Vehicle arrangement comprising an air conditioning accumulator and a means of damping the accumulator.

Abstract

Vehicle arrangement comprising an air conditioning accumulator and a means for damping the accumulator. The invention relates to an arrangement 9 for a vehicle, the arrangement 9 comprising an accumulator 3 for an air conditioning circuit 2, the accumulator 3 comprising an outer casing 4, an element 8 arranged near the accumulator 3, in particular a mounting tab-type element, the arrangement 9 comprising a damping means 10 shaped at least partially around the outer casing 4 of the accumulator 3 so as to prevent plastic deformation of the outer casing 4 in the event of contact with the element 8 following an impact sustained by such a vehicle. Illustration: Fig. 2

Description

Title of the invention: Vehicle arrangement comprising an air conditioning accumulator and a means of damping the accumulator. Technical field of the invention

[0001] The invention relates to an arrangement for a vehicle comprising an air conditioning accumulator, a component, and a damping means for preventing plastic deformation of the accumulator in the event of contact with the component during a collision involving such a vehicle. The invention further relates to a vehicle comprising such an arrangement. The invention also relates to a method for mounting such an arrangement. Prior art

[0002] A vehicle, particularly a motor vehicle, must meet standards and / or regulations regarding its behavior in the event of a collision. Furthermore, particularly in some countries, organizations assess the repairability and estimate the associated costs in the event of minor collisions, especially to the front of vehicles. Such organizations then assign a rating to the vehicle, and this rating is taken into account by insurers to determine the insurance premium payable by the owner of such a vehicle. Low vehicle repair costs thus lower the insurance premium. This low insurance premium is even a selling point, particularly when purchasing a large number of vehicles, such as a fleet.

[0003] In the case of a vehicle chassis with a short front overhang, and consequently a small engine compartment, an air conditioning system accumulator is located at the front of such an engine compartment. Indeed, such an accumulator has a considerable volume, preventing its integration into another area of ​​the engine compartment. However, this location means that the accumulator is susceptible to damage from even the slightest frontal impact. Furthermore, such an accumulator is expensive and complex to replace, particularly because it is part of an air conditioning system. Presentation of the invention

[0004] The object of the invention is to provide an arrangement that remedies the above drawbacks. In particular, the invention proposes an arrangement comprising a damping means for preserving the integrity of the air conditioning accumulator in the event of a minor frontal impact. Summary of the invention

[0005] To achieve this objective, the invention relates to an arrangement for a vehicle, in particular for a motor vehicle, the arrangement comprising: - an accumulator for an air conditioning circuit, the accumulator comprising an external casing, - an element arranged near the accumulator, in particular a mounting bracket type element, the arrangement comprising a damping means formed at least partially around the outer casing of the accumulator so as to avoid plastic deformation of the outer casing in the event of contact with the element following an impact suffered by such a vehicle.

[0006] The damping means may include a first part and a second part to allow subsequent mounting of the damping means at the level of the accumulator casing extending along an axis of revolution or main axis.

[0007] The first part may include a first fastening means and the second part may include a second fastening means, the first fastening means being able to cooperate with the second fastening means.

[0008] The first fastening means and the second fastening means can together form a sliding connection, in particular along the vertical or substantially vertical direction, or in particular along the axis of revolution or main axis of the accumulator.

[0009] The first part may include a first step and the second part may include a second step, the first and second steps being able to come into contact with each other to ensure a blocking of the first part with respect to the second part, in particular in the vertical direction.

[0010] The outer casing of the accumulator may have a substantially cylindrical shape around the main axis, the first and second parts of the damping means being able to form a cylindrical shell with an axis coinciding or substantially coinciding with the main axis, the main axis extending in particular substantially vertically.

[0011] The thickness of the damping means measured radially with respect to the main axis can be between 10 mm and 25 mm, in particular of the order of 17 mm, and / or the damping means can be made of expanded polypropylene or polystyrene having a density between 45 grams per liter and 200 grams per liter, in particular between 70 grams per liter and 90 grams per liter.

