Assembly for a thermal conditioning system for a vehicle, particularly an automobile

Abstract

The invention relates to an assembly for a vehicle thermal conditioning system comprising a refrigerant circulation unit (217) having at least one channel (218) formed by a first flat wall element (218a) and a second wall element (218b) shaped to delimit a cavity which is closed by the first wall element (218a), in which the assembly includes a support (200) formed in a separate piece of said at least one channel and comprising a flat receiving area on which is applied a face of said at least one first wall element of said at least one channel (218).

Description

Title of the invention: Assembly for a thermal conditioning system for a vehicle, in particular an automobile

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of thermal conditioning systems. These systems can be used, in particular, to equip a motor vehicle. Such systems allow for the thermal regulation of various vehicle components, such as the passenger compartment or an electrical energy storage battery, in the case of an electric vehicle. Heat exchange is managed primarily by the compression and expansion of a refrigerant within various heat exchangers, enabling the heating or cooling of different components.

[0002] Thermal conditioning systems commonly employ a refrigerant loop and a heat transfer fluid loop that exchanges heat with the refrigerant. Such systems are therefore called indirect. The refrigerant loop is configured so that the refrigerant transfers heat to a heat transfer fluid in a first heat exchanger. The heat transferred to the heat transfer fluid can then be dissipated into an airflow intended for the passenger compartment to heat it. The heat transfer fluid circuit also cools heat-dissipating components of the vehicle's powertrain, such as the vehicle's electric traction motor or the power electronics controlling the electric motor. For this purpose, another heat exchanger facilitates heat exchange between the heat transfer fluid and the refrigerant to cool the heat transfer fluid.

[0003] There is therefore a need to have thermal conditioning systems that can offer different modes of cooling and / or heating the battery or different elements of the vehicle's powertrain, in particular without using pressurized refrigerant circulation.

[0004] Thermal conditioning systems consist in particular of thermal management components, such as pumps, valves, heat exchangers, as well as components used for temperature regulation. Components such as conduits, guiding a fluid and fluidly connecting the thermal management components, are also provided.

[0005] The development of electric vehicles has increased the need for optimized thermal conditioning systems with simplified and economical manufacturing processes, while creating a demand for efficient, compact, lightweight systems that are easy to manufacture and integrate into the environment of a vehicle. tomobile.

[0006] The invention aims to propose a solution to improve the situation.

[0007] To this end, the present invention relates to an assembly for a vehicle thermal conditioning system, said assembly comprising a fluid circulation unit having at least one channel formed by a first wall element and a second wall element shaped to delimit a cavity which is closed by the first wall element, in which the assembly includes a support formed in a separate part of said at least one channel, the support having a first face comprising a receiving area on which is applied a face of said at least one first wall element of said at least one channel.

[0008] Thus, by assigning the functions of support on the one hand and of circulating the fluid on the other hand to separate parts, it is possible to achieve a better compromise in terms of weight, rigidity, limitation of vibrations, consumption of material and design flexibility.

[0009] The invention may also include one or more of the following features.

[0010] According to one embodiment, the fluid circulation unit is a refrigerant fluid circulation unit.

[0011] Advantageously, the second wall elements are formed from stamped metal plates. Thus, the circulation unit is lightweight and easy to manufacture, and rigidity is achieved using the support and the first wall elements. Proper positioning of the compressor can also contribute to increasing the overall rigidity and preventing torsion of the support.

[0012] According to one embodiment, the support comprises a platform. The platform can thus act as a docking station for the components and channels.

[0013] According to one embodiment, the reception area is arranged in whole or in part on this platform.

[0014] According to one embodiment, the first face and the second face of the support can correspond to the two opposite faces of the plate.

[0015] According to one embodiment, the length L1 of the support defines a main longitudinal direction X.

[0016] According to one embodiment, the length of the support corresponds substantially to the length of the platform.

[0017] According to one embodiment, the support is formed in a material less dense than the material of said at least one channel.

[0018] According to one embodiment, the support is made of a composite material and / or a plastic material.

[0019] Thus, the mechanical connection between all the channels is essentially ensured by the support, the material and dimensions of which can be chosen and / or optimized accordingly, taking into account the weight and vibration issues of the entire system. This notably allows for a reduction in the system's weight.

[0020] Advantageously the first and second wall elements are metallic.

[0021] According to one embodiment, the first wall element is planar and the receiving area is planar, the first wall element being pressed against the receiving area. Advantageously, the plane of the receiving area and the plane of the first wall element are parallel and adjacent.

[0022] The flatness of the receiving area makes it possible to simplify the making of the channels by using a first flat wall element, in particular formed in a flat plate.

[0023] Each first wall element may have a generally planar shape. It may comprise a first substantially planar face and a second, opposite, substantially planar face. The first and second faces may be parallel to each other. In practice, the first face is applied to the planar receiving area, and the second face receives the second wall element.

[0024] The support may be formed from a material less dense than the material of said at least one channel. The support may be made of a composite material and / or a plastic material. It may be, for example, a polypropylene (PP), preferably fiber-reinforced, or a polyamide (PA), preferably fiber-reinforced.

[0025] According to one embodiment, the support includes at least one recess inside which the receiving area is located.

[0026] Advantageously, the support has cavities.

[0027] Advantageously, the support has a second face opposite to the first face.

[0028] The cavities can be arranged in the first face of the support as well as in the second face.

[0029] According to one embodiment, the cavities of the support are blind. In other words, the cavities have a bottom and form pockets, recessed with respect to the first face and the second face.

[0030] According to one embodiment, the cavities have a polyhedral or prismatic shape extending orthogonally to the receiving area, for example a right prism shape with a hexagonal base or a rhombic base.

[0031] Some cavities may be located within the receiving area.

[0032] According to one embodiment, the cavities of one and / or the other of the first face and the second face are arranged in a staggered pattern.

[0033] According to one embodiment, the support comprises a first group of cavities arranged in the first face and a second group of cavities arranged in the second face, the cavities of the second group each being arranged between several cavities of the first group of cavities, the cavities of the first group and the cavities of the second group being offset from each other.

[0034] Advantageously, the cavities are distributed so that the support has a substantially constant thickness within the receiving area.

[0035] Advantageously, in a section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the support passing through the receiving area, the support presents a section winding on either side of a median plane of the tray.

[0036] According to one embodiment, the support comprises a third group of cavities arranged in the second face, the third group of cavities being in the shape of a right prism with a rhombus base.

[0037] Advantageously, the cavities of the third group of cavities each extend between two cavities of the second group of cavities.

[0038] For example, the cavities of the first group of cavities include a bottom and the cavities of the third group of cavities each extend between two cavity bottoms of the first group of cavities.

[0039] According to one embodiment, the cavities are delimited by an arrangement of lattice ribs.

[0040] The lattice rib arrangement, or "lattice structure", of the first face of the support can surround all or part of the flat receiving area.

[0041] According to one embodiment, a lattice structure may be provided on the second face.

[0042] According to one embodiment, the lattice structure can be formed of a plurality of first ribs oriented along a first orientation and second ribs oriented along a second orientation in an extension plane of the support, the second orientation not being parallel to the first orientation. The ribs can be separated from each other by cells.

[0043] According to one variant, the lattice structure could still have honeycomb-type cells, i.e. with a hexagonal cross-section.

[0044] The support thus formed with a flat receiving area surrounded by a lattice structure proves to be rigid and lightweight.

[0045] According to one embodiment, the circulation unit comprises a plurality of channels connecting a plurality of components of a fluid circuit, at least two channels of the plurality of channels being such that the first wall elements are formed from a single part and the second wall elements are formed from separate parts. Thus, particularly when the second wall elements are stamped, it is easier to obtain the desired channel shapes by manufacturing the second wall elements from separate parts. The loss of rigidity associated with the presence of several parts to form the second wall elements is advantageously This is compensated for by the presence of the support and / or a common component for the formation of the initial wall elements. The compressor also provides additional rigidity to the assembly and prevents twisting of the support.

