TURBOCHARGER INLET CONNECTOR, COLLECTING RECIRCULATION GASES AND CRANKCASE GASES IN ONE OUTLET

Abstract

To introduce different types of air as close as possible to the turbocharger, a connector (1) is proposed, having a flow recovery element (2) (F1, F2), for example, flows of recirculated gas and oil-free crankcase gas, respectively. An end fitting (3) of the connector, for fluid connection to a turbocharger inlet, extends the element (2) with a piping system (4, 6). The end fitting (3) also has a tubular outer wall (8) shaped like a sleeve to form the outlet (O3) of the connector, allowing several gas flows (F1, F2, F3) circulating separately towards the outlet. The peripheral channel (VP) around the piping system (4, 6) allows fresh air to circulate towards the outlet in a gas flow (F3) not routed via the element (2), within the internal volume (V3) of the outer wall (8). (See diagram: Figure 2)

Description

Title of the invention: TURBOCHARGER INLET CONNECTOR, COLLECTING RECIRCULATION GASES AND CRANKCASE GASES IN A SINGLE OUTLET technical field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of fluidic connection devices for ducts, particularly air intake ducts for motor vehicles. More specifically, the invention relates to an air supply connector for a turbocharger in a vehicle's internal combustion engine, such as an automobile. Technological background

[0002] In an internal combustion engine, particularly for motor vehicles, an intake circuit is provided for a flow of oxygen-rich gas, which is the oxidant required for combustion. The gas flow sent to the combustion chamber passes through a circuit that allows for filtration / separation of particles upstream of the combustion chamber.

[0003] An exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system allows a fraction of the exhaust gases expelled through the exhaust system to be reintroduced into the engine's intake system to mix with the fresh air supplying the combustion chambers. Such recirculation lowers the combustion temperature and consequently significantly reduces NOx emissions, thus contributing to environmental protection.

[0004] The recycled exhaust gas fraction is conventionally reintroduced downstream of the compressor, into the high-pressure zone of the fresh air intake circuit, which presents certain drawbacks. It should be noted that in this description, the terms upstream and downstream refer to the direction of gas flow. Reintroducing these gases downstream of the compressor prevents the mixing of gases at excessively different temperatures, which could have an impact on the compressor, as the exhaust gases are still at a relatively high temperature.

[0005] Some engines are designed to mix gases upstream of the compressor, i.e., by mixing gases on the low-pressure side. However, the connection method used to enable this type of mixing is often not optimal, creating insufficiently homogeneous mixtures too close to the turbocharger.

[0006] It is particularly difficult to consider effectively reintroducing both recirculated gases (often called EGR gases, from the English "exhaust gas recirculation") and oil-free gases from an internal combustion engine crankcase (crankcase gases, often called "blow-by" gases). According to document EP 3067547, the different intake gas flows are considered to have excessively different characteristics. to be abruptly mixed at a single collection point. More generally, a number of difficulties are encountered in mixing different gas streams as close as possible to the turbocharger. Summary

[0007] This disclosure improves the situation.

[0008] To this end, a turbocharger inlet connector for an internal combustion engine is proposed, comprising: - a connection fitting designed to connect fluidly to an inlet, preferably tubular, of the turbocharger, forming a tubular outer wall of the connector which delimits an inner volume; - a gas / flow recovery device (for example, flows of recirculating gas and oil-free crankcase gas respectively); The connection fitting extends the gas recovery unit via a piping system and also features a tubular outer wall (typically shaped like a connecting sleeve) to form the connector outlet, allowing for the separate channeling of several parallel gas flows towards the outlet. The outer wall defines a peripheral passage around the piping system, this passage being capable of carrying fresh air to the outlet within a gas flow not routed through the unit, in the internal volume of the outer wall.

[0009] Typically, the connection tip has a longitudinal axis and a longitudinal opening forming an outlet of the connector, with the particularity that the connector has: - the gas recovery unit (preferably made of rigid material), made integral with the nozzle (for example, directly connected axially to it) and provided with at least one of two intake inlets, in order to allow the circulation through the connector of recovered gases selected from gases from a recirculation circuit (EGR) and / or oil-free gases from a crankcase of the internal combustion engine; and - in the connection fitting, the piping system includes two tubular walls that are preferably radially spaced around each other, so that the fitting can receive and channel different gas flows, including those admitted at each inlet, to circulate them through the piping system towards the longitudinal opening, given that the fitting also has an additional peripheral passage. The peripheral passage, preferably delimited externally by the outer tubular wall, is, for example, annular in cross-section with a significantly larger external diameter (with a difference of at least 10 mm, for example) than the external diameter of the gas recovery unit. This peripheral passage is thus adapted to circulate direction of the longitudinal opening of fresh air in a gas flow typically from the outlet of the air filter of the intake circuit, with a channeling function in the internal volume and around / along said channeling system (typically only around a tube constituting the wall wrapping of the channeling system).

[0010] Thanks to this arrangement, it is possible to use a relatively simple central ducting system, which can be formed in one piece (by molding, for example, for an injection-molded part) with the rest of the nozzle. Specifically, the connector providing the airtight connection can thus form a device for introducing several types of air, easy to mount / assemble, while maintaining a simple tubular shape when viewed from the outside, for example, without radial connections on the nozzle or multiple / significantly spaced outlet areas that would make the mixture less homogeneous and increase the pressure drop. The flows can thus be guided by being ducted in parallel (co-current mode) to a mixing chamber typically located in the turbocharger.

[0011] Another advantage lies in the fact that the peripheral passage for a fresh airflow is designed like a co-current cooling exchanger, with respect to the central flows using recycled gases from the engine region, which are therefore typically warmer than the fresh air drawn from the ambient environment. In practice, each intake inlet can be separate (not part of) the tubular outer wall that delimits (externally) the connector outlet. These inlets can be located in an area / space where fresh air circulates before entering the peripheral passage provided in the nozzle.

[0012] The flow guidance effect, with the parallel flow within the same tube forming the outer wall of the nozzle, helps to facilitate mixing, while also promoting certain heat exchanges that mitigate temperature differences between the flows. The circulation of the hottest gases through a flow zone of the conveyed / received flow in the peripheral passage can also contribute to thermal rebalancing.

[0013] In preferred embodiments, the gas recovery part or element has two inlets. This results in two flows circulating in the piping system, for example, one flowing continuously to be separated within the internal volume of the nozzle while the other being co-located in a central region thermally cooled by the circulation of fresh air in the peripheral passageway. In the nozzle, on the side of the longitudinal receiving end opposite the longitudinal opening forming the outlet, the piping system can extend (directly extend) a similar structure provided in the collector element, thus creating a similar partition with the same geometry to allow for the reception of a first and a second flow of recycled clean gases (of different types).

[0014] The connector tip may exhibit symmetry about the longitudinal axis and / or with respect to a longitudinal plane including this longitudinal axis. Independently of, or in addition to, this general symmetry, the piping system may partition the internal volume in a substantially concentric arrangement that prevents the different gas flows from mixing by guiding them along a longitudinal direction (typically a single longitudinal direction). It is understood that even if some junctions are not perfectly sealed, for example, in the junction between the piping system and the gas recovery unit, a barrier effect against mixing is still achieved, and any leaks do not alter the flow regime of the respective streams.

[0015] To optimize the air supply, it may be advantageous to include the crankcase gas flow, de-oiled after at least one separation stage, and the gas flow from the recirculation circuit, in the intake circuit without mixing them with fresh air before reaching the connection / locking zone with the turbocharger (with the low-pressure compressor in this case). For this purpose, said at least one intake inlet (out of two inlets) may consist of two respective intake inlets formed, preferably from a single piece, in the gas recovery unit, one for a first gas flow from the recirculation circuit, and the other for a second gas flow, which is the de-oiled gas from the crankcase of the internal combustion engine. The inlet thus includes a set of walls allowing the internal channeling of three gas flows to circulate them towards the longitudinal opening.

[0016] The internal piping system, which belongs to the wall assembly, extends from a longitudinal receiving end of the nozzle axially opposite the outlet of the connector (this end receiving the gases) and is adapted to circulate the first and second gas flows in the internal volume of the nozzle, with the piping system spaced radially inwards relative to the tubular external wall, typically forming a relatively narrow double-walled piping unit compared to the peripheral passageway, with a wider passage cross-section.

