Heat exchange device, assembly comprising such a heat exchange device and associated manufacturing process

Abstract

Heat exchange device, assembly comprising such a heat exchange device and associated manufacturing method. The invention relates to a heat exchange device (22) defining a circulation channel (26) for a fluid (28) suitable for being heated or cooled by heat exchange with a unit (24) intended to be cooled or heated. The channel comprises a channel portion (51, 52, 53) having first and second fluid circulation paths (V1, V2) in a principal circulation direction (DP) respectively in a first direction (S1) and in a second direction (S2), separated by a separating wall (P1, P2, P3). The device comprises first and second heat exchange modules (M1, M2) obtained by additive manufacturing, having fluid passage regions. The first and second modules extend exclusively in the first path, respectively in the second path.The modules are arranged opposite each other in a direction perpendicular to the main direction of traffic and separated by the partition wall. Figure for the abbreviation: 2.

Description

Title of the invention: Heat exchange device, assembly comprising such a heat exchange device and associated manufacturing method

[0001] The present invention relates to a heat exchange device. The present invention also relates to an assembly comprising such a heat exchange device and a unit capable of being heated or cooled. The present invention also relates to a method of manufacturing a heat exchange device.

[0002] As is known, power modules, particularly for railway vehicles, comprise electrical components, such as semiconductor components of the insulated gate bipolar transistor type (also known as IGBT components, from the English "Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor"), which are likely to release significant heat during their operation. However, the performance of these electrical components decreases significantly when they are subjected to high temperatures. Furthermore, the service life of the electrical components is negatively impacted, and frequent maintenance operations are necessary.

[0003] Thus, in order to improve the cooling of the electrical components of the power modules, it is known to equip the power modules with cooling devices.

[0004] It is known in particular to arrange the electronic components on a cooling plate inside which a heat transfer fluid circulates. The cooling plate comprises a body in which channels parallel to each other are machined, for example by milling. The heat transfer fluid circulates in these parallel channels in a circulation direction to eliminate by conduction and / or convection a portion of the heat dissipated by the electronic components. In particular, such a machined plate has a first plate portion having a first set of machined channels and a second plate portion having a second set of machined channels.In such a known plate, the fluid is configured to flow in the first set of machined channels according to the direction of circulation in a first direction and in the second set of machined channels according to the direction of circulation in a second direction opposite to the first direction. Thus, a single machined plate is used for the circulation of the fluid in two different directions of circulation.

[0005] However, such a cooling plate is not entirely satisfactory. In particular, it only allows a limited portion of the heat generated by electrical components during operation. In addition, the production of such a cooling plate is tedious, especially the machining of the channels.

[0006] An aim of the present invention is to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks by proposing a heat exchange device defining a channel for circulation of a fluid capable of being cooled or heated by heat exchange with a unit intended to be cooled or heated, making it possible to ensure efficient heat exchange, while being easy to manufacture.

[0007] For this purpose, the invention relates to a heat exchange device defining a circulation channel for a fluid capable of being heated or cooled by heat exchange with a unit intended to be cooled or heated, the circulation channel comprising an inlet, an outlet and at least one channel portion extending between the inlet and the outlet, the channel portion comprising at least a first circulation path intended to conduct the fluid in a main circulation direction in a first direction and at least a second circulation path distinct from the first path, intended to conduct the fluid in the main circulation direction in a second direction opposite to the first direction, the first path and the second path being separated from each other by a separating wall,

[0008] the heat exchange device further comprising at least a first heat exchange module and a second heat exchange module, the first heat exchange module extending exclusively in the first circulation path and the second heat exchange module extending exclusively in the second circulation path, the first and second heat exchange modules having fluid passage regions and being obtained by additive manufacturing,

[0009] the first heat exchange module and the second heat exchange module being arranged opposite each other in a direction substantially perpendicular to the main direction of circulation and being separated from each other by the separating wall.

[0010] It is understood that the heat exchange device according to the invention is modular. Indeed, it is possible to customize the heat exchange device according to the invention by choosing heat exchange modules having optimal fluid passage regions and optimal heat exchange surfaces depending on the cooling / heating capacities necessary to cool / heat the units.

[0011] Because the heat exchange modules are produced by additive manufacturing, this makes it possible to produce shapes or assemblies that cannot be obtained by other manufacturing techniques such as welding, machining, casting or forging. Thus, thanks to additive manufacturing, it is possible to obtain heat exchange modules with more complex internal geometries, which allows to adapt the geometry of these modules to improve the heat exchange capacity of the heat exchange device compared to state-of-the-art heat exchange devices.

[0012] Furthermore, because the heat exchange device comprises a first and a second module separated by a separating wall and arranged side by side in a direction substantially perpendicular to the main direction of circulation, this makes it possible to position a unit intended to be cooled or heated on an external face of the heat exchange device in line with the first and second modules in which the fluid has opposite directions of circulation. This makes it possible to homogenize the heating of the fluid in line with the units intended to be cooled or heated. Indeed, this makes it possible to increase the flow rate by reducing the width of the channel for better heat exchange.

[0013] In addition, the heat exchange device is easier to produce compared to the devices of the state of the art comprising the machined plate. Indeed, in the device according to the invention, instead of the single machined plate, two modules are manufactured and placed where necessary while having a structure adapted to the heat exchange needs.

[0014] According to other aspects of the invention, the heat exchange device comprises one or more of the following features, taken in isolation or in any possible technical combination:

[0015] - the heat exchange device further comprises a third module heat exchange module and a fourth heat exchange module, the third heat exchange module extending exclusively in the first path and being spaced from the first heat exchange module in the main direction of circulation, the fourth heat exchange module extending exclusively in the second path and being spaced from the second heat exchange module in the main direction of circulation, the third heat exchange module and the fourth exchange module having fluid passage regions and being obtained by additive manufacturing, the third heat exchange module and the fourth heat exchange module being arranged opposite each other in a direction substantially perpendicular to the main direction of circulation and being separated from each other by the separating wall.

[0016] - the heat exchange device comprises a base structure and a cover fixed to the basic structure, preferably by brazing, the basic structure and the cover having internal surfaces delimiting between them at least in part an internal volume of the heat exchange device, the internal volume defining the circulation channel.

[0017] - the heat exchange modules are fixed by brazing to the internal surface of the basic structure or hood.

