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 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-mounted, multi-position, and disengageable electrical control box technical field

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

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

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

[0004] The hydraulic module includes a heating water circuit and / or a domestic hot water circuit and fittings for connecting the heating system to the heating water and / or domestic hot water circuits. The hydraulic module includes, for example, a heat exchanger when the heating system is a heat pump, such as in a thermodynamic water heater or a combined heating and domestic hot water system.

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

[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 control panel must be easily accessible to a technician for repairing or replacing components, or for reprogramming the heating system's controls. Similarly, the electrical control panel must be easily accessible to a user for interacting with the communication interface. For these reasons, the electrical control panel is generally located at the front of the heating unit.

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

[0009] When the electrical enclosure is detachable from the module chassis (except for the electrical wires), the installer unhooks the electrical enclosure from its functional position to place it in a maintenance position. This maintenance position generally involves placing the electrical enclosure on the ground or suspending it from a hook or mounting 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 unit for the electrical box, with the electrical wires always connected to the electrical box. In the case of a bracket or hook for suspending the electrical box, it is common to place this bracket on the side of the unit, which makes the heating unit very bulky and unsuitable for very confined spaces (small dwellings or installation of the heating unit in a cupboard).

[0011] When the electrical enclosure is movable relative to the module chassis, it is generally repositionable, for example by means of a hinge, from the functional position to the maintenance position. However, the electrical enclosure remains within the installer's field of action and may hinder their work. Furthermore, these hinges must be designed to withstand significant forces due to external stresses (customer support, the enclosure being moved unsupported from one position to another, etc.). If the hinges are fragile or undersized, they may break under significant stress, necessitating the replacement of the electrical enclosure.

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

[0013] There is therefore a need for an electrical enclosure for a hydraulic module that is easily accessible and robust against external stresses, while also allowing for easy maintenance and / or installation by a technician, as well as compatibility with housing where space constraints are significant. Summary of the invention

[0014] To this end, the invention proposes a combined device comprising a hydraulic module for a heating and / or domestic hot water system, including a module body defining an interior space and at least one heating or domestic hot water circuit disposed at least partially within the interior space, said interior space including a front access opening 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 placed across said front access opening to close the interior space, - a second position in which the electrical cabinet is out of the front access opening so as to allow access to a rear face of the electrical cabinet, in which the hinge system is configured to disengage the electrical cabinet from the second position to a disengage position when the hinge system is subjected to a torque equal to or greater than a predetermined disengage torque value.

[0015] The electrical enclosure is therefore movable between a functional position (first position) and a maintenance position (second position). The hinge system connecting the electrical enclosure to the module body also has the ability to be disengaged under the action of a predetermined torque when the electrical enclosure is in the maintenance position, so that the enclosure can withstand significant stress (for example, a tool being dropped on the enclosure) without breaking the hinge system. Furthermore, disengaging the second position provides the electrical enclosure with a third position, corresponding to a disengaged position. The hinge system is thus more robust (reduced risk of breakage for the same applied torque) and offers greater flexibility in the use of the electrical enclosure (three positions).

[0016] Furthermore, the electrical control box is located on the front of the hydraulic module when it is in its first position (functional position), which allows for excellent accessibility. The hinge system, which allows the electrical control box to rotate into the second position (maintenance position), makes the installation and maintenance of both the hydraulic module and the electrical control 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 of disengaging in a non-destructive manner.

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

[0019] According to one embodiment of the hydraulic module, the hinge system comprises: - a fixed hinge guide relative to one of the electrical enclosure 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 between the electrical box and the module body.

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

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

[0022] According to one embodiment of the hydraulic module, the main stop system is mounted on the module body, the supplementary 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 enclosure is in the first position to prevent rotation of the electrical enclosure from the first position to the second position until the hinge system is subjected to a torque equal to or greater than a predetermined holding torque value, - a second main stop surface configured to cooperate with a second complementary stop surface when the electrical enclosure is in the second position to prevent rotation of the electrical enclosure 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 disengagement.

[0024] According to one embodiment of the hydraulic module, the first and second main stop surfaces are elastically deformable stops such 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 holding torque value to move the electrical cabinet from the first position to the second position, - the second main stop surface is configured to deform elastically 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 the level of an upper portion to allow the hinge pin to be withdrawn from the hinge guide when the hinge system is disengaged.