[0017] Generally, three different types of clean air can advantageously be mixed using an intermediate spacing channel / region radially interposed between the most central flow channel, typically traversed by the longitudinal axis X (at least near the connector outlet), and the wide peripheral passageway for the airflow (fresh air) filtered further upstream by an air filter. The outlet of the air filter housing is located upstream of the connector on a main intake line, with the filter housing typically spaced and separated from this multi-flow inlet connector, as is the separation stage for oil removal. The crankcase gases are located upstream of the connector on a secondary line (distinct from the main line) of the air intake circuit.

[0018] With this arrangement of introducing three gas streams at the turbocharger inlet, it is advantageously permitted: - to circulate crankcase gases (typically purified) with a type of piping that is highly resistant to freezing, the external wall of the connection fitting being able to extend all around the sheathing wall externally delimiting the piping system; - to limit or prevent the possible occurrence of turbulence due to humid conditions in the recirculation gas (EGR). - to place the outlet of the respective pipes in a compact tube (with a single connection end), allowing the respective gases to mix as close as possible to the turbocharger.

[0019] This type of solution allows for the recirculation of two types of gas through a single tube. In preferred embodiments, a single connecting tube is obtained for the turbocharger air inlet, thus reducing the number of parts, possibly by configuring the nozzle as a quick connector with a sealing function on the outer face of the nozzle's outer rim.

[0020] The connector is configured to avoid any mixing between the gas flows in the internal volume: it is only beyond the nozzle / after the outlet of the connector that the mixing takes place.

[0021] In a particular connector structure, the piping system and the recovery unit can form an inseparable block. Independently or in addition, the inner wall of the piping system has a passage cross-section that is reduced at least at the level of an opening / outlet at the connector outlet, so that the opening is central and of smaller cross-section compared to the passage cross-section delimited at the outlet for the outer channel of the piping system, which itself may be smaller than the passage cross-section delimited at the outlet for the fresh air flow flowing in the peripheral passage path.

[0022] According to one particular feature, the piping system partitions the internal volume into three parts and is designed to progressively reduce the effective cross-sectional area of ​​two flow paths, including the peripheral flow path. For example, a flow path for crankcase oil-free gases corresponds to the innermost longitudinal pipe / flow path in the end cap, exhibiting a progressive reduction in cross-section as it approaches the longitudinal opening, being, for example, delimited by a single tubular wall that has a nozzle-shaped termination with a single opening.

[0023] With the colocalized configuration of the flow paths, it is possible to reduce the volume occupied by the connecting tube forming the nozzle, by concentrating the guidance of different gaseous flows used for recycling purposes and to increase the oxygen supply, with a configuration that can reduce the impact of mixing on the pressure drop (better integration of the solution).

[0024] According to one option, the piping system consists of a double-tube structure for the most central flow zone, typically traversed by the flow of crankcase oil-free gases. This double-tube structure defines a decreasing outlet cross-section, typically using a nozzle shape for at least one of the flow path terminations. This results in pressure conditions favorable to uniform flow, and thus unfavorable to the occurrence of turbulence or other undesirable effects on the homogeneity of the mixture.

[0025] The features described in the following paragraphs may optionally be implemented independently of each other or in combination with each other: - the connector includes a rigid tube forming a central flow path between an axial inlet, which is preferably the inlet for the crankcase oil-free gas flow, and a central outlet formed at the axial outlet of the connector, the central outlet being delimited by the end of a tubular wall of the piping system. - the end delimiting the central outlet is a nozzle end. - one of the inlets, separate from the axial inlet, forms a chimney / tubing connected laterally to the rigid tube. - the rigid tube consists of an assembly of two molded parts, each including thermoplastic material compatible with hot welding (for example, non-contact welding, IR type or generated similarly by an electromagnetic energy source, or vibration welding). - the flow circulating through the chimney / pipe can optionally circulate centripetally in a radial conduit forming the chimney to join, via a radial opening (typically a single radial opening) provided on an external face of the piping system, an intermediate flow zone between the central flow path and the peripheral passage path. - the rigid tube and the outer wall of the nozzle, in the shape of a sleeve, are connected to each other by means of bracing arranged transversely in the peripheral passageway, the recovery element protruding out of the inner volume of the nozzle opposite the outlet of the connector, so that the one or two inlets extend outside the inner volume of the nozzle (inlet(s) not surrounded by the sleeve forming the externally visible part of the nozzle). - the rigid tube, on which the chimney is formed, includes the piping system, of so that this rigid tube, the outer wall of the end piece and the bracing means, form / define the connector. - an annular seal can be attached to the connector, for example in a groove provided on the outside of the outer wall. - the peripheral passageway is dimensioned to present, at the outlet of the connector, a passage area greater than or equal to the passage area of ​​a cylinder of 20 or 30 mm in diameter. - the set of walls has three annular section walls which are radially spaced from each other, typically successively with reference to the longitudinal axis, allowing the three gas flows to be channeled in parallel towards the longitudinal opening. - the two inlets consist of a first inlet, preferably offset to one side with respect to the direction of the longitudinal axis, through which the first gas flow enters, and a second inlet of the connector. - a longitudinal flow path for the second gas flow, accessible via the second inlet, is delimited by a tubular wall (typically the innermost or radially proximal to the longitudinal axis) belonging to the piping system, the tubular wall extending longitudinally into the internal volume. - The connector has a third inlet through which the third gas flow enters. - The third inlet, or inlet for a fresh air flow, is directly delimited by the nozzle opposite the connector outlet, while the other inlet(s) are delimited by the gas recovery unit. - each inlet (oil-free gas to be discarded or gas from the EGR recirculation circuit) delimited by the recovery unit is located at an axial position comparatively further from the outlet of the connector than the axial position (with reference to the longitudinal axis) of the third inlet. - a channel is provided in the connector, preferably having an annular section, which is formed on the periphery of the tubular wall, this channel extending in whole or in part into the internal volume, for example by being delimited between the tubular wall and an envelope wall belonging to the piping system. - the first inlet is in fluidic communication with the channel which allows the first gas flow to be routed towards the longitudinal opening (towards the outlet of the connector). - the peripheral passageway, radially delimited between the enveloping wall and the tubular external wall, joins the longitudinal opening.

[0026] In a preferred option, the gas recovery organ is made in one piece. This organ may have a star-shaped “Y” configuration, possibly with a difference in length between the arms of the organ.

[0027] In some embodiments, at least one of the following arrangements is provided for the connector: - the gas recovery unit is partially inserted into the internal volume of the nozzle (this arrangement promotes a compact connector design). - the piping system provided in the nozzle is straight. - the section of the outer wall of the nozzle is circular and preferably the length:internal diameter ratio, for the nozzle, is between 1:1.2 and 1.2:1, where the measured internal diameter is the maximum internal diameter of the outer wall of the nozzle (thus the nozzle can be robust and has a compact geometry, adding little bulk if the nozzle is fitted / plugged into the compressor inlet). - the nozzle has an end, opposite the longitudinal opening, which has an annular opening opening around the gas recovery organ to allow fresh air to be recovered from the third gas flow which circulates around the gas recovery organ. - the wrapping wall is part of a piece constituting the connection tip, extending longitudinally between a first annular end and a second annular end. - the enveloping wall is designed and arranged to form a hermetic separation partition between the first flow and the third flow, for example without radial passage in any intermediate zone between the first annular end and the second annular end. - the envelope wall is designed and arranged to connect end to end, preferably at a flange, with the outer envelope or outer tube of a double-envelope connection part provided in a component of the gas recovery unit. - the longitudinal opening defines an outlet zone where the first flow, the second flow and the third flow exit longitudinally, respectively, with all or part of the third flow exiting around the first and second flows.

[0028] According to one particular feature, the tubular wall that delimits the most central flow zone for the circulation of the second flow has a nozzle-shaped termination. Thus, the piping system has a cross-sectional variation to progressively reduce the passage area of ​​the second gas flow. The typically concentric arrangement of the piping system promotes uniform pressure conditions at the outlet of the respective circulation zones (for recirculating gases, the local enlargement of the cross-section around the nozzle-shaped termination can improve the combination of gases and the uniformity of the resulting mixture, reducing any turbulence generated by humidity).

