Hydraulic module with front-mounted electrical control box, multi-position and disengageable

Abstract

The invention relates to a hydraulic module (15) comprising an electrical box (35) that is movable and rotatable relative to a module body (17) between: - a first position in which the electrical box (35) is positioned across a front access opening (56) to close the interior space (54), - a second position in which the electrical box (35) is outside the front access opening (56) so as to allow access to a rear face of the electrical box (35), in which the hinge system (60) is configured to disengage the electrical box (35) from the second position to a disengaged position when the hinge system (60) is subjected to a torque equal to or greater than a predetermined disengagement torque value. Figure 3

Description

Title of the invention: Hydraulic module with front, multi-position and disengageable electrical box Technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to a hydraulic module for a heating water and / or sanitary water heating device comprising an electrical box.

[0002] The invention also relates to a combined device for heating domestic water and heating water for a room comprising such a hydraulic module. Technological background

[0003] A heating water and / or domestic water heating device generally comprises a heating water and / or domestic water heating system coupled to a hydraulic module, and optionally a storage tank for storing domestic water. This heating system may be an electric heating element or a heating element using a fuel such as gas or fuel oil. The heating system carried by the heating device may also be a heat exchanger of a remote heating element such as a heat pump. Such a heating water and / or domestic water heating device is for example a thermodynamic water heater, a combined heating water and domestic water heating device or even a storage tank associated with a heat exchanger external to the tank.

[0004] The hydraulic module comprises a heating water circuit and / or a sanitary water circuit and connections for coupling the heating system to the heating water and / or sanitary water circuits. The hydraulic module comprises, for example, a heat exchanger when the heating system is a heat pump, such as in a thermodynamic water heater or a combined heating water and sanitary water heating device.

[0005] The hydraulic module also includes an electrical box generally grouping together electrical and electronic components for controlling the heating device, in particular the heating system. The electrical box may also include electrical connections or even a communication interface with a user.

[0006] These electrical and electronic components are essential to ensure the proper functioning of the heating device, for the integration of the communication interface, or for the in situ installation of additional functions (expansion cards).

[0007] For maintenance purposes of the heating device, it is necessary that the The electrical box must be easily accessible by a technician so that components can be repaired or replaced, or the heating system can be reprogrammed. Similarly, the electrical box must be easily accessible to a user to interact with the communication interface. For these reasons, the electrical box is generally positioned at the front of the heating system.

[0008] Handling electrical and electronic components is delicate and requires good accessibility in general, which generally implies that the electrical box is detachable or mobile relative to the chassis of the hydraulic module.

[0009] When the electrical box is detachable from the module chassis (except for the electrical wires), the installer unhooks the electrical box from its functional position to place it in a maintenance position. This maintenance position generally corresponds to placing the electrical box on the ground or hanging it from a hook or a fixing system provided for this purpose on one side of the module chassis.

[0010] This solution is generally restrictive for the installer who must find space next to the heating device for the electrical box, with the electrical wires still connected to the electrical box. In the case of a fixing or a hook to hang the electrical box, it is usual to place this fixing on the side of the device which makes the size of the heating device very large and not very suitable for very restricted locations (small housing or installation of the heating device in a cupboard).

[0011] When the electrical box is movable relative to the module chassis, the box is generally movable, for example using a hinge, from the functional position to the maintenance position. The electrical box, however, remains within the installer's field of action and may hinder his operation. In addition, these hinges must be sized to withstand significant forces related to external stresses (customer support, box not accompanied when tilting from one position to another, etc.). If the hinges are fragile or undersized, they may break under significant stress, which requires the electrical box to be replaced.

[0012] On current heating devices, the electrical box is either tilted forward, which hinders the technician's intervention, or laterally, which requires the product to be installed with clearance on the side.

[0013] There is therefore a need for an electrical box for a hydraulic module that is easy to access and robust with respect to external stresses, while allowing easy maintenance and / or installation for a technician as well as compatibility with housing with high space constraints. Summary of the invention

[0014] For this, the invention proposes a combined device, a hydraulic module for a heating water and / or sanitary water heating device comprising a module body defining an interior space and at least one heating water or sanitary water heating circuit arranged at least partially in the interior space, said interior space comprising a front opening for access to said interior space for maintenance of the hydraulic module, the hydraulic module further comprising an electrical box fixed to the module body by means of a hinge system, said electrical box being rotatable about a hinge axis relative to the module body between: - a first position in which the electrical box is arranged across said front access opening to close the interior space, - a second position in which the electrical box is outside the front access opening so as to allow access to a rear face of the electrical box, in which the hinge system is configured to disengage the electrical box from the second position to a disengaged position when the hinge system is subjected to a torque equal to or greater than a predetermined disengaged torque value.

[0015] The electrical cabinet is therefore movable between a functional position (first position) and a maintenance position (second position). The hinge system connecting the electrical cabinet to the module body also has the ability to be disengaged under the action of a predetermined torque when the electrical cabinet is in the maintenance position so that it is possible for the cabinet to undergo a significant force (for example the fall of a tool on the cabinet) without breaking the hinge system. In addition, disengaging the second position makes it possible to provide the electrical cabinet with a third position corresponding to a disengaged position. The hinge system is thus more robust (reduced risk of breakage for the same torque experienced) and offers more flexibility in the use of the electrical cabinet (three positions).

[0016] In addition, the electrical box is arranged on the front of the hydraulic module when it is in its first position (functional position), which allows very good accessibility. The hinge system making the electrical box mobile in rotation to be arranged in the second position (maintenance position) makes the installation as well as the maintenance of the hydraulic module and the electrical box easier.