[0012] The arrangement may include a body of such a vehicle, at least one air conditioning duct connected to the accumulator, and a support for attaching the accumulator to the body.

[0013] The support can create a stop when the damping means is put in place, in particular in the vertical direction, in particular by contact of the damping means with the support.

[0014] The support can be fixed to the body by at least one fastening means, in particular of the screw type, the at least one fastening means being able to sandwich the support between the fastening means, in particular a screw head, and the body, the at least one fastening means being able to pass through at least one groove provided in the support, the at least one groove being able to be through and being able to extend substantially longitudinally forward, so as to allow the support to move back from the body by sliding the support against the fastening means along the groove in the event of a front impact on such a vehicle.

[0015] The invention also relates to a vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle, the vehicle comprising an arrangement as defined above.

[0016] The invention further relates to a method for assembling an arrangement as defined above, the method comprising: - a stage of supplying a casing, a support, an accumulator, at least one air conditioning duct, and a means of damping, - followed by a step of mounting the bracket onto the case and then mounting the battery onto the bracket, or a step of mounting the battery onto the bracket and then mounting the bracket onto the case, - followed or preceded by a step of connecting at least one air conditioning duct to the accumulator, - followed by a step of mounting the damping device at the accumulator. Presentation of the figures

[0017] These objects, features and advantages of the present invention will be described in detail in the following description of an embodiment of an arrangement and an execution of a method for assembling the arrangement, given by way of non-limiting reference, in relation to the accompanying figures, among which:

[0018] Fig. 1 is a schematic view of a motor vehicle according to one embodiment of the invention.

[0019] Fig. 2 is a perspective view of an arrangement according to one embodiment of the invention.

[0020] Fig. 3 is a partial perspective view of the arrangement according to the embodiment of the invention.

[0021] Fig. 4 is a partial perspective view of a support, an accumulator and a damping means according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0022] Fig. 5 is another partial perspective view of the support, accumulator and damping means according to the embodiment of the invention.

[0023] Fig. 6 is a top view of the support, accumulator and damping means according to the embodiment of the invention.

[0024] Fig. 7 is a perspective view of the damping means according to the embodiment of the invention.

[0025] Fig. 8 is a perspective view of a first part of the damping means, the accumulator and a support according to the embodiment of the invention.

[0026] Fig. 9 is a perspective view of a second part of the damping means according to the embodiment of the invention. Detailed description

[0027] The direction in which a vehicle, particularly a motor vehicle, moves in a straight line is defined as the longitudinal direction X. By convention, the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, located in a plane parallel to the ground, is called the transverse direction Y. The third direction, perpendicular to the other two, is called the vertical direction Z. Thus, a right-handed coordinate system XYZ is used in which X is the longitudinal direction in the front-to-back direction of the vehicle, i.e., directed towards the rear, Y is the transverse direction directed to the right, and Z is the vertical direction directed upwards. The forward direction corresponds to the direction in which the vehicle usually moves in the longitudinal direction and is opposite to the backward direction.

[0028] Figure 1 schematically illustrates a vehicle, preferably a motor vehicle 1. The vehicle comprises a body 30. The vehicle or body preferably comprises a technical front end 31. The vehicle 1 comprises an arrangement 9. The vehicle comprises an air conditioning circuit 2 in which a fluid circulates. The air conditioning circuit 2 comprises an air conditioning fluid accumulator 3, or receiver drier, or receiver drier. The air conditioning circuit 2 further comprises pipes 40, fittings, conduits, or hoses as illustrated in Figure 2. Preferably, as illustrated in particular in Figures 2 to 6, the accumulator 3 has a generally cylindrical or substantially cylindrical shape. Even more preferably, the accumulator 3 is arranged so that its axis of revolution or principal axis AP is oriented in the vertical or substantially vertical direction. The accumulator 3 comprises an outer casing 4.In the case of a cylindrical accumulator, the outer casing 4 has a cylindrical or substantially cylindrical shape.