[0018] - the circulation channel has the shape of a serpentine, the circulation channel comprising at least a first section of canal and a second section of canal arranged between the inlet and the outlet, for each of the sections of canal among the first section of canal and the second section of canal, the first traffic lane and the second traffic lane of this section of canal being separated from each other by a separation wall associated with this section of canal,

[0019] for each of the channel portions among the first channel portion and the second channel portion, the heat exchange device comprises at least a first heat exchange module and a second heat exchange module, the first heat exchange module extending exclusively in the first circulation path of this channel portion and the second heat exchange module extending exclusively in the second circulation path of this channel portion, the first and second heat exchange modules having fluid passage regions and being obtained by additive manufacturing,

[0020] for each of the channel portions among the first channel portion and the second channel portion, the first heat exchange module and the second heat exchange module of this portion being arranged facing each other in a direction substantially perpendicular to the main direction of circulation and being separated from each other by the separation wall associated with this channel portion.

[0021] - the heat exchange device comprises a partition separating the first portion of canal and the second portion of canal.

[0022] - at least two heat exchange modules have passage regions of fluid different from one heat exchange module to another.

[0023] The invention also relates to an assembly comprising at least one heat exchange device as described above and at least one unit capable of being cooled or heated by the heat exchange device, the heat exchange device comprising a base structure and a cover fixed to the base structure, preferably by brazing, the base structure and the cover having internal surfaces delimiting between them an internal volume of the heat exchange device, the internal volume defining the circulation channel of the heat exchange device, said unit being arranged in contact with an area of ​​an external surface of the cover or of the base structure, called the "contact surface", the contact surface extending outside the internal volume.

[0024] According to other aspects of the invention, said unit extends over the contact zone both in line with the first heat exchange module and the second heat exchange module.

[0025] The invention also relates to a method of manufacturing an exchange device thermal as described above comprising at least the steps of:

[0026] - production of a channel for circulating a fluid capable of being heated or cooled by heat exchange with a unit capable of being cooled or heated, the circulation channel comprising an inlet, an outlet and at least a portion of the channel extending between the inlet and the outlet, the portion of the channel comprising at least a first circulation lane intended to conduct the fluid in a principal direction of circulation in a first direction and at least a second circulation lane, separate from the first lane, intended to conduct the fluid in the principal direction of circulation in a second direction opposite to the first direction, the first lane and the second lane being separated from each other by a separating wall,

[0027] - realization of at least a first heat exchange module and a second additively manufactured heat exchange module, the first and second heat exchange modules each featuring fluid passage regions,

[0028] - arrangement of the first heat exchange module in the first circuit culation so that it extends exclusively into the first traffic lane,

[0029] - arrangement of the second heat exchange module in the second path of such that it extends exclusively in the second circulation path, that it is arranged opposite the first heat exchange module in a direction substantially perpendicular to the main circulation direction and that it is separated from the first heat exchange module by the dividing wall.

[0030] Other aspects and advantages of the invention will appear on reading the following description, given by way of example and with reference to the appended drawings, among which:

[0031] - [Fig.l], [Fig.l] is a schematic top view of an assembly according to the invention, comprising a heat exchange device and heat emitting units,

[0032] - [Fig.2], [Fig.2] is a top view of the interior of the exchange device thermal of [Fig.l],

[0033] - [Fig.3], [Fig.3] is an axial sectional view of the whole of [Fig.l] according to the section plane III-III marked on [Fig.l],

[0034] - [Fig.4], [Fig.4] is a cross-sectional view of the exchange device thermal of [Fig.l] according to section plane IV-IV marked on [Fig.l],

[0035] - [Fig.5], [Fig.6], [Fig.5] and [Fig.6] are schematic representations res respectively in perspective and in section along the section plane VI-VI identified in [Fig.5] of a first example of a heat exchange module of the whole of [Fig.l],

[0036] - [Fig.7], [Fig.8], [Fig.7] and [Fig.8] are schematic representations res respectively in perspective and in section according to section plane VIII-VIII identified on the [Fig.7] of a second example of a heat exchange module of the assembly of [Fig.l],

[0037] - [Fig.9], [Fig. 10], [Fig.9] and [Fig. 10] are schematic representations res respectively in perspective and in section along the section plane XX identified in [Fig.9] of a third example of a heat exchange module of the whole of [Fig.l],

[0038] - [Fig. 11], [Fig. 12], [Fig. 11] and [Fig. 12] are schematic representations respectively in perspective and in section according to section plane XII-XII identified in [Fig.l 1] of a fourth example of heat exchange module of the whole of [Fig.l].

[0039] A heat exchange assembly 20 is described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 6.

[0040] The heat exchange assembly 20 is, for example, mounted on board a vehicle, in particular a railway vehicle. In other words, the railway vehicle includes the heat exchange assembly 20.

[0041] As can be seen in [Fig.1], the heat exchange assembly 20 comprises a heat exchange device 22 and at least one unit 24 intended to be heated or cooled by the heat exchange device 22.

[0042] For example, unit 24 emits heat and is intended to be cooled.

[0043] For example, unit 24 is a power module of a railway rolling stock, known per se, comprising electrical components, such as semiconductor components of the insulated gate bipolar transistor type (also known as IGBT components, from the English “Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor”), which are likely to release significant heat during their operation.

[0044] As visible in [Fig.l], the assembly 20 comprises several units 24, in particular six units 24. Such units 24 are represented schematically by rectangles in [Fig.l].

[0045] The units 24 are in contact with one of the external surfaces of the heat exchange device 22, called the “external contact surface”. In particular, as can be seen in [Fig. 1], each unit 24 is in contact with a respective zone of the external contact surface, called the “contact zone ZC” (see FIGS. 3 and 4). The contact zones ZC are advantageously separate.

[0046] Each unit 24 comprises for example an aluminum sole in contact with the contact zone ZC associated with this unit 24.

[0047] For example, a layer of grease (not visible in the figures) extends between each unit 24 and the contact zone ZC associated with this unit 24.

[0048] With reference to Figures 2 to 4, the heat exchange device 22 according to the invention defines a circulation channel 26 for a fluid 28 capable of being heated or cooled by heat exchange with the unit 24 so as to cool or heat the unit 24. In the In the specific case where unit 24 is a unit intended to be cooled, fluid 28 is suitable for being heated by heat exchange with said unit 24 so as to cool it.