[0017] According to one embodiment of the hydraulic module, the hinge system is configured to disengage the electrical box from the second position to the position non-destructive disengagement.

[0018] According to one embodiment of the hydraulic module, the hinge system comprises an elastically deformable disengaging member so that it causes the electrical box to disengage from the second position to the disengaging position when the electrical box is subjected to a torque equal to or greater than the predetermined disengaging torque value.

[0019] According to one embodiment of the hydraulic module, the hinge system comprises: - a hinge guide fixed relative to one of the electrical box and the module body, and - a hinge axis movable in rotation relative to the hinge guide, the hinge axis being fixedly mounted on the other of the electrical box and the module body.

[0020] According to one embodiment of the hydraulic module, the latter further comprises: - a system of main stops mounted on one of the electrical box and the module body, and - a system of complementary stops mounted on the other between the electrical box and the module body, the main stop system being configured to cooperate with the complementary stop system to hold the electrical box either in the first or in the second position.

[0021] According to one embodiment of the hydraulic module, one of the main and complementary stop systems is formed by the hinge system, the other of the main and complementary stop systems facing it.

[0022] According to one embodiment of the hydraulic module, the main stop system is mounted on the module body, the complementary stop system being mounted on the electrical box.

[0023] According to one embodiment of the hydraulic module, the main stop system comprises: - a first main stop surface configured to cooperate with a first complementary stop surface when the electrical box is in the first position to prevent rotation of the electrical box from the first position to the second position until the hinge system is subjected to a torque equal to or greater than a predetermined restraining torque value, - a second main stop surface configured to cooperate with a second complementary stop surface when the electrical box is in the second position to prevent rotation of the electrical box from the second position to the disengaged position until the hinge system is subjected to a torque equal to or greater than the predetermined torque value of clutch.

[0024] According to one embodiment of the hydraulic module, the first and second main stop surfaces are elastically deformable stops so that: - the first main stop surface is configured to deform elastically when the hinge system is subjected to a torque equal to or greater than the predetermined value of retaining torque for moving the electrical box from the first position to the second position, - the second main stop surface is configured to elastically deform when the hinge system is subjected to a torque equal to or greater than the predetermined disengagement torque value to move the electrical cabinet from the second position to the disengagement position.

[0025] According to one embodiment of the hydraulic module, the hinge guide is open at an upper portion to allow the hinge pin to be removed from the hinge guide when the hinge system is disengaged.

[0026] According to one embodiment of the hydraulic module, the hinge system comprises a holding pin and a holding guide cooperating with the holding pin to prevent untimely disengagement of the electrical box, the holding guide comprising a first portion forming a holding stop cooperating with the holding pin when the electrical box is in the first position, the holding guide comprising a second open portion to allow removal of the holding pin from the holding guide when the electrical box is in the second position.

[0027] According to one embodiment of the hydraulic module, the electrical box is intended to extend in a vertical plane when it is arranged in the first position and the hydraulic module is fixed to a support.

[0028] According to an embodiment of the hydraulic module, the second position of the electrical box is angularly offset around the hinge axis by an angle equal to or greater than 80° relative to the first position.

[0029] According to one embodiment of the hydraulic module, the electrical box comprises at least one of an electronic control card, an electrical power component, a connection terminal block, a communication interface with a user.

[0030] According to one embodiment of the hydraulic module, the electrical box comprises a rear connection face and a front face facing the rear connection face, the front face comprising a communication interface with a user intended to face a user when the electrical box is arranged in the first position.

[0031] According to one embodiment of the hydraulic module, the latter further comprises at at least one heat exchanger arranged in the interior space to heat the heating water and / or the sanitary water.

[0032] The invention also relates to a combined device for heating domestic water and heating water for a room, said combined device comprising: - a sanitary water storage tank, - a hydraulic module as described above, said hydraulic module comprising a sanitary water circuit intended to be in fluid communication with the storage tank and a heating water circuit, the hydraulic module further comprising at least one heat exchanger for transferring heat to heating water present in the heating water circuit, in which the domestic water storage tank is arranged above the hydraulic module. Brief description of the figures

[0033] The description which follows with reference to the appended drawings, given as non-limiting examples, will make it clear what the invention consists of and how it can be implemented. In the appended figures:

[0034] [Fig-1] [Fig.l] represents a hydraulic diagram of a combined device of heating of heating water and sanitary water;

[0035] [Fig.2] [Fig.2] represents a perspective view of the combined device of heating of [Fig.l] comprising a storage tank, a hydraulic module and a system for fixing the storage tank and the hydraulic module to a support;

[0036] [Fig.3] [Fig.3] represents a perspective view of a hydraulic module comprising an electrical box arranged in an operative position in which the electrical box is across a front opening for access to an interior space of the hydraulic module, an expansion tank also being in such an operative position;

[0037] [Fig.4] [Fig.4] represents a perspective view of the hydraulic module of the [Fig.3] with the electrical box in a maintenance position in which the electrical box is outside the front access opening so as to allow access to a rear face of the electrical box;

[0038] [Fig.5] [Fig.5] represents a perspective view of the hydraulic module of the [Fig.3] with the electrical box in a disengaged position;

[0039] [Fig.6] [Fig.6] represents a front view of the electrical box of figures 3 to 5, a communication interface being formed on the front face of the electrical box and intended to face a user when he is positioned in front of the hydraulic module and the electrical box is in the operational position;

[0040] [Fig.7] [Fig.7] represents a sectional side view of the electrical box of the figures 3 to 5 in maintenance position;

[0041] [Fig-8] [Fig.8] represents a side view in section, at the level of systems of main and additional stops, of a hinge system allowing the electrical box to be connected to the module body of the hydraulic module, the electrical box being in the functional position;

