second branch point is located between the first heat exchanger and the fifth heat exchanger. The second connection point is located between the second heat exchanger and the radiator;

[0030] - a third path extends between a third branch point of the first heat transfer fluid loop and a third connection point of the first heat transfer fluid loop. The third bypass point is located between the first heat exchanger and the second bypass point. The third connection point is located between the first bypass point and the first pump;

[0031] - the third way comprises a high-voltage electric heating device;

[0032] - the second connection point is equipped with a first distribution member capable of directing the heat transfer fluid from the second heat exchanger to the second path or to the radiator;

[0033] - the third branch point is equipped with a second distribution member capable of directing the heat transfer fluid from the first heat exchanger to the second diversion point or to the third route;

[0034] - the heat treatment system comprises an assembly formed of the third heat exchanger interposed between the fourth heat exchanger and the radiator;

[0035] - the assembly is equipped with at least one shutter capable of authorizing or prohibiting a circulation of outside airflow through the assembly.

[0036] The present invention also relates to a vehicle equipped with such a heat treatment system, in which the vehicle comprises a front face equipped with said assembly.

[0037] The present invention also relates to a method for controlling such a refrigerant circuit, in which: - during a cooling mode of the vehicle passenger compartment, the second heat exchanger is used as an evaporator to cool the internal air flow and the third heat exchanger is used as a condenser to transfer calories to the external air flow or to the second heat transfer fluid, the second valve preventing circulation of the refrigerant fluid inside the third branch, the second accumulation device being used to store a liquid fraction of the refrigerant fluid; - during a heating mode of the vehicle passenger compartment, the first heat exchanger is used as a condenser to heat the internal air flow or the first heat transfer fluid and the third heat exchanger is used as an evaporator to cool the external air flow or the second heat transfer fluid, the second valve being open to allow circulation of the refrigerant fluid inside the third branch, the first accumulation device being used to store the liquid fraction of the refrigerant fluid; - during the vehicle interior cooling mode, the refrigerant fluid advantageously cools the heat transfer fluid via the fifth heat exchanger to cool the vehicle's electrical storage device associated with the first heat exchanger.

[0038] Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description on the one hand, and from several exemplary embodiments given for informational and non-limiting purposes with reference to the attached schematic drawings on the other hand, in which:

[0039] [Fig-1] is a diagram of a heat treatment system according to the invention, comprising a refrigerant fluid circuit and a heat transfer fluid circuit,

[0040] [Fig.2] is a diagram of the heat treatment system according to the invention illustrating a circulation of a refrigerant fluid within the refrigerant circuit and a heat transfer fluid within the heat transfer fluid circuit according to a first operating mode of the heat treatment system,

[0041] [Fig.3] is a diagram of the heat treatment system according to the invention illustrating the circulation of the refrigerant fluid within the refrigerant fluid circuit and of the heat transfer fluid within the heat transfer fluid circuit according to a second operating mode of the heat treatment system,

[0042] [Fig.4] is a diagram of the heat treatment system according to the invention illustrating the circulation of the refrigerant fluid within the refrigerant fluid circuit and of the heat transfer fluid within the heat transfer fluid circuit according to a third mode of operation of the heat treatment system,

[0043] [Fig.5] is a diagram of the heat treatment system according to the invention illustrating the circulation of the refrigerant fluid within the refrigerant fluid circuit and of the heat transfer fluid within the heat transfer fluid circuit according to a fourth operating mode of the heat treatment system,

[0044] [Fig.6] is a diagram of the heat treatment system according to the invention illustrating the circulation of the refrigerant fluid within the refrigerant fluid circuit and of the heat transfer fluid within the heat transfer fluid circuit according to a fifth operating mode of the heat treatment system,

[0045] [Fig.7] is a diagram of the heat treatment system according to the invention illustrating the circulation of the refrigerant fluid within the refrigerant fluid circuit and of the heat transfer fluid within the heat transfer fluid circuit according to a sixth operating mode of the heat treatment system,

[0046] [Fig.8] is a diagram of the heat treatment system according to the invention illustrating the circulation of the refrigerant fluid within the refrigerant fluid circuit and of the heat transfer fluid within the heat transfer fluid circuit according to a seventh mode of operation of the heat treatment system.

[0047] The terms upstream and downstream used in the following description refer to the direction of circulation of the fluid considered, i.e. the refrigerant fluid, the heat transfer fluid, an air flow outside a passenger compartment of the vehicle and / or an internal air flow sent towards the passenger compartment of the vehicle.

[0048] In [Fig. 1], a refrigerant circuit is illustrated in solid lines and a heat transfer fluid circuit is illustrated in dotted lines. In Figures 2 to 8, for each of the circuits, the portions traversed by their respective fluid are in solid lines and the portions without fluid circulation are in dotted lines. Furthermore, the circulation of each of the fluids is illustrated by indicating its direction of circulation by arrows. The solid lines indicating the circulation of fluid are also of different thicknesses with respect to the refrigerant circuit. More precisely, the thickest solid lines correspond to portions where the refrigerant circulates at high pressure, the solid lines of intermediate thickness correspond to portions where the refrigerant circulates at intermediate pressure and the thinner solid lines correspond to portions where the refrigerant circulates at low pressure.

[0049] The terms "first", "first", "second", etc. used in the description are not intended to indicate a level of hierarchy or order the elements they accompany. These terms make it possible to distinguish the elements they accompany and can be interchanged without reducing the scope of the invention.

[0050] [Fig.l] illustrates a heat treatment system 1 according to the invention and configured to be arranged in particular within a vehicle. The heat treatment system 1 is for example intended to modify the aerothermal parameters of air contained inside the passenger compartment of the vehicle and / or to modify a temperature of an electrical storage device and / or components of a powertrain of the vehicle. The electrical storage device comprises in particular at least one battery capable of supplying electrical energy to an electric motor of the vehicle. The components of the powertrain comprise in particular the electric motor which is capable of setting the vehicle in motion as well as control modules of the electric motor.

[0051] The heat treatment system 1 comprises a refrigerant circuit 2 shown in solid lines and a heat transfer fluid circuit 3 shown in dotted lines. The refrigerant circuit 2 is traversed by a refrigerant fluid FR and the heat transfer fluid circuit 3 is traversed by a heat transfer fluid FC. By way of examples, the refrigerant may be a fluid of type R 134a or R1234yf while the heat transfer fluid may for example be glycolated water.

[0052] The refrigerant circuit 2 comprises a plurality of branches forming a closed circuit. The refrigerant circuit 2 comprises in particular a main branch 10 which begins at a point of convergence 20 and which ends at a point of divergence 21. According to a direction of circulation of the refrigerant FR, the latter circulates within the main branch 10 from the point of convergence 20 to the point of divergence 21.

[0053] The main branch 10 comprises in particular a compression device 4 ensuring the circulation of the refrigerant fluid FR within the refrigerant fluid circuit 2 and the placing of the refrigerant fluid FR at high pressure and high temperature.