[0046] In this configuration, at least some of the second elements can be made in two separate parts, which simplifies their manufacture. Manufacturing the part containing the first wall elements is straightforward. Assembling the refrigerant circulation unit is also simplified. Furthermore, the positioning of each second wall element on a first wall element can be improved due to the independence of the second wall elements.

[0047] It is therefore understood that several first wall elements of the channels can be formed in the same flat plate.

[0048] A plurality of first wall elements is arranged in the recess.

[0049] According to one embodiment, all the channels can have their first wall elements formed in the same piece. Thus, a piece comprises all the first wall elements, all of which are formed in a single piece. This piece therefore comprises a plurality of different zones, each delimiting said first wall elements.

[0050] For example, said first wall elements of the first channels can be formed in a single substantially flat piece, such as a flat plate.

[0051] If desired, spaces can be provided between all or part of said first wall elements. In this way, it is possible to reduce the heat transmission between two first wall elements of the same plate.

[0052] Advantageously, the second wall elements of said at least two channels may have different thicknesses. Similarly, the second wall elements of said at least two channels may be formed from different materials.

[0053] According to one embodiment, at least two channels may have their second wall element formed from the same part. When the channels are close together, it is indeed preferable to form some of the second wall elements from the same part, while others are different. In any case, the unit advantageously comprises more parts for the second wall elements than for the first wall elements, since the second wall elements may have complex shapes.

[0054] For example, each second wall element may include a boss defining a groove and surrounded by a peripheral rim applied to a corresponding peripheral edge of a first wall element.

[0055] The peripheral edge of a first wall element can be welded or brazed with a peripheral edge of a second wall element.

[0056] According to one embodiment, the assembly comprises a plurality of circular units culation each comprising at least one first wall element and at least one second wall element, the first wall elements of the different units being formed by separate plates spaced apart from each other, each circulation unit comprising a single flat plate for the formation of its first wall element(s).

[0057] Advantageously, the flat plates are arranged in the same plane.

[0058] Several flat plates can be arranged within the same recess.

[0059] Thus, the consumption of material forming the channels is optimized without reducing the rigidity of the device due to the presence of the support.

[0060] Advantageously, the recess is delimited by a rim and at least one of the flat plates includes a border at least part of which is placed against the rim of the recess.

[0061] The recess thus simplifies the installation of the channels on the support.

[0062] Advantageously, the support includes at least one through window and the fluid circulation unit includes at least one through conduit which passes through this window to circulate the fluid from one side to the other of the support; the through conduit also passing through a passage orifice formed in the first wall element, the passage orifice opening into the inside of the window of the support.

[0063] According to one embodiment, the support includes an installation portion suitable for receiving a compressor, the installation portion being formed in projection relative to the second face of the support.

[0064] Advantageously, the installation portion is configured to fit the shape of the compressor.

[0065] The installation portion is advantageously formed as a single piece with the support receiving area.

[0066] The compressor installation portion is preferably arranged on the second face opposite the receiving area.

[0067] The term "opposite" means along a direction perpendicular to a plane of extension of the support when the latter has a generally planar shape. Thus, a straight line perpendicular to the plane of extension of the support intersects the compressor and the flat receiving area carrying said at least one channel of the refrigerant circulation unit. In practice, this arrangement makes it possible to stiffen the entire assembly according to the invention.

[0068] Preferably, the mounting portion has a curved concavity suitable for retaining two opposite sides of the compressor. Advantageously, the concavity has the shape of a portion of a cylinder extending between two ridges. In other words, the compressor is retained laterally along the Y direction, that is, orthogonally to the longitudinal direction in the plane of the plate.

[0069] According to one embodiment, the concavity is supported by ribs connecting the two ridges to the first face.

[0070] Advantageously, the ribs are parallel.

[0071] Advantageously, part of the receiving area is formed by the end of the support ribs of the compressor installation portion.

[0072] Advantageously, the installation portion is configured so that the compressor extends longitudinally, in other words parallel to the length L1 of the support.

[0073] Advantageously, the compressor extends over at least a quarter of the length of the support.

[0074] According to one embodiment, the installation portion includes at least three tapped holes arranged orthogonally to the receiving area.

[0075] The threads can be formed directly in the support or in inserts. Thus, the compressor can be screwed onto the support.

[0076] The threads are provided inside tubes, each tube extending from the second face to one of the ridges. Advantageously, the longitudinal spacing between the tubes represents at least 25% of the length of the plate.

[0077] For example, the tubes are arranged in support cones of the installation portion.

[0078] Preferably, the threads are arranged longitudinally at the ends of the compressor.

[0079] The various compressor installation characteristics, taken into consideration alone or in combination, thus make it possible to take advantage of the compressor to provide rigidity to the support / circulation unit assembly.

[0080] The support may also include fixing arms.

[0081] Advantageously, these fixing arms extend substantially orthogonally to the receiving area of ​​the support to one end.

[0082] Advantageously, these extension arms are intended to allow the support to be fixed to a vehicle chassis.

[0083] Advantageously, the mounting arms and the receiving area are formed on the same piece. In other words, the support is monolithic from the receiving area to the mounting arms.

[0084] According to one embodiment, the arms each have a housing, each housing being suitable for receiving a decoupling element intended to cooperate with a fixing element of the vehicle chassis.

[0085] According to one embodiment, each housing extends along an axis perpendicular to the direction of extension of the corresponding arm.

[0086] According to one embodiment, the support comprises at least three arms.

[0087] According to one embodiment, two arms are arranged such that one of these two arms extend from the first face and prolong the other of these two arms which extends from the second face.

[0088] According to one embodiment, a set of cavities extend along at least one of the fixing arms.

[0089] According to one embodiment, this set of cavities extends perpendicularly to the receiving area.

[0090] According to one embodiment, the arm comprises a plurality of cavities closed at the end of the arm and open on the first face and at least one cavity open at the end of the arm and closed in the plane of the first face.

[0091] According to one embodiment, the cavities of the arm have hexagonal and / or rhombic sections.

[0092] Advantageously, considering a median straight line perpendicular to the length of the support separating the support into two substantially equal half-support surfaces, the compressor is arranged so that it straddles the median line, and the arms are arranged so that each tapping is arranged, longitudinally, between the median line and one of the arms.

[0093] Advantageously, by considering two straight lines perpendicular to the length of the support and dividing the support into three portions of substantially equal support surfaces, the arms are arranged on each portion of end surface.

[0094] Advantageously, the plurality of channels extending substantially perpendicularly to the ribs of the compressor installation portion.

[0095] Generally, the portion of the installation is preferably configured so that the compressor extends substantially in the same direction as the plurality of channels of the circulation unit. Thus, the compressor helps to stiffen the support-circulation unit assembly.

[0096] The invention also relates to a fluid management module comprising a compressor and an assembly as described above, the compressor being mounted in the installation portion of the support.

[0097] This document also relates to a thermal conditioning system for heating and / or cooling electrical and / or electronic components of an electric or hybrid motor vehicle, and preferably the passenger compartment of said vehicle, comprising an assembly as described above, as well as a refrigerant circuit including at least one compressor, the compressor and the unit being placed on either side of the support, in particular on either side of the flat receiving area.

[0098] The refrigerant circuit may include a first heat exchanger and a second heat exchanger, in which a first conduit connects an outlet of the first heat exchanger with an inlet of the compressor and a second conduit connects the outlet of the second heat exchanger with an inlet of the first heat exchanger, in which the outlet port of the first heat exchanger is aligned with the inlet port of the compressor or the outlet port of the second heat exchanger is aligned with an inlet of the first heat exchanger.

