Thermal conditioning system

Abstract

The invention relates to a thermal conditioning system (100), comprising a heat transfer fluid circuit (20) including: - a main loop (20A) comprising a bidirectional pump (6), and comprising successively, according to a first discharge direction (S1) of the pump (6): - a first inlet / outlet (ES1) of the pump (6), - a first heat exchanger (1), - a second heat exchanger (2), - a second inlet / outlet (ES2) of the pump (6), - a branch (20B) connecting a first connection point (C1) located between the first inlet / outlet (ES1) of the bidirectional pump (6) and the first heat exchanger (1) to a second connection point (C2) located between the first heat exchanger (1) and the second heat exchanger (2), in which: - the main loop (20A) includes a first unidirectional valve (11), and - the branch (20B) includes a second unidirectional valve (12). Figure from the abstract: Figure 1a

Description

Title of the invention: Thermal conditioning system Technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of thermal conditioning systems. Such systems can, for example, be fitted to motor vehicles. These systems make it possible to ensure thermal regulation of various parts of the vehicle, such as the passenger compartment or an electrical energy storage battery, when the vehicle is electrically powered. Heat exchanges are managed mainly by the compression and expansion of a refrigerant circulating in a circuit in which several heat exchangers are arranged. A compressor delivers the refrigerant in a high-pressure state and allows circulation of the refrigerant in the circuit. The refrigerant can absorb heat or give off heat at various heat exchangers arranged on the circuit. Prior art

[0002] Refrigerants based on fluorinated compounds generally have the disadvantage of having a high global warming potential (GWP coefficient). Some hydrocarbons, for example propane, have thermodynamic properties that make their use as a refrigerant possible, and have a lower global warming coefficient. However, it is preferable that heat exchangers located in the passenger compartment of vehicles do not contain hydrocarbons. In this case, the hydrocarbon-based refrigerant performs an intermediate heat exchange with a water-based heat transfer fluid, and the heat transfer fluid then circulates in heat exchangers arranged in the passenger compartment. Heating and cooling of the passenger compartment can thus be ensured by circulating heat transfer fluid, either preheated by the refrigerant or precooled by the refrigerant.

[0003] In order to manage the different phases and modes of operation, the heat transfer liquid circuit often comprises several valves making it possible to authorize or prohibit the circulation of heat transfer liquid in certain portions of the heat transfer liquid circuit.

[0004] These valves, for example three-way valves, are relatively expensive components and may require relatively complex controls. It is therefore desirable to have thermal conditioning systems in which the management of the heat transfer liquid circuit can be simplified. Summary

[0005] For this purpose, a thermal conditioning system is proposed, comprising a heat transfer liquid circuit configured to circulate a heat transfer liquid, the heat transfer liquid circuit comprising: - a main loop comprising a bidirectional pump, the main loop successively comprising, according to a first discharge direction of the bidirectional pump: — a first inlet / outlet of the bidirectional pump, — a first heat exchanger, — a second heat exchanger, — a second bidirectional pump inlet / outlet, - a bypass branch connecting a first connection point arranged on the main loop between the first inlet / outlet of the bidirectional pump and the first heat exchanger to a second connection point arranged on the main loop between the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger, in which: - the main loop comprises a first one-way valve configured to allow circulation of heat transfer fluid through the first one-way valve only from the first connection point to the second connection point, and the bypass branch comprises a second one-way valve configured to allow circulation of heat transfer fluid through the second one-way valve only from the second connection point to the first connection point, Or - the main loop comprises a first one-way valve configured to allow circulation of heat transfer fluid through the first one-way valve only from the second connection point to the first connection point, and the bypass branch comprises a second one-way valve configured to allow circulation of heat transfer fluid through the second one-way valve only from the first connection point to the second connection point.

[0006] The features listed in the following paragraphs can be implemented independently of each other or in any technically possible combination:

[0007] According to one aspect of an exemplary embodiment, the main loop comprises a first one-way valve configured to allow liquid circulation heat transfer fluid through the first one-way valve from the first connection point to the second connection point and configured to prohibit circulation of heat transfer fluid through the first one-way valve from the second connection point to the first connection point, and the bypass branch comprises a second one-way valve configured to allow circulation of heat transfer fluid through the second one-way valve from the second connection point to the first connection point and configured to prohibit circulation of heat transfer fluid through the second one-way valve from the first connection point to the second connection point.