[0029] More specifically, the arrangement 9 includes the accumulator 3 for the air conditioning circuit 2.

[0030] The arrangement 9 further includes an element 8 arranged near the accumulator 3. For example, the element 8 is a mounting bracket. For example, this mounting bracket is fixed to a cross member. Alternatively, the element 8 is a cross member or a rigid part of the air conditioning circuit, for example, a heat exchanger.

[0031] Generally speaking, element 8 is a part of the vehicle having a rigidity greater than that of the accumulator 3, or at least more rigid than the outer casing 4 of the accumulator. By "outer casing" is meant the external surface, or outer skin, of the accumulator, that is to say the area of ​​the accumulator liable to be deformed in the event of contact with element 8, in particular during an impact.

[0032] The arrangement 9 further includes a damping means 10, a protection, a shock absorber, and a damping screen. This damping means 10 is at least partially shaped around the outer casing 4 of the accumulator 3. Thus, in the event of a frontal collision or low-speed accident involving the vehicle 1, plastic deformation of the outer casing 4 in contact with the element 8 is prevented, as will be explained later.

[0033] The damping means 10 comprises a first and a second part 11, 12. Preferably, the damping means 10 forms a cylindrical shell 15 with its axis coinciding or substantially coinciding with the main axis AP. The main axis AP preferably extends substantially vertically.

[0034] Advantageously, the damping means 10 extends around an upper part 5 of the outer casing 4, particularly as illustrated in [Fig. 8]. This is especially the case when the element 8 is arranged in front of the upper part 5 of the accumulator 3 at the same level or substantially at the same level in the vertical direction as illustrated in [Fig. 2].

[0035] In the case of an upper part 5 of cylindrical shape with axis coincident or substantially coincident with the main axis AP of the accumulator, the damping means also has a cylindrical shape and thus surrounds the upper part 5, for example with a constant radial thickness over the entire circumference of the upper part.

[0036] As illustrated in particular in [Fig.6], the first part 11 and the second part 12 extend around the upper part 5 of the accumulator 3. For example, as illustrated in particular in [Fig.6], the first part 11 extends substantially over two-thirds of the circumference (i.e. about 240 degrees) of the upper part 5 and the second part 12 extends substantially over the other third (i.e. about 120 degrees) of the circumference of the upper part 5.

[0037] As will be explained later, the first and second parts 11, 12 can be assembled together while remaining detachable and separable from each other. This feature is intended, in particular, to allow the damping means 10 to be mounted at the level of the casing 4 of the accumulator 3, more precisely of the upper part 5, while the accumulator 3 is mounted on the casing 30, or on the technical front face 31. In this case, the conduits 40 of the circuit 2 are already connected, plugged in, in particular to the accumulator 3, which is why a damping means 10 of classic annular shape would not be suitable to be mounted.

[0038] Alternatively, according to an embodiment not illustrated, the damping means comprises only a single part of generally cylindrical shape having an opening. In this case, a cross-section of the damping means along a plane perpendicular to its axis has a general C-shape. The opening of the C provides a passage for the air conditioning circuit ducts and allows the damping means to be mounted on the upper part of the casing while the circuit is already installed.

[0039] In the illustrated embodiment, the first part 11 comprises a first fastening means 13 and the second part 12 comprises a second fastening means 14. The first fastening means 13 is adapted to cooperate with the second fastening means 14. For example, the first fastening means 13 and the second fastening means 14 together form a sliding connection. Advantageously, the formed slide extends in the vertical or substantially vertical direction. As illustrated in particular in Figures 6 and 7, the first and second fastening means 13, 14 each have a cross-section along a plane perpendicular to the axis of the damping means designed to interlock, fit together, or complement each other. For example, each cross-section has a shape similar to a portion of a puzzle piece or is generally T-shaped.More specifically, as illustrated in particular in Figures 6, 8 and 9, the first part 11 comprises a first fixing means 13 at each of its ends 111, 112 and the second part 12 comprises a second fixing means 14 at each of its ends 121, 122. For example, the first fixing means 13 has a cross-section along a plane perpendicular to the axis AP in the shape of an omega and the second fixing means 14 has a complementary cross-section along a plane perpendicular to the axis AP, i.e. completing the internal shape of the omega.