[0099] In this way, the refrigerant circulating at low pressure from the outlet of the first heat exchanger experiences minimal pressure loss before entering the compressor, compared to the prior art where the pipe is bent. The same is true when the outlet of the second heat exchanger is aligned with the inlet of the first heat exchanger. Refrigerant circulation is then facilitated.

[0100] According to one aspect of the invention, the second heat exchanger is a water-cooled re-evaporator. This water-cooled re-evaporator allows heat exchange between the refrigerant and a heat transfer fluid, such as, for example, glycol water.

[0101] According to one aspect of the invention, the refrigerant circuit may include a water-cooled condenser (or "WCDS" for "Water Condenser" in its English name). The water-cooled condenser also allows for heat exchange between the refrigerant and a heat transfer fluid, for example, glycol water.

[0102] In an embodiment illustrated in the figures, the first heat exchanger is an exchanger called an internal heat exchanger (or "IHX" for "Internai Heat Exchanger" in its English name). The first internal heat exchanger allows heat exchange between the refrigerant circulating at high pressure and the refrigerant circulating at low pressure.

[0103] According to another embodiment, the support can carry a bottle, such as a desiccant bottle, whose function is to separate the liquid refrigerant from the gaseous refrigerant at high pressure, and to allow for the storage and absorption of moisture from the refrigerant passing through it. The bottle, or desiccant bottle, could be placed on the second face of the support.

[0104] Other advantages and features of the present invention will become more apparent upon reading the following description, given by way of illustration and not limitation, and the accompanying drawings in which:

[0105] [Fig-1] is a simplified perspective view of a circulation unit for a fluid management module for a vehicle, in particular an automobile.

[0106] [Fig.2] is a side view of the circulation unit of [Fig.1].

[0107] [Fig.3] is a simplified bottom view of one face of the circulation unit of the [Fig.l]; this face showing the circulation channels and part of the elements arranged on this face.

[0108] [Fig.4] is a simplified top view of the opposite face of the circulation unit.

[0109] [Fig.5] is a schematic view of the refrigerant circuit associated with the unit of circulation of the [Fig.1], operating according to a first mode of operation.

[0110] [Fig.6] is a schematic view of the refrigerant fluid circuit associated with the circulation unit of [Fig.1], operating according to a second mode of operation.

[0111] [Fig.7] is a simplified perspective view of the opposite face of [Fig.4], this opposite face showing some of the elements arranged on this second face.

[0112] [Fig.8] is a simplified perspective view of the fluid management module comprising the unit of [Fig.1].

[0113] [Fig.9] is a bottom view of the module of [Fig.8].

[0114] [Fig. 10] is a top view of the fluid management module.

[0115] [Fig. 11] is a schematic view of a first embodiment of the invention in which a refrigerant fluid circulation unit support is represented along a first face in part A and along a second opposite face in part B, the support being isolated.

[0116] [Fig. 12] is a schematic view of the refrigerant circulation unit support of [Fig.1], along a first face in part A and along a second opposite face in part B, the support carrying the refrigerant circulation unit as well as components such as heat exchangers (part A) and a compressor (part B).

[0117] [Fig. 13] is a schematic perspective view of a support with part of a refrigerant fluid circulation unit in part A and a schematic perspective view of the support without the fluid circulation unit in part B.

[0118] [Fig. 14] is a schematic perspective view of the ducts of a refrigerant circulation unit in part A and of only the first wall elements of said ducts in part B.

[0119] [Fig. 15] is a schematic perspective view illustrating the cooperation between first wall elements formed from a single piece and second wall elements.

[0120] [Fig. 16] represents a schematic diagram of an example assembly of a support with first and second wall elements.

[0121] [Fig. 17] is a schematic perspective view of part of the module associated with the first embodiment, with the same orientation in part A and part B, the first heat exchanger ("internal heat exchanger") having been removed on part B, part C showing a cross-sectional view taken along a fluidic connection conduit from the compressor to the first heat exchanger.

[0122] [Fig. 18] is a schematic view illustrating the alignment of an outlet of a second heat exchanger with the first heat exchanger, associated with a module according to an alternative implementation.

[0123] [Fig.19][Fig.20][Fig.21][Fig.22] represent in perspective a unit support of isolated circulation according to a second embodiment.

[0124] [Fig.23][Fig.24][Fig.25] represent in perspective the support of figures 19 to 22 with part of the fluid circulation unit.

[0125] [Fig.26] is a schematic diagram illustrating the positioning of the mounting arms and of the compressor installation portion on the support.

[0126] The invention relates to the field of thermal conditioning systems 1 for heating and / or cooling electrical and / or electronic components of an electric or hybrid motor vehicle, as well as the passenger compartment of said vehicle.

[0127] This type of system may include a heat transfer fluid circuit for heating and / or cooling the electrical and / or electronic components, and preferably the vehicle's passenger compartment, as well as a refrigerant fluid circuit 2 comprising a condenser 52, a compressor 20, a first evaporator 48 for cooling the vehicle's passenger compartment, a second evaporator 50 for cooling the electrical and / or electronic components, such that the second evaporator 50 is thermally coupled to the heat transfer fluid circuit.

[0128] This type of system may include a fluid management module in which the fluid management module comprises a circulation unit 10 (also referred to hereafter as "unit 10") having a first face 40 and a second face 42, the first face 40 being opposite the second face 42, and at least one channel 60, 62, 64 for the refrigerant fluid circuit 2, the first face 40 of the circulation unit 10 supporting at least the second evaporator and the second face 42 of the circulation unit 10 supporting at least one valve 72-2 or 72-3. This type of module and circuit is, for example, described in French patent application FR2204401.

[0129] The refrigerant used by the refrigerant circuit 2 is a chemical fluid such as R1234yf. Other refrigerants could be used, such as R134a or R290.

[0130] The term "high pressure refrigerant" means a refrigerant at a pressure of around 20 bar, and "low pressure refrigerant" means a refrigerant at a pressure of 3 bar.

[0131] Initially, the fluid management module of the thermal management system will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 4. The thermal conditioning system as a whole will then be detailed with reference to Figures 5 and 6.

[0132] In Figures 1 to 4, the circulation unit 10 is formed of at least a first circulation zone 12 for the refrigerant fluid, intended for the circulation of the refrigerant fluid at high pressure, and a second circulation zone 14 for the refrigerant fluid. refrigerant and intended at least for the circulation of the refrigerant fluid at high pressure and / or low pressure.

[0133] Unit 10 is also called the central platform (or "hub" in its English name). Circulation unit 10 is intended to be part of a thermal conditioning system 1 of a motor vehicle in which the refrigerant circulates, in particular in an air conditioning and / or heat pump circuit.

[0134] The refrigerant circulation unit 10 here serves as a support for components such as valves and heat exchangers, and as a fluid circulation unit with channels. The unit 10 is formed of two plates joined together. In this case, the channels for the refrigerant circuit 2 are formed by at least one deformation of one of the two plates. In other words, in the case of Figures 1 and 4 and subsequently 7 to 10, the unit 10 incorporating the channels for the circulation of the refrigerant 2 also serves as a support for components such as heat exchangers, valves, etc. To this end, the plates forming the unit 10 each have one or more flat regions 15 between the channels 60, 64. The thickness of the plates forming the support is substantially uniform both at the level of the flat regions and at the level of the channels 60, 64.

[0135] The unit shown in Figures 1 to 4 comprises at least one first plate, called a transfer plate 80, shaped to form at least one channel or corrugation for the circulation of the fluid. In other words, the curves of the transfer plate 80 constitute passages that form the channels. The unit 10 comprises at least one second plate called a support plate 82. The support plate 82 is configured to provide the interface between the circulation unit 10 and elements attached to this unit 10. The support plate 82 may be flat to be in contact with some of the elements attached to the unit 10. The support plate 82 partially defines the conduits for the refrigerant.

[0136] On [Fig.3], it can be seen that the unit 10 includes at least a first channel 60 intended for the circulation of the high-pressure refrigerant fluid.