[0054] The main branch 10 comprises a first heat exchanger 31, arranged downstream of the compression device 4 with respect to a direction of circulation of the refrigerant fluid FR within the main branch 10. The first heat exchanger 31 ensures a heat exchange operation between the refrigerant fluid FR at high pressure and at high temperature and an internal air flow 5. More particularly, the first heat exchanger 31 is designed to transfer calories at constant pressure to the internal air flow 5.

[0055] According to the variant illustrated in [Fig.l], the first heat exchanger 31 is an air condenser capable of heating the internal air flow 5 which is intended to be sent into a passenger compartment of the vehicle. During the heat exchange occurring within the first heat exchanger 31, the refrigerant FR heats the internal air flow 5 and the latter is subsequently sent to the passenger compartment of the vehicle in order to heat it. As such, the first heat exchanger 31 can be installed within a ventilation, heating and / or air conditioning installation. Since the refrigerant FR necessarily passes through the first heat exchanger 31, the ventilation, heating and / or air conditioning installation can, for example, include means for guiding the internal air flow 5 so that the latter bypasses the first heat exchanger 31 when heating of the passenger compartment of the vehicle is not required.

[0056] According to another variant, the first heat exchanger is a water condenser which is capable of heating a first heat transfer liquid, such as glycolated water or the like, which circulates inside a first heat transfer liquid circuit.

[0057] In the remainder of the description, reference is made to a first heat exchanger 31 shaped as an air condenser capable of exchanging calories with the internal air flow 5, the remainder of the description being however transposable for a first heat exchanger 31 shaped as a water condenser.

[0058] The main branch 10 also comprises a first accumulation device 6 interposed between the convergence point 20 and the compression device 4. The first accumulation device 6 is thus arranged upstream of the first accumulation device 6 in a direction of circulation of the refrigerant fluid FR inside the main branch 10. The compression device 4 can only compress the refrigerant fluid FR in the gaseous state, the first accumulation device 6 is arranged upstream of the compression device 4 in order to retain a potential fraction of refrigerant fluid FR in the liquid state. The first accumulation device 6 therefore guarantees that the refrigerant fluid FR passing through the compression device 4 is entirely in the gaseous state, a passage of refrigerant fluid FR in the liquid state inside the compression device 4 risking damaging the latter.

[0059] The refrigerant circuit 2 also comprises a first branch 11 which begins at the point of divergence 21 and which ends at the point of convergence 20.

[0060] The first branch 11 comprises a second heat exchanger 32 ensuring a heat exchange between the refrigerant fluid FR and the internal air flow 5. The second heat exchanger 32 can be arranged within the ventilation, heating and / or air conditioning installation mentioned above. More particularly, the second heat exchanger 32 is placed upstream of the first heat exchanger. 31 according to a flow direction of the internal air flow 5 inside said installation, the flow direction being symbolized by an arrow illustrating the internal air flow 5.

[0061] The first branch 11 also comprises an expansion device 7 ensuring the expansion of the refrigerant fluid FR. The expansion device 7 is interposed on the first branch 11 between the divergence point 21 and the second heat exchanger 32. Once the refrigerant fluid has been expanded, it circulates inside the second heat exchanger 32 at low temperature and therefore makes it possible to cool the internal air flow 5 before it is sent to the passenger compartment of the vehicle. The second heat exchanger 32 thus contributes to air conditioning the passenger compartment of the vehicle.

[0062] The expansion device 7 advantageously comprises a thermostatic expansion member 8 associated with an on-off valve 9. The thermostatic expansion member 8 is capable of automatically expanding the refrigerant fluid FR, without external control. The on-off valve 9 is capable of authorizing or prohibiting circulation of the refrigerant fluid FR inside the first branch 11.

[0063] The first branch 11 also comprises an internal heat exchanger 30 comprising a first section 30a arranged between the divergence point 21 and the expansion device 7, and a second section 30b arranged between the second heat exchanger 32 and the convergence point 20. The first section 30a and the second section 30b are arranged to allow heat exchange between the refrigerant fluid FR circulating inside the first section 30a and the refrigerant fluid FR circulating inside the second section 30b.

[0064] The first branch 11 also comprises a first valve 15 which is placed between the divergence point 21 and the first section 30a of the internal heat exchanger 30. The first valve 15 is capable of authorizing or prohibiting circulation of the refrigerant fluid FR inside the first branch 11.

[0065] These arrangements are such that inside the first branch 11, the refrigerant fluid FR is able to circulate successively from the point of divergence 21 towards the first valve 15, then inside the first section 30a of the internal heat exchanger 30, then inside the thermostatic expansion member 8, then towards the on / off valve 9, then inside the second heat exchanger 32, then towards the second section 30b of the internal heat exchanger 30, then up to the point of convergence 20.

[0066] The refrigerant circuit 2 also comprises a second branch 12 which begins at the divergence point 21 and which ends at a junction point 22. The junction point 22 is interposed on the first branch 11 between the first valve 15 and the first section 30a of the internal heat exchanger 30.

[0067] The second branch 12 comprises a third heat exchanger 33 configured to carry out a heat exchange between the refrigerant fluid FR and an outside air flow 16 in the passenger compartment of the vehicle. Depending on an operating mode of the refrigerant circuit 2, the refrigerant fluid FR is condensed there or is evaporated there by heat exchange with the outside air flow 16. The third heat exchanger 33 therefore performs the functions of an evaporator-condenser on the air. In order for this heat exchange to be able to be carried out, the third heat exchanger 33 must be arranged across a path of the outside air flow 16, for example by being installed on a front face 50 of the vehicle.

[0068] According to another variant, the third heat exchanger is a water evaporator-condenser which is capable of heating or cooling a second heat transfer liquid, such as glycolated water or the like, which circulates inside a second heat transfer liquid circuit. The refrigerant fluid FR is condensed there or is evaporated there by heat exchange with this heat transfer liquid.

[0069] In the remainder of the description, reference is made to a third heat exchanger 33 shaped as an air condenser capable of exchanging calories with the outside air flow 16, the remainder of the description however being transposable for a third heat exchanger 33 shaped as an evaporative condenser on water.

[0070] The second branch 12 also comprises a first expansion member 41 which is interposed between the divergence point 21 and the third heat exchanger 33. The first expansion member 41 is capable of expanding the refrigerant fluid FR at different pressures. In addition, the first expansion member 41 can also circulate the refrigerant fluid FR without expanding it. The first expansion member 41 being arranged upstream of the third heat exchanger 33, the first expansion member 41 expands the refrigerant fluid FR if the third heat exchanger 33 acts as an evaporator, or else allows the refrigerant fluid FR to circulate without expanding it if the third heat exchanger 33 acts as a condenser.