[0008] According to one aspect of an alternative embodiment, the main loop comprises a first one-way valve configured to allow circulation of heat transfer fluid through the first one-way valve from the second connection point to the first connection point and configured to prohibit circulation of heat transfer fluid through the first one-way valve from the first connection point to the second connection point, and the bypass branch comprises a second one-way valve configured to allow circulation of heat transfer fluid through the second one-way valve from the first connection point to the second connection point and configured to prohibit circulation of heat transfer fluid through the second one-way valve from the second connection point to the first connection point.

[0009] According to one embodiment of the thermal conditioning system, the first one-way valve is arranged on the main loop between the first connection point and the first exchanger.

[0010] According to an alternative embodiment, the first one-way valve is arranged on the main loop between the first exchanger and the second connection point.

[0011] The first one-way valve is for example a non-return valve. Similarly, the second one-way valve can be a check valve.

[0012] The bidirectional pump comprises a first inlet / outlet and a second inlet / outlet. The bidirectional pump is configured to selectively: - circulate, outside the bidirectional pump, the heat transfer liquid from the first inlet / outlet to the second inlet / outlet, or - circulate, outside the bidirectional pump, the heat transfer liquid from the second inlet / outlet to the first inlet / outlet.

[0013] According to one embodiment, the bidirectional pump comprises an electric motor driving a set of moving parts configured to selectively: - according to a first direction of discharge, discharge the heat transfer liquid to the level from a first inlet / outlet and suck the heat transfer fluid at a second inlet / outlet, or - according to a second discharge direction, discharge the heat transfer liquid at the second inlet / outlet and suck in the heat transfer liquid at the first inlet / outlet.

[0014] For example, a first direction of rotation of the electric motor corresponds to the first direction of discharge of the bidirectional pump.

[0015] Similarly, a second direction of rotation of the electric motor, opposite to the first direction of rotation, corresponds to the second direction of discharge of the bidirectional pump.

[0016] Reversing the direction of rotation of the electric motor driving all the moving parts of the bidirectional pump makes it possible to switch from the first direction of delivery to the second direction of delivery, and vice versa.

[0017] The bidirectional pump may be inactive.

[0018] According to an exemplary implementation, the thermal conditioning system is a thermal conditioning system for a motor vehicle.

[0019] According to one embodiment of the thermal conditioning system, the first heat exchanger is thermally coupled with an element of an electric powertrain of a motor vehicle.

[0020] The first heat exchanger makes it possible to selectively cool or heat the element of the electric powertrain of the vehicle.

[0021] The element of the electric powertrain of the vehicle comprises, for example, an electrical energy storage battery.

[0022] Alternatively, the element of the electric traction chain of the vehicle may comprise an electric traction motor of the vehicle.

[0023] As a further variant, the element of the electric traction chain of the vehicle may comprise an electronic unit for controlling the electric traction motor of the vehicle.

[0024] The first heat exchanger comprises, for example, a wall of a casing of the element of the electric traction chain.

[0025] According to one embodiment of the thermal conditioning system, the second heat exchanger is arranged jointly on the main heat transfer fluid loop and on a refrigerant fluid loop so as to allow heat exchange between the heat transfer fluid and the refrigerant fluid.

[0026] The second heat exchanger is a two-fluid exchanger.

[0027] The second heat exchanger comprises a first heat exchange section arranged on the main heat transfer fluid loop and a second heat exchange section arranged on the refrigerant fluid loop.

[0028] According to one embodiment of the thermal conditioning system, the heat transfer fluid circuit comprises an electric heating device configured to selectively heat the heat transfer fluid.

[0029] The electric heating device is for example arranged on the main heat transfer fluid loop.

[0030] The electric heating device makes it possible to heat the heat transfer liquid circulating in the circuit.

[0031] According to one embodiment of the thermal conditioning system, the electric heating device is arranged on the main heat transfer fluid loop between the second connection point and the second heat exchanger.

[0032] According to one embodiment, the thermal conditioning system comprises a refrigerant circuit configured to circulate a refrigerant, comprising, according to a direction of circulation of the refrigerant: - a compressor, - a third heat exchanger, - a regulator, - the second heat exchanger, arranged jointly on the refrigerant circuit and on the main heat transfer fluid loop.

[0033] The refrigerant circuit comprises an accumulation device arranged downstream of the second heat exchanger and upstream of an inlet of the refrigerant compressor.

[0034] Alternatively, the accumulation device is arranged downstream of the third heat exchanger and upstream of the expansion valve.