[0137] The first channel 60, intended for the circulation of the high-pressure refrigerant, here has a substantially Y-shaped form, with a main branch 60-1 and two branches referred to as the first (60-2) and second (60-3) branches. At least one valve support block is inserted on a branch of the first channel 60 intended for the circulation of the high-pressure refrigerant.

[0138] Figures 3 and 4 also show two valve support blocks 70-2 and 70-3, each of which is inserted on a branch 60-2 or 60-3 of the first channel 60 intended for the circulation of the high-pressure refrigerant.

[0139] Here, the valve support blocks 70-2 and 70-3 are each suitable to receive a valve, in particular a stop valve 72-2 or 72-3 visible in [Fig.7].

[0140] Alternative embodiments not shown propose that the circulation unit 10 include valves such as progressive, EXV (for "electronic expansion valve") or TXV (for "thermostatic expansion valve") valves. These valves will preferably be attached to the circulation unit 10 via a valve support block common to several valves and / or an individual support block specific to each valve.

[0141] Thus, the circulation unit 10 includes at least one valve support block 70-2 or 70-3 which can be seen as a refrigerant distribution block in the circulation unit 10.

[0142] In other words, a shut-off valve 72-2 or 72-3 is made in fluidic communication with the first channel 60 intended for the circulation of the high-pressure refrigerant fluid via the valve support block 70-2 or 70-3.

[0143] More particularly, here, the fluid communication takes place at the level of each respective branch 60-2 or 60-3 of the first channel 60 intended for the circulation of the high-pressure refrigerant fluid.

[0144] A temperature sensor 74 (visible for example in [Fig.7]) is provided at the level of the first channel 60 intended for the circulation of the high-pressure refrigerant fluid.

[0145] The temperature sensor 74 is arranged on one of the two branches of the first channel 60 intended for the circulation of the high-pressure refrigerant fluid (here the second branch 60-2).

[0146] More particularly, the temperature sensor 74 is located near the branch between the main branch 60-1 and the two branches 60-2 and 60-3 of the first channel 60 intended for the circulation of the high-pressure refrigerant fluid.

[0147] As indicated above, the first channel 60 is intended for the circulation of the high-pressure refrigerant fluid.

[0148] The main branch 60-1 of the first channel 60 is intended to ensure communication between a first flange 101, fluidly connected to a compressor 20, and the first (60-2) and second (60-3) branches.

[0149] The first branch 60-2 is intended to provide communication between the main branch 60-1 and a condenser 52.

[0150] The condenser 52 is configured to operate a heat exchange between the high-pressure refrigerant and a heat transfer fluid.

[0151] The second branch 60-3 is intended to ensure communication between the main branch 60-1 and a second flange 102, fluidly connected to an internal condenser 46, not shown here.

[0152] This internal condenser 46 is a heat exchanger for regulating the vehicle's passenger compartment, located, for example, within the passenger compartment of said vehicle. Said internal condenser 46 is intended to heat an airflow passing through it.

[0153] The circulation unit 10 also includes at least one second channel 62 for the circulation of the high-pressure refrigerant fluid.

[0154] The circulation unit 10 includes five second channels 62-1, 62-2, 62-3, 62-4 and 62-5 intended for the circulation of the high-pressure refrigerant fluid.

[0155] One of the second channels, hereinafter referred to as 62-1, is intended to ensure communication between the condenser 52 and another heat exchanger, hereinafter referred to as the first heat exchanger 54.

[0156] As seen in [Fig.9], the first heat exchanger 54 is an internal heat exchanger, said internal heat exchanger enabling a transfer of heat between a low-pressure portion of the refrigerant fluid circuit 2 and a high-pressure portion of said refrigerant fluid circuit 2. Such heat exchange makes it possible to optimize the thermodynamic properties of the refrigerant fluid circuit 2.

[0157] One of the second channels, hereinafter referred to as 62-2, is intended to ensure communication between the first heat exchanger 54 and a branch, said branch dividing into one of the second channels, hereinafter referred to as 62-3 and another of the second channels, hereinafter referred to as 62-4.

[0158] The second channel 62-3 is intended to provide communication between the second channel 62-2 and a valve, preferably an expansion valve. In the following description, this expansion valve will be referred to as the second expansion valve 28.

[0159] The second channel 62-4 is intended to provide communication between the second channel 62-2 and another valve, preferably an expansion valve. In the following description, this expansion valve will be referred to as the first expansion valve 26.

[0160] Each of the expansion valves 26, 28, also called expansion valves, can be an electronic expansion valve, or EXV, a thermostatic expansion valve, or TXV, or a calibrated orifice. In the case of an electronic expansion valve, the passage area allowing the refrigerant to pass can be continuously adjusted between a closed position and a maximum open position. For this purpose, an electronic controller drives an electric motor that moves a movable shutter, controlling the passage area available to the refrigerant.

[0161] The first expansion valve 26 is here directly connected to a third flange 103, itself fluidly connected to a first evaporator 48, not shown.

[0162] This first evaporator 48 is a heat exchanger for regulating the vehicle's passenger compartment, located, for example, in the passenger compartment of said vehicle. Said first evaporator 48 is intended to cool an airflow passing through it.

[0163] One of the second channels, hereinafter referred to as 62-5, is intended to ensure communication between the second channel 62-2 and a fourth flange 104, fluidly connected to the internal condenser 46.

[0164] The traffic unit 10 also includes at least one third channel 64, intended for the circulation of the refrigerant fluid at low pressure.

[0165] Figure 3 shows that the circulation unit 10 has three third channels 64-1, 64-2 and 64-3 for circulating the low-pressure refrigerant. One of the third channels, hereinafter referred to as 64-1, is intended to provide communication between the second expansion valve 28 and the second evaporator 50.

[0166] Here, the second evaporator 50 is of the stacked plate water chiller type (or "chiller" in its English name). This second evaporator is configured to perform a heat exchange between the low-pressure refrigerant and a heat transfer fluid.

[0167] One of the third channels, hereinafter referred to as 64-2, is intended to ensure communication between the second evaporator 50 and a fifth flange 105, fluidly connected to a bottle 56.

[0168] The cylinder 56 is advantageously an accumulator, configured to contain the refrigerant at low pressure. The cylinder 56 may be equipped with a refrigerant charging valve 156. According to an alternative embodiment (not shown), the cylinder 56 may be a desiccant cylinder configured to contain the refrigerant at high pressure and to absorb moisture from the refrigerant flowing through it. According to this embodiment, the cylinder 56, or desiccant cylinder, would be placed on a high-pressure portion of the circuit.

[0169] One of the third channels, hereinafter referred to as 64-3, is intended to ensure communication between a sixth flange 106, fluidly connected to the bottle 56, and the first heat exchanger 54.

[0170] Furthermore, the circulation unit 10 includes a seventh flange 107, fluidly connected to the first evaporator 48.

[0171] The two expansion valves 26, 28 allow control of the supply of refrigerant to the first evaporator 48 and the second evaporator 50. Thus, depending on the position of the expansion valves, 26, 28 the first evaporator 48 and / or the second evaporator 50 can be supplied with refrigerant.

[0172] The first heat exchanger (54), the second evaporator (50) and the condenser (52) are fluidically connected to the first, second and third channels 60, 62, 64, via flanges. More specifically, the first heat exchanger 54 is connected by means of an eighth, ninth and tenth flange, respectively to the second channel 62-1, the second channels 62-2, the third channel 64-3, the second evaporator 50 is connected by means of an eleventh and twelfth flange, respectively to the third channel 64-1 and the third channel 64-2, the condenser 52 is connected by means of a thirteenth flange and a fourteenth flange, respectively to the first branch 60-2 of the first channel 60 and to the second channel 62-1.