[0049] In particular, the heat exchange device 22 comprises a base structure 30, a cover 32 (visible in FIGS. 3 and 4) and heat exchange modules which will be described in more detail later. The heat exchange device 22 further comprises, in this example, a first separation wall PI, a second separation wall P2, a third separation wall P3, a first partition C1 and a second partition C2.

[0050] For example, as seen in [Fig. 2], the base structure 30 comprises several side walls 33, 34, 35, 36 and a bottom 38 (seen in Figures 3 and 4).

[0051] The base structure 30 comprises, for example, four side walls 33, 34, 35, 36 extending substantially perpendicularly to the bottom 38, for example a first and a second longitudinal walls 33, 34 as well as a first and a second transverse walls 35, 36.

[0052] As visible in figures 3 and 4, the bottom 38 is for example flat.

[0053] As visible in figures 3 and 4, the cover 32 is presented for example under the shape of a plate.

[0054] The cover 32 is for example fixed to the base structure 30 by brazing, for example by vacuum brazing.

[0055] As can be seen in particular in [Fig. 3], the base structure 30 and the cover 32 have internal surfaces delimiting between them at least in part an internal volume 40 of the heat exchange device 22.

[0056] For example, as seen in [Fig.2], the external surface of the cover 32 defines the external contact surface having the contact zones ZC. Alternatively, the external surface of the bottom 38 of the base structure 30 defines the external contact surface having the contact zones ZC.

[0057] As visible in [Fig.2], the first separation wall PI extends in a direction of elongation. The first separation wall PI projects from the internal surface of the first transverse wall 35 in which the inlet 42 and the outlet 44 are arranged.

[0058] The second separation wall P2 extends in the direction of elongation. The second separation wall P2 projects from the inner surface of the first transverse wall 35.

[0059] The third separation wall P3 extends in the direction of elongation. The third separation wall P3 projects from the inner surface of the first transverse wall 35.

[0060] The first, second and third separation walls PI, P2, P3 are integral of the internal surface of the first transverse wall 35.

[0061] The first partition C1 extends in the direction of extension. The first partition C1 projects from the inner surface of the second transverse wall 36.

[0062] The second partition C2 extends in the direction of extension. The second partition C2 projects from the internal surface of the same second transverse wall 36.

[0063] The first and second partitions C1, C2 are integral with the internal surface of the second transverse wall 36.

[0064] The internal surfaces of the base structure 30 and the cover 32, the first separation wall PI, the second separation wall P2, the first partition C1 and the second partition C2 delimit between them the internal volume 40 of the heat exchange device 22.

[0065] The internal volume 40 defines the circulation channel 26 of the heat exchange device 22.

[0066] Thus, the internal surfaces of the base structure 30, the internal surfaces of the cover 32, the first separation wall PI, the second separation wall P2, the first partition C1 and the second partition C2 delimit between them the circulation channel 26.

[0067] In particular, the internal surfaces of the base structure 30 and of the cover 32, the first, second and third separation walls P1, P2, P3 and the first and second partitions C1, C2 delimit the circulation paths of the circulation channel 26.

[0068] The circulation channel 26 is described with reference to FIGS. 2 to 4.

[0069] With reference to [Fig. 2], the circulation channel 26 comprises an inlet 42, an outlet 44, and at least one portion of channel 51, 52, 53 extending between the inlet 42 and the outlet 44. Furthermore, as can be seen in [Fig. 2], the circulation channel 26 has, for example, the shape of a serpentine. Thus, the fluid 28 is configured to flow in the circulation channel 26 between the inlet 42 and the outlet 44, passing through at least one portion of channel 51, 52, 53. For example, the circulation channel 26 comprises first and second fluid connection parts 61, 62, which will be detailed later.

[0070] The fluid 28 is a heat transfer fluid.

[0071] For example, fluid 28 is a liquid.

[0072] For example, fluid 28 is a mixture of water and glycol.

[0073] The inlet 42 allows the fluid 28 to be admitted into at least one portion of channel 51, 52, 53.

[0074] The inlet 42 is for example defined by a through orifice provided in one of the transverse walls 35, 36 of the base structure 30. The inlet 42 is capable of being connected to a fluid source 28.

[0075] The outlet 44 makes it possible to extract the fluid 28 from the circulation channel 26.

[0076] The outlet 44 is for example defined by a through orifice provided in one of the transverse walls 35, 36 of the base structure 30.

[0077] For example, the inlet 42 and the outlet 44 are provided in the same transverse wall 35, 36 of the base structure 30, namely in the first transverse wall 35 in the example illustrated in [Fig.2].

[0078] In the specific example described in the present description, the circulation channel 26 has several channel portions 51, 52, 53 fluidly connected to each other by the fluid connection parts 61, 62. In other words, the fluid 28 can circulate from one channel portion to another channel portion via the fluid connection parts 61, 62.

[0079] For example, the number of channel portions 51, 52, 53 is equal to three.

[0080] Alternatively, the number of channel portions 51, 52, 53 is not three. Thus, for example, the number of channel portions 51, 52, 53 can be equal to one, two, or strictly greater than three.

[0081] In the present description, the three portions of channel 51, 52, 53 are referred to below as "first portion of channel 51", "second portion of channel 52" and "third portion of channel 53".

[0082] The first, second and third portions of channel 51, 52, 53 are in this example structurally analogous to each other.

[0083] Each channel segment 51, 52, 53 comprises at least one first flow lane VI intended to carry the fluid 28 in a principal flow direction DP in a first flow direction SI and at least one second flow lane V2, separate from the first flow lane VI, intended to carry the fluid 28 in the principal flow direction DP in a second flow direction S2 opposite to the first flow direction SI. Furthermore, for each channel segment 51, 52, 53, the first flow lane VI and the second flow lane V2 communicate with each other via a fluid communication zone, denoted "ZF".

[0084] For each channel segment 51, 52, 53, the numerical references of the first channel VI, the second channel V2, and the fluidic communication zone ZF of that channel segment 51, 52, 53 are written in the form Xj, where j is an index j associated with that channel segment 51, 52, 53, when referring to a specific first channel, second channel, and fluidic communication zone. Thus, for the first channel segment 51, the index "j" is equal to "1", for the second channel segment 52, the index "j" is equal to "2", and for the third channel segment 53, the index "j" is equal to 3.