[0042] [Fig.9] [Fig.9] represents a side view in section, at the level of systems of main and additional stops, of the hinge system of [Fig.8], the electrical box being in the maintenance position;

[0043] [Fig. 10] [Fig. 10] represents a side view in section, at the level of a guide and a hinge pin, of the hinge system of [Fig.8], the electrical box being in the functional position;

[0044] [Fig. 11] [Fig. 11] represents a detailed perspective view of a system of suspension of the electrical box in the disengaged position. Description of embodiment(s)

[0045] The inventive concept is described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which embodiments of the inventive concept are shown. In the drawings, the size and relative sizes of elements may be exaggerated for clarity. Like numerals refer to like elements throughout the drawings. However, this inventive concept may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Instead, these embodiments are provided so that this description is complete, and communicates the scope of the inventive concept to those skilled in the art.

[0046] A reference throughout the specification to "an embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, the occurrence of the phrase "in an embodiment" at various locations throughout the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. Furthermore, the term "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps.

[0047] A hydraulic module is proposed comprising an electrical box arranged on the front of this hydraulic module.

[0048] The hydraulic module comprises a module body defining an interior space and at least one heating water or sanitary water heating circuit arranged at least partially in this interior space. The hydraulic module may further comprise a heating member, one or more heat exchangers, one or several circulators as well as one or more hydraulic connection connections. The hydraulic module may in particular include a connection plate as described below.

[0049] The hydraulic module may be intended to be hydraulically connected between a storage tank and a heating water and / or sanitary water installation.

[0050] A heating water and / or domestic water heating device generally comprises a heating water and / or domestic water heating system coupled to a hydraulic module, and optionally a storage tank for storing domestic water. This heating system may be an electric heating unit or a heating unit using a fuel such as gas or fuel oil. The heating system may also be a heat exchanger of a remote heating unit such as a heat pump.

[0051] The hydraulic module also includes an electrical box generally grouping together electrical and electronic components for controlling the heating device, in particular the heating system, or to ensure its safety. The electrical box may also include electrical connections or even a communication interface with a user. These electrical and electronic components are essential to ensure the proper functioning of the heating device, for the integration of the communication interface, or for the on-site installation of additional functions (expansion cards).

[0052] The hydraulic module will be described in more detail below integrated into a combined heating water and domestic water heating device, without limiting the scope of the present invention. The hydraulic module can in fact be integrated into any heating water and / or domestic water heating device, for example a thermodynamic water heater.

[0053] With reference to [Fig.l], a combined device 10 for heating domestic water and heating water for a room comprises a domestic water storage tank 14, a hydraulic module 15 intended to be connected to the storage tank 14 and an external unit 25 intended to be connected to the hydraulic module 15.

[0054] The hydraulic module 15 comprises a sanitary water circuit 12 intended to be connected to sanitary water distribution members, such as taps, and a heating water circuit 18 intended to be connected to members for heating a room, such as radiators. The sanitary water circuit 12 is intended to be in fluid communication with the storage tank 14.

[0055] The hydraulic module 15 also comprises a first exchanger 22 capable of exchanging heat between a heat transfer fluid circuit 24 and the heating water circuit 18. In particular, the heat transfer fluid circuit 24 exchanges heat between an environment external to the premises and the heating water circuit 18 present at inside the room. To do this, the outdoor unit 25 is arranged at the level of the external environment and configured to exchange heat with the heat transfer fluid circuit 24. The outdoor unit 25, the heat transfer fluid circuit 24 and the first heat exchanger 22 form a heat pump capable of varying the temperature of the heating water present in the heating water circuit 18.

[0056] The hydraulic module 15 further comprises a domestic water heating circuit 26 comprising a second heat exchanger 28 for exchanging heat between the heating water and the domestic water. For this purpose, the domestic water heating circuit 26 comprises a first branch 27 connected to the heating water circuit 18 and extending inside the second heat exchanger 28. Heating water thus flows into the first branch 27 and thus through the second exchanger 28. The domestic water heating circuit 26 further comprises a second branch 29 connected to the domestic water circuit 12 and extending inside the second heat exchanger 28. Sanitary water thus flows into the second branch 29 and thus through the second heat exchanger 28. A heat exchange is thus possible between the heating water and the domestic water within the second heat exchanger 28.It is thus possible to vary the temperature of the domestic water using the heating water.

[0057] The hydraulic module 15 further comprises a first circulator 30 arranged in the heating water circuit 18 to circulate the heating water and a second circulator 32 in the second bypass 29 to circulate the domestic water. The hydraulic module 15 also comprises an expansion tank 33 to absorb the variations in volume of the water generated by the changes in temperature.

[0058] The second heat exchanger 28 is preferably a plate exchanger arranged outside the domestic water storage tank 14. Thus, the interior volume of the storage tank 14 is fully available for storing domestic water, without a heat exchanger inside it. The volume available inside the storage tank 14 is thus greater than in the case of a coil tank for the same external volume of the storage tank 14. Indeed, the “dead” or unavailable volume located at the location of the coil and below it is not present here. The dimensions and mass of the storage tank 14 can be reduced relative to the storage tank 14 while maintaining the same useful volume for storing domestic water.

[0059] In addition, the use of a heat exchanger arranged outside the storage tank 14 is more robust in terms of performance and more flexible than solutions with a submerged coil.