[0040] Alternatively, the second fastening means has a cross-section, along a plane perpendicular to an axis coinciding or substantially coinciding with the principal axis, in the shape of an omega, and the first fastening means has a complementary cross-section, along a plane perpendicular to an axis coinciding or substantially coinciding with the principal axis, i.e., completing the internal shape of the omega. Alternatively again, the first fastening means has a cross-section in the shape of a male dovetail and the second fastening means has a complementary cross-section in the shape of a female dovetail. Alternatively again, the first fastening means has a cross-section in the shape of a female dovetail and the second fastening means has a complementary cross-section in the shape of a male dovetail.

[0041] Preferably, as illustrated in particular in Figures 4, 7, 8 and 9, the first part 11 comprises a first notch 17 or lug extending projecting from each end 111, 112 of the first part 11. In this case, the second part 12 comprises a second notch 18 or recess or recess at each of its ends 121, 122. Advantageously, the first notch 17 and the second notch 18 are arranged so as to complement each other when they are in contact. Thus, after assembly of the two parts 11, 12, the notches 17, 18 are in contact with each other or substantially in contact with each other so that the overall shape of the damping means is cylindrical.The function of the notches 17, 18 is to ensure a blocking, a stop, an end of travel of the first part 11 in relation to the second part 12 during the sliding, the translation along the slide created by the fixing means 13, 14. .

[0042] Preferably, as illustrated in [Fig. 8], each first recess 17 comprises a raised, cylindrical protrusion 171 extending upwards. Preferably, as illustrated in [Fig. 9], each second recess 18 comprises a cavity 181 extending upwards. Thus, once the parts 11 and 12 are assembled, after sliding between them, the protrusion 171 at the end 111 of the first part 11 cooperates with and enters the cavity 181 at the end 121 of the second part 12, and simultaneously, or substantially simultaneously, the protrusion 171 at the end 112 of the first part 11 cooperates with and enters the cavity 181 at the end 122 of the second part 12.

[0043] Preferably, this translation is along the vertical or substantially vertical direction, preferably from top to bottom. In this case, as illustrated, the first protrusion-type notch 17 is provided at the bottom of the first part 11 so as to stop the movement of the second part 12 relative to the first part 11 along the slide 13, 14. The notch 18 is then also provided at the bottom of the second part 12. Preferably, as illustrated in Figures 8 and 9, the fastening means 13, 14 forming a slide do not extend over the entire height H of the first and second parts 11, 12 measured parallel to the axis of the cylindrical protective shell 15 thus formed, but only over a portion of approximately 30 percent of this height, or even less. Thus, the slide-type guidance is ensured over only a portion P of the height H illustrated in Figures 8 and 9.The two pairs of studs / cavities 171, 181, preferably in general cylindrical shape, ensure the end of the sliding connection between the first part 11 and the second part 12.

[0044] As illustrated in [Fig. 7], the thickness E of the damping medium 10, measured radially with respect to the main axis AP, is between 10 mm and 25 mm, for example, approximately 17 mm. Preferably, the damping medium 10 is made of expanded polypropylene. Alternatively, the damping medium 10 is made of polystyrene. Preferably, the density of the material is between 45 grams per liter and 200 grams per liter, and more preferably between 70 grams per liter and 90 grams per liter.