[0026] According to one embodiment of the hydraulic module, the hinge system includes a retaining pin and a retaining guide cooperating with the retaining pin to prevent unintentional disengagement of the electrical box, the retaining guide comprising a first portion forming a retaining stop cooperating with the retaining pin when the electrical box is in the first position, the retaining guide comprising a second open portion to allow the removal of the retaining pin from the retaining 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 one 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 includes at least one of the following: an electronic control board, a power electrical component, a connection terminal block, a communication interface with a user.

[0030] According to one embodiment of the hydraulic module, the electrical box includes a rear connection face and a front face facing the rear connection face, the front face including a user communication interface 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 less a heat exchanger located in the interior space to heat the heating water and / or domestic hot water.

[0032] The invention also relates to a combined device for heating domestic hot water and heating water for a room, said combined device comprising: - a domestic hot water storage tank, - a hydraulic module as described above, said hydraulic module comprising a domestic hot 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 hot water storage tank is positioned above the hydraulic module. Brief description of the figures

[0033] The following description, with reference to the accompanying drawings, given by way of non-limiting examples, will clearly explain what the invention consists of and how it can be implemented. In the accompanying figures:

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

[0035] [Fig.2] Fig.2 represents a perspective view of the combined device of heating of the [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 including an electrical cabinet arranged in a functional position in which the electrical cabinet is across a front access opening to an interior space of the hydraulic module, an expansion vessel also being in such a functional position;

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

[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 cabinet shown in Figures 3 to 5, a communication interface being formed on the front face of the electrical box and intended to face a user when positioned in front of the hydraulic module and when the electrical box is in the functional position;

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

[0041] [Fig-8] Fig. 8 represents a side view in cross-section, at the level of systems of main and supplementary 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 cross-section, at the level of systems of main and supplementary stops, of the hinge system of the [Fig.8], the electrical box being in the maintenance position;

[0043] [Fig. 10] Fig. 10 shows a side view in section, at the level of a guide and a hinge axis, 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 method(s) of implementation

[0045] The concept of the invention is described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which embodiments of the concept of the invention are shown. In the drawings, the size and relative sizes of the elements may be exaggerated for clarity. Similar numbers refer to similar elements in all the drawings. However, this concept of the invention can be implemented in many different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are offered so as to make this description complete and to communicate the scope of the concept of the invention 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 relation to an embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, the appearance of the phrase "in an embodiment" in various places 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. Moreover, the term "including" does not exclude other elements or steps.

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

[0048] The hydraulic module comprises a module body defining an interior space and at least one heating circuit for heating or domestic hot water, located at least partially within this interior space. The hydraulic module may further comprise a heating element, one or more heat exchangers, one or several circulators as well as one or more hydraulic connections. The hydraulic module may include a connection plate as described below.

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

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

[0051] The hydraulic module also includes an electrical control box, which generally houses electrical and electronic components for controlling the heating device, particularly the heating system, or for ensuring its safety. The electrical control box may also include electrical connections or a user communication interface. These electrical and electronic components are essential for ensuring the proper functioning of the heating device, for integrating 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 as integrated into a combined hot water and domestic hot water heating device, without limiting the scope of the present invention. The hydraulic module can indeed be integrated into any hot water and / or domestic hot water heating device, for example, a thermodynamic water heater.

[0053] With reference to [Fig.1], a combined device 10 for heating domestic hot water and space heating water includes a domestic hot water storage tank 14, a hydraulic module 15 intended to be connected to the storage tank 14 and an outdoor unit 25 intended to be connected to the hydraulic module 15.

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

[0055] The hydraulic module 15 also includes a first heat exchanger 22 suitable for 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 room and the heating water circuit 18 present at inside the room. To do this, the outdoor unit 25 is placed at the level of the outside 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 includes a domestic hot water heating circuit 26 comprising a second heat exchanger 28 for exchanging heat between the heating water and the domestic hot water. For this purpose, the domestic hot water heating circuit 26 includes 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 therefore through the second heat exchanger 28. The domestic hot water heating circuit 26 also includes a second branch 29 connected to the domestic hot water circuit 12 and extending inside the second heat exchanger 28. Domestic hot water thus flows into the second branch 29 and therefore through the second heat exchanger 28. Heat exchange is therefore possible between the heating water and the domestic hot water within the second heat exchanger 28.It is therefore possible to vary the temperature of the domestic hot water using the heating water.