[0029] In embodiments of the gas recovery device, one or several of the following provisions: - the gas recovery unit has a branched structure. - the branch structure is made with a fixing branch, which is hollow, to attach to the piping system of the nozzle. - the fixing arm consists of two annular tube ends distributed in two concentric tubes. - the fixing arm allows the tip to be centered along a central axis of the fixing arm; - The fixing arm extends longitudinally along the direction of the central axis, parallel to the longitudinal axis of the connecting fitting, forming, for example, a recess and / or an internal shoulder allowing the fitting's piping system to be partially inserted into a hollow in the fixing arm. - The fixing arm attaches to one end of the fitting opposite the longitudinal opening. - the gas recovery unit is arranged in alignment with the piping system which is straight, at least as far as the fixing branch is concerned. - the piping system is connected to the gas recovery unit which has a double tube structure with a central axis parallel to or coinciding with the longitudinal axis of the connection fitting. - two tubes belonging to the double tube structure allow to form / delimit two flow zones, joining the double wall tubular piping system of the nozzle. - the gas recovery unit has: the two inlets formed respectively in two separate branches of said unit; and a fixing region formed by two annular terminations of the two tubes, the fixing region serving to make a double annular connection, preferably end to end by welding, for connection to one end of the piping system opposite the longitudinal opening (03), allowing the flows circulating in the gas recovery unit and then in the nozzle to be separated in a sealed manner. - each inlet (delimited by the gas recovery unit) feeds and corresponds selectively to only one of the two flow zones delimited by the double tube structure. - a radial opening is provided formed on the outside of the double tube structure to selectively communicate the inlet for the first gas flow with a flow zone with an annular passage section which joins a channel with an annular section provided in the piping system of the nozzle. - The double-tube structure may have a central hollow delimited by a central / inner tube to selectively connect the inlet for the second gas flow with another flow zone (central) which joins a central channel provided in the piping system, in the end cap.

[0030] In embodiments of the connector, at least one of the following provisions is provided: - the outer wall of the tip has a simple tube shape, the peripheral passageway having, opposite the outlet of the connector, a single access whose cross-section, in the shape of a ring, represents a fraction greater than or equal to 50%, preferably strictly greater than 60%, of the total cross-section delimited by the outer wall on the same side of the connection tip. - the connection fitting has, opposite the longitudinal opening, a flange or annular portion for fixing allowing the fitting to be mounted, for example welded directly, on an external support face provided in a fresh air circulation housing (thus the fitting can be supported directly by a typically larger housing, which presents an advantage in terms of maintaining a fixed position and limiting vibrations in an environment very close to the engine). - the connection tip covers an opening / orifice in the fresh air circulation housing which delimits an internal space in fluidic communication with an outlet of an intake air filtration filter for the engine. - the housing has an outlet forming an opening in the external face of the support and completely covered by the nozzle. - the casing encloses the gas recovery unit. - the connection fitting is connected directly to the gas recovery unit only by the piping system, preferably in an offset fixing area (towards the outside of the housing, therefore towards the outlet of the connector) relative to the flange or annular fixing portion provided on the fitting for connection to the housing. - the external wall which rests on the casing is kept spaced away from the gas recovery unit to allow fresh air present in said internal space of the casing to access and circulate in the peripheral passageway (via the opening / orifice of the casing), around the piping system. - the piping system and the tubes, respectively inside and outside the gas recovery unit, are two parts designed separately in the same material, preferably including a thermoplastic material. - the nozzle and the gas recovery unit are or consist essentially of two parts, typically two thermoplastic parts, preferably obtained by injection molding. - opposite the connector outlet, the outer wall of the tip and / or the system The pipe is fixed by welding, for example a weld made by heating, preferably without contact (infrared welding). This produces annular weld zones, respectively on the housing and on the gas recovery unit. - The connector comprises two butted parts, with a first part having three hollow branches, separate from the connection fitting, two branches of which constitute or include the two inlets, and another branch extending longitudinally in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the connection fitting. The first part constitutes the gas recovery element, while the second part has an unbranched tubular external shape and constitutes the connection fitting. - The piping system is entirely part of the second part.

[0031] In some options, the gas recovery unit is made in a single molded piece and has a single inlet for a flow of oil-free gases from the crankcase, supplied by a duct or conduit having an annular insulating space defined between two concentric walls. The single inlet forms a channel surrounded by an annular zone defined between two concentric walls belonging to the unit. This arrangement makes it possible to maintain an annular buffer space, typically cooler during operation, around the channel for the oil-free crankcase gases, which may circulate at a high temperature, for example, above 60°C with steam.

[0032] In the gas recovery unit, the annular area surrounding the channel (crankcase gas channel for example) has an outlet on the side of the single inlet, the connector further comprising a sealing element, preferably belonging to a fluidic connection part separate from the unit, hermetically sealing from the outside the outlet of this annular area to prevent a fluid present in this annular area from flowing into the annular space of the duct / pipe.

[0033] According to another aspect, an air intake circuit is proposed, comprising a connector of the type described above, the circuit comprising: - a filtered air circulation duct, including fresh air, associated with or forming the outlet of an air filter; - at least one gas recovery line chosen from a recirculating gas circulation line and / or a crankcase oil-free gas circulation line; and - an intermediate housing (typically in an intermediate position following a series connection between the air filter and the turbocharger, in the circuit) towards which converge the respective gas flows corresponding to the filtered air circulation line and to said at least one gas recovery line; in which the connector tip gathers the respective flows (including filtered air) within its internal volume, forming a tip directly fixed to an anchoring face (which can be an external face, i.e., generally oriented towards the outside of the housing) of the intermediate housing, so that the filtered air circulating in an internal space of the housing directly joins the peripheral passageway, while the organ extends inside the internal space of the intermediate housing.

[0034] Advantageously, the connector belongs to a part of the air intake circuit located downstream of the air filter.

[0035] The housing may be of the welded type, preferably without a removable part around the connector, for better vibration resistance. Furthermore, the housing may have a delimiting body for the space accommodating a double-tube structure of the gas recovery unit, as well as a cover through which a separate branch of such a double-tube structure passes. The housing body may have two opposing connection ports, located on either side of the connector, for fluid connection with a de-oiled crankcase gas line and a recirculating gas line, respectively.

[0036] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a method for mounting a turbocharger inlet connector for an internal combustion engine in an air intake circuit is proposed, the method comprising the steps essentially consisting of: - to have a gas recovery unit, which has an inner tube and an outer tube surrounding the inner tube, in a fresh air supply space coming from an outlet of an air filter, the supply space being delimited by a support box; - rigidly fix an inlet of the gas recovery device to a first double-tube-shaped port provided in the housing, through which de-oiled crankcase gases can flow, so that a fluidic connection is established for a channel delimited successively by a central tube of the first port and by the inner tube of the gas recovery device; - close the casing, optionally by making another fluid connection to allow a flow of recirculating gas to circulate in the outer tube, around the inner tube, via another inlet of the component connecting laterally to the outer tube; - to rigidly fix, on an annular fixing part provided on the housing, an external wall of a connection fitting intended to connect fluidly to an inlet, preferably tubular, of the turbocharger, the fixing of the fitting being carried out so as to position a receiving end of the fitting opposite an opening of the housing, so as to make a plurality of fluid connections; in which the connecting end, provided with a longitudinal axis and a longitudinal opening forming an outlet of the connector opposite the receiving end, has a piping system comprising two tubular walls which are radially spaced from each other with a concentric arrangement in a volume interior delimited by the outer wall, said plurality of fluidic connections being obtained by realizing: - a first annular sealing contact, preferably using a weld, between the outer wall and the housing, in a border area around the opening; - a second annular contact, preferably sealed by means of a weld, between an annular edge of an inner tubular wall of the piping system and a complementary annular contact face belonging to the inner tube; and - a third annular sealing contact, preferably sealed by means of a weld, between an annular edge of a wall of the piping system's enclosure and a complementary annular contact face belonging to the outer tube; by which means the gas recovery unit and the nozzle form a connector allowing to receive and channel different gas flows including that or those admitted at each inlet of the gas recovery unit to circulate them in the piping system towards the longitudinal opening, knowing that the nozzle also has a peripheral passageway, delimited externally by the tubular outer wall and accessible via the opening of the housing, allowing fresh air to circulate towards the longitudinal opening in a gas flow, in the internal volume and around said piping system.