[0173] We can see from [Fig.3] that the at least first channel 60 intended for the circulation of the high-pressure refrigerant fluid is disposed on the first refrigerant circulation zone 12 and intended for the circulation of the high-pressure refrigerant fluid, while the at least third channel 64 intended for the circulation of the low-pressure refrigerant fluid is disposed on a second refrigerant circulation zone 14 intended for the circulation of the low-pressure refrigerant fluid.

[0174] The first circulation zone 12 of the refrigerant extends substantially along a first plane PI and the second circulation zone 14 of the refrigerant extends substantially along a second plane P2 and in which the first plane PI of the first circulation zone 12 of the refrigerant and the second plane P2 of the second circulation zone 14 of the refrigerant are different.

[0175] The first refrigerant circulation zone 12 and the second refrigerant circulation zone 14 are connected by a first common edge 16.

[0176] The circulation unit 10 includes a third zone 18 suitable for receiving at least part of the compressor 20, the third zone 18 being distinct from the first circulation zone 12 of the refrigerant fluid and from the second circulation zone 14 of the refrigerant fluid.

[0177] The third zone 18 extends substantially along a third plane P3, the third plane P3 being different from the first plane PI of the first refrigerant circulation zone 12 and from the second plane P2 of the second refrigerant circulation zone 14. The first plane PI of the first refrigerant circulation zone 12, the second plane P2 of the second refrigerant circulation zone 14, and the third plane P3 of the third zone 18 are parallel planes.

[0178] The third zone 18 and the second circulation zone 14 of the refrigerant fluid are connected by a second common edge 22.

[0179] The circulation unit 10 has a first opening 32 extending at least over the third zone 18 suitable for receiving at least part of the compressor 20.

[0180] This first opening 22 can be seen as a cutout allowing the circulation unit to be lightened and allowing two fixing lugs to be defined for the compressor 20.

[0181] The first opening 32 also extends over the second common edge 22 to the third zone 18 and the second circulation zone 14 of the refrigerant fluid.

[0182] We see on [Fig.8] that the circulation unit 10 has a second opening 24, the second opening 24 receiving at least in part a fifteenth flange 115.

[0183] This fifteenth flange 115 ensures fluid communication between the first heat exchanger 54 and the compressor 20.

[0184] According to another aspect of the invention, not shown here, the fifteenth flange 115 could belong to the circulation unit 10.

[0185] Figures 8 to 10 show that the second face 42 of the circulation unit It also accommodates a compressor 20. The compressor 20 is attached to the second face 42 of the circulation unit by any means such as, for example, screws.

[0186] Figures 8 and 10 show that the second face 42 of the circulation unit also accommodates a bottle 56. In other words, the bottle 56 is attached to the second face 42 of the circulation unit 10.

[0187] The condenser 52 is arranged on a first circulation zone 12 of the refrigerant of the unit 10 and intended for the circulation of the refrigerant at high pressure, the second evaporator 50 and the first heat exchanger 54 are arranged on a second circulation zone 14 of the refrigerant of the unit 10 and intended for the circulation of the refrigerant at high pressure and / or for the circulation of the refrigerant at low pressure.

[0188] We see on [Fig.10] that the compressor 20 and the bottle 56 each have a longitudinal extension direction L4 and L5 respectively and in which the longitudinal extension direction L4 of the compressor is perpendicular to the longitudinal extension direction L5 of the bottle 56. This arrangement is also included in the first embodiment, as can be seen in Figure 12b.

[0189] The longitudinal extension directions L4 and L5, respectively of the compressor 20 and the bottle 56, extend parallel to the first, second and third planes PI, P2 and P3.

[0190] These arrangements of the compressor 20 and the bottle 56 make it possible to improve the compactness of the fluid management module of the thermal conditioning system 1.

[0191] The thermal conditioning system 1 within the refrigerant circuit 2 will now be described in relation to Figures 5 and 6. Furthermore, the refrigerant circuit 2 will be described starting with the compressor 20, but it is understood that this represents only a fictitious starting point of the refrigerant circuit 2 and that said refrigerant circuit 2 forms a closed loop.

[0192] A first mode of operation of the refrigerant fluid circuit 2, comprising the thermal conditioning system 1, and enabling the heating and / or cooling of electrical and / or electronic components of an electric or hybrid motor vehicle, and, preferably, the passenger compartment of said vehicle, will now be described in relation to [Fig.5].

[0193] To facilitate understanding, only the pipes symbolized by solid lines in [Fig. 5] will be described, as they are used in the first operating mode. Furthermore, thicker lines on the pipes or components of the refrigerant circuit 2 are used to symbolize the portions of the refrigerant circuit 2 where the refrigerant is at high pressure.

[0194] In this first mode of operation, the compressor 20, described previously, allows the refrigerant fluid to be compressed in order to increase its pressure, and, consequently, its temperature. Thus, it is understood that at the outlet of compressor 20, the high-pressure refrigerant is in a gaseous state and has a high temperature, i.e., higher than its inlet temperature in said compressor 20. The refrigerant at the outlet of compressor 20 circulates in a first pipe 110a, external to the circulation unit 10, then, via the first flange 101, in the main branch 60-1 of the first channel 60 and is directed by means of a first open shut-off valve 72-2 to the first branch 60-2 and then to the condenser pass 17 of the condenser 52. Said condenser 52 then transfers its heat to a first heat transfer fluid 30a of the closed cooling circuit 44.Thus, at the outlet of condenser 52, the refrigerant is colder than at the inlet and is at least partly in a liquid state.

[0195] At the outlet of the condenser 52, the refrigerant is directed, via one of the second channels 62-1, to the first heat exchanger 54. According to the operating mode illustrated in Figures 5 and 6, the first heat exchanger 54 is an internal heat exchanger. The high-pressure refrigerant circulating in the second pass 11b of said first heat exchanger 54 exchanges heat with the low-pressure refrigerant of another portion of the refrigerant circuit 2, circulating in the first pass 11a. This transfer improves the thermodynamic performance implemented in the refrigerant circuit 2.

[0196] After passing through the first heat exchanger 54 via the second pass 11b, the refrigerant flows into one of the second channels 62-2 to a branch. The refrigerant then flows into one of the second channels 62-3 and / or one of the second channels 62-4 and passes through a second expansion valve 28 and / or a first expansion valve 26 respectively, in order to lower its pressure and boiling point. It is understood that at this stage, the flow transitions from the high-pressure portion of the refrigerant circuit 2 to its low-pressure portion.

[0197] At the outlet of the second expansion valve 28, the low-pressure refrigerant fluid is directed via one of the third channels 64-1 and circulates within the second evaporator 50 via the evaporator pass 13, in order to exchange heat with a second heat transfer fluid 30b intended to cool the electrical and / or electronic components and passing through said second evaporator 50. More particularly, the second heat transfer fluid 30b passing through the second evaporator 50 is hot at the inlet of the second evaporator 50 and gives up its heat to the refrigerant circulating in the evaporator pass 13, which thus evaporates, the change of state producing the energy necessary for cooling the electrical and / or electronic components. Thus, it is understood that within the second evaporator 50, the refrigerant evaporates due to heat absorption, the second expansion valve 28 having lowered its evaporation point. It is then understood that at the outlet of the second evaporator 50, the refrigerant circulating in one of the third channels 64-2 is predominantly in a gaseous state.

[0198] At the outlet of the first expansion valve 26, the cold, low-pressure refrigerant is directed, via a third flange 103 and then a second line 110b, external to the unit 10, to the first evaporator 48 of a thermal control device 38 for the vehicle's passenger compartment, located, for example, within the passenger compartment of said vehicle. More specifically, the thermal control device 38 is positioned within the passenger compartment such that it is traversed by an airflow F which is directed into the passenger compartment. Thus, it is understood that the airflow F passing through the first evaporator 48 is cooled by the cold refrigerant circulating within it, thereby cooling the passenger compartment.The refrigerant fluid passing through the first evaporator 48 is then evaporated by the effect of the captured calories, so that it exits at least partially in a gaseous state in a third pipe 110c, outside the unit 10, up to a seventh flange 107 of the unit 10. .