[0085] In the example described, each of the first traffic lanes VI extends along the main traffic direction DP.

[0086] In the example described, each of the second traffic lanes V2 extends along the main traffic direction DP.

[0087] For each channel portion 51, 52, 53, the first channel VI and the second channel V2 of this channel portion 51, 52, 53 are separated from each other by one of the separation walls PI, P2, P3, called the “associated separation wall”. In the example illustrated in [Fig.2], the first and second channels VI, V2 are completely separated from each other by the associated separation wall PI, P2, P3.

[0088] In particular, said elongation direction along which the separation walls PI, P2, P3 extend is substantially parallel to the main circulation direction DP.

[0089] For each channel portion 51, 52, 53, the fluid communication zone ZF of this channel portion 51, 52, 53 is arranged downstream of the first channel VI of this channel portion 51, 52, 53 relative to the first direction of circulation SI and upstream of the second channel V2 of this channel portion 51, 52, 53 relative to the second direction of circulation S2.

[0090] Thus, as visible in [Fig.2], the first channel VIi and the second channel V2i of the first channel portion 51 are separated from each other by the first separation wall PI. In addition, the first channel VIi and the second channel V2i of the first channel portion 51 communicate with each other via a first fluid communication zone ZFi.

[0091] The first channel V12 and the second channel V22 of the second channel portion 52 are separated from each other by the second separating wall P2. Furthermore, the first channel V12 and the second channel V22 of the second channel portion 52 communicate with each other via a second fluid communication zone ZF2.

[0092] The first channel V13 and the second channel V23 of the third channel portion 53 are separated from each other by the third separating wall P3. Furthermore, the first channel V13 and the second channel V23 of the third channel portion 53 communicate with each other via a third fluid communication zone ZF3.

[0093] Furthermore, as visible in [Fig.2], the channel portions 51, 52, 53 are juxtaposed to each other in a direction substantially perpendicular to the main direction of circulation DP of the fluid 28.

[0094] In particular, the first portion of channel 51, the second portion of channel 52 and the third portion of channel 53 are arranged in this order with respect to the flow of fluid 28 from the inlet 42 to the outlet 44. In other words, the first portion of channel 51 corresponds to an upstream portion of channel with respect to the flow of fluid 28 from the inlet 42 to the outlet 44 and the third portion of channel 53 corresponds to a downstream portion of channel with respect to the flow of fluid 28 from the inlet 42 to the outlet 44.

[0095] Thus, in this example, the input 42 opens into the first channel portion 51 and, in particular, into the first channel V11 of the first channel portion 51 and the output 44 opens into the third channel portion 53 and, in particular, into the second channel V23 of the third channel portion 53.

[0096] Furthermore, in the example shown in [Fig. 2], the channel portions 51, 52, 53 are separated two by two by the partitions C1, C2. Furthermore, the channel portions 51, 52, 53 are connected to each other two by two by the first and second fluid connection parts 61, 62.

[0097] In particular, in this example the first channel portion 51 is separated from the second channel portion 52 by the first partition Cl.

[0098] The first channel portion 51 is fluidically connected to the second channel portion 52 by the first fluidic connection part 61.

[0099] The first fluid connection part 61 is arranged downstream of the second channel V2i of the first channel portion 51 and upstream of the first circulation channel V12 of the second channel portion 52.

[0100] The second channel portion 52 is separated from the third channel portion 53 by the second partition C2.

[0101] The second channel portion 52 is fluidically connected to the third channel portion 53 by the second fluidic connection part 62.

[0102] The second fluid connection part 62 is arranged downstream of the second circulation path V22 of the second channel portion 52 and upstream of the first circulation path Vl3 of the third channel portion 53.

[0103] As shown in [Fig. 2], the heat exchange device 22 further comprises, for each channel portion 51, 52, 53, at least one first heat exchange module M1 and at least one second heat exchange module M2. Optionally, and as illustrated in [Fig. 2], the heat exchange device 22 further comprises, for each channel portion 51, 52, 53, a third heat exchange module M3 and a fourth heat exchange module M4.

[0104] As visible in [Fig.2], for each channel portion 51, 52, 53, the first heat exchange module M1 of this channel portion 51, 52, 53 extends exclusively in the first path VI of this channel portion 51, 52, 53.

[0105] For each channel portion 51, 52, 53, the second heat exchange module M2 of this channel portion 51, 52, 53 extends exclusively in the second path V2 of this channel portion 51, 52, 53.

[0106] For each channel portion 51, 52, 53, the first heat exchange module M1 and the second heat exchange module M2 of this channel portion 51, 52, 53 are arranged facing each other in a direction substantially perpendicular to the main circulation direction DP and are separated from each other by the wall PI, P2, P3 of separation associated with this portion of channel 51, 52, 53.

[0107] For each channel portion 51, 52, 53, the third heat exchange module M3 of this channel portion 51, 52, 53 extends exclusively in the first channel VI of this channel portion 51, 52, 53.

[0108] For each channel portion 51, 52, 53, the fourth heat exchange module M4 of this channel portion 51, 52, 53 extends exclusively in the second channel V2 of this channel portion 51, 52, 53.

[0109] For each channel portion 51, 52, 53, the third heat exchange module M3 and the fourth heat exchange module M4 of this channel portion 51, 52, 53 are arranged facing each other in a direction substantially perpendicular to the main circulation direction DP and are separated from each other by the separation wall PI, P2, P3 associated with this channel portion 51, 52, 53.

[0110] Furthermore, as can be seen in Figures 2 and 3, the two modules M1, M3 and M2, M4 of the same track VI, V2 are spaced from each other along the main direction of circulation DP.

[0111] More specifically, as visible in Figures 1 and 2, the first and third modules M1, M3 arranged in the first path VIi of the first channel portion 51 are spaced from each other along the main circulation direction DP. Furthermore, as visible in [Fig.2], the first and third modules M1, M3 arranged in the first path V12, V13 of each other channel portion 52, 53 are spaced from each other along the main circulation direction DP. Furthermore, as visible in [Fig.2], the second and fourth heat exchange modules M2, M4 arranged in the first path V11, V12, V13 of each channel portion 51, 52, 53 are spaced from each other along the main circulation direction DP.