[0037] The method makes it possible to limit the number of parts, since gases from a recirculation circuit can, in a preferred embodiment, be recovered by the recovery unit which already receives the flow from a purified / de-oiled crankcase gas line. Several sealing contacts can be obtained by fixing only two parts in the same butt-together fixing area: one of the two parts forming the gas recovery unit, the other forming the connector. The solution is also compact because the recovery unit can be inserted into a supply component (a simple housing in this case), without occupying any additional space compared to this supply component. Only the nozzle may protrude from the housing, for example.

[0038] The connection tip can protrude from an external face of the housing, to form, for example, a male connector. An external face of the connection tip has, for example, an annular sealing element, preferably selected from a separate gasket (made of rubber or melamine), a flexible sealing lip, or a bead made of compressible material.

[0039] This provides a connector that combines numerous useful functions for thoroughly mixing gases from different sources and thermally insulating the hottest gases. The (internal) piping system of the connection fitting is robust and protected, and is fixedly and hermetically connected, preferably inseparably, to the complementary piping assembly formed in the receiving unit. operation in the form of a double-walled / double-tube fitting.

[0040] For connection to the recirculating gas circuit, the corresponding inlet may be a portion of tubing extending longitudinally in the opposite direction to the first port. This portion of tubing from the recovery unit may pass through an internal shell or cover of the housing, defining the fresh air intake space, via an orifice, and then connect to a second port formed on a face of the housing opposite the first port. Thus, the recovery unit and its associated fixings can be installed in areas distributed throughout different parts of the housing. Brief description of the drawings

[0041] Other features, details and advantages will become apparent from reading the detailed description below, and from analyzing the accompanying drawings, on which:

[0042] [Fig.1] shows, by way of a perspective view, an example of the arrangement of a connector mounted on a gas flow collection box of different types, and which can be connected by a nozzle to a turbocharger inlet.

[0043] [Fig.2] is a longitudinal cross-sectional view, parallel to a central axis passing through the nozzle, of a part of the intake circuit incorporating the connector of [Fig.1].

[0044] Fig. 3A shows a non-limiting embodiment of a gas recovery device, forming part of the connector arranged opposite the connection end with the turbocharger.

[0045] Fig. 3B is a longitudinal sectional view of the gas recovery unit with attachment to the connector tip, this section being parallel to a central axis that can coincide with the axis of the tip in the assembled state of the connector.

[0046] [Fig.4] is an illustrative diagram of a configuration of an intake circuit for a heat engine, showing an example of the integration of a connector in a particular embodiment.

[0047] [Fig.5] is an exploded view of the connector, prior to fixing / mounting steps, in an option using an air circulation housing.

[0048] [Fig.6] shows an arrangement similar to that of [Fig.1] from another perspective, with a part of the support made transparent and with the tip offset from its mounted position, for illustrative purposes. Description of the implementation methods

[0049] Several non-limiting examples of embodiments are described in detail below. In the various figures, identical reference numerals indicate identical or similar elements. For illustrative purposes, particularly in diagrams (see especially [Fig. 4]), certain dimensions / pro- Portions can be excessive.

[0050] With reference to Figures 1 and 2, a connector 1 is provided, here located at one end of an air intake circuit, therefore downstream of the air filter 10. The connector 1 includes three inlets 21, 22, 23 and brings together three flow paths 40, 5, VP opening respectively into three outlets SI, S2, S3. An arrangement with the three outlets SI, S2, S3 arranged in parallel can be provided in an axial outlet area of ​​a tip 3 of the connector 1, on the side of the connection with a turbocharger. Thus the three outlets SI, S2, S3 are co-located in the same tube or branch of connector 1 and gas flows Fl, F2, F3 can be directed in the same direction, here parallel to a central axis of an outlet opening 03 of the tip 3. Connector 1 can include two parts / pieces, typically welded to each other, as will be described later.

[0051] In variants, it may be possible to split the airflow and provide a specific angle of incidence or a non-parallel arrangement for a fraction of the airflow, typically a fraction of the flow corresponding to the air filtered by the air filter 10. At least one additional duct or circulation space may then be provided. More generally, it is understood that the embodiment illustrated with three outlets S1, S2, S3 is a non-limiting case, which does not preclude options with an additional supply line. Furthermore, the outlet 3 can be coupled to a wide variety of turbochargers or twin-turbo systems, for example by connecting to a tubular inlet of the low-pressure compressor.

[0052] In the non-limiting example of Figures 1, 2, and 4, it can be seen that the connector 1 is provided with an axial end allowing attachment to a supplementary connection portion provided in the low-pressure type compressor (see compressor 31 in [Fig. 4]) of the turbocharger. The male or female connection fitting 3 forms this axial end. The fitting 3 forms a fixing portion for establishing a fluid connection, typically gas-tight. An overlapping zone of tubular walls is formed between the outer wall 8 of the fitting 3 and a tubular wall forming a supplementary fixing means belonging to the turbocharger. The fluid connection made possible by this fitting 3 corresponds to an inlet 31a, preferably tubular, of the turbocharger. Locally at this inlet 31a, a mixing of the gas flows exiting through outlets S1, S2, and S3 is carried out.

[0053] The turbocharger compressor 31 is located downstream (in the direction of clean gas flow) of the section of piping A for 1' upstream of a heat exchanger 34, for example of the air-to-air type, which cools the circulating air. The exhaust gas evacuation circuit is equipped with a particulate filter 11, downstream of the turbocharger turbine 32.

[0054] Example of a wall arrangement for channeling several flows into the connector

[0055] With reference to [Fig. 2], the tubular outer wall 8 is an outer wall of the connector 1 which delimits an inner volume V3. A piping system 4, 6 extends through this inner volume V3 to provide partitioning and / or distribution of flows in pipes which extend substantially parallel to each other within the volume V3. The annular end 8a of the outer wall 8 delimits the opening 03.

[0056] Fresh air (this term refers to any air drawn directly from the external environment, typically without prior passage through the engine or any particular heating) can pass from one end to the other of the nozzle 3, which has a generally tubular external shape. The external wall 8 of the nozzle 3 can define an airflow passage. The outlet opening 03 can be divided into several outlets corresponding to the respective outlets S1, S2, and S3. In the example shown in Figures 1 and 2, the outermost annular outlet forms the outlet S3 for fresh air, so that this fresh air exits at the outlet of connector 1, enveloping the other gas flow(s).

[0057] The outer wall 8 may include a material that is generally plastic. The connecting end 3 may be made by molding a part, for example, from metal and / or a plastic material. By way of example, all or part of the connector 1 includes, at least at the end 3, a rigid plastic material, preferably reinforced with mineral fibers, such as glass fiber reinforced polyamide (PA6 GF30 / PA66 GF30 or 35 / PA46 GF30 or 35) or polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) in GF40 or a similar composite material, preferably reinforced with glass fibers. The connector 1 may optionally be made of a single type of composite material, or alternatively of at least two types of materials.

[0058] The connection fitting 3 extends tubularly around a longitudinal axis X of the fitting 3, as clearly shown in [Fig. 2]. The outer wall 8 of the fitting 3 may have an inner face that is at least partially circular in cross-section, at least near the longitudinal opening constituting the outlet opening 03. The longitudinal axis X may form an axis of symmetry passing through the center of the opening 03, which is typically circular. In alternative embodiments, a different geometry, for example with an oblong or elliptical cross-section of the opening 03, may be adopted. Furthermore, the outer wall 8 of the fitting 3 may have a truncated cone section that progressively reduces the cross-section of the inner face of the outer wall 8, thereby creating a Venturi effect or at least an acceleration effect for the gas flow F3, typically including fresh air, flowing along the inner face of the external wall 8 and around the piping system 4, 6. The reduction in cross-section corresponds, for example, to a reduction in cross-section of the order of 10 to 50%.

[0059] In the internal volume V3 and as illustrated in Figures 1 and 2, the piping system 4, 6 can: - present a simple double-tube structure; - and separate the outputs SI, S2, S3 through which the different flows circulating in connector 1 can reach a compressor of the turbocharger. This double-tube structure 4, 6 is for example directly connected, here radially, to the external wall 8 by means of one or more bracing elements 8c. The double-tube structure makes it possible to delimit a first flow zone ZI dedicated to a flow of recovered gases, for example a flow F2 of crankcase gas, as well as a second flow zone Z2 - possibly separated from the first zone Z2 up to the opening 03 - dedicated to another flow of recovered gases, for example a flow Fl of recirculation gas (from the EGR circuit).