[0071] The second branch 12 also comprises a fourth heat exchanger 34 configured to carry out a heat exchange between the refrigerant fluid FR and the outside air flow 16. On the second branch 12, the fourth heat exchanger 34 is interposed between the third heat exchanger 33 and the junction point 22. The fourth heat exchanger 34 is also arranged on the front face 50 of the vehicle, being more particularly arranged upstream of the third heat exchanger 33, in a direction of flow of the outside air flow 16 symbolized by an arrow. The fourth heat exchanger 34 aims to complete and reinforce a heat exchange carried out between the third heat exchanger 33 and the outside air flow 16. More particularly, the fourth heat exchanger 34 allows cooling complementary to the refrigerant fluid FR when the third heat exchanger 33 behaves as a condenser.

[0072] The fourth heat exchanger 34 is associated with a second accumulation device 17 interposed between the third heat exchanger 33 and the fourth heat exchanger 34. The second accumulation device 17 is for example constituted by a dehydrating bottle intended to retain a fraction of refrigerant fluid FR in the liquid state. Preferably, the second accumulation device 17 adjoins the fourth heat exchanger 34. In this case, the second accumulation device 17 and the fourth heat exchanger 34 comprise for example shared partitions, the second accumulation device 17 and the fourth heat exchanger 34 being attached to each other.According to another variant, the second accumulation device 17 and the fourth heat exchanger 34 form a single-piece device, such that the second accumulation device 17 and the fourth heat exchanger 34 cannot be isolated from each other without damaging one and / or the other.

[0073] The second branch 12 also comprises a non-return valve 18 which is capable of allowing circulation of the refrigerant fluid FR inside the second branch 12 between the point of divergence 21 and the point of junction 22, in this direction of circulation, and which is capable of preventing circulation of the refrigerant fluid FR inside the second branch 12 in the opposite direction, i.e. from the point of junction 22 to the point of divergence 21.

[0074] To avoid condensation of the refrigerant fluid FR inside the second branch 12, the distances between the non-return valve 18 and the junction point 22 on the one hand, and between the first valve 15 and the junction point 22 on the other hand are as short as possible, the distances being taken on a refrigerant fluid line connecting the non-return valve 18 and the first valve 15.

[0075] These arrangements are such that inside the second branch 12, when the non-return valve 18 is open, the refrigerant fluid FR circulates successively from the point of divergence 21, towards the first expansion member 41, then towards the third heat exchanger 33, then towards the second accumulation device 17, then towards the fourth heat exchanger 34, then through the non-return valve 18 to the junction point 22.

[0076] The refrigerant circuit 2 also comprises a third branch 13 which extends between a bypass point 23 and the convergence point 20. The bypass point 23 is interposed on the second branch 12 between the third heat exchanger 33 and the second accumulation device 17. The third branch 13 comprises a second valve 19. The second valve 19 is capable of authorizing or prohibiting circulation of the refrigerant FR inside the third branch 13 from bypass point 23 to convergence point 20.

[0077] These arrangements are such that inside the third branch 13, when the second valve 19 is open, the refrigerant fluid FR is able to circulate from the bypass point 23 to the convergence point 20 by circulating through the second valve 19, in particular to bypass the fourth heat exchanger 34 and the second accumulation device 17.

[0078] The refrigerant circuit 2 also comprises a fourth branch 14 which extends between the junction point 22 and the convergence point 20. The fourth branch 14 forms a connecting branch between the refrigerant circuit 2 and the heat transfer fluid circuit 3. The fourth branch allows heat transfer between the two circuits 2, 3.

[0079] The fourth branch 14 comprises a second expansion member 42 which is capable of expanding the refrigerant fluid FR to different pressures. In addition, the second expansion member 42 can also circulate the refrigerant fluid FR without expanding it.

[0080] The fourth branch 14 also comprises a fifth heat exchanger 35 configured to carry out a heat exchange between the refrigerant fluid FR and the heat transfer fluid FC circulating within the heat transfer fluid circuit 3 of the vehicle. For this purpose, the fifth heat exchanger 35 comprises internal arrangements which allow the refrigerant fluid FR present inside the fifth heat exchanger 35 to exchange calories with the heat transfer fluid FC present inside the fifth heat exchanger 35.

[0081] The heat transfer fluid circuit 3 comprises a first heat transfer fluid loop 61 comprising a first pump 71, a first heat exchanger 81 associated with an electrical storage device of the vehicle and the fifth heat exchanger 35.

[0082] The heat transfer fluid circuit 3 comprises a second heat transfer fluid loop 62 comprising a second pump 72, a second heat exchanger 82 associated with components of a powertrain of the vehicle and a radiator 36 arranged downstream of the third heat exchanger 33 in a flow direction of the outside air flow 16.

[0083] The heat transfer fluid circuit 3 also comprises a first path 91 which extends between a first branch point 24 of the first heat transfer fluid loop 61 and a first connection point 25 of the second heat transfer fluid loop 62. The first branch point 24 is located between the fifth heat exchanger 35 and the first pump 61 while the first connection point 25 is located between the radiator 36 and the second pump 72.

[0084] The heat transfer fluid circuit 3 also comprises a second path 92 which extends between a second branch point 26 of the first heat transfer fluid loop 61 and a second connection point 27 of the second heat transfer fluid loop 62. The second branch point 26 is located between the first heat exchanger 81 and the fifth heat exchanger 35 while the second connection point 27 is located between the second heat exchanger 82 and the radiator 36.

[0085] The heat transfer fluid circuit 3 also comprises a third path 93 which extends between a third branch point 28 of the first heat transfer fluid loop 61 and a third connection point 29 of the first heat transfer fluid loop 61. The third branch point 28 is located between the first heat exchanger 81 and the second branch point 26 while the third connection point 29 is located between the first branch point 24 and the first pump 71.

[0086] The third channel 93 comprises a high-voltage electric heating device 94.

[0087] The second connection point 27 is equipped with a first distribution member 101 capable of directing the heat transfer fluid FC from the second heat exchanger 82 towards the second channel 92 or towards the radiator 36.

[0088] The third diversion point 28 is equipped with a second distribution member 102 capable of directing the heat transfer fluid FC coming from the first heat exchanger 81 towards the second diversion point 26 or towards the third channel 93.

[0089] It is noted at this stage of the description that the heat treatment system 1 comprises an assembly 51 formed of the third heat exchanger 33, the fourth heat exchanger 34 and the radiator 36, the third heat exchanger 33 being interposed between the fourth heat exchanger 34 and the radiator 36.

[0090] The assembly 51 is preferably arranged on the front face 50 of the vehicle, close to a grille of the latter for example. The front face 50 of the vehicle is that which is placed at the front of the vehicle in a current direction of movement of the vehicle.

[0091] The assembly 51 is for example equipped with at least one flap 52 capable of authorizing or prohibiting circulation of the external air flow 16 through the assembly 51.

[0092] In [Fig.2], the heat treatment system 1 is configured in a first operating mode for cooling the internal air flow 5 and cooling the electrical storage device and the components of the vehicle's powertrain. In other words, the heat treatment system 1 is configured in a mode for cooling the vehicle's passenger compartment, and cooling the electrical storage device and the components of the vehicle's powertrain.