[0112] Each of the heat exchange modules M1, M2, M3, M4 is fixed to the internal face of the bottom 38 of the base structure 30, in particular by brazing, for example by vacuum brazing.

[0113] As visible in Figures 2 and 3, the heat exchange modules M1, M2, M3, M4 are in contact with the internal surface of the cover 32.

[0114] As a variant, each of the heat exchange modules M1, M2, M3, M4 is fixed to the internal face of the cover 32, in particular by brazing, for example by vacuum brazing and the heat exchange modules M1, M2, M3, M4 are in contact with the bottom 38 of the base structure 30.

[0115] The modules M1, M2, M3, M4 are described in more detail in the following.

[0116] For each channel portion 51, 52, 53, each of the first, second, third and fourth heat exchange modules M1, M2, M3, M4 arranged in this channel portion 51, 52, 53 has, for example, a substantially parallelepiped shape. Thus, for example, each heat exchange module M1, M2, M3, M4 has a fluid inlet face 28, a fluid outlet face 28, an upper face, a lower face and two side faces.

[0117] The inlet face and the outlet face of each heat exchange module M1, M2, M3, M4 extend substantially perpendicular to the main circulation direction DP.

[0118] The lower face of each heat exchange module M1, M2, M3, M4 is in this example configured to be in contact with the internal surface of the bottom 38 of the base structure 30. In particular, the lower face of each heat exchange module M1, M2, M3, M4 is brazed to the internal face of the bottom 38 of the base structure 30.

[0119] The upper face of each heat exchange module M1, M2, M3, M4 is in this example configured to be in contact with the internal surface of the cover 32.

[0120] The two lateral faces of each heat exchange module M1, M2, M3, M4 extend substantially perpendicularly to the inlet, outlet, upper and lower faces.

[0121] Each heat exchange module M1, M2, M3, M4 extends in a main extension direction defined by the direction separating the inlet face and the outlet face of this heat exchange module M1, M2, M3, M4.

[0122] The main extension direction of each heat exchange module M1, M2, M3, M4 is substantially parallel to the main circulation direction DP when this heat exchange module M1, M2, M3, M4 is arranged in the circulation channel 26.

[0123] The heat exchange modules M1, M2, M3, M4 can be seen as lining elements lining the circulation channel 26.

[0124] For each channel portion 51, 52, 53, each of the first, second, third and fourth heat exchange modules M1, M2, M3, M4 arranged in this channel portion 51, 52, 53 is obtained by additive manufacturing.

[0125] Additive manufacturing is also called 3D printing.

[0126] Additive manufacturing is understood to mean in particular the manufacturing of an element by adding material in successive layers.

[0127] By "obtained by additive manufacturing" is meant an element which has a specific material structure obtained by additive manufacturing and / or a geometry which can preferably be obtained only by additive manufacturing.

[0128] A person skilled in the art understands that additive manufacturing involves specific characteristics on the material structure and geometry of the heat exchange modules M1, M2, M3, M4. In particular, a person skilled in the art distinguishes a material structure and a geometry obtained by additive manufacturing compared to structures obtained by other manufacturing techniques, such as welding, machining, casting or forging.

[0129] For example, each heat exchange module M1, M2, M3, M4 is obtained exclusively by additive manufacturing.

[0130] For example, each heat exchange module M1, M2, M3, M4 is made of aluminum.

[0131] Each heat exchange module M1, M2, M3, M4 has fluid passage regions 28.

[0132] More precisely, each heat exchange module M1, M2, M3, M4 has a three-dimensional structure.

[0133] The structure of each module M1, M2, M3, M4 is defined by a body, in the present example made of aluminum, in which the fluid passage regions are provided.

[0134] The body provided with the passage regions delimits a heat exchange surface of this heat exchange module M1, M2, M3, M4.

[0135] Additive manufacturing makes it possible in particular to produce shapes or assemblies that cannot be obtained by the other aforementioned manufacturing techniques. Thus, the fluid passage regions of the modules M1, M2, M3, M4 are for example easily produced by additive manufacturing, whereas they are not easily obtained by molding due to constraints for demolding. By welding, machining or forging, the presence of such fluid passage regions requires several production operations, such as complex cutting and / or assembly operations, whereas they can be obtained in a single additive manufacturing operation.

[0136] For each heat exchange module M1, M2, M3, M4, the fluid passage regions 28 of this heat exchange module M1, M2, M3, M4 are in particular through-flow regions along the main extension direction of this heat exchange module M1, M2, M3, M4 so that the fluid 28 can enter the heat exchange module M1, M2, M3, M4 via the inlet face and exit the heat exchange module M1, M2, M3, M4 via the outlet face (i.e. pass through the heat exchange module).

[0137] Furthermore, the fluid 28 passage regions 64 pass through in a direction perpendicular to the main circulation direction and to the internal face of the cover 32 so that the fluid 28 can exit the heat exchange modules M1, M2, M3, M4 via the upper and lower faces of the heat exchange module M1, M2, M3, M4 so as to come into contact with the internal surfaces of the bottom 38 of the base structure 30 and of the cover 32.

[0138] In the specific example shown in [Fig.2], for each portion of channel 51, 52, 53 the first, second, third and fourth modules M1, M2, M3, M4 are analogous.

[0139] Figures 5 and 6 show in particular a detailed view of the first module Ml arranged in the first portion of channel 51.

[0140] Figure 6 shows in particular the fluid passage regions 64 of the ML module 28

[0141] As a variant, for each channel portion 51, 52, 53 at least two heat exchange modules M1, M2, M3, M4 arranged in this channel portion 51, 52, 53 are different, namely have different fluid passage regions from one module to the other, that is to say having different sections in a section plane perpendicular to the main direction of circulation.

[0142] For example, for each channel portion 51, 52, 53, at least the first and second modules M1, M2 exhibit different fluid passage regions from one module to the other. Furthermore, for example, at least the third and fourth modules M3, M4 exhibit different fluid passage regions from one module to the other.

[0143] For example, for each portion of channel 51, 52, 53 the first, second, third and fourth modules M1, M2, M3, M4 are different from each other, that is to say they have different fluid passage regions from one module to another.

[0144] Variants of the first heat exchange module Ml are shown in Figures 6 to 12.

[0145] In figures 6 to 12, the first module Ml has different fluid passage regions 66, 68, 70 28.