[0060] In order to allow the different flows Fl, F2, F3, circulating in the internal volume V3, to approach each other in the same area located at the same level as or adjacent to the fluidic connection made by the nozzle 3, the connector 1 may have several branches Bl, B2, B3 typically converging, each including one of the three respective inlets 21, 22, 23. A part of the connector 1 is made as a gas flow recovery element 2, for example with a double tube structure which fits together or coincides end to end with a similar double tube structure constituted by the piping system 4, 6 which extends internally in the nozzle 3.

[0061] This arrangement allows the nozzle 3, which is wider than the recovery member 2, to combine a fixing part at one end 3a of the nozzle 3 and an additional access for a flow of fresh air, this access surrounding the ducting system 4, 6 so that the fresh air can be brought to the nozzle by running along / surrounding the flow zones Z1, Z2 formed in the recovery member 2. The end 3a can allow the nozzle 3 to be supported by a fresh air supply component which itself is well fixed in the engine environment.

[0062] With reference to Figures 2, 3A, and 3B, the gas recovery unit 2 typically has a branched structure with a hollow attachment end or branch B3, allowing attachment to the piping system 4, 6 of the fitting 3. Within the unit 2, two concentric tubes T1, T2 are provided, arranged around each other, which can be bent at their ends to form the attachment branch B3. In other words, the branch B3 can be formed from the two annular tube ends distributed within the two tubes T1, T2.

[0063] A central axis X' of the B3 branch can correspond to a mounting axis of The fitting 3. In some embodiments, the component 2 is installed before the fitting 3 is attached. This allows the fitting 3 to be fixed in a final assembly step, while the piping structures are already formed on either side of the component 2 - fitting 3 junction. Alternatively, the connector 1 can first be constructed in its entirety, for example, by welding or otherwise rigidly fastening two parts forming component 2 and fitting 3, respectively, using the fixing arm B3. Then, a connection is made at one or more arms B1, B2 of component 2.

[0064] In certain embodiments, the mounting arm B3 facilitates or contributes to centering the nozzle 3 along the central axis X' of the arm B3. As shown in Figures 2, 3A, and 3B, the mounting arm B3 extends longitudinally along the direction of the central axis X', forming a recess and / or an internal shoulder 24 that allows the channeling system 4, 6 of the nozzle 3 to be partially inserted into the recess of the arm B3. For this purpose, the outer tube T2 of the arm can form an annular projection 200, optionally offset radially outwards. This projection 200 extends axially, along the direction of the X' axis, projecting from the level of the end of the inner tube Tl. At this end of the B3 branch, the tube Tl may be flush with the same level as Shoulder 24 or slightly projecting from it while being set back from the free edge of the projection 200, as shown in the [Fig.3B]. .

[0065] In the assembled state of connector 1, branch B3 opens parallel to the longitudinal axis X of the connecting fitting 3. In the gas recovery unit 2, the double-tube structure T1, T2 is common to branch B2 and branch B3, with a change of direction between branches B2 and B3, such that only branch B3 has at its outlet a central axis X' parallel to or coinciding with the longitudinal axis X of the connecting fitting 3. The inner tube T1 and the outer tube T2 form two flow zones Z1, Z2 in the unit 2 and join (via respective axial openings 01, 02) the double-walled tubular piping system 4, 6 of the fitting 3 by a butt connection which avoids modifying the passage cross-section: - on the one hand, between the flow zone Zl (central) delimited by the inner tube Tl and the longitudinal flow path 40 (central) delimited by the inner wall or first tube 4 of the piping system 4, 6; - on the other hand, between the flow zone Z2 (of annular section) delimited by the inner tube T2 around the tube T1 and the channel 5 (of the same annular section) delimited by the outer wall / envelope or second tube 6 of the piping system 4, 6.

[0066] Figures 3A and 3B show an organ 2 recovering two distinct flows, with two inlets 21, 22 formed as two branches Bl, B2, each selectively joining a corresponding flow zone among the two flow zones Zl, Z2 delimited by the double-tube structure. While access to the flow zone Zl is in the form of an axial inlet 22 (axial opening) of the inner tube Tl located opposite the opening 01, access to the flow zone Z2 is permitted by a radial passage through the outer tube T2. Here, a first inlet 21 is formed, preferably offset to one side with respect to the direction of the longitudinal axis X, through which a first gas flow Fl enters, passing through such a radial passage of the tube T2.

[0067] With the piping system 4, 6 connected to the tubes T1, T2, a parallel circulation of the first flow Fl and a second flow F2 passing through the second inlet 22 is obtained in the connector 1, and in particular in the entire end cap 3. The channel 5 is formed at the periphery of the tube wall 4 and can extend into the internal volume V3 over the entire length of the end cap 3. The channel 5 corresponds here to the spacing / gap, maintained by the bracing elements 8c, between the tube wall 4 and the sheathing wall 6. Similarly, the flow zone Z2 associated with the channel 5 for the circulation of the flow Fl corresponds here to the spacing / gap maintained by the bracing elements 2c provided between the tubes T1 and T2, as seen for example in [Fig. 3A].

[0068] In certain embodiments, as shown in Figures 2B and 3, the first inlet 21 is in fluidic communication with the channel 5 in a region of the component 2 that extends parallel to a direction D diverging from the central axis X'. This arrangement allows for the recovery of separate flows from conduits that do not interfere with each other. Direction D is also a mounting direction for the gas recovery component 2 on a support, for example, on a PC connection interface that may be part of the housing 55. Each of the branches B1, B2 can extend linearly along a mounting direction on a fluid passage port provided in the housing 55.

[0069] In variants, one of branches Bl or B2 may be omitted, for example if the flow has already been mixed with the airflow from the air filter 10 or if an auxiliary circuit / recirculation line is absent for the application considered. Example of connector outlet structure

[0070] With reference to Figures 1 and 2, the outlet of connector 1 has a longitudinal opening 03 which is divided into three outlets S1, S2, and S3 with different sized passage cross-sections. Here, the smallest cross-section is provided at the outlet of the flow path 40, typically used for oil-free card gases (outlet S2). Since the flow F2 can vary, the effect of any fluctuations is limited by a geometric design of connector 1 that restricts the cross-section of the central outlet S2.

[0071] In the illustrated example, and without limitation, the inner wall 4 of the piping system 4, 6 can be tapered or progressively reduced in its cross-sectional area, for example to form a nozzle-shaped termination 44. This makes it possible to increase the velocity of the gas flow F2 at the central outlet S2, with an advantage for mixing with the other flows Fl, F3.

[0072] The nozzle 3 can form outlets SI, S2, S3 whose outlets are not axially offset from one another, possibly with central symmetry around the X-axis for each of the outlets SI, S2, S3. The concentric arrangement allows the parallel channeling of the flows Fl, F2, F3 exiting respectively through the outlets SI, S2, and S3. The respective trajectories of these flows are therefore parallel at the opening 03, or at least converge as little as possible. In alternative configurations, the distribution of the outlets SI, S2, S3 can be asymmetrical with respect to the X-axis, while still retaining one or more outlets S3 allowing all or part of the third flow F3 to circulate around the more central first and second flows Fl, F2.

[0073] The nozzle 3 may have, for example approximately halfway along the outer wall, a collar or similar annular relief on its outer face. The region of the nozzle 3 for creating the outlets S1, S2, S3 may be a region inserted into the inlet 31a, such that a first fixing portion of the nozzle 3 extends between the collar and the longitudinal opening 03, with a sealing element J optionally mounted in a groove G provided in the outer wall 8, here in a position adjacent to the termination of the nozzle 3 delimiting the opening 03.

[0074] The connector 1 can be secured by inserting it into the inlet 31a of the compressor 31. In alternative configurations, other locking methods can be used, for example, using a retaining ring or sleeve, or another method involving rotation around the X-axis to lock it into position. Preferably, the fitting 3 already mounted on the housing 55 is designed to make a connection with the turbocharger without relative rotation around the longitudinal X-axis, thus facilitating assembly in confined spaces. Collection of feeds

[0075] With reference to Figures 1 and 2, the connector 1 includes the gas flow recovery element 2, for example in the form of a connected part extending inside a multi-connector housing 55, i.e., one having several connections. For example, several inlet connections or connection interfaces (A1, A3, PC) are formed on the body of this housing 55. The housing 55 can constitute an intermediate component between the air filter 10 and the turbocharger: it is referred to hereafter as the intermediate housing 55. The collection of the different flows F1, F2, F3 is made possible here by the combination of the housing 55 and the connector 1.