[0093] In this first mode of operation, the first valve 15 is closed so that the refrigerant fluid FR cannot circulate between the point of divergence 21 and the junction point 22. The second valve 19 is closed so that the refrigerant FR cannot circulate between the bypass point 23 and the convergence point 20. The on / off valve 9 of the expansion device 7 is open so that the expanded refrigerant is able to circulate inside the second heat exchanger 32. The first expansion member 41 allows the refrigerant to pass without expanding it. The second expansion member 42 expands the refrigerant FR so that the expanded refrigerant is able to circulate inside the fifth heat exchanger 35. The first pump 71 is started to circulate the heat transfer fluid FC inside the first heat transfer fluid loop 61 and the second pump 72 is started to circulate the heat transfer fluid FC inside the second heat transfer fluid loop 62.The first distribution member 101 only allows circulation of the heat transfer fluid FC from the second heat exchanger 82 to the radiator 36. The second distribution member 102 only allows circulation of the heat transfer fluid FC from the first heat exchanger 81 to the second branch point 26. The flap 52 is open to allow the flow of outside air 16 to pass through the assembly 51.

[0094] According to this first mode of operation, the refrigerant fluid FR is compressed inside the compression device 4 to be brought to high pressure and high temperature. The refrigerant fluid FR then circulates inside the first heat exchanger 31 to transfer heat at constant pressure to the internal air flow 5. Then, the refrigerant fluid FR circulates to the divergence point 21 and takes the second branch 12 to circulate successively inside the first expansion member 41 inside which the refrigerant fluid FR does not undergo any expansion, then the refrigerant fluid FR circulates through the third heat exchanger 33 inside which it transfers calories to the external air flow 16.Then the refrigerant fluid FR circulates inside the second accumulation device 17 which retains a liquid fraction of the refrigerant fluid FR before the latter circulates through the fourth heat exchanger 34 to release residual heat to the outside air flow 16. Then the refrigerant fluid FR circulates through the non-return valve 18 to reach the junction point 22. The refrigerant fluid FR circulates both towards the second expansion member 42 inside which it undergoes expansion, and towards the expansion device 7 inside which it also undergoes expansion. The refrigerant fluid FR, expanded and at low temperature, cools the heat transfer fluid FC inside the fifth heat exchanger 35 and the internal air flow 5 inside the second heat exchanger 32, the refrigerant fluid FR present in the sections 30a, 30b of the internal heat exchanger 30 having moreover exchanged calories.Then the refrigerant fluid FR reaches the convergence point 20 before circulating inside the first device. accumulation device 6 and then join the compression device 4. These arrangements aim to cool the internal air flow 5.

[0095] According to this first mode of operation, the first accumulation device 6 collects very little, or even no, refrigerant liquid FR in the liquid state while the second accumulation device 17 collects the predominant fraction of refrigerant fluid FR in the liquid state. In other words, the first accumulation device 6 comprises almost exclusively refrigerant fluid FR in the gaseous state.

[0096] According to this first mode of operation, the refrigerant fluid FR is at high pressure from the compression device 4 and inside the first heat exchanger 31, then inside the second branch 12 up to the junction point 22, then up to the expansion device 7 and up to the second expansion member 42. The refrigerant fluid FR is at low pressure between the expansion device 7 on the one hand and the second expansion member 42 on the other hand up to the compression device 4 via the convergence point and the first accumulation device 6.

[0097] At the same time, the heat transfer fluid FC is cooled by the refrigerant fluid FR circulating inside the fifth heat exchanger 35 to finally cool the electrical storage device via the first heat exchanger 81, from a circulation of the heat transfer fluid FC inside the first heat transfer fluid loop 61.

[0098] At the same time, with the flap 52 open, the external air flow 16 is able to circulate through the assembly 51 in particular to cool the heat transfer fluid FC circulating inside the radiator 36 and subsequently to cool the components of the vehicle's powertrain associated with the second heat exchanger 82, from a circulation of the heat transfer fluid FC inside the second heat transfer fluid loop 62.

[0099] In [Fig. 3], the heat treatment system 1 is configured in a second operating mode for heating the internal air flow 5, heating the electrical storage device and cooling the components of the vehicle's powertrain. In other words, the heat treatment system 1 is configured in a mode for heating the vehicle's passenger compartment and the electrical storage device and cooling the components of the vehicle's powertrain.

[0100] In this second mode of operation, the first valve 15 is open so that the refrigerant FR can circulate between the divergence point 21 and the junction point 22. The second valve 19 is closed so that the refrigerant FR cannot circulate between the bypass point 23 and the convergence point 20. The on / off valve 9 of the expansion device 7 is closed so that the refrigerant cannot circulate inside the second heat exchanger 32. The first expansion member 41 is closed so that the refrigerant FR cannot circulate inside the second heat exchanger 32. that the refrigerant fluid FR cannot circulate inside the second branch 12. The second expansion member 42 expands the refrigerant fluid FR such that the expanded refrigerant fluid is able to circulate inside the fifth heat exchanger 35. The first distribution member 101 only allows circulation of the heat transfer fluid FC from the second heat exchanger 82 to the second path 92. The second distribution member 102 only allows circulation of the heat transfer fluid FC from the first heat exchanger 81 to the high-voltage electric heating device 94. The first pump 71 is started to circulate the heat transfer fluid FC between the first heat exchanger 81 associated with the electrical storage device and the high-voltage electric heating device 94.The second pump 72 is started to circulate the heat transfer fluid FC between the fifth heat exchanger 35 and the second heat exchanger 82 associated with the components of a powertrain of the vehicle. The flap 52 is closed to prevent the flow of outside air 16 from passing through the assembly 51.

[0101] According to this second mode of operation, the refrigerant fluid FR is compressed inside the compression device 4 to be brought to high pressure and high temperature. The refrigerant fluid FR then circulates inside the first heat exchanger 31 to transfer heat at constant pressure to the internal air flow 5. Then, the refrigerant fluid FR circulates to the junction point 22 and takes the fourth branch 14 to circulate inside the second expansion member 42 inside which the refrigerant fluid FR undergoes expansion. Then, the refrigerant fluid FR circulates through the fifth heat exchanger 35 inside which it transfers frigories to the heat transfer fluid FC. Then, the refrigerant fluid FR circulates to the convergence point 20 before circulating inside the first accumulation device 6 and then joining the compression device 4. These arrangements aim to heat the internal air flow 5.

[0102] According to this second mode of operation, the first accumulation device 6 collects the predominant fraction of refrigerant fluid FR in the liquid state.

[0103] According to this second mode of operation, the refrigerant fluid FR is at high pressure from the compression device 4 and inside the first heat exchanger 31, then between the divergence point 20 and the junction point 22, then inside the fourth branch 14 to the second expansion member 42. The refrigerant fluid FR is at low pressure from the second expansion member 42 to the compression device 4 via the fifth heat exchanger 35, the convergence point 20 and the first accumulation device 6.