[0057] The hydraulic module 15 further includes a first circulator 30 located in the heating water circuit 18 to circulate the heating water and a second circulator 32 in the second branch 29 to circulate the domestic hot water. The hydraulic module 15 also includes an expansion vessel 33 to absorb the variations in water volume generated by temperature changes.

[0058] The second heat exchanger 28 is preferably a plate heat exchanger located outside the domestic hot water storage tank 14. Thus, the internal volume of the storage tank 14 is fully available for storing domestic hot water, without an internal heat exchanger. The available volume inside the storage tank 14 is therefore greater than in the case of a coil-type tank for the same external volume of the storage tank 14. Indeed, the "dead" or unavailable volume located at and below the coil is not present here. The dimensions and mass of the storage tank 14 can be reduced compared to the storage tank 14 while maintaining the same usable domestic hot water storage volume.

[0059] Furthermore, the use of a heat exchanger located outside the storage tank 14 is more robust in terms of performance and more flexible than solutions with an immersed coil.

[0060] In known solutions with an immersed coil, obtaining good performance when heating domestic hot 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) before starting heating with the lowest possible condensation temperature (the lower the condensation temperature of a heat pump, the higher its performance), and - to avoid any draw-off during heating because the cold water arriving at the bottom of the storage tank 14 will lengthen the heating time without lowering the tank's condensation temperature (since 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. Furthermore, avoiding draw-offs during domestic hot water heating encourages rather rapid heating. However, faster heating of domestic hot water means a greater heat exchange. Since the heat exchange surface area remains constant, this results in a degradation of the heat exchange quality and therefore of performance.

[0062] The hydraulic module 15 further includes a quick-connect plate 34 for connecting the heating water circuit 18 to at least one room heating system and the domestic hot water circuit 12 to a room domestic hot water system. The connection plate 34 includes domestic hot water supply and return fittings for connecting the domestic hot water circuit 12 to the room domestic hot water system. The connection plate 34 also includes heating water supply and return fittings for connecting the heating water circuit 18 to the room heating system. Thus, all the connections for the domestic hot water circuit 12 and the heating water circuit 18 are located at the same interface. This simplifies the connection of the combined unit 10 to the room heating and domestic hot water systems for the installer.

[0063] The connection plate 34 allows the position of each of the connections to be known prior to the installation of the combined device 10. This is particularly useful when the combined device 10 is intended to be installed in a new building, as the installation of the heating and domestic hot water systems for the premises can be carried out before the combined device 10 is installed.

[0064] The installation of the outdoor unit 25 may require a different trade (refrigeration technician) than the installation of the heating and domestic hot 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 for great flexibility in the installation of these components as well as the combined unit 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 above ground 40 the storage tank 14 and the hydraulic module 15 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 includes at least one foot 42 intended to be positioned against the floor 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 floor 40.

[0069] Said at least one foot 42 extends preferably 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 thus extend along or near the support, here the wall 38.

[0070] This free storage space 44 is preferably suitable for the installation of a tumble dryer or washing machine. Therefore, the free storage space 44 preferably has a minimum height of 90 cm.

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

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

[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 positioned above the hydraulic module 15 when the combined device 10 is in a functional position, i.e., a position in which the hydraulic module 15 and the storage tank 14 are fixed to the mounting system 36 and can be hydraulically connected to each other. This configuration allows all the connection fittings and components of the hydraulic module 15 requiring connection or maintenance to be located at mid-height for an installer. This facilitates installation and maintenance operations, thus reducing the time required for these operations.

[0075] Decoupling the storage tank 14 and the hydraulic module 15 also allows the combined device to be split into sub-assemblies weighing approximately 50 kg maximum, thus making installation possible by a single user.

[0076] The connection plate 34 of the hydraulic module 15 is removable from 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. of the hydraulic module 15, or of the refrigeration installation, i.e. of the outdoor unit 25. This positioning of the connection plate 34 on the fixing body 46 makes the 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 internal space 54 in which the components 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 opposing side faces. When the hydraulic module 15 is connected to a storage tank 14, the hydraulic module 15 is positioned against the storage tank 14 at its top face, as seen in [Fig.2].

[0079] The hydraulic module extends primarily along a longitudinal axis of module D. This longitudinal axis of module 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 longitudinal axis of module D is parallel with the longitudinal axis A.