[0076] With reference to [Fig. 4], connector 1 and a circuit for the air intake of the internal combustion engine 50 are illustrated. Downstream of an air filter 10, a section of duct / pipe A is provided, forming a clean fresh air intake. An exhaust gas evacuation circuit along arrow B is also illustrated. Here, the engine 50 is equipped with a turbocharger comprising a turbine 32 which is driven by the exhaust gases circulating in the evacuation circuit B and operates a compressor 31 mounted in the fresh air intake circuit. Connector 1 connects via the connection fitting 3 to the tubular inlet 31a of the turbocharger, which is connected here with a sealed annular contact to this tubular inlet 31a.

[0077] Auxiliary circuits allow for the recovery and injection of gases into the fresh air intake circuit, which here allows for the recovery, via component 2, of a fraction of the exhaust gases as well as crankcase gases, respectively according to the arrows / flows Fl and F2. It is understood that the connector 1 allows the introduction of the gases thus recycled into the same nozzle 3 as that used for the fresh air circulation, so that the mixing of these gases takes place at the end / downstream of the line joining the compressor 31 in the low-pressure part of this intake circuit.

[0078] According to the non-limiting example of [Fig.4], an inlet pipe for the recycled exhaust gas fraction forming the gas flow Fl is provided, this inlet 21 having a radial arrangement with respect to the direction of the longitudinal axis X. The branch B1 thus has an elongated arrangement along an axis or direction of elongation Y which may be perpendicular to the axis X, as seen for example in [Fig.3B].

[0079] An oil separator device OS separates oil droplets from the raw crankcase gas stream F0. A downward flow F4 redirects the oil back to the crankcase 51. The purified crankcase gas stream F2 (de-oiled gas) flows through an outlet of the oil separator OS to the inlet 22 of connector 1, using a suitable tube or conduit 9, which is typically double-walled.

[0080] The flow(s) Fl, F2 are grouped with the flow F3 at the intermediate housing 55 provided between the air filter 10 and the compressor 31, where the flow F3 of filtered air flows towards an inlet 30 of the nozzle 3, visible for example on the [Fig.5].

[0081] With reference to Figures 1, 5, and 6, details of the intermediate housing 55 are shown. This housing channels the fresh air intake flow, here referred to as F3 (with a corresponding arrow visible in [Fig. 5]), and typically controls the inlet dynamics of this flow before it passes through a passage VP of connector 1. This flow is admitted through an access A3, which here presents a first cross-sectional passage. The intermediate housing 55 may have a hollow main body 55a provided with a bottom wall from which a side wall extends to a connecting edge with a portion of the cover 55b of this housing 55. The connecting edge may be welded to a corresponding flange belonging to the cover portion 55b, typically after the flow recovery element 2 has been positioned within the internal volume of the main body 55a. In the illustrated option, a partition portion 55c forms an internal cover to delimit, together with the main body 55a, the flow channel F3 extending from the access point A3 to an opening 05, possibly with a cross-section similar to that of the access point A3. The opening 05 is, for example, delimited by an annular flange used to connect, for example by welding, the rigid piece forming all or part of the nozzle 3.

[0082] The cross-sectional area of ​​access A3 can be significantly larger, for example, at least double or triple the cross-sectional area provided in access A1 for the recirculating gas flow Fl. Access A2 for crankcase gases is provided by the inlet of a pipe 9, optionally angled, which connects to a single-inlet / opening connection interface (55c, 56) for selectively accessing zone ZI. The cross-sectional area A2 can be the smallest of the cross-sectional areas of access A1 (for EGR gases), A2, and A3 formed on the periphery of the housing 55.

[0083] Collection options using a housing 55 can limit the number of parts required for the connections, as the housing has a multi-socket structure. In some embodiments, the flow F3 can be conveyed using a sleeve tube for the gas recovery unit 2, typically made of two longitudinal pieces or halves continuously welded or hermetically fixed to each other, with the sleeve tube assembled after the connector has been attached to one of these two longitudinal pieces. In one option, the outer wall 8 of the fitting 3 can be formed only when two complementary halves are joined. More generally, it is understood that different types of assembly can provide a comparable configuration for collecting flows that will circulate, preferably in parallel, within the same tubular structure formed as a connection fitting. Component installation

[0084] With reference to [Fig. 4], the connector 1 may have an annular bearing region on a suitable fixed support, this region preferably being annular in shape and located on the end 3a of the fitting 3 opposite the connection area with the inlet 31a of the turbocharger (see an example of this end 3a in [Fig. 5]). A continuous annular edge BF3 may be provided at the end 3a to provide such a bearing and allow for a fixing, possibly a leak-proof one, for example obtained by welding or with the integration of an additional compressible seal. The component 2 may also be provided with a fixing / contact region, for example at one end or edge BF1, BF2 respectively of the tubes T1, T2, compatible with a one-piece design of the component 2 while allowing the component 2 to be held stationary relative to a fixed interface adapted to lock connector 1 in position.

[0085] In the non-limiting example of Figures 2 and 5, the recovery member 2 can be mounted in a recess in the main body 55a, for example on the bottom side thereof, by being joined to a shoulder area provided in the housing 55 and forming the shutter element 55d which closes the area Z2. Here, the arm B2 of this member 2 can be partially inserted into the recess, with the two annular edges BF1, BF2 (shown in [Fig. 3B]) joined and typically welded against an annular surface (of the element 55d) formed at the bottom of the recess. In Figures 2 and 6, such a recess is made in a part or interface of the PC fitting which projects outwards from the housing 55.

[0086] With reference to [Fig. 6], the connection interface 55d, which belongs to the housing 55, may correspond to a portion of an angled fitting, so that the conduit 9 connects to a side of the housing 55 that is perpendicular or transversely extended with respect to the portion of the housing wall from which the connector 1 protrudes outwards. An adapter piece 56, beveled or similar, may be provided to orient the conduit parallel to the housing 55 and to couple with an end of complementary shape and cross-section provided on the fitting portion PC.

[0087] Such an annular surface extends around a central channel of an interface or part of a PC fitting to which a crankcase gas line 9 is connected. With reference to Figures 1, 2 and 6, this line 9 is typically thermally insulated / insulated, presenting an insulating space (e.g. filled with air, without circulation) between the outer wall 33 of the line 9 and a circulation channel for the crankcase gas flow F2 brought in by the access A2 formed at the end of the line 9 which is distal to the intermediate housing 55.

[0088] The annular sealing element 55d provided in the interface or connecting part PC allows the interior of the recovery unit 2 to be isolated / separated from each other and the non-circulating / isolated space. In other words, the connecting part PC, which is made as a double tube integrated into the bottom wall of the housing 55, allows communication only between the central space and the central flow zone ZI.

[0089] It is understood that channel 5 is not directly blocked at the connection with organ 2; it is the Z2 zone in organ 2 which is blocked on the side of the conduit 9 by the obturator element 55d.

[0090] As shown in [Fig. 5], the gas recovery unit 2 can be installed beforehand, prior to closing the body 55a by attaching the cover(s) 55c, 55b. In this case, the nozzle 3 is attached to the housing 55 and fixed to the surfaces SF1, SF2 of the unit 2 in a final assembly step.

[0091] Before this last step, the inlet 22 of the component 2 is rigidly fixed, during a fixing step 61, to a first port or part of a PC fitting in the form of a double tube, provided in housing 55. The fixing is made with a sealed annular contact. In operation, this fixing allows the crankcase oil-free gases to flow from the line 9 to the central flow channel delimited successively by the central tube of the first port / part of the PC connection and by the inner tube T1 of connector 1, before joining the flow path 40. The central tube of the PC connection part forms an access that opens inside housing 55, at the level of a housing base which is opposite the inner cover 55c through which the branch B1 of connector 1 passes.

[0092] The component 2 is mounted in a space interposed between three regions of the housing, in this case between the space delimited between: - the PC connection part which allows the positioning to be defined according to the D axis of the B2 branch; - the opening 05 of the housing 55; and - the opening 06 of the cover 55c which is crossed by the branch B1 and allows to define the positioning according to the Y axis of this branch Bl.