[0104] At the same time, the heat transfer fluid FC is cooled by the refrigerant fluid FR circulating inside the fifth heat exchanger 35 to finally cool the components of the vehicle's powertrain associated with the second heat exchanger 82, from a circulation of the heat transfer fluid FC from the fifth heat exchanger 35, towards the first diversion point 24, then inside the first path 91, then towards the second pump 72, then towards the second heat exchanger 82, then towards the first distribution member 101, then towards the second path 92 up to the second diversion point 26 to finally reach the fifth heat exchanger 35. These arrangements aim to cool the components of the vehicle's powertrain.

[0105] In parallel, the heat transfer fluid FC circulates between the third connection point 29 and the third diversion point 28 through the first pump 71 and the first heat exchanger 81, then inside the third channel 93 through the high-voltage electric heating device 94. These arrangements aim to heat the electrical storage device.

[0106] In [Fig.4], the heat treatment system 1 is configured in a third operating mode for heating the internal air flow 5, heating the electrical storage device and cooling the components of the vehicle's powertrain. In other words, the heat treatment system 1 is configured in a mode for heating the vehicle's passenger compartment and the electrical storage device, and cooling the components of the vehicle's powertrain.

[0107] In this third mode of operation, the first valve 15 is open so that the refrigerant FR can circulate between the divergence point 21 and the junction point 22. The second valve 19 is open so that the refrigerant FR can circulate between the bypass point 23 and the convergence point 20. The on / off valve 9 of the expansion device 7 is closed so that the refrigerant cannot circulate inside the second heat exchanger 32. The first expansion member 41 causes the refrigerant FR to undergo an expansion such that the expanded refrigerant is able to circulate inside the third heat exchanger 33. The second expansion member 42 also expands the refrigerant FR so that the expanded refrigerant is able to circulate inside the fifth heat exchanger 35.The first distribution member 101 only allows circulation of the heat transfer fluid FC from the second heat exchanger 82 to the second channel 92. The second distribution member 102 only allows circulation of the heat transfer fluid FC from the first heat exchanger 81 to the high-voltage electric heating device 94. The first pump 71 is started to circulate the heat transfer fluid FC between the first heat exchanger 81 associated with the electrical storage device and the high-voltage electric heating device 94. The second pump 72 is started to do . circulate the heat transfer fluid FC between the fifth heat exchanger 35 and the second heat exchanger 82 associated with the components of a vehicle powertrain. The flap 52 is open to allow the outside air flow 16 to pass through the assembly 51.

[0108] According to this third mode of operation, the refrigerant fluid FR is compressed inside the compression device 4 to be brought to high pressure and high temperature. The refrigerant fluid FR then circulates inside the first heat exchanger 31 to transfer heat at constant pressure to the internal air flow 5. Then, the refrigerant fluid FR circulates to the divergence point 21. A first portion of the refrigerant fluid FR takes the second branch 12 and a second portion of the refrigerant fluid FR circulates from the divergence point 21 to the junction point 22.

[0109] The first portion of refrigerant fluid circulates through the first expansion member 41 inside which the refrigerant fluid FR undergoes expansion. Then, the first portion of expanded refrigerant fluid FR circulates through the third heat exchanger 33 inside which it releases frigories to the outside air flow 16. Then, the first portion of refrigerant fluid FR circulates to the bypass point 23 to take the third branch 13 to the convergence point 20.

[0110] The second portion of refrigerant fluid FR circulates through the second expansion member 42 inside which it undergoes expansion. The second portion of refrigerant fluid FR, expanded and at low temperature, cools the heat transfer fluid FC inside the fifth heat exchanger 35. Then the second portion of refrigerant fluid FR reaches the convergence point 20.

[0111] At the point of convergence 20, the two portions of refrigerant fluid join together to then circulate inside the first accumulation device 6 and join the compression device 4. These arrangements aim to heat the internal air flow 5.

[0112] According to this third mode of operation, the first accumulation device 6 collects the refrigerant fluid FR in the liquid state. The second accumulation device 17 is bypassed from a circulation of the refrigerant fluid FR leaving the third heat exchanger 33 towards the third branch 13 and not towards the fourth heat exchanger 34.

[0113] According to this third mode of operation, the refrigerant fluid FR is at high pressure from the compression device 4 and inside the first heat exchanger 31 up to the divergence point 21, then inside the second branch 12 up to the first expansion member 41 as well as between the divergence point 21 and the second expansion member 42. The refrigerant fluid FR is at low pressure between the first expansion member 41 and the bypass point 23 as well as inside from the third branch 13 to the convergence point 20. The refrigerant fluid FR is also at low pressure between the second expansion member 42 and the convergence point 20 as well as between the latter and the compression device 4.

[0114] At the same time, the heat transfer fluid FC is cooled by the second portion of refrigerant fluid FR circulating inside the fifth heat exchanger 35 to finally cool the components of the vehicle's powertrain associated with the second heat exchanger 82, from a circulation of the heat transfer fluid FC from the fifth heat exchanger 35, to the first branch point 24, then inside the first path 91, then to the second pump 72, then to the second heat exchanger 82, then to the first distribution member 101, then to the second path 92 to the second branch point 26 to finally reach the fifth heat exchanger 35. These arrangements are intended to cool the components of the vehicle's powertrain.

[0115] In parallel, the heat transfer fluid FC circulates between the third connection point 29 and the third diversion point 28 through the first pump 71 and the first heat exchanger 81, then inside the third channel 93 through the high-voltage electric heating device 94. These arrangements aim to heat the electrical storage device.

[0116] In [Fig.5], the heat treatment system 1 is configured in a fourth operating mode for heating the internal air flow 5 and the electrical storage device. In other words, the heat treatment system 1 is configured in a heating mode for the passenger compartment of the vehicle and the electrical storage device.

[0117] In this fourth mode of operation, the first valve 15 is closed so that the refrigerant fluid FR cannot circulate between the divergence point 21 and the junction point 22. The second valve 19 is open so that the refrigerant fluid FR can circulate between the bypass point 23 and the convergence point 20. The on / off valve 9 of the expansion device 7 is closed so that the expanded refrigerant fluid does not circulate inside the second heat exchanger 32. The first expansion member 41 causes the refrigerant fluid FR to undergo an expansion such that the expanded refrigerant fluid is able to circulate inside the third heat exchanger 33. The first distribution member 101 only allows circulation of the heat transfer fluid FC from the second heat exchanger 82 to the second path 92.The second distribution member 102 only allows circulation of the heat transfer fluid FC from the first heat exchanger 81 to the high-voltage electric heating device 94. The first pump 71 is started to circulate the heat transfer fluid FC between the first heat exchanger 81 associated with the electric storage device and the high-voltage electric heating device. voltage 94. The second pump 72 is started to circulate the heat transfer fluid FC between the fifth heat exchanger 35 and the second heat exchanger 82 associated with the components of a powertrain of the vehicle. The flap 52 is open to allow the flow of outside air 16 to pass through the assembly 51.