[0199] Once it has passed through the second evaporator 50, the refrigerant from one of the third channels 64-2 passes through a fifth flange 105, flows in a fourth line 110e, external to the unit 10, and passes through the receiver 56, here the accumulator. The refrigerant from the first evaporator 48 passes through a seventh flange 107, then flows in a fifth line 110e, external to the unit 10, to the receiver 56. The receiver 56, or accumulator, collects a liquid fraction of the refrigerant at the outlet of the second evaporator 50 and / or the first evaporator 48. Such passage through the receiver 56 is necessary prior to the refrigerant passing through the compressor 20, which can only accept the refrigerant in a gaseous state.

[0200] At the outlet of the bottle 56, the refrigerant, in a gaseous state and still at low pressure, is directed, via a sixth line 110g, external to the circulation unit 10, and a sixth flange 106, to the first heat exchanger 54 by means of one of the third channels 64-3, in order to perform the heat exchange with the refrigerant from the high-pressure portion of the refrigerant circuit 2 via the first pass 1a, as described previously. Subsequently, the refrigerant is directed to the compressor 20 via a fifteenth flange 115 and a seventh line 110g, external to the circulation unit 10, so that the compressor increases its pressure and temperature as described previously. According to the operating mode illustrated in Figures 5 and 6, the fifteenth flange 115 is directly integrated into the first heat exchanger 54. According to an alternative, not illustrated, this fifteenth flange 115 could belong to the unit of circulation 10. We understand that thus, at the outlet of compressor 20, we switch back into the high pressure portion of the refrigerant fluid circuit 2 and that a new thermodynamic cycle can take place.

[0201] A second mode of operation of the refrigerant fluid circuit 2 comprising the thermal conditioning system 1, and enabling the heating and / or cooling of electrical and / or electronic components of an electric or hybrid motor vehicle, and, preferably, the passenger compartment of said vehicle, will now be described in relation to [Fig.6].

[0202] To facilitate understanding, only the pipes symbolized by solid lines in [Fig. 6] will be described, as they are used in the second operating mode. Furthermore, thicker lines on the pipes symbolize the portions of the refrigerant circuit 2 where the refrigerant is at high pressure.

[0203] In the same way as for the first mode of operation, at the outlet of compressor 20 in the first pipe 110a, outside the unit 10, the refrigerant fluid has a high pressure, a high temperature and is in a gaseous state. The refrigerant is then directed, by closing the first valve 72-2 and opening the second valve 72-3, via a first flange 101, a main branch 60-1, a second branch 60-3, a second flange 102 and an eighth line 110, to an internal condenser 46 of the passenger compartment thermal control device 38, in order to heat the airflow F, here cold, passing through at least said internal condenser 46. Thus, it is understood that at the outlet of the internal condenser 46 of the passenger compartment thermal control device 38, the refrigerant is at least partially condensed, having given up at least some of its heat to the cold airflow F in order to heat it and therefore heat the passenger compartment.Subsequently, the refrigerant exits the internal condenser 46 via a ninth line 1 lOi. .

[0204] The refrigerant exiting the internal condenser 46 of the passenger compartment's thermal control device 38 then enters one of the second channels 62-5 via the fourth flange 104. The refrigerant flows through one of the second channels 62-5, then through the second channel 62-2, and passes through the second expansion valve 28 to lower its pressure and boiling point. It is understood that at this stage, the flow transitions from the high-pressure portion of the refrigerant circuit 2 to its low-pressure portion.

[0205] The refrigerant then passes through one of the third channels 64-1 and then the second evaporator 50 via the evaporator pass 13 in order to absorb heat from the second heat transfer fluid 30b intended to cool electrical and / or electronic components. By absorbing heat from the second heat transfer fluid 30b, the refrigerant evaporates at least partially and continues its path in the circuit of refrigerant fluid 2 in the same way as previously described for the first operating mode.

[0206] According to a third operating mode, not shown here, the condenser 52 has the function of exchanging heat with the first heat transfer fluid 30a, which is intended to heat electrical and / or electronic components of an electric or hybrid motor vehicle. In this operating mode, the high-pressure refrigerant circulates within the condenser 52 via the condenser pass 17, in order to exchange heat with the first heat transfer fluid 30a, which is intended to heat the electrical and / or electronic components and which flows through said condenser 52. More specifically, the first heat transfer fluid 30a, passing through the condenser 52, is cold at the inlet of the condenser 52 and absorbs heat from the refrigerant circulating in the condenser pass 17, which thus condenses. This change of state produces the energy necessary to heat the electrical and / or electronic components.

[0207] According to an example of this operating mode, on the side of the second evaporator 50, the refrigerant would pass through the evaporator pass 13 in order to absorb heat from the second heat transfer fluid 30b, said second heat transfer fluid 30b circulating in a radiator, not shown, located for example at the front of the vehicle. The heat transfer fluid 30b would then release the absorbed heat to the ambient air through said radiator.

[0208] Reference is now made to [Fig. 11], which represents a support for a circulation unit according to a first embodiment of the invention. [Fig. 11] shows a support 200 for a refrigerant circulation unit 217. According to this embodiment, the support 200 has a generally flat, platform-like shape and comprises a first face 200a and a second face 200b opposite each other and formed on either side of a median extension plane PM of the platform, this plane separating the two faces 200a and 200b. Figure 11A illustrates the support 200 viewed from the first face 200a, and Figure 11B illustrates the support viewed from the second face 200b. The support-circulation unit assembly according to the first embodiment can be applied to a circuit and to a thermal conditioning system as described above but is by no means limited to this circuit and this system.

[0209] As shown, the first face 200a of the support 200 includes a flat receiving area 202 for receiving refrigerant circulation channels such as those described previously with reference to [Fig. 3] or those described with reference to [Fig. 7]. The refrigerant circulation unit 217 thus includes channels 218 applied against the first face 200a of the support 200 and tubular conduits 206 that are spaced away from the support 200. This type of conduit is illustrated in 110g in [Fig. 8] and also with reference to Figure 12A in 206.

[0210] As can be seen, the first face 200a and the second face 200b of the support Each comprises a lattice structure formed by a plurality of first ribs 208 oriented along a first orientation and second ribs 210 oriented along a second orientation in the plane of extension, the second orientation not being parallel to the first orientation. The ribs 208 and 210 may be separated from each other by cells. In another embodiment, the first face 200a and the second face could comprise a lattice structure with ribs together delimiting cells having a honeycomb shape, i.e., a hexagonal cross-section. The ribs provide rigidity to the support.

[0211] In Figure 1 IA, it can be seen that the flat receiving area 202 is partly surrounded by a lattice structure formed by the ribs 208, 210. More practically, the upper surfaces of the ribs are flush with the flat receiving area 202.

[0212] The support 200 thus formed with a flat receiving area 202 surrounded by a lattice structure proves to be rigid and lightweight. The support can be made of a composite material and / or a plastic material. Advantageously, it is therefore not made of a metallic material, which makes it lighter and prevents heat transfer. It can be, for example, a fiber-reinforced polypropylene or polyamide. Note that the support is preferably made of a material less dense than the material constituting the channels of the refrigerant circulation unit.

[0213] The second surface 200b of the support 200 includes a portion for installing the compressor 20. To improve the rigidity of the assembly, the receiving element 212 of the compressor is formed opposite the flat receiving area 202 of the support 200. It can be formed of several ribs with a concave curved upper edge allowing to complementaryly support a convex rounded outer face of the compressor 20.