[0093] With this installation of component 2, branch B3 can be accessed through opening 05 to allow a connection between component 2 and nozzle 3. This allows nozzle 3 to cover the outlet / opening (05), forming an opening in the outer face of the support. Before this, the housing 55 can be closed by attaching the inner cover 55c and then optionally an outer cover 55b, here by making another fluid connection to allow the recirculating gas flow Fl to circulate in the outer tube T2, around the inner tube 1, via the inlet 21 which connects laterally to the outer tube T2. The access A1 for the Fl flow can be located on the outer cover 55b, which has a fitting or second supply port, preferably angled to limit its size, in a direction perpendicular to the X-axis and passing through the two respective ports for the Fl and F2 flows.

[0094] Given the position of the branch B3, accessible via the opening 05 or protruding through it, the connecting end 3 can be connected directly to the gas recovery unit 2 only by means of the piping system 4, 6, while being fixed to the external face B5 of the intermediate housing 55, on an annular surface SF3 which can be welded. The respective fixings of the connector 1 to the housing 55 can be made by thermal welding, possibly of the non-contact type using an infrared radiation source. In some versions, the axial fixing surfaces SF1, SF2 do not form a gas-tight butt joint. Alternatively, if a seal is desired, an O-ring or a weld can be provided at this junction of unit 2 and piping system 4, 6.

[0095] With reference to [Fig. 2], the tip 3 can be connected simultaneously to the housing 55 and to the tubes T1, T2 of component 2, during a rigid fixing step 62 which may be the last step in the assembly of connector 1. The end 3, here fitted with a seal J, is fixed: - by the external wall 8, on an annular fixing part provided on the external face B5 of the housing 55, with an annular contact C2 typically made watertight by a weld; - by the piping system (4, 6), to the tubes T1, T2, by making two annular contacts C2, C3 which can be concentric with each other.

[0096] It can be seen, in particular in figures 1 and 6, that in the assembled state of the connector 1, the tip 3 is typically a protruding part of the connector 1 relative to the external wall delimiting the internal volume of the intermediate housing 55. This configuration allows the flow F3 to reach the opening 05 by circulating around the member 2, without mixing with the other gases of the flows Fl, F2, which flow internally in internal passageways of the member 2. Beyond the opening 05, in the tip 3, the flow F3 takes the passageway VP which is generally annular in cross-section. For the flow F2 which circulates in the central channel of the pipe 9 and then in the internal flow zone ZI, we can consider that the circulation space in the housing 55 for the flow F3 corresponds to a peripheral zone (around the component 2), which complements the thermal insulation function played by the insulation space in the duct or pipe 9.The flow zone ZI, for example, is surrounded not only by the flow zone Z2 but also by the peripheral passageway VP.

[0097] One of the advantages of connector 1 is that it features a single, simple linear inlet for bringing airflows from very different sources to the turbocharger. One part corresponds to typically hot gases that were already present / admitted (EGR gas fraction and crankcase gas fraction), while the other part / fraction corresponds to air ("fresh air") drawn directly from the outside environment. The connector's structure is robust and rigid and can combine several distinct flows, which are mixed as close as possible to or within the inlet 31a of the compressor 31.

[0098] A thermal insulation effect is further achieved by leaving one or more annular zones around the channel for the crankcase gases, which contain not only gas but also sometimes water vapor from combustion. In cold climatic conditions, this insulation effect can limit or prevent condensation / solidification of water that could clog the circuit.

[0099] This disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above, only by way of example, but encompasses all the variants that a person skilled in the art may consider within the framework of the protection sought.

[0100] For example, although the drawings illustrate the case of a mixture of three different types of clean air, other options with only two different types, implying Three or just two flow zones in the connector can be implemented without significant structural modification. For example, in an option without recirculated gas supply (therefore without the Fl flow in the internal volume V3) at the inlet, or with mixing with recirculated gases occurring at another point in the intake circuit, connector 1 can be omitted from inlet 21 (in which case, branch Bl can simply be removed). This also results in an optimized mixing effect in the low-pressure section of the fresh air intake circuit, directly upstream of the compressor, with a homogenizing effect on the temperature of the fresh air / crankcase oil-free gas mixture introduced into the compressor. The specific geometry and thermal insulation effect allow for efficient and intensive mixing of fresh air and recirculated gases.

[0101] Also illustrated is a straight connection fitting 3, typically with concentric flow paths 40, 5, VP. Other options are possible for both aspects. In the fitting 3 shown in [Fig. 2], it is understood that the piping system 4, 6 is relatively short and the fitting is compact, without significant curvature or change of direction greater than 10° in the internal volume V3. Thus, the flow path is short. In variants, the fitting 3 can obviously have a different general geometry, for example, by having an angled external wall 8, while maintaining parallelism in the respective flows Fl, F2, F3 and a cylindrical shape of revolution or similar shape extending around the longitudinal axis X on the outlet side for the flows Fl, F2, F3.A geometry with a beveled end of the tip 3, for connection by welding (or other similar method of rigid fixing) to the component 2, can also be used.

Claims

Demands

1. Internal combustion engine turbocharger inlet connector (1), comprising a connecting tip (3) intended to connect fluidly to an inlet (31a), preferably tubular, of the turbocharger, forming a tubular outer wall (8) of the connector (1) which delimits an inner volume (V3), the connecting tip (3) having a longitudinal axis (X) and a longitudinal opening (03) forming an outlet of the connector (1); the connector (1) comprising: - a gas recovery unit (2), fixed to the nozzle (3) and provided with two inlet inlets (21, 22) for circulating in the connector (1) gases recovered from a recirculation circuit, forming a first gas flow (F1) circulating in the unit (2), and oil-free gases from a crankcase of the internal combustion engine (50) and forming a second gas flow (F2) circulating in the unit (2), with each inlet (21, 22) distinct from the tubular outer wall (8) which delimits the outlet of the connector; and - in the connection end (3), a piping system (4, 6) including two tubular walls; characterized in that the nozzle (3) includes a set of walls (4, 6, 8) for channeling three gas streams towards the longitudinal opening (03), including the first and second streams, the connecting nozzle (3) extending the recovery element (2) via the piping system (4, 6), the two tubular walls of the nozzle preferably being radially spaced apart, so that the nozzle (3) allows receiving and channeling different gas streams (F1, F2, F3), including those admitted at each inlet (21, 22) and having circulated in the element (2), for circulation in the piping system (4, 6) towards the longitudinal opening (03), knowing that the nozzle (3) further has a peripheral passage (VP) around the two tubular walls, this peripheral passage (VP) allowing circulation towards the longitudinal opening (03) of fresh air in a third gas stream (F3),in the interior volume (V3) and around said piping system (4, 6); and in that the piping system (4, 6) partitions the interior volume (V3) according to a substantially concentric arrangement which prevents the three different gas streams (Fl, F2, F3) from mixing by guiding them along a single longitudinal direction.

2. Connector according to claim 1, wherein the peripheral passageway (VP) is externally delimited by the tubular outer wall (8), said two inlets (21, 22) being formed by a single piece in the gas recovery member (2).

3. Connector according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the piping system (4, 6), which belongs to said wall assembly (4, 6, 8), is an internal piping system which: - has a simple double-tube structure; - separates the outlets (S1, S2, S3) through which the different flows (F1, F2, F3) circulating in the connector (1) can reach a compressor of the turbocharger; and - extends from a longitudinal receiving end of the nozzle (3) axially opposite to the outlet of the connector (1) and is adapted to circulate said first gas flow (F1) and said second gas flow (F2) among the three gas flows, in the internal volume (V3) with the piping system (4, 6) spaced radially inwards with respect to the tubular external wall (8).

4. Connector according to claim 1, 2 or 3, wherein the set of walls (4, 6, 8) has three walls of annular section which are radially spaced from each other, allowing the three gas flows (F1, F2, F3) to be channeled in parallel towards the longitudinal opening (03).

5. A connector according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the two inlets consist of: - a first inlet (21), offset to one side with respect to the direction of the longitudinal axis (X), through which the first gas flow (F1) enters; - a second inlet (22) of the connector (1); wherein a longitudinal flow path (40) for the second gas flow (F2), accessible via the second inlet (22), is delimited by a tubular wall (4) belonging to the piping system (4, 6), the tubular wall (4) extending longitudinally into the internal volume (V3); and wherein the connector (1) has: - a third inlet (30) through which the third gas flow (F3) enters; and - a channel (5), preferably having an annular cross-section, which is formed at the periphery of the tubular wall (4) and extends into the internal volume (V3), being delimited between the tubular wall (4) and an envelope wall (6) belonging to the piping system, knowing that the first inlet (21) is in fluidic communication with the channel (5) which allows the first gas flow (Fl) to be conveyed towards the longitudinal opening (03).