[0146] Alternatively or in addition, for each portion of channel 51, 52, 53, the first module M1, the second module M2, the third module M3, the fourth module M4 can correspond to any one of the modules shown in figures 5, 7, 9, 11.

[0147] In addition, geometries other than those shown in Figures 6 to 12 can be considered.

[0148] In particular, the fluid passage regions of the heat exchange modules M1, M2, M3, M4 are adapted according to predefined parameters.

[0149] These predefined parameters include, for example, the heat exchange surface defined by the heat exchange module M1, M2, M3, M4, the pressure losses when the fluid 28 passes through the heat exchange module M1, M2, M3, M4, the distribution of the fluid 28 within the heat exchange module M1, M2, M3, M4, in particular the guidance of the fluid 28 towards the upper and lower internal surfaces of the bottom 38 of the base structure 30 and of the hood 32 by said passage regions fluid 28.

[0150] For example, for each channel portion 51, 52, 53, the device 22 includes a first external contact zone ZC and a second external contact zone ZC.

[0151] For each portion of channel 51, 52, 53, the first contact zone ZC is a portion of the external contact surface advantageously extending at both the right of the first and second heat exchange modules M1, M2 arranged in this portion of channel 51, 52, 53.

[0152] For each portion of channel 51, 52, 53, the second contact zone ZC advantageously extends at both the third and fourth heat exchange modules M3, M4 arranged in this portion of channel 51, 52, 53.

[0153] Alternatively, for each channel portion 51, 52, 53, the heat exchange device 22 comprises a first, a second, a third and a fourth contact zone ZC. In this case, for each channel portion 51, 52, 53, each of the contact zones ZC is arranged opposite a respective heat exchange module M1, M2, M3, M4 from among the first, second, third, fourth modules M1, M2, M3, M4 arranged in this channel portion 51, 52, 53.

[0154] Initially, the fluid 28 enters through the inlet 42 of the heat exchange device 22.

[0155] Then, the fluid 28 passes through the first and third heat exchange modules M1, M3 arranged in the first channel V11 of the first portion of channel 51 and then passes through the fourth and second heat exchange modules M4, M2 arranged in the second channel V2i of the first portion of channel 51.

[0156] Next, the fluid 28 passes through the first and third heat exchange modules M1, M3 arranged in the first channel V12 of the second portion of channel 52 and then passes through the fourth and second heat exchange modules M4, M2 arranged in the second channel V22 of the second portion of channel 52.

[0157] Finally, the fluid 28 passes through the first and third heat exchange modules M1, M3 arranged in the first channel V13 of the third portion of channel 53 and then passes through the fourth and second heat exchange modules M4, M2 arranged in the second channel V23 of the third portion of channel 53 and exits through the outlet 44.

[0158] In particular, during its circulation in the heat exchange device 22, the fluid 28 passes through the fluid passage regions 64 of each of the heat exchange modules M1, M2, M3, M4. The passage of the fluid 28 through the fluid passage regions allows the fluid to be distributed within the heat exchange modules M1, M2, M3, M4 so that the fluid passes over the internal surfaces of the base structure 30 and the cover 32 arranged at the locations of the modules M1, M2, M3, M4.

[0159] Such a distribution of the fluid 28 within the heat exchange modules M1, M2, M3, M4 allows good heat exchange with the units 24 so as to cool them.

[0160] During its movement in the circulation channel 26 and through the modules M1, M2, M3, M4 of heat exchange, the fluid 28 exchanges heat by conduction and convection with the units 24, which allows them to be cooled.

[0161] The manufacturing process for assembly 20 is described below.

[0162] The manufacturing process first includes the manufacture of the exchange device 22 thermal then the arrangement of the 24 units on the contact zones ZC of the contact surface.

[0163] The manufacturing process for the heat exchange device 22 comprises the following steps:

[0164] - construction of the circulation channel 26,

[0165] - production by additive manufacturing, for each portion of channel 51, 52, 53, of the first, second, third and fourth modules M1, M2, M3, M4 showing the 64 fluid passage regions 28,

[0166] - for each portion of channel 51, 52, 53, arrangement of the first module Ml of heat exchange of this portion of channel 51, 52, 53 in the first channel VI of this portion of channel 51, 52, 53, so that it extends exclusively in said first channel VI,

[0167] - for each portion of channel 51, 52, 53, arrangement of the second module M2 of heat exchange of this portion of channel 51, 52, 53, in the second lane V2 of this portion of channel 51, 52, 53 so that it extends exclusively in the second lane V2 of circulation, that it is arranged opposite the first heat exchange module Ml of this portion of channel 51, 52, 53 in a direction substantially perpendicular to the main direction of circulation DP and that it is separated from the first heat exchange module Ml of this portion of channel 51, 52, 53 by the separation wall PI, P2, P3 associated with this portion of channel 51, 52, 53,

[0168] - for each portion of channel 51, 52, 53, arrangement of the third module M3 of heat exchange in the first lane VI of this portion of channel 51, 52, 53, so that it extends exclusively in said first lane VI and that it is spaced from the first heat exchange module Ml of this portion of channel 51, 52, 53 along the main extension direction DP,

[0169] - for each portion of channel 51, 52, 53, arrangement of the fourth module M4 heat exchange in the second lane V2 of this portion of channel 51, 52, 53, so that it extends exclusively in the second lane V2, that it is arranged opposite the third heat exchange module M3 of this portion of channel 51, 52, 53 in a direction substantially perpendicular to the main flow direction DP and that it is separated from the third heat exchange module M3 of this portion of channel 51, 52, 53 by the separation wall PI, P2, P3 associated with this portion of channel 51, 52, 53.

[0170] In addition, for each portion of channel 51, 52, 53, the fourth module M4 heat exchange is spaced from the second heat exchange module M2 of this portion of channel 51, 52, 53 along the main flow direction DP.

[0171] The stage of making the circulation channel 26 includes, for example, a sub-stage of supplying the base structure 30, a sub-stage of supplying the hood 32 and a sub-stage of joining the separation walls PI, P2, P3 and the partitions Cl, C2 to the internal surface of the base structure 30 or the hood 32, for example by brazing, so as to form at least in part the channel portions 51, 52, 53 of the circulation channel 26.

[0172] The step of making the circulation channel 26 further includes a sub-step of securing the hood 32 to the base structure 30.