[0118] According to this fourth mode of operation, the refrigerant fluid FR is compressed inside the compression device 4 to be brought to high pressure and high temperature. The refrigerant fluid FR then circulates inside the first heat exchanger 31 to transfer heat at constant pressure to the internal air flow 5. Then, the refrigerant fluid FR circulates to the point of divergence 21 and takes the second branch 12 to circulate successively inside the first expansion member 41 inside which the refrigerant fluid FR undergoes expansion. Then, the expanded refrigerant fluid FR circulates through the third heat exchanger 33 inside which it transfers frigories to the external air flow 16. Then, the refrigerant fluid FR circulates to the bypass point 23, then inside the third branch 13 to the point of convergence 20.Then the refrigerant fluid FR circulates inside the first accumulation device 6 and then joins the compression device 4. These arrangements aim to heat the internal air flow 5.

[0119] According to this fourth mode of operation, the first accumulation device 6 collects the refrigerant fluid FR in the liquid state. The second accumulation device 17 is bypassed from a circulation of the refrigerant fluid FR leaving the third heat exchanger 33 towards the third branch 13 and not towards the fourth heat exchanger 34.

[0120] According to this fourth mode of operation, the refrigerant fluid FR is at high pressure from the compression device 4 and inside the first heat exchanger 31, then inside the second branch 12 to the first expansion member 4L. The refrigerant fluid FR is at low pressure between the first expansion member 41 up to the bypass point 23, then inside the third branch 13, then between the convergence point 20 up to the compression device 4 via the first accumulation device 6.

[0121] At the same time, the heat transfer fluid FC circulates from the fifth heat exchanger 35, towards the first diversion point 24, then inside the first path 91, then towards the second pump 72, then towards the second heat exchanger 82, then towards the first distribution member 101, then towards the second path 92 to the second diversion point 26 to finally reach the fifth heat exchanger 35. These arrangements aim to homogenize a temperature of the heat transfer fluid FC during this circulation.

[0122] In parallel, the heat transfer fluid FC circulates between the third connection point 29 and the third diversion point 28 through the first pump. 71 and the first heat exchanger 81, then inside the third path 93 through the high-voltage electric heating device 94. These arrangements are intended to heat the electric storage device.

[0123] In [Fig.6], the heat treatment system 1 is configured in a fifth operating mode to defrost the third heat exchanger 33 placed on the front face 51 of the vehicle, heat the passenger compartment of the vehicle from the internal air flow 5, heat the electrical storage device and cool the components of the vehicle's powertrain. In other words, the heat treatment system 1 is configured in a mode of defrosting the third heat exchanger 33, heating the passenger compartment of the vehicle and the electrical storage device, and cooling the components of the vehicle's powertrain.

[0124] In this fifth mode of operation, the first valve 15 is closed so that the refrigerant FR cannot circulate between the divergence point 21 and the junction point 22. The second valve 19 is closed so that the refrigerant FR cannot circulate between the bypass point 23 and the convergence point 20. The on / off valve 9 of the expansion device 7 is closed so that the refrigerant cannot circulate inside the second heat exchanger 32. The first expansion member 41 expands the refrigerant to an intermediate pressure so that the refrigerant expanded to the intermediate pressure is able to circulate inside the third heat exchanger 33.The second expansion member 42 expands the refrigerant fluid FR to low pressure such that the refrigerant fluid expanded to low pressure is able to circulate inside the fifth heat exchanger 35. The first distribution member 101 only allows circulation of the heat transfer fluid FC from the second heat exchanger 82 to the second path 92. The second distribution member 102 only allows circulation of the heat transfer fluid FC from the first heat exchanger 81 to the high-voltage electric heating device 94. The first pump 71 is started to circulate the heat transfer fluid FC between the first heat exchanger 81 associated with the electrical storage device and the high-voltage electric heating device 94.The second pump 72 is started to circulate the heat transfer fluid FC between the fifth heat exchanger 35 and the second heat exchanger 82 associated with the components of a powertrain of the vehicle. The flap 52 is closed to prevent the flow of outside air from passing through the assembly 51.

[0125] According to this fifth mode of operation, the refrigerant fluid FR is compressed inside the compression device 4 to be brought to high pressure and high temperature. The refrigerant fluid FR then circulates inside the first heat exchanger 31 to give off heat at constant pressure to the air flow. internal 5. Then, the refrigerant fluid FR circulates to the point of divergence 21 and takes the second branch 12 to circulate successively inside the first expansion member 41 inside which the refrigerant fluid FR undergoes a first expansion to the intermediate pressure, then the refrigerant fluid FR circulates through the third heat exchanger 33. Then, the refrigerant fluid FR circulates inside the second accumulation device 17 then through the fourth heat exchanger 34. Then, the refrigerant fluid FR circulates through the non-return valve 18 to reach the junction point 22. The refrigerant fluid FR circulates to the second expansion member 42 inside which it undergoes a second expansion to the low pressure. The refrigerant fluid FR, expanded and at low temperature, cools the heat transfer fluid FC inside the fifth heat exchanger 35.Then the refrigerant fluid FR joins the convergence point 20 before circulating inside the first accumulation device 6 and then joining the compression device 4. These arrangements aim to defrost the third heat exchanger 33 due to the intermediate refrigerant fluid pressure prevailing inside the latter. This intermediate refrigerant fluid pressure makes it possible to defrost the third heat exchanger 33 while minimizing energy losses to the outside of the refrigerant fluid circuit 2, in particular due to a significant capacity of the third heat exchanger 33 to absorb heat.

[0126] According to this fifth mode of operation, the refrigerant fluid FR is at high pressure from the compression device 4 and inside the first heat exchanger 31, then inside the second branch 12 to the first expansion member 4L. The refrigerant fluid FR is at an intermediate pressure between the first expansion member 41 up to the junction point 22 on the second branch 12, then between the junction point 22 up to the second expansion member 42 on the fourth branch 14. The refrigerant fluid FR is at low pressure between the second expansion member 42 up to the compression device 4 via the convergence point 20 and the first accumulation device 6.

[0127] At the same time, the heat transfer fluid FC circulates from the fifth heat exchanger 35, towards the first diversion point 24, then inside the first path 91, then towards the second pump 72, then towards the second heat exchanger 82, then towards the first distribution member 101, then towards the second path 92 to the second diversion point 26 to finally reach the fifth heat exchanger 35. These arrangements aim to cool the components of the vehicle's powertrain.

[0128] In parallel, the heat transfer fluid FC circulates between the third connection point 29 and the third diversion point 28 through the first pump 71 and the first heat exchanger 81, then inside the third channel 93 to through the high-voltage electric heating device 94. These provisions are intended to heat the electrical storage device.

[0129] In [Fig.7], the heat treatment system 1 is configured in a sixth operating mode for defogging the vehicle interior from the internal air flow 5 and heating the electrical storage device. In other words, the heat treatment system 1 is configured in defogging mode, and heating the electrical storage device.