[0214] The support 200 comprises arms 214a, 214b, and 214c substantially perpendicular to the support's extension plane. These arms are intended to allow attachment to a housing or chassis of a motor vehicle, for example. A first arm 214a extends from the first face in the opposite direction to the second face. A second arm 214b extends from the second face in the opposite direction to the first face. A third arm 214c extends in the same manner as the second arm 214b. The arms may include threaded metal tubular inserts for the passage of fasteners to the chassis. The fasteners may also be attached directly through the arms without inserts.

[0215] The support 200 may include windows 216 or passages allowing the first face 200a and the second face 200b to be joined. These windows are intended to allow the fluid connection between the components of the refrigerant circuit.

[0216] Figure 12 illustrates the support carrying the circulation unit 217 on the first face 200a, the circulation unit being supported by the flat receiving area 202. The com- presser 20 is mounted on the opposite face 200b.

[0217] Reference is now made to [Fig. 13], which illustrates a support 200 identical to that described with reference to [Fig. 11] and on which are arranged a plurality of connecting channels 218 linking components of the refrigerant circuit, i.e., at least two of a first heat exchanger 54, a second heat exchanger 50, and a compressor. According to this document, at least one channel of the circulation unit 217 is supported by the flat receiving area 202. Ideally, they are all supported by said flat receiving area 202. The channels are thus supported by the flat receiving area 202 of the support, which further stiffens the support 200. Thus positioned, the channels 218 are arranged opposite the compressor supported by the second face 200b of the support 200.

[0218] The channels illustrated with reference to [Fig. 13] and also with reference to [Fig. 14] each comprise a first flat wall element 218a and a second wall element 218b, each second wall element 218b comprising a cavity formed by a boss. The boss has a first face defining a groove extending between a first end 220 and a second end 222.

[0219] According to one aspect of the invention, each second wall element 218b comprises a peripheral edge 219b surrounding the boss or groove. This peripheral edge 219b is applied to a peripheral edge 219a of a first wall element 218a. Said peripheral edges are welded or brazed together. They could also be joined by another means of attachment, such as bonding. The means of attachment must be capable of withstanding the pressure and temperature of the fluid flowing in the channels.

[0220] As illustrated in Figure 14A and [Fig. 15], the first wall elements 218a are formed in a single piece. In this embodiment, they are all formed in the same piece 221 which is applied to the support 200 ([Fig. 16]).

[0221] Screw-nut connections can be provided to connect the circulation unit 217 to the support 200. Metal inserts may be present in the support to cooperate with the screws. Screwing the screw into a threaded hole in the support, possibly a threaded hole in a recessed insert, may also be offered.

[0222] The part 221 advantageously has two substantially flat faces, a first 221a applied to the face 200a of the support 200 and a second face 221b receiving the second wall elements 218b. The second wall elements can in particular be made of stamped metal plates.

[0223] Thus, in one embodiment, part 221 has the form of a plate having two faces 221a, 221b which are parallel and flat.

[0224] It is also observed that the second wall elements 218b can be formed distinctly from one another (in separate parts) and are each coupled to a first wall element 218a. Each second wall element 218b includes an orifice 223 formed at at least one of its first and second ends.

[0225] In one embodiment, the plate-shaped part 221 could include a second non-planar face 221b. In other words, it could be formed from a plurality of receiving surfaces for a second wall element 218b, each surface of a first wall element 218a being able to be inclined relative to another surface of another first wall element 218a. The face 221a can be planar so as to be applied to a corresponding planar face of the planar receiving area 202.

[0226] As illustrated in Figures 14, 15 and 16, spaces 224 can be provided between all or part of said first wall elements and / or second wall elements. In this way, it is possible to reduce heat transmission between two first wall elements 218a and / or between two second wall elements 218b.

[0227] Reference is now made to [Fig. 17] which illustrates the first heat exchanger (or IHX) 54 which is carried by the first face of the support 200 and the compressor which is carried by the second face of the support 200. The illustrated assembly is also applicable to the support described with reference to Figures 1 to 10.

[0228] Figure 10C illustrates the fluid connection 110g between the first heat exchanger and the compressor, more precisely between an outlet 228 and the inlet 230 of the compressor. Figure 10C shows the straight fluid conduit 110g. In particular, the inlet port 230 of the compressor is partially aligned with the outlet port 228 of the first heat exchanger. In this specific case, these ports are coaxial. In this first configuration, the refrigerant flowing at low pressure from the outlet of the first heat exchanger experiences only minimal pressure loss before entering the compressor, compared to the prior art where the conduit was bent.

[0229] In a second configuration illustrated in [Fig. 18], the outlet of a second heat exchanger, such as the second evaporator 50, could be aligned at least partially with an inlet of the first heat exchanger 226. In this case, the evaporator could be directly connected to the inlet of the first heat exchanger 54. In this second configuration, the second heat exchanger 50 is then arranged in place of the compressor, which can be located outside the support 200.

[0230] By aligned orifice, it is understood that at least a portion of the cross-section of an outlet orifice is aligned with a portion of the cross-section of an inlet orifice. More specifically, the cross-sections of the orifices may be coaxial without being completely identical, and may also be identical.

[0231] The length of the conduit which connects the two components concerned by the first configuration ([Fig.17]) or the second configuration ([Fig.18]) may be less than 60mm, for example between 20 and 50 mm, in particular between 30 and 40 mm.

[0232] A second embodiment of the invention is shown in Figures 19 to 25. This embodiment is distinguished by the use of a support of a different shape and by a different channel configuration for the circulation unit.

[0233] Figures 19 and 20 show the isolated support on the side of the first face 200a while Figures 21 and 22 show the isolated support on the side of the second face 200b.

[0234] In this second embodiment, the support includes at least one recess 241 inside which the receiving area 202 is located. The support 200 has cavities 251, 252.

[0235] The cavities 251, 252 are arranged in the first face 200a of the support as well as in the second face 200b of the support. The cavities 251, 252 of the support are blind. In other words, the cavities have a bottom and form pockets, recessed with respect to the first face 200a and the second face 200b. Preferably, the cavities 251, 252 have the shape of a polyhedron or prism extending orthogonally to the receiving area 202, for example, a right prism with a hexagonal or rhombic base. Some cavities are located within the receiving area.

[0236] It can be seen that the cavities 251, 252 of one and / or the other of the first face 200a and of the second face 200b are arranged in a staggered pattern.

[0237] The support comprises a first group of cavities 251 arranged in the first face 200a and a second group of cavities 252 arranged in the second face 200b, the cavities 252 of the second group each being arranged between several cavities 251 of the first group of cavities 251, the cavities 251 of the first group and the cavities 252 of the second group being offset from each other.

[0238] As can be seen in [Fig.21], the cavities 251, 252 are distributed so that the support has a substantially constant thickness within the receiving area 202.

[0239] On this [Fig.21], we see that in a section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the support passing through the receiving area, the support 202 presents a section winding on either side of a median plane PM of the platform.

[0240] In Figures 21 and 22, it can be seen that the support comprises a third group of cavities 253 arranged in the second face (200b), the third group of cavities (253) being in the form of a right prism with a rhombus base. The cavities 253 of the third group of cavities each extend between two cavities 252 of the second group of cavities. The cavities of the first group of cavities 251 comprise a base 251a, and the cavities 253 of the third group of cavities each extend between two bases 251a of cavities 251 of the first group of cavities.

[0241] As before, the circulation unit 217 comprises a plurality of channels 218 connecting a plurality of components of a fluid circuit. At least two channels of the plurality of channels are such that the first wall elements are formed from a single part 221 and the second wall elements 218b are formed from separate parts. A plurality of first wall elements are arranged in the recess 241.

[0242] Several first wall elements 218a of the channels are formed in the same flat plate.

[0243] In this embodiment, the assembly comprises a plurality of circulation units 2171, 2172, 2173, each comprising at least one first wall element and at least one second wall element, the first wall elements of the different units being formed by separate plates spaced apart from one another, each circulation unit comprising a single flat plate for the formation of its first wall element(s). Advantageously, these flat plates are arranged in the same plane.