[0045] For example, the arrangement 9 includes the vehicle body 30, and / or the technical front panel 31. Preferably, the arrangement 9 includes at least one air conditioning duct 40 connected to the accumulator 3. Preferably, the arrangement 9 also includes a support 20 for attaching the accumulator 3 to the body 30. For example, the support 20 creates, shapes, and provides a stop 25 for the damping means 10. More precisely, preferably the support 20 creates a stop for the first part 11, that is, the part mounted first around the accumulator 3. As a reminder, preferably, the end of the travel of the sliding connection between the first part 11 and the second part 12, that is, the end of the translation between the means 13, 14 in the direction T (see [Fig. 7]), is ensured by contacts between the offsets 17, 18. Alternatively or in addition, as illustrated in the [Fig.3], a part 25 of the support 20 creates a stop for the end of travel when the second part 12 is mounted along the first part 11. In any case, the installation of the damping means 10, in particular in the vertical direction, i.e. in the direction T, is facilitated by contact of at least one part 11, 12, or even both, with the support 20, in particular part 25. For example, part 25 is of the collar type which encircles, surrounds the outer casing 4 of the accumulator 3 to be protected.

[0046] Preferably, as illustrated in particular in Figures 4, 5 and 8, the accumulator 3 or the outer casing 4 of the accumulator comprises a bulge 19, a protrusion, a rim, extending from the upper end of the accumulator, preferably around the entire circumference of the upper part 5. This bulge 19 creates a kind of retaining ring preventing the second part 12 from disengaging from the first part. In other words, the bulge 19 creates a stop preventing translation in the opposite direction to T, so as to prevent the two parts 11, 12 from unintentionally separating from each other.

[0047] Optionally, as illustrated in Figures 5 and 7, the first part 11 includes a notch 16. Thus, when the first part 11 is threaded onto the accumulator 3, it does not abut against the support 20. Optionally, this notch 16 acts as a stop, or end stop, preferably in the vertical direction, for positioning the first part 11 relative to the support 20. Furthermore, the engagement of the support 20 in the notch 16 prevents any pivoting of the first part 11 (and therefore of the means damping) relative to the external casing 4 of the accumulator and / or any pivoting of the first part 11 (and therefore of the damping means) relative to the support 20.

[0048] Advantageously, the support 20 comprises a base 23 extending vertically or substantially vertically. The support 20 is fixed to the housing 30 and / or to the technical front panel 31 by at least one fastening means 21. For example, as illustrated in [Fig. 4], the fastening means 21 is a screw or a threaded rod extending from the base 23. Preferably, two fastening means 21 are provided. Preferably, each fastening means 21 sandwiches the support 20, in particular the base 23, between the fastening means 21, for example a screw head, and the housing 30 and / or the technical front face 31. Even more preferably, as illustrated in [Fig. 5], each fastening means 21 passes through a groove 22 formed in the support 20, in particular in the base 23. Each groove 22 extends substantially horizontally, in the longitudinal direction, and opens towards the front.Thus, each groove 22 is an opening extending substantially in a transverse and longitudinal plane. Thus, in the event of a front impact on the vehicle, the support 20 can move backward relative to the body 30 (in particular relative to the technical front face) by sliding the support 20 against the fastening means 21 along the groove 22.

[0049] An execution method of assembling the arrangement will now be described.

[0050] Initially, a step is taken to supply the casing 30 (preferably equipped with the technical front face 31), the support 20, the accumulator 3, the air conditioning duct(s) 40, and the damping means 10.

[0051] The next step involves mounting the support 20 onto the housing 30. Advantageously, the next step involves mounting the base 23 of the support 20 onto the technical front panel 31 of the housing 30. Preferably, this is achieved using screws 21 that engage with grooves 22 in the base 23, and nuts to sandwich the base 23 between the head of the screw 21 or the corresponding nut and the housing 30 or the technical front panel 31 to which the base is attached. To facilitate this, holes or slots are provided in the housing or the technical front panel to accommodate the screws 21.

[0052] Then we proceed to a step of mounting the accumulator 3 on the support 20.

[0053] Alternatively, a step is taken to mount the accumulator 3 on the support 20 before mounting the support 20 on the case 30, in particular via the screws 21 as described previously.

[0054] Next, the air conditioning duct(s) 40 are connected to the accumulator 3. Note that this connection step of the air conditioning duct(s) 40 to the accumulator 3 can be carried out prior to the step of attaching the accumulator to the support and / or prior to the step of attaching the support to the case.