[0060] In known solutions with immersed coil, obtaining good performance when heating domestic water requires in particular: - to wait until the storage tank 14 is as cold as possible (ideally the entire coil should be immersed in cold water) to start heating with the lowest possible condensation temperature (the lower the condensation temperature of a heat pump, the higher the performance), and - to avoid any withdrawal occurring during heating because the cold water that will arrive at the lower part of the storage tank 14 will lengthen the heating time without lowering the condensation temperature of the tank (because the coil remains mostly immersed in water during heating). The average performance will therefore be directly degraded.

[0061] In practice, it is not always possible to wait until the storage tank 14 is as cold as possible because user comfort takes priority over performance. On the other hand, avoiding draw-offs when heating domestic water encourages rather rapid heating. However, faster heating of domestic water means greater exchanged power. However, since the exchange surface is constant, this has the consequence of degrading the quality of the exchange and therefore the performance.

[0062] The hydraulic module 15 further comprises a quick connection plate 34 for connecting the heating water circuit 18 to at least one heating water installation of the premises and the sanitary water circuit 12 to a sanitary water installation of the premises. The connection plate 34 comprises sanitary water outlet and return connections for connecting the sanitary water circuit 12 to the sanitary water installation of the premises. The connection plate 34 further comprises heating water outlet and return connections for connecting the heating water circuit 18 to the heating water installation of the premises. Thus, all of the connections of the sanitary water circuits 12 and heating water 18 are arranged at the same interface. The connection of the combined device 10 to the heating water and sanitary water installations of the premises is thus made easier for the installer.

[0063] The connection plate 34 makes it possible to know the position of each of the connections before installing the combined device 10. This is particularly useful when the combined device 10 is intended to be installed in a new building because the installation of the heating water and sanitary water installations of the premises can be carried out before installing the combined device 10.

[0064] The installation of the outdoor unit 25 may require a different trade (refrigeration engineer) than the installation of the heating and sanitary water circuits (plumber). The connection plate 34 thus allows the different installers to carry out their part of the installation independently. The connection plate 34 therefore allows great flexibility in the installation of these installations as well as the combined device 10.

[0065] With reference to [Fig.2], the combined device 10 comprises three main sub-assemblies: the storage tank 14, the hydraulic module 15 and a fixing system 36 for fixing the storage tank 14 and the hydraulic module 15 above the ground 40 to a support, for example a wall 38.

[0066] The combined device 10 extends along a longitudinal axis A intended to be oriented vertically when the combined device 10 is installed on the support.

[0067] The axis of revolution of the storage tank 14 preferably extends along the longitudinal axis A to facilitate connection to the hydraulic module 15.

[0068] The fixing system 36 comprises at least one foot 42 intended to be positioned against the ground 40 to support at least partially the weight of the storage tank 14 and the hydraulic module 15. The foot(s) 42 make it possible in particular to install the combined device 10 on a support whose resistance is limited, such as a plaster wall by distributing the weight of the combined device 10 on the wall 38 and on the ground 40.

[0069] Said at least one foot 42 preferably extends at the level of a rear face 37 of the fixing system 36 so as to maintain a free storage space 44 under the hydraulic module 15. The foot or feet 42 therefore extend along or close to the support, here the wall 38.

[0070] This free storage space 44 is preferably capable of allowing the installation of a clothes dryer or a washing machine. Thus, the free storage space 44 preferably has a minimum height of 90 cm.

[0071] Preferably, the fixing system 36 comprises two feet extending at the level of the rear face 37 of the fixing system 36 so as to maintain the free storage space 44 under the hydraulic module 15.

[0072] The foot(s) 42 are preferably retractable. The fixing system 36 may comprise a locking device (not visible) for locking one or more positions of the feet 42 to adapt to the particularities of the premises or the wishes of the user.

[0073] The feet 42 extend along the longitudinal axis A of the combined device 10. In other words, the feet 42 extend along a vertical axis when the combined device 10 is installed on the support.

[0074] The storage tank 14 is arranged above the hydraulic module 15 when the combined device 10 is in an operational position, i.e. a position in which the hydraulic module 15 and the storage tank 14 are fixed to the fixing system 36 and can be hydraulically connected to each other. This configuration makes it possible to arrange all of the connection fittings and the members of the hydraulic module 15 requiring a connection or a maintenance operation at mid-height for an installer. This makes it possible to facilitate installation and maintenance operations, thus reducing the time required for these operations.

[0075] The decoupling of the storage tank 14 and the hydraulic module 15 also makes it possible to divide the combined device into sub-assemblies weighing approximately 50 kg maximum, thus making installation by a single user possible.

[0076] The connection plate 34 of the hydraulic module 15 is removable relative to the body of the hydraulic module 15 and fixed to the fixing system 36. Thus, the connection point constituted by the connection plate 34 can be installed on the support upstream of the hydraulic installation, i.e. the hydraulic module 15, or the refrigeration installation, i.e. the external unit 25. This positioning of the connection plate 34 on the fixing body 46 makes installation even easier for installers.

[0077] With reference to [Fig. 3], the hydraulic module 15 comprises a module body 17 forming a structural frame. The module body 17 is for example made of a metallic material. The module body 17 defines an interior space 54 in which the members of the hydraulic module 15 are arranged.

[0078] The module body 17 comprises a front face, a rear face, a top face, a bottom face and two side faces facing each other. When the hydraulic module 15 is connected to a storage tank 14, the hydraulic module 15 is arranged against the storage tank 14 at its top face, as seen in [Fig.2].

[0079] The hydraulic module extends mainly along a module longitudinal axis D. This module longitudinal axis D is intended to be oriented vertically when the hydraulic module 15 is installed on a support. When the hydraulic module 15 is integrated into a combined device 10, the module longitudinal axis D is parallel with the longitudinal axis A.