[0080] The hydraulic module 15 also includes an outer casing or enclosure 50 fixed to the module body 17. The outer casing 50 preferably includes a front panel 52 arranged in front of the front face and side panels 54 arranged respectively in front of the side faces of the module body 17. The front panel 52 is detachable or movable relative to the module body 17 so as to allow access to 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 includes at least one heating or domestic hot water circuit located at least partially within the interior space 54. As indicated above, the hydraulic module 15 may further include a heating element, one or more heat exchangers, one or more circulators, and one or more hydraulic connections. These components or elements are located wholly or partly within the interior space 54.

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

[0084] The electrical box 35 includes a front box face 64, a rear box face 66 and side box faces 68 extending over the edges and between the front 64 and rear 66 box 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 mobile in rotation around 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 faces 64 and rear faces 66, passing through the hinge axis C.

[0088] The hinge system 60 also includes means for holding the electrical enclosure in the first and second positions. In other words, the electrical enclosure 35 can be held in the first or second position without user intervention. These means for holding the electrical enclosure 35 are described with reference to Figures 7 to 10.

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

[0090] When placed in the maintenance position, the electrical box 35 is out of the front access opening 56 so as to allow access to a rear face of the electrical box, in particular for work 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 enclosure are oriented horizontally when the electrical enclosure 35 is placed in the maintenance position.

[0092] This horizontal configuration of the hinge axis C, and therefore of the electrical enclosure 35 in the maintenance position, facilitates the technician's work on the electrical enclosure 35 because it is positioned in front of him. Furthermore, the electrical enclosure 35 can form a shelf on which to place a tool or equipment.

[0093] According to one embodiment, 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 enclosure are oriented vertically when the electrical enclosure 35 is placed 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 bulk in front of the hydraulic module and thus to improve accessibility to the interior space 54.

[0095] The hinge system 60 is arranged at the level of 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 positioned in front of the hydraulic module 15.

[0096] The electrical enclosure 35 may include a communication interface 62 with a user. The communication interface 62 is located on the front face of the electrical enclosure 35 so as to face the user when the electrical enclosure 35 is in its functional position. An opening in the front panel 52 of the electrical enclosure allows the communication interface 62 to be seen or accessed when the front panel 52 is mounted on the module body 17.

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

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

[0099] The disengagement of the electrical enclosure 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 enclosure 35 leaves its second position when the force exerted on the hinge system 60 around the hinge axis C becomes too great, for example, due to a dropped tool or a technician's action. This torque is, for example, 15 Nm. This disengagement prevents breakage of the hinge system 60 or provides the possibility of a third position for the electrical enclosure 35.

[0100] The electrical cabinet 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 cabinet 35 is preferably in a vertical position (see [Fig. 3]) when the hydraulic module 15 is in a functional position. Thus, the electrical cabinet 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.

[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. Even more preferably, the second angular position is equal to 90°. Thus, the electrical enclosure 35 is in a horizontal or substantially horizontal position when positioned in the second angular position (see [Fig. 4]).

[0102] The disengagement position is understood to mean 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 disengagement 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 disengagement position.

[0104] According to a first configuration, the electrical box 35 remains attached 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 moves to the third angular position without any action by the technician. A retaining system holds 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, known as the disengagement position, beyond the second position.

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

[0106] According to a second configuration, the electrical enclosure 35 is detached from the module body 17 after disengagement. A retention system may also be provided, integrated or not into the hinge system 60, to position the electrical enclosure in the disengaged position. This retention system may take the form of a suspension system 70, visible in [Fig. 6], allowing the electrical enclosure 35 to be suspended 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 enclosure 35, and the recesses 74 are, for example, formed on the module body 17. The suspension system 70 allows the electrical enclosure 35 to be suspended in a vertical position ([Fig. 5]), in which the inconvenience to 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 that is rotatable relative to the hinge guide 76. The hinge guide 76 is fixed relative to one of the electrical enclosure 35 and the module body 17, while the hinge pin 78 is fixedly mounted on the other of the electrical enclosure 35 and the module body 17. In the embodiment shown in [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 enclosure 35. In other words, the hinge guide 76 and the hinge pin 78 are mounted respectively on the module body 17 and the electrical enclosure 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 axes 78, arranged along the hinge axis C (see [Fig.6]).