[0055] In particular in the case of a vehicle intended for a country or market in which vehicle insurance amounts are calculated based on the costs incurred in terms of repairs during a collision, a step is taken to mount the damping means 10 at the level of the accumulator.

[0056] More specifically, in the case of a damping means comprising the first part 11 and the second part 12 described above, the first part 11 is assembled first. As a reminder, the first part 11 is a cylindrical portion, for example extending approximately 240 degrees around an axis coinciding with the principal axis AP, i.e., an overall C-shaped section. Thus, the first part 11 is positioned so that the conduit(s) are located within the cavity of the C, and the first part 11 is then translated along the upper part 5 of the outer casing 4. To facilitate this step, preferably, the external diameter of the upper part 5 is smaller than the internal diameter of the first part 11. In particular, the internal diameter of the first part 11 is just greater than, equal to, or just less than the external diameter of the bulge 19.Optionally, a slight bend in the C-shaped form of the first part 11 allows it to be slipped around the bulge 11 so that the diameter of the upper part 5 can be equal to the internal diameter of the first part 11. If the notch 16 is present in the first part 11, it is centered and aligned so that the notch 16 cooperates with the support 20, in particular with an upper part of the base 23. The first part 11 is then translated until it abuts against the base 23 at the level of the notch 16 and / or until the first part 11 comes into contact with the stop 25 of the support 20, as illustrated in [Fig. 4]. This results in the accumulator 3 / first part 11 configuration illustrated in [Fig. 8].

[0057] Finally, the second part 12 is inserted onto the first part 11 so as to surround the upper part 5 of the outer casing 4 of the accumulator 3. As a reminder, the second part 12 is a cylindrical portion, for example extending approximately 120 degrees around an axis coinciding with the principal axis AP, i.e., an overall arc-shaped cross-section. More precisely, the second part 12 is translated along the first part 11 along the direction T (preferably vertical) illustrated in [Fig. 7]. More specifically, as seen previously, a means 13 at each end of the first part 11, having a C-shaped cross-section, cooperates with a means 14 at each end of the second part 12, having an arc-shaped cross-section, to create a sliding connection along the direction T. Preferably, a gap between the means 13 and 14 is provided to facilitate assembly by Sliding without any swaying or buckling. In particular, some clearance is necessary to allow the bulge 19 to pass during translation. Furthermore, the material used for parts 11 and 12 is preferably sufficiently rigid to prevent each part from twisting, bending, or buckling during translation, especially under insertion stress, which would hinder easy assembly. The translation continues until the notches 18 contact the projections 17. Preferably, this end of the translation stroke is also marked by the contact, or near contact, of the second part 12 against the stop 25 of the support 20, as illustrated in [Fig. 3]. As a reminder, the bulge 19 prevents reverse sliding of parts 11 and 12 and provides security for the means 10 assembled on the accumulator 3.

[0058] Thus, the upper part 5, cylindrical in shape where appropriate, of the envelope 4, is found to be protected, surrounded, encircled by the first and second parts of the means 10.

[0059] Thanks to this solution, vehicles destined for countries where organizations assess repairability and estimate associated costs, particularly in the case of minor impacts, especially to the front of the vehicle, can be easily and quickly equipped with the accumulator damping device. This operation is then carried out at the production line or at the end of the vehicle assembly line. The presence of air conditioning ducts does not hinder the addition of the damping device, which is preferably separable into two parts. If this addition or option only concerns a few vehicles on an assembly line, it is easy to perform this installation on an ad hoc basis.