[0173] The attachment of the cover 32 to the base structure 30 is, for example, achieved by brazing. Thus, the edges of the cover 32 are brazed to the edges of the base structure 30.

[0174] The attachment of the hood 32 to the base structure 30 makes the heat exchange device 22 airtight.

[0175] For example, the process includes a step of fixing the heat exchange modules M1, M2, M3, M4 to the internal surface of the base structure 30 or the hood 32, in particular by brazing and, for example, by vacuum brazing.

[0176] In the present case, during the step of fixing the modules M1, M2, M3, M4, the heat exchange modules M1, M2, M3, M4 are vacuum brazed to the internal surface of the base structure 30.

[0177] The steps relating to the arrangement of the heat exchange modules M1, M2, M3, M4 in the circulation channel 26 and the fixing of the heat exchange modules M1, M2, M3, M4 are carried out before the sub-step of securing the hood 32 to the base structure 30.

[0178] Once the base structure 30 and the hood 32 are joined together, the method further comprises arranging each unit 24 on one of the contact zones ZC of the contact surface.

[0179] According to an alternative method for manufacturing the heat exchange device 22, the step of producing the circulation channel 26 does not include the bonding substep. Indeed, during the substep of supplying the base structure 30, the separating walls PI, P2, P3 and the partitions Cl, C2 are already bonded to the internal surface of the base structure 30 or the cover 32. In this case, for example, the separating walls PI, P2, P3 and the partitions Cl, C2 are formed from the material of the base structure 30 or the cover 32. For example, the separating walls PI, P2, P3 and the partitions Cl, C2 are machined into the base structure 30 or the cover 32.

[0180] According to another variant of the heat exchange device 22 method, the separation walls PI, P2, P3 are produced by additive manufacturing concurrently with the additive manufacturing step of the heat exchange modules M1, M2, M3, M4. In this case, for example, for each channel section 51, 52, 53, each partition wall PI, P2, P3 of that channel section 51, 52, 53 is made of material along with the heat exchange modules M1, M2, M3, M4 of that channel section 51, 52, 53. According to another example, for each channel section 51, 52, 53, the partition wall PI, P2, P3 of that channel section 51, 52, 53 is made of several partition wall sections PI, P2, P3 fixed to one another. Each partition wall section PI, P2, P3 in this example is made of material along with the two heat exchange modules (M1 and M2 on the one hand, and M3 and M4 on the other) arranged opposite each other in a direction substantially perpendicular to the main flow direction DP.

[0181] According to this variant of the process, the substep of joining the walls PI, P2, P3 of separation to the internal surface of the base structure 30 is carried out concurrently with the step of fixing the modules to the internal surface of the base structure 30 or of the hood 32, in particular by brazing and, for example, by vacuum brazing.

[0182] The heat exchange device 22 according to the invention makes it possible to ensure efficient heat exchange with the units 24 intended to be cooled or heated, while being easy to manufacture.

[0183] In particular, thanks to the invention, a modular heat exchange device 22 is obtained. Indeed, it is possible to customize the heat exchange device 22 according to the invention by selecting heat exchange modules M1, M2, M3, M4 having optimal fluid passage regions according to the cooling capacities required to cool the units 24. Furthermore, it is possible to adapt the number of channel sections according to the number of units 24 to be cooled or heated.

[0184] The use of additive manufacturing makes it possible in particular to adapt the three-dimensional geometry of the heat exchange modules M1, M2, M3, M4, and in particular, to adapt the shape of the fluid passage regions 28 and therefore of the heat exchange surfaces of these heat exchange modules M1, M2, M3, M4, in order to optimally cool the units 24. In other words, thanks to the modular aspect of the heat exchange device 22 according to the invention, it is possible to choose the optimal heat exchange modules M1, M2, M3, M4 so as to obtain a heat exchange device 22 with improved thermal performance compared to the heat exchange device of the prior art.

[0185] A parameter for evaluating the thermal performance of a heat exchange device 22 is the thermal resistance.

[0186] By choosing a suitable shape for the fluid passage regions 28 of the heat exchange modules M1, M2, M3, M4, it is possible to obtain a heat exchange device 22 with a thermal resistance strictly lower than state-of-the-art heat exchange device.

[0187] The use of heat exchange modules such as those shown in Figures 5 to 12 makes it possible to obtain a heat exchange device 22 having a thermal resistance strictly lower than the thermal resistance of a heat exchange device comprising the machined plate of the prior art.

[0188] In particular, a heat exchange device 22 comprising heat exchange modules M1, M2, M3, M4 analogous to the heat exchange module shown in Figures 5 and 6 has a thermal resistance 45% lower compared to the thermal resistance of the prior art heat exchange device for an inlet pressure of the fluid 28 of 1.41 bar, an inlet fluid 28 flow rate of 20.19 liters per minute and an inlet fluid 28 temperature of 51 degrees Celsius.

[0189] Furthermore, thanks to the heat exchange modules M1, M2, M3, M4 obtained by additive manufacturing, it is possible to adapt the structure of these heat exchange modules M1, M2, M3, M4 so as to reduce the temperature gradient between the inlet 42 and the outlet 44 of the heat exchange device 22 in order to balance the heating under all the units 24.

[0190] In addition, thanks to the heat exchange modules M1, M2, M3, M4 obtained by additive manufacturing, it is possible to adapt the structure of these heat exchange modules M1, M2, M3, M4 according to the heat losses which may be different from one unit 24 to another.

[0191] Furthermore, thanks to the heat exchange modules M1, M2, M3, M4 obtained by additive manufacturing, it is possible to increase the heat exchange surfaces of the heat exchange device 22 while obtaining a particularly compact heat exchange device 22 (i.e. no increase in the heat exchange volume compared to devices in the prior art).

[0192] Finally, the heat exchange device 22 according to the invention is easy to manufacture.