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

[0113] With reference to [Fig. 8], a system of main stops 80 and a system of supplementary stops 82 cooperate to hold the electrical enclosure 35 in either the first or the second position. Thus, the main stop system 80 and supplementary stop system 82 act as means of holding the electrical enclosure 35 in the first or the second position.

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

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

[0116] Fig. 8 represents a detailed view of the electrical box 35 in the first position, known as 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 supplementary stop system 82 comprises a first supplementary stop surface 88 and a second supplementary 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 supplementary stop surface 88 when the electrical enclosure 35 is in the first position. The contact between the first main stop surfaces 84 and supplementary stop surface 88 prevents the electrical enclosure 35 from rotating from the first position to the second position.

[0120] The first main stop surfaces 84 and supplementary stop surfaces 88 are configured in particular to prevent the electrical enclosure 35 from rotating 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 holding torque value. Thus, when the torque applied around the hinge axis C, in the first direction of rotation, to the hinge system 60 reaches the predetermined holding torque value, the electrical enclosure 35 is released to the second position. This holding torque is, for example, 5 Nm

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

[0122] To achieve this retention, each of the first main stop surfaces 84 and supplementary stop surfaces 88 can be elastically deformable. Therefore, beyond a certain force, here a predetermined value of the retention torque, the stops deform elastically and no longer cooperate. In other words, the first main stop surfaces 84 and supplementary stop surfaces 88 are in contact with each other when the electrical enclosure 35 is in the first position. When a torque equal to or greater than the retention 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 stop surfaces 84 and supplementary stop surfaces 88, these are preferably inclined when viewed in a plane perpendicular to the hinge axis C, as in [Fig. 8]. Thus, the first main stop surfaces 84 and supplementary stop surfaces 88 are inclined relative to the box plane Pc at an angle other than 90° when viewed in a plane perpendicular to the hinge axis C, as in [Fig. 8]. The first main stop surfaces 84 and supplementary stop surfaces 88 therefore do not extend perpendicularly to the box plane Pc.

[0124] The second main stop surface 86 is configured to cooperate with the second supplementary stop surface 90 when the electrical enclosure 35 is in the second position. The contact between the second main stop surfaces 86 and 90 prevents the electrical enclosure 35 from rotating from the second position to the disengaged position.

[0125] The second main stop surfaces 86 and supplementary stop surfaces 90 are specifically configured to prevent the electrical enclosure 35 from rotating from the second position to the disengaged 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 disengaged torque value. Thus, when the torque applied around the hinge axis C, in the first direction of rotation, to the hinge system 60 reaches the predetermined holding torque value, the electrical enclosure 35 is released to the disengaged position.

[0126] Each of the second main stop surfaces 86 and supplementary stop surfaces 90 is preferably an elastically deformable stop. Therefore, beyond a certain force, here a predetermined value of the disengagement torque, the stops deform elastically and no longer cooperate. In other words, the second main stop surfaces 86 and supplementary stop surfaces 90 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 disengagement torque is applied, the second main stop surfaces 86 and supplementary stop surfaces 90 deform and are no longer in contact with each other.

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

[0128] To facilitate the release of the second main stop surfaces 86 and complete In Figure 90, these surfaces are preferably inclined around the hinge axis C when viewed in a plane perpendicular to the hinge axis C, as shown in Figure 8. Thus, the second main stop surfaces 86 and the second supplementary stop surface 90 are inclined relative to the box plane Pc at an angle other than 90°. Therefore, the second main stop surfaces 86 and the second supplementary stop surface 90 do not extend perpendicularly to the box plane Pc.

[0129] The first 84 and second 86 main stop surfaces are, for example, formed at a stop element 92 projecting from the module body 17. The first 84 and second 86 main stop surfaces are faces of this stop element 92 oriented downwards. In this case, the first 88 and second 90 supplementary stop surfaces are formed on a hinge arm 94 carrying the hinge pin 78. The first supplementary 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 enclosure 35 is in the first position. The second supplementary 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 enclosure 35 is in the second position.

[0130] As shown in [Fig. 8], the first 84 and second 86 main stop surfaces cooperate when the electrical box 35 is in the first position. As shown in [Fig. 9], the first 88 and second 90 supplementary stop 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 its 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 move out of the hinge guide 76 by a movement perpendicular to the hinge axis C, upwards. This movement is initiated, for example, by a torque greater than the disengagement torque applied to the hinge system 60 in the first direction of rotation.