[0130] In this first mode of operation, the first valve 15 is closed so that the refrigerant FR cannot circulate between the divergence point 21 and the junction point 22. The second valve 19 is closed so that the refrigerant FR cannot circulate between the bypass point 23 and the convergence point 20. The on / off valve 9 of the expansion device 7 is open so that the expanded refrigerant is able to circulate inside the second heat exchanger 32. The first expansion member 41 causes the refrigerant FR to undergo expansion so that the expanded refrigerant is able to circulate inside the third heat exchanger 33. The second expansion member 42 is closed so that the refrigerant does not circulate inside the fifth heat exchanger 35.The first distribution member 101 only allows circulation of the heat transfer fluid FC from the second heat exchanger 82 to the second path 92. The second distribution member 102 only allows circulation of the heat transfer fluid FC from the first heat exchanger 81 to the high-voltage electric heating device 94. The first pump 71 is started to circulate the heat transfer fluid FC between the first heat exchanger 81 associated with the electrical storage device and the high-voltage electric heating device 94. The second pump 72 is started to circulate the heat transfer fluid FC between the fifth heat exchanger 35 and the second heat exchanger 82 associated with the components of a powertrain of the vehicle. The flap 52 is open to allow the flow of outside air 16 to pass through the assembly 51.

[0131] According to this sixth mode of operation, the refrigerant fluid FR is compressed inside the compression device 4 to be brought to high pressure and high temperature. The refrigerant fluid FR then circulates inside the first heat exchanger 31 to transfer heat at constant pressure to the internal air flow 5. Then, the refrigerant fluid FR circulates to the point of divergence 21 and takes the second branch 12 to circulate successively inside the first expansion member 41 inside which the refrigerant fluid FR undergoes expansion, then the expanded refrigerant fluid FR circulates through the third heat exchanger 33 inside which it transfers frigories to the external air flow 16. Then, the fluid refrigerant FR circulates inside the second accumulation device 17 and then through the fourth heat exchanger 34. Then the refrigerant FR circulates through the non-return valve 18 to reach the junction point 22. The refrigerant FR circulates to the expansion device 7 inside which it does not undergo any expansion. The refrigerant FR, expanded and at low temperature, cools the internal air flow 5 inside the second heat exchanger 32, the refrigerant FR present in the sections 30a, 30b of the internal heat exchanger 30 having also exchanged calories. Then the refrigerant FR reaches the convergence point 20 before circulating inside the first accumulation device 6 and then joining the compression device 4.These provisions aim to defog the passenger compartment from the internal air flow 5 which is successively cooled during its circulation through the second heat exchanger 32 and heated during its circulation through the first heat exchanger 31 in order to dry the air contained inside the passenger compartment of the vehicle.

[0132] According to this sixth mode of operation, the refrigerant fluid FR is at high pressure from the compression device 4 and inside the first heat exchanger 31, then inside the second branch 12 to the first expansion member 4L. The refrigerant fluid FR is at low pressure from the first expansion member 41 to the junction point on the second branch 12, then between the junction point and the convergence point 20 on the first branch 11, then between the convergence point 20 and the compression device 4.

[0133] At the same time, the heat transfer fluid FC circulates from the fifth heat exchanger 35, towards the first diversion point 24, then inside the first path 91, then towards the second pump 72, then towards the second heat exchanger 82, then towards the first distribution member 101, then towards the second path 92 to the second diversion point 26 to finally reach the fifth heat exchanger 35. These arrangements aim to homogenize a temperature of the heat transfer fluid FC during this circulation.

[0134] In parallel, the heat transfer fluid FC circulates between the third connection point 29 and the third diversion point 28 through the first pump 71 and the first heat exchanger 81, then inside the third channel 93 through the high-voltage electric heating device 94. These arrangements aim to heat the electrical storage device.

[0135] In [Fig.8], the heat treatment system 1 is configured in a seventh operating mode to dehumidify the vehicle interior from the internal air flow 5 and heat the electrical storage device. In other words, the heat treatment system 1 is configured in dehumidification mode, and heating of the electrical storage device.

[0136] In this seventh operating mode, the first valve 15 is open so that the refrigerant FR can circulate between the divergence point 21 and the junction point 22. The second valve 19 is open so that the refrigerant FR can circulate between the bypass point 23 and the convergence point 20. The on / off valve 9 of the expansion device 7 is open so that the expanded refrigerant is able to circulate inside the second heat exchanger 32. The first expansion member 41 causes the refrigerant FR to undergo expansion so that the expanded refrigerant is able to circulate inside the third heat exchanger 33. The second expansion member 42 is closed so that the refrigerant does not circulate inside the fifth heat exchanger 35.The first distribution member 101 only allows circulation of the heat transfer fluid FC from the second heat exchanger 82 to the second path 92. The second distribution member 102 only allows circulation of the heat transfer fluid FC from the first heat exchanger 81 to the high-voltage electric heating device 94. The first pump 71 is started to circulate the heat transfer fluid FC between the first heat exchanger 81 associated with the electrical storage device and the high-voltage electric heating device 94. The second pump 72 is started to circulate the heat transfer fluid FC between the fifth heat exchanger 35 and the second heat exchanger 82 associated with the components of a powertrain of the vehicle. The flap 52 is open to allow the flow of outside air 16 to pass through the assembly 51.

[0137] According to this seventh mode of operation, the refrigerant fluid FR is compressed inside the compression device 4 to be brought to high pressure and high temperature. The refrigerant fluid FR then circulates inside the first heat exchanger 31 to transfer heat at constant pressure to the internal air flow 5. Then, the refrigerant fluid FR circulates to the divergence point 21. A first portion of the refrigerant fluid FR takes the second branch 12 and a second portion of the refrigerant fluid FR circulates from the divergence point 21 to the junction point 22.

[0138] The first portion of refrigerant fluid circulates through the first expansion member 41 inside which the refrigerant fluid FR undergoes expansion. Then, the first portion of expanded refrigerant fluid FR circulates through the third heat exchanger 33 inside which it releases frigories to the outside air flow 16. Then, the first portion of refrigerant fluid FR circulates to the bypass point 23 to take the third branch 13 to the convergence point 20.

[0139] The second portion of refrigerant fluid FR circulates through the expansion device inside which it undergoes expansion. The second portion of refrigerant fluid FR, expanded and at low temperature, cools the internal air flow 5 inside the second heat exchanger 32. Then the second portion of refrigerant fluid FR reaches the convergence point 20.

[0140] The combined portions of refrigerant fluid then circulate inside the first accumulation device 6 and then towards the compression device 4. These arrangements aim to dehumidify the passenger compartment from the internal air flow 5 which is successively cooled during its circulation through the second heat exchanger 32 and heated during its circulation through the first heat exchanger 31 in order to dehumidify the internal air flow 5 prior to its delivery to the interior of the passenger compartment of the vehicle.

[0141] According to this seventh mode of operation, the refrigerant fluid FR is at high pressure from the compression device 4 and inside the first heat exchanger 31 up to the divergence point 21, then inside the second branch 12 up to the first expansion member 41 as well as between the divergence point 21 and the expansion device 7. The refrigerant fluid FR is at low pressure between the first expansion member 41 and the bypass point 23 as well as inside the third branch 13 up to the convergence point 20. The refrigerant fluid FR is also at low pressure between the expansion device 7 and the convergence point 20 as well as between the latter and the compression device 4.