[0080] The hydraulic module 15 also comprises a covering or an external envelope 50 fixed to the module body 17. The external envelope 50 preferably comprises a front wall 52 arranged in front of the front face and side walls 54 arranged respectively in front of the side faces of the module body 17. The front wall 52 is detachable or movable relative to the module body 17 so as to be able to access the front face of the module body 17.

[0081] The front face of the hydraulic module 15 defines a front access opening 56 to the interior space 54 when the front wall 52 is removed.

[0082] The hydraulic module 15 also comprises at least one heating water or sanitary water heating circuit arranged at least partially in the interior space 54. As indicated above, the hydraulic module 15 may further comprise a heating member, one or more heat exchangers, one or more circulators as well as one or more hydraulic connection connections. These components or members are arranged in whole or in part in the interior space 54.

[0083] The hydraulic module 15 further comprises an electrical box 35. The electrical box 35 comprises electrical and electronic components for controlling the heating device, in particular the heating system, or for ensuring its safety.

[0084] The electrical cabinet 35 comprises a cabinet front face 64, a cabinet rear face 66 and cabinet side faces 68 extending over the edges and between the cabinet front 64 and rear 66 faces.

[0085] The electrical box 35 is fixed to the module body 17 by means of a hinge system 60.

[0086] The electrical box 35 is rotatable about a hinge axis C relative to the module body 17 between a first position, called the functional position, and a second position, called the maintenance position.

[0087] The electrical box 35 defines a box plane Pc substantially parallel to the front 64 and rear 66 faces, passing through the hinge axis C.

[0088] The hinge system 60 also comprises means for holding the electrical box in the first and second positions. In other words, the electrical box 35 can be held in the first position or the second position without action by a user. These means for holding the electrical box 35 are described in connection with FIGS. 7 to 10.

[0089] When placed in the operative position, the electrical box 35 is arranged across the front access opening 56 to close the interior space 54.

[0090] When placed in the maintenance position, the electrical box 35 is outside the front access opening 56 so as to allow access to a rear face of the electrical box, in particular for working on this electrical box 35.

[0091] The hinge axis C extends along a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of module D. Thus, the hinge axis C is intended to be oriented horizontally when the hydraulic module 15 is installed on a support. In other words, the front 64 and rear 66 faces of the box are oriented horizontally when the electrical box 35 is arranged in the maintenance position.

[0092] This horizontal configuration of the hinge axis C and therefore of the electrical box 35 in the maintenance position makes it easier for the technician to work on the electrical box 35 because it is placed in front of him. In addition, the electrical box 35 can form a shelf on which to place a tool or equipment.

[0093] According to a variant, the hinge axis C can extend along a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of module D. Thus, the hinge axis C is intended to be oriented vertically when the hydraulic module 15 is installed on a support. In other words, the front 64 and rear 66 faces of the box are oriented vertically when the electrical box 35 is arranged in the maintenance position.

[0094] This vertical configuration of the hinge axis C and therefore of the electrical box 35 in the maintenance position makes it possible to limit the space required in front of the hydraulic module and therefore to improve accessibility to the interior space 54.

[0095] The hinge system 60 is arranged at a side face of the box 68 so that the rear face of the box 66 faces the interior space 54 when the electrical box 35 is arranged in its functional position, the front face of the box 64 facing a user arranged in front of the hydraulic module 15.

[0096] The electrical cabinet 35 may comprise a communication interface 62 with a user. The communication interface 62 is arranged at the front face of the electrical cabinet 35 so as to face the user when the electrical cabinet 35 is in the operative position. An opening formed in the front wall 52 at the electrical cabinet allows the communication interface 62 to be seen or accessed when the front wall 52 is mounted on the module body 17.

[0097] The hinge system 60 is also configured to disengage the electrical box 35 from the second position (i.e., maintenance position) to a disengaged position. Thus, the hinge system 60 allows a technician to place the electrical box in a third position. Disengaging means the act of removing the electrical box 35 from the maintenance position, without returning to the functional position.

[0098] The electrical box 35 disengagement is non-destructive. The hinge system 60 can thus be re-engaged and operate correctly by replacing the electrical box 35 in the second position.

[0099] The disengagement of the electrical box 35 occurs when the hinge system 60 is subjected to a torque around the hinge axis C equal to or greater than a predetermined disengagement torque value. In other words, the hinge system 60 is configured so that the electrical box 35 leaves its second position when the force undergone by the hinge system 60 around the hinge axis C is too great, for example due to a tool being dropped or a gesture by the technician. This torque is for example 15 Nm. This disengagement makes it possible to avoid breakage of the hinge system 60 or to offer the possibility of a third position for the electrical box 35.

[0100] The electrical box 35 is oriented in a first angular position when it is in the functional position, in a second angular position when it is in the maintenance position and in a third angular position when it is disengaged from the hinge system 60. The first, second and third angular positions are distinct. The first angular position is taken as the reference angular position, equal to 0°. As indicated above, the electrical box 35 is preferably in a vertical position (see [Fig. 3]) when the hydraulic module 15 is in a functional position. Thus, the electrical box 35 is intended to extend in a vertical plane when arranged in the first position and the hydraulic module 15 is attached to a support.

[0101] The second angular position is preferably greater than or equal to 80° and less than or equal to 100° taking the first angular position as a reference. More preferably, the second angular position is equal to 90°. Thus, the electrical box 35 is in a horizontal or substantially horizontal position when it is positioned in the second angular position (see [Fig.4]).

[0102] The term “disengaged position” means that the electrical box 35 is not positioned in the first position, nor in the second position, nor in an intermediate position between the first and second positions. In other words, the disengaged position, and therefore the third angular position, corresponds to an angular position greater than the first and second angular positions.