[0244] On [Fig.23], we see that the recess is delimited by a rim 242 and one of the flat plates includes a border 1181, at least part of which is placed against the rim 242 of the recess 241.

[0245] The support 200 includes at least one through window 216 and the fluid circulation unit 217 includes at least one through conduit which passes through this window to circulate the fluid from one side to the other of the support 200; the through conduit also passing through a passage orifice formed in a flat plate forming several first wall elements, the passage orifice opening into the inside of the window 216 of the support.

[0246] As before, the support 200 includes mounting arms 214a, 214b, 214c to a vehicle chassis.

[0247] The receiving area 202 and the mounting arms 214a, 214b, 214c are formed on the same part. In other words, the support is monolithic from the receiving area to the mounting arms. These mounting arms 214a, 214b, 214c extend substantially orthogonally to the receiving area of ​​the support to one end.

[0248] The mounting arms 214a, 214b, 214c each have a housing, each housing being suitable for receiving a damping decoupling element intended to cooperate with a mounting element of the vehicle chassis. Each housing extends along an axis perpendicular to the direction of extension of the corresponding arm.

[0249] The support preferably comprises at least three arms 214a, 214b, 214c.

[0250] In this embodiment, the two arms 214a and 214c are arranged such that one of these two arms 214a extends from the first face 200a and prolongs the other of these two arms 214c which extends from the second face 200b.

[0251] Figure 22 shows that a set of cavities extends along the mounting arm 214b. This set of cavities extends perpendicularly to the receiving area 202. This arm 214b has a plurality of cavities closed at the end of the arm and open on the first face 200a and at least one cavity open at the end of the arm and closed in the plane of the first face 200a. The cavities of the arm have hexagonal and / or rhombic cross-sections.

[0252] The support 200 includes an installation portion 212 adapted to receive a compressor 20. As in the first embodiment, the installation portion 212 is formed projecting from the second face 200b of the support 200, and is integral with the receiving area 202 of the support. The installation portion has a curved concavity adapted to retain two opposite sides of the compressor.

[0253] Whereas the receiving concavity was formed by the ribs in the first embodiment, the curved concavity is formed here by a portion of a cylinder extending between two ridges.

[0254] The concavity is supported by ribs 212a connecting the two ridges 212c to the first face. The ribs are parallel. Part of the receiving area 202 is formed by the ends of the ribs of the compressor mounting portion. The platform extends around the mounting portion 212 in this second embodiment. Only the ends of the ribs form part of the receiving area 202 opposite the mounting portion 212.

[0255] The installation portion also includes three threaded holes 213 arranged orthogonally to the receiving area 202. The threaded holes 213 can be formed directly in the support 200 or in inserts. Thus, the compressor 29 can be screwed onto the support.

[0256] The threads 213 are provided inside tubes, each tube extending from the first face 200a to one of the ridges 212c. For example, the tubes 212f are arranged in support cones 212d of the installation portion 212.

[0257] It is also noted in [Fig.22] that the support also advantageously includes a concave reception portion 279 arranged to fit the shape of an accumulator or a bottle.

[0258] Figure 26 schematically illustrates the positioning of the arms and the installation portion of the compressor within the support according to the first and second embodiments. Considering a median straight line LM perpendicular to the length L1 of the support 200 and dividing the support into two substantially equal half-surfaces DSI and DS2 of support, the compressor 20 is arranged so that it straddles the median line LM.

[0259] The compressor thus provides additional rigidity to the assembly and prevents torsion of the support.

[0260] The fixing arms 214a, 214b; 214c are arranged so that each thread 213 is arranged longitudinally between the midline LM and one of the arms 214A, 214b, 214c.

[0261] The compressor 20 extends longitudinally over at least one quarter of the length L1 of the support 200.

[0262] Considering two straight lines LP1 and LP2 perpendicular to the length L1 of the support and separating the support into three portions of support surfaces PSI, PS2, and PS3 substantially equal, the arms are arranged on each portion of end surface PSI and PS3.

[0263] Generally, the plurality of channels of the circulation unit extends substantially parallel to the axis of the compressor 20, in other words perpendicular to the ribs 212a of the installation portion 212 of the compressor 20. The installation portion being configured so that the compressor extends longitudinally parallel to the length L1 of the support and substantially in the same direction as the plurality of channels of the circulation unit, the compressor makes it possible to effectively stiffen the support-circulation unit assembly.

Claims

Claims

1. Assembly for a vehicle thermal conditioning system, said assembly comprising a fluid circulation unit (217) comprising at least one channel (218) formed by a first wall element (218a) and a second wall element (218b) shaped so as to delimit a cavity which is closed by the first wall element (218a), in which the assembly comprises a support (200) formed in a part separate from said at least one channel (218), the support (200) comprising a first face (200a) comprising a receiving zone (202) on which is applied a face of said at least one first wall element of said at least one channel (218).

2. Assembly according to the preceding claim, in which the support (200) comprises a tray (240), the receiving zone (202) being arranged in whole or in part on this tray (240).

3. Assembly according to the preceding claim, in which, in a section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the support (200) passing through the receiving zone (202), the support (200) has a section winding on either side of a median plane (PM) of the plate (240).

4. Assembly according to one of the preceding claims, in which the first wall element (218a) is planar and the receiving zone (202) is planar, the first wall element (218a) being pressed against the receiving zone (202).

5. An assembly according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the support (200) is formed from a less dense material than the material of said at least one channel (218).

6. Assembly according to one of the preceding claims, in which the support (200) is made of a composite material and / or a plastic material and the first and second wall elements are metallic.

7. Assembly according to one of the preceding claims, in which the support (200) comprises cavities (251, 252), the support comprising a second face (200b) opposite the first face, and the cavities (251, 252) are arranged in the first face (200a) of the support as well as in the second face (200b) of the support, the cavities (251, 252) of the support being blind.

8. An assembly according to the preceding claim, in which the cavities (251, 252) have a polyhedron or prism shape extending orthogonally to the receiving area (202), for example a right prism shape with a hexagonal base or a rhombus base.

9. Assembly according to one of claims 7 to 8, in which the support comprises a first group of cavities (251) arranged in the first face (200a) and a second group of cavities (252) arranged in the second face (200b), the cavities (252) of the second group each being arranged between several cavities (251) of the first group of cavities (251), the cavities (251) of the first group and the cavities (252) of the second group being offset relative to each other.

10. Assembly according to one of claims 7 to 9, in which the support comprises a third group of cavities (253) arranged in the second face (200b), the third group of cavities (253) being in the shape of a right prism with a diamond base, the cavities (253) of the third group of cavities each extending between two cavities (252) of the second group of cavities.

11. An assembly according to claim 7 wherein the cavities are delimited by an arrangement of lattice ribs.

12. An assembly according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the circulation unit (217) comprises a plurality of channels (218) connecting a plurality of components of a fluid circuit, at least two channels of the plurality of channels being such that the first wall elements are formed by the same part (221) and the second wall elements (218b) are formed in separate parts.

13. An assembly according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the assembly comprises a plurality of circulation units (2171, 2172, 2173) each comprising at least one first wall element (218a) and at least one second wall element (218b), the first wall elements (218a) of the different circulation units being formed by separate plates spaced apart from each other, each circulation unit (2171, 2172, 2173) comprising a single flat plate for forming its or its first wall elements (218a).

14. Assembly according to one of the preceding claims, in which the support (200) comprises arms (214a, 214b) for attachment to a chassis of a vehicle, the receiving zone (202) and the attachment arms (214a, 214b) being formed on the same part.

15. Assembly according to one of the preceding claims, in which the support comprises an installation portion (212) capable of receiving a compressor (20), the installation portion being formed as a projection relative to the second face (200b) of the support, and in one piece with the receiving zone (202) of the support (200).

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