[0132] The hinge system 60 also includes a retaining pin 96 and a retaining guide 98 cooperating with the retaining pin 96 to prevent unintentional disengagement of the electrical enclosure. Unintentional disengagement is defined as a separation of the electrical enclosure 35 from the module body 17, in particular from the hinge pin 78 and its hinge guide 76, when the electrical enclosure 35 is not in the second position. Indeed, disengagement is preferably possible only when the electrical enclosure 35 is in the second position. In particular, the retaining pin 96 and the retaining guide 98 prevent disengagement of the hinge system when the electrical enclosure 35 is in the first position.

[0133] The retaining guide 98 comprises a first portion 100 forming a stop The retaining guide 98 cooperates with the retaining pin 96 when the electrical cabinet 35 is in the first position. The retaining guide 98 also includes a second open portion 102 to allow the retaining pin 96 to be withdrawn from the retaining guide 98 when the electrical cabinet is in the second position.

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

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

[0136] The hydraulic module 15 also includes an expansion vessel 33 to absorb variations in water volume caused by temperature changes. This expansion vessel 33 is, for example, located on the front face of the module body 17, across the front access opening 56. The expansion vessel 33 is preferably retractable and / or removable so that it can be moved between a functional position, in which it is located on the front face of the module body 17, and a maintenance position, in which it is located outside or partially outside this front face. Positioning the expansion vessel 33 in its maintenance position allows a technician to access the internal space 54.

Claims

Demands

1. Hydraulic module (15) for a heating and / or domestic hot water system comprising a module body (17) defining an interior space (54) and at least one heating (18) or domestic hot water (12) circuit disposed at least partially within the interior space (54), said interior space (54) comprising a front access opening (56) 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 disposed across said front access opening (56) to close the interior space,- a second position in which the electrical enclosure (35) is outside the front access opening (56) so as to allow access to a rear face of the electrical enclosure (35), in which the hinge system (60) is configured to disengage the electrical enclosure (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.

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 disengagement position in a non-destructive manner.

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

4. Hydraulic module (15) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the hinge system (60) comprises: - a hinge guide (76) fixed relative to one of the electrical enclosure (35) and the module body (17), and - a hinge axis (78) movable for rotation relative to the guide of hinge (76), the hinge axis (78) being fixedly mounted on the other between 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 cabinet (35) and the module body (17), and - a supplementary stop system (82) mounted on the other of the electrical cabinet (35) and the module body (17), the main stop system (80) being configured to cooperate with the supplementary stop system (82) to maintain the electrical cabinet (35) in either the first or the second position.

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

7. Hydraulic module (15) according to claim 6, wherein the main stop system (80) is mounted on the module body (17), the additional 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 cabinet (35) is in the first position to prevent the rotation of the electrical cabinet (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 holding torque value,- a second main stop surface (86) configured to cooperate with a second complementary stop surface (90) when the electrical cabinet (35) is in the second position to prevent the electrical cabinet from rotating from the second position to the disengagement position until the hinge system (60) is subjected to a torque equal to or greater than the predetermined disengagement torque value.

9. Hydraulic module (15) according to claim 8, wherein the first (84) and second (86) main thrust surfaces are elastically deformable thrust bearings such that: - the first main thrust 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 cabinet 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 disengagement torque value to move the electrical cabinet from the second position to the disengagement position.

10. Hydraulic module (15) according to any one of the preceding claims in combination with claim 4, wherein the hinge guide (76) is open at an upper portion to permit the removal of the hinge pin (78) from the hinge guide (76) when disengaging the hinge system (60).

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

12. Hydraulic module (15) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the electrical cabinet (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, wherein the second position of the electrical cabinet (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, wherein the electrical box (35) comprises at least one of an electronic control board, a power electrical component, a connection box, a communication interface (62) with a user.

15. Hydraulic module (15) according to claim 14, wherein the electrical box (35) includes a rear connection face (66) and a front face facing the rear connection face, the front face including 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) disposed in the interior space for heating heating water and / or domestic hot water.

17. Combined device (10) for heating domestic hot water and heating water for a room, said combined device comprising: - a domestic hot water storage tank (14), - a hydraulic module (15) according to any one of the preceding claims, said hydraulic module comprising a domestic hot 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 hot water storage tank is disposed above the hydraulic module.

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