Claims

Claims

1. Heat exchange device (22) defining a circulation channel (26) for a fluid (28) capable of being heated or cooled by heat exchange with a unit (24) intended to be cooled or heated, the circulation channel (26) comprising an inlet (42), an outlet (44) and at least one channel portion (51, 52, 53) extending between the inlet (42) and the outlet (44), the channel portion (51, 52, 53) comprising at least a first circulation path (VI) intended to conduct the fluid (28) in a main circulation direction (DP) in a first direction (SI) and at least a second circulation path (V2) separate from the first path (VI), intended to conduct the fluid (28) in the main circulation direction (DP) in a second direction (S2) opposite the first direction (SI), the first path (VI) and the second path (V2) being separated from each other by a separating wall (PI, P2, P3), the heat exchange device (22) comprising,furthermore, at least a first heat exchange module (M1) and a second heat exchange module (M2), the first heat exchange module (M1) extending exclusively in the first circulation path (VI) and the second heat exchange module (M2) extending exclusively in the second circulation path (V2), the first and second heat exchange modules (M1, M2) having passage regions (64, 66, 68, 70) for fluid (28) and being obtained by additive manufacturing, the first heat exchange module (M1) and the second heat exchange module (M2) being arranged opposite each other in a direction substantially perpendicular to the main circulation direction (DP) and being separated from each other by the separating wall (PI, P2, P3), a geometry of the passage regions (64, 66, 68, 70) for fluid (28) being according to one of geometries shown in Figures 5 to 12, preferably Figures 5 and 6.,

2. A heat exchange device according to claim 1, wherein the heat exchange device (22) further comprises a third heat exchange module (M3) and a fourth heat exchange module (M4), the third heat exchange module (M3) extending exclusively in the first path (VI) and being spaced from the first heat exchange module (M1) in the main direction. circulation (DP), the fourth heat exchange module (M4) extending exclusively in the second path (V2) and being spaced from the second heat exchange module (M2) along the main circulation direction (DP), the third heat exchange module (M3) and the fourth exchange module (M4) having fluid passage regions (64, 66, 68, 70) and being obtained by additive manufacturing, the third heat exchange module (M3) and the fourth heat exchange module (M4) being arranged opposite each other along a direction substantially perpendicular to the main circulation direction (DP) and being separated from each other by the separating wall (PI, P2, P3).

3. Heat exchange device according to claim 1 or 2, comprising a base structure (30) and a cover (32) fixed to the base structure (30), preferably by brazing, the base structure (30) and the cover (32) having internal surfaces delimiting between them at least in part an internal volume (40) of the heat exchange device (22), the internal volume (40) defining the circulation channel (26).

4. Heat exchange device according to claim 3, wherein the heat exchange modules (M1, M2, M3, M4) are fixed by brazing to the internal surface of the base structure (30) or the cover (32).

5. A heat exchange device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the circulation channel (26) has the shape of a serpentine, the circulation channel (26) comprising at least a first channel portion (51) and a second channel portion (52) arranged between the inlet (42) and the outlet (44), for each of the channel portions among the first channel portion (51) and the second channel portion (52), the first circulation path (VI) and the second circulation path (V2) of this channel portion (51, 52) being separated from each other by a separation wall (PI, P2) associated with this channel portion (51, 52), for each of the channel portions among the first channel portion (51) and the second channel portion (52), the heat exchange device (22) comprises at least a first heat exchange module (M1) and a second heat exchange module (M2) thermal,the first heat exchange module (Ml) extending exclusively in the first circulation path (VI) of this portion of channel (51, 52) and the second heat exchange module (M2) extending exclu-, sively in the second circulation path (V2) of this channel portion (51, 52), the first and second heat exchange modules (Ml, M2) having fluid passage regions (64, 66, 68, 70) and being obtained by additive manufacturing, for each of the channel portions among the first channel portion (51) and the second channel portion (52), the first heat exchange module (Ml) and the second heat exchange module (M2) of this channel portion (51, 52) being arranged facing each other in a direction substantially perpendicular to the main circulation direction (DP) and being separated from each other by the separation wall (PI, P2) associated with this channel portion (51, 52).

6. Heat exchange device according to claim 5, comprising a partition (Cl, C2) separating the first channel portion (51) and the second channel portion (52).

7. Heat exchange device according to any one of the preceding claims, in which at least two heat exchange modules (M1, M2, M3, M4) have fluid (28) passage regions (64, 66, 68, 70) which are different from one heat exchange module to the other.

8. An assembly (20) comprising at least one heat exchange device (22) according to any one of the preceding claims and at least one unit (24) capable of being cooled or heated by the heat exchange device (22), the heat exchange device (22) comprising a base structure (30) and a cover (32) fixed to the base structure (30), preferably by brazing, the base structure (30) and the cover (32) having internal surfaces delimiting between them an internal volume (40) of the heat exchange device (22), the internal volume (40) defining the circulation channel (26) of the heat exchange device (22), said unit (24) being arranged in contact with a zone (ZC) of an external surface of the cover or of the base structure, called the "contact surface (ZC)", the contact surface (ZC) extending outside the internal volume (40).

9. Assembly according to claim 8, wherein said unit (24) extends over the contact zone (ZC) both in line with the first heat exchange module (M1) and the second heat exchange module (M2).

10. Method of manufacturing a heat exchange device (22) according to any one of claims 1 to 7 comprising at least the steps of: - production of a circulation channel (26) for a fluid capable of being heated or cooled by heat exchange with a unit (24) capable of being cooled or heated, the circulation channel (26) comprising an inlet (42), an outlet (44) and at least one channel portion (51, 52, 53) extending between the inlet (42) and the outlet (44), the channel portion (51, 52, 53) comprising at least a first circulation path (VI) intended to conduct the fluid (28) in a main circulation direction (DP) in a first direction (SI) and at least a second circulation path (V2) distinct from the first path (VI), intended to conduct the fluid (28) in the main circulation direction (DP) in a second direction (S2) opposite to the first direction (SI), the first path (VI) and the second path (V2) being separated from each other by a separating wall (PI, P2, P3), - production of at least a first heat exchange module (Ml) and a second heat exchange module (M2) by additive manufacturing, the first and second heat exchange modules (Ml, M2) each having passage regions (64, 66, 68, 70) for fluid (28), - arrangement of the first heat exchange module (Ml) in the first circulation path (VI) so that it extends exclusively in the first circulation path (VI), - arrangement of the second heat exchange module (M2) in the second path (V2) so that it extends exclusively in the second circulation path (V2), that it is arranged opposite the first heat exchange module (Ml) in a direction substantially perpendicular to the main circulation direction (DP) and that it is separated from the first heat exchange module (Ml) by the separation wall (PI, P2, P3).

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