[0103] Two configurations are possible for the clutch position.

[0104] According to a first configuration, the electrical box 35 is still secured to the module body 17 after disengagement. In this configuration, the disengagement position is defined by a predetermined angular position in which the electrical box 35 is positioned in the third angular position without action by the technician. A retaining system makes it possible to retain the electrical box 35 in the disengagement position. Thus, the hinge system 60 is configured to position and retain the electrical box 35 in a third position, called disengagement, beyond the second position.

[0105] The electrical box 35 can be retained in the disengaged position without any action by the technician. In this case, the hinge system 60 is provided to retain the electrical box after disengagement. An example of such a solution is, for example, a guide or hook system integrated into the hinge system 60 for retaining the electrical box, for example by suspending it above the ground.

[0106] According to a second configuration, the electrical box 35 is detached from the module body 17 after disengagement. A retaining system may also be provided, integrated or not into the hinge system 60 to position the electrical box in the disengagement position. This retaining system may take the form of a suspension system 70 visible in [Fig. 6] making it possible to suspend the electrical box 35 from the module body 17. This suspension system 70 comprises one or more hooks 72 configured to cooperate with one or more recesses 74 (see [Fig. 11]). The hooks 72 are for example formed on the electrical box 35 and the recesses 74 are for example formed on the module body 17. The suspension system 70 makes it possible to suspend the electrical box 35 in a vertical position ([Fig. 5]) in which the discomfort for the technician is further reduced compared to the maintenance position.

[0107] With reference to Figures 7 to 10, the hinge system 60 is described more precisely.

[0108] With reference to Figures 7 and 10, the hinge system 60 comprises a hinge guide 76 and a hinge pin 78 rotatably movable relative to the hinge guide 76. The hinge guide 76 is fixed relative to one of the electrical box 35 and the module body 17 while the hinge pin 78 is fixedly mounted on the other of the electrical box 35 and the module body 17. In the embodiment of [Fig. 7], the hinge guide 76 is fixed relative to the module body 17 and the hinge pin 78 is fixed relative to the electrical box 35. In other words, the hinge guide 76 and pin 78 are mounted respectively on the module body 17 and the electrical box 35.

[0109] The rotational mobility of the hinge axis 78 relative to the hinge guide 76 allows the rotational mobility of the electrical box 35 relative to the module body around the hinge axis C.

[0110] The guide 76 and the hinge axis 78 extend along the hinge axis C.

[0111] The hinge system 60 preferably comprises at least two guides of hinge 76 cooperating with at least two hinge pins 78, arranged along the hinge pin C (see [Fig.6]).

[0112] The electrical box 35 can be rotated about the hinge axis C in a first direction of rotation moving the electrical box 35 from the first position to the second position. Conversely, the electrical box 35 can be rotated about the hinge axis C in a second direction of rotation moving the electrical box 35 from the second position to the first position. With reference to [Fig.8], the first direction of rotation is the trigonometric direction and the second direction of rotation is the anti-trigonometric direction.

[0113] With reference to [Fig. 8], a main stop system 80 and a complementary stop system 82 cooperate together to hold the electrical box 35 in either the first or the second position. Thus, the main stop systems 80 and complementary stop systems 82 act as means for holding the electrical box 35 in the first or second position.

[0114] The main stop system 80 is mounted on one of the electrical box 35 and the module body 17 while the complementary stop system 82 is mounted on the other of the electrical box 35 and the module body 17. In the embodiment of [Fig.7], the main stop system 80 is mounted on the module body 17 and the complementary stop system 82 is mounted on the electrical box 35.

[0115] According to a preferred variant and illustrated in FIGS. 7 to 10, the main 80 and complementary 82 stop systems are formed by the hinge system 60. Thus, the system of complementary stops 82 is formed at the level of a lateral face 68 of the electrical box 35, the system of main stops 80 facing it.

[0116] [Fig.8] represents a detailed view of the electrical box 35 in the first position, called the functional position.

[0117] The main stop system 80 comprises a first main stop surface 84 and a second main stop surface 86 respectively intended to hold the electrical box 35 in position in the first and second positions.

[0118] The system of complementary stops 82 comprises a first complementary stop surface 88 and a second complementary stop surface 90 respectively intended to hold the electrical box 35 in position in the first and second positions.

[0119] In particular, the first main stop surface 84 is configured to cooperate with the first complementary stop surface 88 when the electrical box 35 is in the first position. The contact between the first main stop surface 84 and complementary stop surface 88 makes it possible to prevent the rotation of the electrical box 35 from the first position to the second position.

[0120] The first main 84 and complementary 88 stop surfaces are in particular configured to prevent rotation of the electrical box 35 from the first position to the second position, i.e. in the first direction of rotation, until the hinge system 60 is subjected to a torque equal to or greater than a predetermined retaining torque value. Thus, when the torque applied around the hinge axis C, in the first direction of rotation, on the hinge system 60 reaches the predetermined retaining torque value, the electrical box 35 is released to the second position. This retaining torque is for example 5 Nm

[0121] These first main 84 and complementary 88 stop surfaces are thus dimensioned to hold the electrical box 35 without action from a user (torque applied to the hinge system 60 less than the retaining torque) while leaving the possibility of moving the electrical box 35 into the second position under the action of the user (torque applied to the hinge system 60 equal to or greater than the retaining torque).