[0060] Thus, the solution preserves the integrity of the accumulator in the event of a minor frontal impact, particularly in vehicles with a short front overhang, notably those lacking a shock absorber (also known as a "crash box"), and consequently in vehicles with a cramped engine compartment. This is true even though the accumulator 3 of the air conditioning circuit 2 is located at the front of the engine compartment. Despite the accumulator's considerable size, which would prevent its integration into another area of ​​the engine compartment, the solution allows its placement in the front area, which is particularly vulnerable in the event of a frontal impact. Thanks to this solution, the accumulator is so well protected that it does not need to be replaced after an impact. This results in cost savings, as an accumulator is expensive to purchase and its replacement is time-consuming and tedious, especially since it is part of the air conditioning circuit.

[0061] In summary, the solution offers protection for the air conditioning dehydrator bottle 3. This results in a better rating from a rating agency in the event of an impact and consequently a lower insurance amount.

[0062] This prevents any plastic deformation at the contact point between element 8 ([Fig.2]) and the battery casing 4 during a frontal impact. Indeed, the damping means 10, such as a cover, hood, or protective element, particularly made of foam, inserted on the battery, absorbs the impact, deforms, and protects the battery.

[0063] As previously mentioned, the solution is simple, easy, and quick to install. Therefore, the additional cost is very low, which is desirable, especially since this function is not visible to the customer / vehicle user.

[0064] The solution requires no modification to the vehicle, as the damping device is added, if necessary, during vehicle assembly, or even as a retrofit if required. Furthermore, the damping device 10 remains easily removable if needed, preferably without tools, by sliding the second part 12 upwards after passing the resistance point created by the bulge 19 on the bottle 4, and then sliding the first part 11. Thus, work on the bottle 4 or a change of the damping device is compatible with the solution. As a reminder, the protection is a relatively dense foam piece in two parts and two T-shaped counter-forms that fit together, creating a circular, cylindrical shell shape 15.Preferably, the vertical positioning of the protector 10 is ensured by contact of the protector against the support 20, for example at the notch 16 provided on the part 11. Thus, preferably, the protection 10 is added to the bottle 3 already fixed on its support 20.

[0065] As previously mentioned, in addition to the presence of the damping means 10, a recoil of the accumulator can be achieved in the event of an impact, in order to maximize damping. This recoil is made possible, for example, by the presence of at least one, preferably two, filtering pads 24, or diabolo pads, or Silentbloc (Registered Trademark), for example, made of rubber (see Figures 4 and 6). It should be noted that such pads 24 also improve the acoustics of the accumulator / support assembly. The deformation provided by this pad or these pads 24 then allows the accumulator to recoil during an impact.

[0066] In the absence of pads, for example in the absence of vibration problems, the accumulator's recoil is advantageously facilitated. A breakable connection, for example with a weak point in the support, is provided.

[0067] In addition, or alternatively, the grooves or openings 22 in the support 20 provide a means for the desiccant 3 to be moved back from the body within the engine compartment if necessary, in the event of a frontal impact. More specifically, the grooves 22 allow the screws 21 to disengage, i.e., to allow the support to slide backward in the event of a frontal impact, particularly if the element 8 ([Fig.2]) comes into contact with the guard 10.

[0068] Advantageously, the pipes or conduits 40 of the air conditioning system or circuit are connected to the accumulator while having lengths of flexible hose, and / or slack, and / or the conduits are shaped so as to be able to bend. In other words, the movement of the accumulator, in particular its recoil, does not create any incipient break, nor any break, nor any marking on these conduits 40 likely to cause a malfunction of the air conditioning or even a leak in the air conditioning circuit.

[0069] As previously mentioned, preferably, the density, particularly in the case of expanded polypropylene, is around 80 g / l. Preferably, such a density aims to provide low-compression protection. In the event of an impact, recoil is prioritized and / or supplements deformation of the damping means.

[0070] In summary, the damping device 10 prevents plastic deformation of the accumulator in the event of a minor front-end collision. Repairs following a front-end collision are thus reduced, notably by avoiding the purchase of a new accumulator and the labor costs for its replacement. The insurance cost of a vehicle equipped with such a device is reduced, which is advantageous for the owner and may encourage their purchase, particularly when buying multiple vehicles or a fleet equipped with this device. Furthermore, the solution is economical, as the manufacturing of the damping device is inexpensive.