[0142] At the same time, the heat transfer fluid FC circulates from the fifth heat exchanger 35, towards the first diversion point 24, then inside the first path 91, then towards the second pump 72, then towards the second heat exchanger 82, then towards the first distribution member 101, then towards the second path 92 to the second diversion point 26 to finally reach the fifth heat exchanger 35. These arrangements aim to homogenize a temperature of the heat transfer fluid FC during this circulation.

[0143] In parallel, the heat transfer fluid FC circulates between the third connection point 29 and the third diversion point 28 through the first pump 71 and the first heat exchanger 81, then inside the third channel 93 through the high-voltage electric heating device 94. These arrangements aim to heat the electrical storage device.

[0144] The seven operating modes described above are not exhaustive, and other operating modes adapted to different situations can be implemented by the heat treatment system 1 according to the invention.

[0145] Of course, the invention is not limited to the examples which have just been described and numerous adjustments can be made to these examples without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0146] The invention, as just described, achieves the aim it set itself, and makes it possible to propose a refrigerant circuit capable of ensuring various improved operating modes based on optimized control of the distribution of the circulating mass of refrigerant FR inside the refrigerant circuit 2. Variants not described here could be implemented without departing from the context of the invention, provided that, in accordance with the invention, they comprise a refrigerant circuit 2 in accordance with the invention.

Claims

1. Claims Refrigerant circuit (2) for a heat treatment system (1) of a vehicle and traversed by a refrigerant (FR), the refrigerant circuit (2) comprising a main branch (10) which extends between a point of convergence (20) and a point of divergence (21) and which comprises a compression device (4) and a first heat exchanger (31) configured to carry out a heat exchange between the refrigerant (FR) and an internal air flow (5) or a first heat transfer liquid, the refrigerant circuit (2) comprising a first branch (11) which extends between the point of divergence (21) and the point of convergence (20) and which comprises a first valve (15), an expansion device (7) and a second heat exchanger (32) configured to carry out a heat exchange between the refrigerant (FR) and the internal air flow (5),the refrigerant circuit (2) comprising a second branch (12) which extends between the divergence point (21) and a junction point (22) interposed between the first valve (15) and the expansion device (7), the second branch (12) comprising a first expansion member (41), a third heat exchanger (33) configured to carry out a heat exchange between the refrigerant (FR) and an external air flow (16) to a passenger compartment of the vehicle or between the refrigerant (FR) and a second heat transfer liquid, the second branch (12) also comprising a fourth heat exchanger (34) configured to carry out a heat exchange between the refrigerant (FR) and the external air flow (16), the refrigerant circuit (2) comprising a third branch (13) which extends between a bypass point (23), interposed between the third heat exchanger (33) and the fourth heat exchanger (34),and the convergence point (20) and which comprises a second valve (19), the main branch (10) comprising a first accumulation device (6) interposed between the convergence point (20) and the compression device (4), the second branch (12) comprising a second accumulation device (17) interposed between the bypass point (23) and the fourth heat exchanger (34), in which the refrigerant circuit (2) comprises a fourth branch (14) which extends between the junction point (22) and, the convergence point (20) and which comprises a second expansion member (42) and a fifth heat exchanger (35) configured to carry out a heat exchange between the refrigerant fluid (FR) and a heat transfer fluid (FC) circulating within a heat transfer fluid circuit (3) of the vehicle.

2. Refrigerant fluid circuit (2) according to claim 1, in which the expansion device (7) comprises a thermostatic expansion member (8).

3. Refrigerant fluid circuit (2) according to claim 2, in which the thermostatic expansion member (8) is associated with an on / off valve (9).

4. Refrigerant circuit (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first branch (11) comprises an internal heat exchanger (30) having a first section (30a) arranged between the junction point (22) and the expansion device (7) and a second section (30b) arranged between the second heat exchanger (32) and the convergence point (20), the first section (30a) and the second section (30b) being arranged to allow heat exchange between the refrigerant fluid (FR) circulating inside the first section (30a) and the refrigerant fluid (FR) circulating inside the second section (30b).

5. Refrigerant fluid circuit (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the second branch (12) comprises a non-return valve (18) capable of allowing circulation of the refrigerant fluid (FR) inside the second branch (12) from the point of divergence (21) towards the point of junction (22) and capable of preventing circulation of the refrigerant fluid (FR) in the opposite direction.

6. A refrigerant circuit (2) according to any preceding claim, wherein the second accumulation device (17) is arranged between the third heat exchanger (33) and the fourth heat exchanger (34).

7. Refrigerant circuit (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the second accumulation device (17) adjoins the fourth heat exchanger (34).

8. A heat treatment system (1) comprising a refrigerant circuit (2) according to any one of the preceding claims and the heat transfer fluid circuit (3) comprising a first loop heat transfer fluid (61) comprising a first pump (71), a first heat exchanger (81) associated with an electrical storage device of the vehicle and the fifth heat exchanger (35).

9. Heat treatment system (1) according to claim 8, wherein the heat transfer fluid circuit (3) comprises a second heat transfer fluid loop (62) comprising a second pump (72), a second heat exchanger (82) associated with components of a powertrain of the vehicle and a radiator (36) arranged downstream of the third heat exchanger (33) in a flow direction of the outside air flow (16).

10. A heat treatment system (1) according to any one of claims 8 and 9, wherein the heat treatment system (1) comprises an assembly (51) formed of the third heat exchanger (33) interposed between the fourth heat exchanger (34) and the radiator (36).

11. Heat treatment system (1) according to claim 10, wherein the assembly (51) is equipped with at least one flap (52) capable of allowing or prohibiting circulation of the external air flow (16) through the assembly (51).

12. Vehicle equipped with a heat treatment system (1) according to any one of claims 10 and 11, in which the vehicle comprises a front face (50) equipped with the assembly (51).

13. Method for controlling a refrigerant circuit (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein: - during a cooling mode of the passenger compartment of the vehicle, the second heat exchanger (32) is used as an evaporator to cool the internal air flow (5), and the third heat exchanger (33) is used as a condenser to transfer calories to the external air flow (16) or to the second heat transfer liquid, the second valve (19) preventing circulation of the refrigerant fluid (FR) inside the third branch (13), the second accumulation device (17) being used to store a liquid fraction of the refrigerant fluid (FR), - during a heating mode of the passenger compartment of the vehicle, the first heat exchanger (31) is used as a condenser to heat the internal air flow (5) or the first heat transfer liquid,and the third heat exchanger (33) is used as an evaporator to cool the outside air flow (16) or the second liquid, heat transfer fluid, the second valve (19) being open to allow circulation of the refrigerant fluid (FR) inside the third branch (13), the first accumulation device (6) being used to store the liquid fraction of the refrigerant fluid (FR).

14. A control method according to claim 13, wherein during the vehicle interior cooling mode, the refrigerant fluid (FR) cools the heat transfer fluid (FC) via the fifth heat exchanger (35) to cool the vehicle's electrical storage device associated with the first heat exchanger (81).

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