[0122] To achieve this retention, each of the first main 84 and complementary 88 stop surfaces may be an elastically deformable stop. Therefore, beyond a certain force, here a predetermined value of retaining torque, the stops deform elastically and no longer cooperate with each other. In other words, the first main 84 and complementary 88 stop surfaces are in contact with each other when the electrical box 35 is in the first position. When a torque equal to or greater than the retaining torque is applied, the first stop surfaces main 84 and complementary 88 become deformed and are no longer in contact with each other.

[0123] To facilitate the release of the first main 84 and complementary 88 abutment surfaces, these are preferably inclined when observed in a plane perpendicular to the hinge axis C, such as in [Fig. 8]. Thus, the first main 84 and complementary 88 abutment surfaces are inclined relative to the cabinet plane Pc by an angle other than 90°, when observed in a plane perpendicular to the hinge axis C, such as in [Fig. 8]. The first main 84 and complementary 88 abutment surfaces therefore do not extend perpendicularly with the cabinet plane Pc.

[0124] The second main stop surface 86 is configured to cooperate with the second complementary stop surface 90 when the electrical box 35 is in the second position. The contact between the second main stop surface 86 and complementary stop surface 90 makes it possible to prevent the rotation of the electrical box 35 from the second position to the disengaged position.

[0125] The second main 86 and complementary 90 stop surfaces are in particular configured to prevent rotation of the electrical box 35 from the second position to the disengagement position, i.e. in the first direction of rotation, until the hinge system 60 is subjected to a torque equal to or greater than the predetermined disengagement torque value. Thus, when the torque applied around the hinge axis C, in the first direction of rotation, on the hinge system 60 reaches the predetermined retaining torque value, the electrical box 35 is released to the disengagement position.

[0126] Each of the second main 86 and complementary 90 stop surfaces is preferably an elastically deformable stop. Therefore, beyond a certain force, here a predetermined value of disengaging torque, the stops deform elastically and no longer cooperate with each other. In other words, the second main 86 and complementary 90 stop surfaces are in contact with each other when the electrical box 35 is in the second position. When a torque equal to or greater than the disengaging torque is applied, the second main 86 and complementary 90 stop surfaces deform and are no longer in contact with each other.

[0127] the second main 86 and complementary 90 abutment surfaces form an elastically deformable disengaging member so that it causes the disengaging of the electrical box 35 from the second position to the disengaging position when the electrical box 35 is subjected to a torque equal to or greater than the predetermined disengaging torque value.

[0128] To facilitate the release of the second main abutment surfaces 86 and comple mentary 90, these are preferably inclined around the hinge axis C when observed in a plane perpendicular to the hinge axis C, such as in [Fig.8]. Thus, the second main 86 and complementary 90 abutment surfaces are inclined relative to the cabinet plane Pc by an angle other than 90°. The second main 86 and complementary 90 abutment surfaces therefore do not extend perpendicularly with the cabinet plane Pc.

[0129] The first 84 and second 86 main stop surfaces are for example formed at a stop element 92 projecting relative to the module body 17. The first 84 and second 86 main stop surfaces are faces of this stop element 92 facing downwards. In this case, the first 88 and second 90 complementary stop surfaces are formed on a hinge arm 94 carrying the hinge axis 78. The first complementary stop surface 88 is formed by a first stud 89 positioned on a side wall of the hinge arm facing the stop element 92 when the electrical box 35 is in the first position. The second complementary stop surface 90 is formed by a second stud 91 positioned on a lower wall of the hinge arm facing the stop element 92 when the electrical box 35 is in the second position.

[0130] As seen in [Fig.8], the first 84 and second 86 main abutment surfaces cooperate when the electrical box 35 is in the first position. As seen in [Fig.9], the first 88 and second 90 complementary abutment surfaces cooperate when the electrical box 35 is in the second position.

[0131] With reference to [Fig. 10], the hinge guide 76 is open at an upper portion to allow the hinge pin 78 to be withdrawn from the hinge guide when the hinge system 60 is disengaged. Thus, the hinge pin 78 is free to exit the hinge guide 76 by a movement perpendicular to the hinge pin C, upwards. This movement is for example initiated by a torque greater than the disengaging torque applied to the hinge system 60 in the first direction of rotation.

[0132] The hinge system 60 also comprises a holding pin 96 and a holding guide 98 cooperating with the holding pin 96 to prevent unintentional disengagement of the electrical box. By unintentional disengagement is meant a detachment of the electrical box 35 from the module body 17, in particular of the hinge axis 78 from its hinge guide 76, while the electrical box 35 is not in the second position. Indeed, disengagement is preferably possible only when the electrical box 35 is in the second position. In particular, the holding pin 96 and the holding guide 98 prevent disengagement of the hinge system when the electrical box 35 is in the first position.

[0133] The holding guide 98 comprises a first portion 100 forming a stop of holding cooperating with the holding pin 96 when the electrical box 35 is in the first position. The holding guide 98 also comprises a second open portion 102 to allow the removal of the holding pin 96 from the holding guide 98 when the electrical box is in the second position.

[0134] The main 80 and complementary 82 stop systems respectively comprise a third main stop surface 104 and a third complementary stop surface 106 to prevent rotation of the electrical box in the second direction of rotation when the electrical box 35 is in the first position.

[0135] In addition, a locking system 108 of the electrical box 35 in the first position can be provided to lock the electrical box to the module body 17. This locking system 108 is for example positioned at a lateral face of the electrical box 35, opposite the hinge system relative to the electrical box 35, as visible in [Fig.3].

[0136] The hydraulic module 15 also comprises an expansion tank 33 for absorbing variations in the volume of the water generated by changes in temperature. This expansion tank 33 is for example arranged at the front face of the module body 17, across the front access opening 56. The expansion tank 33 is preferably retractable and / or removable so that it can be moved between an operational position in which it is arranged at the front face of the module body 17 and a maintenance position in which it is arranged outside or partially outside this front face. Placing the expansion tank 33 in its maintenance position thus allows a technician to access the interior space 54.