[0071] As a note, the solution therefore achieves the desired objective of protecting the air conditioning accumulator in case of impact and has the advantage of being able to be adapted to another motorized vehicle, for example a bus or a truck.

Claims

Demands

1. An arrangement (9) for a vehicle, in particular for a motor vehicle (1), the arrangement (9) comprising: - an accumulator (3) for an air conditioning circuit (2), the accumulator (3) comprising an outer casing (4), - an element (8) arranged near the accumulator (3), in particular a mounting bracket-type element, characterized in that the arrangement (9) comprises a damping means (10) shaped at least partially around the outer casing (4) of the accumulator (3) so as to prevent plastic deformation of the outer casing (4) in the event of contact with the element (8) following an impact sustained by such a vehicle, the damping means (10) comprising a first part (11) and a second part (12) to allow subsequent mounting of the damping means (10) on the casing (4) of the accumulator (3) extending along an axis of revolution or principal axis (AP)the first part (11) comprising a first fastening means (13) and the second part (12) comprising a second fastening means (14), the first fastening means (13) being able to cooperate with the second fastening means (14), the first fastening means (13) and the second fastening means (14) together forming a sliding connection, in particular along the vertical or substantially vertical direction, or in particular along the axis of revolution or principal axis (AP) of the accumulator (3).

2. Arrangement (9) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the first part (11) comprises a first step (17) and in that the second part (12) comprises a second step (18), the first and second steps (17, 18) coming into contact with each other to ensure a blocking of the first part (11) with respect to the second part (12), in particular in the vertical direction.

3. An arrangement (9) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the outer casing (4) of the accumulator (3) has a substantially cylindrical shape around the main axis (AP), the first and second parts (11, 12) of the damping means (10) forming a cylindrical shell (15) with its axis coinciding or substantially coincident with the main axis (AP), the main axis (AP) extending notably substantially vertically.

4. Arrangement (9) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the thickness (E) of the damping means (10) measured radially with respect to the main axis (AP) is between 10 mm and 25 mm, in particular of the order of 17 mm, and / or in that the damping means (10) is made of expanded polypropylene or polystyrene having a density between 45 grams per liter and 200 grams per liter, in particular between 70 grams per liter and 90 grams per liter.

5. Arrangement (9) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the arrangement (9) comprises: - a body (30) of such a vehicle, - at least one air conditioning duct (40) connected to the accumulator (3), and - a support (20) for fixing the accumulator (3) to the body (30).

6. Arrangement (9) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the support (20) creates a stop (25) when the damping means (10) is put in place, in particular in the vertical direction, in particular by contact of the damping means (10) with the support (20).

7. Arrangement (9) according to any one of claims 5 or 6, characterized in that the support (20) is fixed to the body (30) by at least one fastening means (21), in particular of the screw type, the at least one fastening means (21) sandwiching the support (20) between the fastening means (21), in particular a screw head, and the body (30), the at least one fastening means (21) passing through at least one groove (22) formed in the support (20), the at least one groove (22) being through and extending substantially longitudinally forward, so as to allow the support (20) to move backward relative to the body (30) by sliding the support (20) against the fastening means (21) along the groove (22) in the event of a front impact on such a vehicle.

8. Vehicle, in particular motor vehicle (1), characterized in that the vehicle comprises an arrangement (9) according to any one of the preceding claims.

9. Method of assembling an arrangement (9) according to any one of claims 5 to 7, characterized in that it comprises: - a step of supplying a casing (30), a support (20), an accumulator (3), at least one air conditioning duct (40), and a damping means (10), - followed by a step of mounting the support (20) on the casing (30) and then mounting the accumulator (3) on the support (20), or a step of mounting the accumulator (3) on the support (20) and then mounting the support (20) on the casing (30), - followed or preceded by a step of connecting at least one air conditioning duct (40) to the accumulator (3), - followed by a step of mounting the damping means (10) at the accumulator (3).