6. Connector according to claim 5, wherein the peripheral passageway (VP), radially delimited between the enveloping wall (6) and the tubular outer wall (8), joins the longitudinal opening (03), and wherein the tubular wall (4) which delimits the most central flow zone for the circulation of the second flow (F2) has a nozzle-shaped termination to allow a progressive reduction of the cross-section of the corresponding passageway.

7. Connector according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the nozzle (3) has an end (3a), opposite the longitudinal opening (03), which has an annular opening opening around the gas recovery member (2) to allow fresh air to be recovered from the third gas stream (F3) which flows around the gas recovery member (2).

8. Connector according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the longitudinal opening (03) defines an outlet zone where the first flow, the second flow and the third flow exit longitudinally, respectively, by exiting all or part of the third flow (F3) around the first and second flows (F1, F2).

9. Connector according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the gas recovery member (2) has a branched structure with a hollow fixing arm (B3) consisting of two annular tube ends distributed in two concentric tubes (T1, T2), said fixing arm (B3) enabling centering of the nozzle (3) along a central axis (X') of the arm (B3); and wherein the fixing arm (B3) opens longitudinally along the direction of the central axis (X'), parallel to the longitudinal axis (X) of the connecting nozzle (3), forming an internal recess and / or shoulder (24) allowing the piping system (4, 6) of the nozzle (3) to be partially inserted into the hollow of said fixing arm (B3).

10.

11.

12. Connector according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the connection tip (3) has, opposite the longitudinal opening (03), a flange or annular mounting portion enabling the tip (3) to be mounted on an external support face provided in a fresh air circulation housing (55) which: - delimits an internal space in fluidic communication with an outlet of an intake air filtration filter (10) for the engine (50), the housing (55) having an outlet orifice (05) forming an opening in the external face of the support and covered by the nozzle (3); and - encloses the recovery element (2); and wherein the connecting end (3) is connected directly to the gas recovery unit (2) only by the piping system (4, 6), the outer wall (8) being kept spaced away from the gas recovery unit (2) to allow fresh air (F3) present in said internal space to circulate in the peripheral passageway (VP), around the piping system (4, 6). Connector according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at one end (3a) of the nozzle (3) opposite the longitudinal opening (03), the piping system (4, 6) is connected to the gas recovery device (2) which has: - a double tube structure having a central axis (X') parallel to or coinciding with the longitudinal axis (X) of the connecting end (3), two tubes (Tl, T2) belonging to the double tube structure allowing to form two flow zones (Zl, Z2) and joining the double-walled tubular piping system (4, 6) of the end (3); - said two inlets (21, 22) formed respectively in two separate branches (B1, B2) of the gas recovery unit (2); and - a fixing region formed by two annular terminations of the two tubes (T1, T2), the fixing region serving to make a double annular connection (C2, C3), preferably end to end by welding, for the connection to one end of the piping system (4, 6) opposite the longitudinal opening (03), allowing the flows (F1, F2) circulating in the gas recovery unit (2) and then in the nozzle (3) to be separated in a sealed manner; and in which each inlet (21, 22) feeds and corresponds selectively to only one of the two flow zones (Z1, Z2) delimited by the double tube structure. Connector according to any one of claims 1 to 8 or according to the claim 10, comprising two parts joined end to end with: - a first part with three hollow branches (B1, B2, B3), separate from the connecting end (3), of which two branches (B1, B2) constitute or include the two inlets (21, 22), and another branch (B3) opens longitudinally in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis (X) of the connecting end (3), the first part constituting the gas recovery element (2); and - a second part of external tubular shape without branch, constituting the connecting end (3).

13. Connector according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the gas recovery member (2) is made in a single molded piece and has a single inlet (22) for a flow of oil-free gases from the crankcase and brought in by a sheath or conduit (9) having an annular insulation space delimited between two concentric walls, said single inlet (22) forming a channel surrounded by an annular area delimited between two concentric walls belonging to the member (2).

14. Connector according to claim 13, further comprising a sealing element, preferably belonging to a fluidic fitting part (PC) separate from the member (2), hermetically sealing from the outside an outlet of the annular zone (Z2) of said member (2) to prevent a fluid present in this annular zone from flowing into the annular space of the conduit (9).

15. Connector according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the outer wall (8) of the tip (3) has a simple tube shape, and wherein the peripheral passageway (VP) has, opposite the outlet of the connector (1), a single access whose ring-shaped cross-section represents a fraction greater than or equal to 50%, preferably strictly greater than 60%, of the total cross-section delimited by the outer wall (8) on the same side of the connecting tip (3).

16. Air intake circuit, comprising the connector (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, the circuit comprising: - a filtered air circulation line (A) (F3), including fresh air, associated with or forming the outlet of an air filter; - two gas recovery lines, namely a recirculating gas circulation line (F1) and a crankcase oil-free gas circulation line (F2); and - an intermediate box (55) towards which converge the respective gas flows (Fl, F2) corresponding to the filtered air circulation duct and the two gas recovery lines; in which the tip (3) of the connector (1) gathers the respective flows including the filtered air (F1, F2, F3) in the internal volume (V3) by forming a tip directly fixed on an external face (B5) of the intermediate housing (55), so that the filtered air (F3) circulating in an internal space of the housing (55) directly joins the peripheral passageway (VP), while the component (2) extends inside the internal space of the intermediate housing (55).

17. A method for mounting a turbocharger inlet connector (1) of an internal combustion engine in an air intake circuit, the method comprising the steps essentially consisting of: - to have a gas recovery device (2), which has an inner tube (Tl) and an outer tube (T2) surrounding the inner tube (Tl), in a fresh air supply space from an outlet of an air filter (10), the supply space being delimited by a support housing (55); - rigidly fix (61) an inlet (22) of the gas recovery device (2) to a first double-tube-shaped port provided in the housing (55), through which de-oiled crankcase gases can flow, so that a fluidic connection is established for a channel delimited successively by a central tube of the first port and by the inner tube (Tl) of the gas recovery device (2); - close the housing (55), by making another fluidic connection to allow a flow (Fl) of recirculating gas to circulate in the outer tube (T2), around the inner tube (Tl), via another inlet (21) of the component (2) connecting laterally to the outer tube (T2); - to rigidly fix (62), on an annular fixing part provided on the housing (55), an external wall (8) of a connection tip (3) intended to connect fluidly to an inlet (31a), preferably tubular, of the turbocharger, the fixing of the tip (3) being made to have a receiving end (3a) of the tip (3) opposite an opening (05) of the housing (55), so as to make a plurality of fluid connections; in which the connection tip (3), provided with a longitudinal axis (X) and a longitudinal opening (03) forming an outlet of the connector (1) opposite the receiving end (3a), has a piping system (4, 6) comprising two tubular walls which are radially spaced from each other with a concentric arrangement in an internal volume (V3) delimited by the external wall (8), the connection fitting (3) extending the gas recovery element (2) via the piping system (4, 6), said plurality of fluidic connections being obtained by making: - a first contact (Cl) of annular sealing, preferably using a weld, between the outer wall (8) and the housing (55), in a border area around the opening (05); - a second annular contact (C2), preferably sealed by means of a weld, between an annular edge of an inner tubular wall (4) of the piping system and a complementary annular contact face belonging to the inner tube (T1); and - a third annular contact (C3), preferably sealed by means of a weld, between an annular edge of a sheathing wall (6) of the piping system and a complementary annular contact face belonging to the outer tube (T2); thanks to which the gas recovery organ (2) and the nozzle (3) form a connector (1) allowing to receive and channel different gas flows (F1, F2, F3) including those admitted at each inlet (21, 22) of said gas recovery organ (2) to circulate them in the piping system (4, 6) towards the longitudinal opening (03), knowing that the nozzle (3) also has a peripheral passageway (VP), delimited externally by the tubular outer wall (8) and accessible via the opening (05) of the housing (55), allowing to circulate towards the longitudinal opening (03) fresh air in a gas flow (F3), in the internal volume (V3) and around said piping system (4, 6).

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