Claims

Claims

1. Hydraulic module (15) for a heating water and / or domestic water heating device comprising a module body (17) defining an interior space (54) and at least one heating water (18) or domestic water (12) heating circuit arranged at least partially in the interior space (54), said interior space (54) comprising a front opening (56) for access to said interior space for maintenance of the hydraulic module (15), the hydraulic module (15) further comprising an electrical box (35) fixed to the module body (17) by means of a hinge system (60), said electrical box (35) being rotatable about a hinge axis (C) relative to the module body between: - a first position in which the electrical box (35) is arranged across said front access opening (56) to close the interior space,- a second position in which the electrical box (35) is outside the front access opening (56) so as to allow access to a rear face of the electrical box (35), in which the hinge system (60) is configured to disengage the electrical box (35) from the second position to a disengaged position when the hinge system (60) is subjected to a torque equal to or greater than a predetermined disengaged torque value.,

2. Hydraulic module (15) according to claim 1, wherein the hinge system (60) is configured to disengage the electrical box (35) from the second position to the disengaged position in a non-destructive manner.

3. Hydraulic module (15) according to claim 1 or 2, in which the hinge system (60) comprises a disengaging member (86, 90) elastically deformable so that it causes the disengaging of the electrical box (35) from the second position to the disengaging position when the electrical box (35) is subjected to a torque equal to or greater than the predetermined disengaging torque value.

4. Hydraulic module (15) according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the hinge system (60) comprises: - a hinge guide (76) fixed relative to one of the electrical box (35) and the module body (17), and - a hinge axis (78) movable in rotation relative to the hinge guide hinge (76), the hinge pin (78) being fixedly mounted on the other of the electrical box (35) and the module body (17).

5. Hydraulic module (15) according to claim 4, further comprising: - a main stop system (80) mounted on one of the electrical box (35) and the module body (17), and - a complementary stop system (82) mounted on the other of the electrical box (35) and the module body (17), the main stop system (80) being configured to cooperate with the complementary stop system (82) to maintain the electrical box (35) in either the first or the second position.

6. Hydraulic module (15) according to claim 5, wherein one of the main (80) and complementary (82) stop systems is formed by the hinge system (60), the other of the main and complementary stop systems facing it.

7. Hydraulic module (15) according to claim 6, in which the main stop system (80) is mounted on the module body (17), the complementary stop system (82) being mounted on the electrical box (35).

8. Hydraulic module (15) according to any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein the main stop system (80) comprises: - a first main stop surface (84) configured to cooperate with a first complementary stop surface (88) when the electrical box (35) is in the first position to prevent rotation of the electrical box (35) from the first position to the second position until the hinge system (60) is subjected to a torque equal to or greater than a predetermined restraining torque value,- a second main stop surface (86) configured to cooperate with a second complementary stop surface (90) when the electrical box (35) is in the second position to prevent rotation of the electrical box from the second position to the disengaged position until the hinge system (60) is subjected to a torque equal to or greater than the predetermined disengaged torque value.,

9. Hydraulic module (15) according to claim 8, wherein the first (84) and second (86) main abutment surfaces are elastically deformable abutments such that: - the first main abutment surface (84) is configured to elastically deform when the hinge system (60) is subjected to a torque equal to or greater than the predetermined holding torque value to move the electrical box from the first position to the second position, - the second main stop surface (86) is configured to elastically deform when the hinge system is subjected to a torque equal to or greater than the predetermined disengaging torque value to move the electrical box from the second position to the disengaging position.

10. A hydraulic module (15) according to any preceding claim in combination with claim 4, wherein the hinge guide (76) is open at an upper portion to allow removal of the hinge pin (78) from the hinge guide (76) upon disengagement of the hinge system (60).

11. Hydraulic module (15) according to claim 10, wherein the hinge system (60) comprises a holding pin (96) and a holding guide (98) cooperating with the holding pin to prevent untimely disengagement of the electrical box, the holding guide (98) comprising a first portion forming a holding stop cooperating with the holding pin (96) when the electrical box (35) is in the first position, the holding guide (98) comprising a second open portion to allow removal of the holding pin (96) from the holding guide when the electrical box is in the second position.

12. Hydraulic module (15) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the electrical box (35) is intended to extend in a vertical plane when it is arranged in the first position and the hydraulic module (15) is fixed to a support.

13. Hydraulic module (15) according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the second position of the electrical box (35) is angularly offset around the hinge axis (C) by an angle equal to or greater than 80° relative to the first position.

14. Hydraulic module (15) according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the electrical box (35) comprises at least one of an electronic control card, an electrical power component, a connection terminal block, a communication interface (62) with a user.

15. Hydraulic module (15) according to claim 14, wherein the electrical box (35) comprises a rear connection face (66) and a front face facing the rear connection face, the front face comprising a communication interface (62) with a user intended to face a user when the electrical box is arranged in the first position.

16. Hydraulic module (15) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one heat exchanger (22, 28) arranged in the interior space for heating the heating water and / or the sanitary water.

17. Combined device (10) for heating domestic water and heating water for a room, said combined device comprising: - a domestic water storage tank (14), - a hydraulic module (15) according to one of the preceding claims, said hydraulic module comprising a domestic water circuit intended to be in fluid communication with the storage tank (14) and a heating water circuit, the hydraulic module further comprising at least one heat exchanger for transferring heat to heating water present in the heating water circuit, in which the domestic water storage tank is arranged above the hydraulic module.

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