[0035] The third heat exchanger can operate as a refrigerant cooler.

[0036] According to one embodiment, the third heat exchanger is thermally coupled with an air flow inside a passenger compartment of a motor vehicle.

[0037] According to an exemplary embodiment, the third heat exchanger is configured to exchange heat with the air flow inside the passenger compartment of the vehicle.

[0038] According to an alternative embodiment, the third heat exchanger is configured to exchange heat with a heat transfer liquid circulating in a closed heat transfer liquid circuit, the heat transfer liquid circuit comprising a heat exchanger configured to exchange heat with the air flow inside the passenger compartment of the vehicle.

[0039] According to another embodiment, the third heat exchanger is thermally coupled with an air flow outside a passenger compartment of a motor vehicle.

[0040] According to an exemplary implementation, the third heat exchanger is configured to exchange heat with the air flow outside the passenger compartment of the vehicle. According to one variant, the third heat exchanger is configured to exchange heat with a heat transfer fluid circulating in a closed heat transfer fluid circuit, and the heat transfer fluid circuit comprises a heat exchanger configured to exchange heat with the air flow outside the passenger compartment of the vehicle.

[0041] The second exchanger can operate as a refrigerant fluid evaporator.

[0042] According to one embodiment, the bypass branch comprises a fourth heat exchanger.

[0043] The fourth heat exchanger is arranged between the second one-way valve and the first connection point.

[0044] The fourth heat exchanger is arranged between the second connection point and the second one-way valve.

[0045] The fourth heat exchanger is configured to exchange heat with an air stream.

[0046] According to one embodiment, the air flow is an air flow inside a passenger compartment of a motor vehicle.

[0047] Alternatively, the air flow is an air flow outside a passenger compartment of a motor vehicle.

[0048] There is also provided a method of operating a thermal conditioning system as described above, in a mode called the first operating mode in which the bidirectional pump delivers the heat transfer liquid in the first delivery direction, and in which: a flow of heat transfer liquid circulates successively in the bidirectional pump, in the first heat exchanger, in the second heat exchanger.

[0049] According to this first mode of operation, the flow rate of heat transfer liquid in the bypass branch is zero.

[0050] In the first mode of operation, the heat transfer fluid flows through the main loop and does not flow through the bypass branch. The first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger are both passed through by a flow of heat transfer fluid and carry out a heat exchange.

[0051] There is also proposed a method of operating a thermal conditioning system as described previously, in a mode called second operating mode in which the bidirectional pump delivers the heat transfer liquid in the second delivery direction, and in which: a flow of heat transfer liquid circulates successively in the two-way pump, in the second heat exchanger, in the second one-way valve.

[0052] According to this second mode of operation, the flow rate of heat transfer liquid in the first heat exchanger is zero.

[0053] A method of operating a thermal conditioning system as described above is also proposed, in a first mode called passenger compartment heating and battery cooling, in which: - a flow of refrigerant fluid circulates in the compressor where it passes at high pressure, and circulates successively in the third heat exchanger where it gives off heat, in the expansion valve where it undergoes expansion and passes at low pressure, in the second heat exchanger where it receives heat from the heat transfer liquid, and returns to the compressor, - a flow of heat transfer fluid circulates successively in the second heat exchanger where the heat transfer fluid gives up heat from the refrigerant fluid, in the first heat exchanger where it receives heat, and returns to the second heat exchanger.

[0054] A method of operating a thermal conditioning system as described above is also proposed, in a first mode called passenger compartment heating, in which: - a flow of refrigerant fluid circulates in the compressor where it passes at high pressure, and circulates successively in the third heat exchanger where it gives off heat, in the expansion valve where it undergoes expansion and passes at low pressure, in the second heat exchanger where it receives heat from the heat transfer liquid, and returns to the compressor, - the electric heating device is activated so as to heat the heat transfer fluid, - a flow of heat transfer fluid circulates successively in the second heat exchanger where the heat transfer fluid gives off heat from the refrigerant fluid, in the electric heating device where it receives heat, and returns to the second heat exchanger. Brief description of the drawings

[0055] Other characteristics, details and advantages will appear on reading the detailed description below, and on analyzing the attached drawings, in which:

[0056] [Fig.1a] is a schematic view of a thermal conditioning system according to a first embodiment of the invention,

[0057] [Fig.lb] is a schematic view of a variant of the thermal conditioning system of [Fig.la],

[0058] [Fig.2] is a schematic view of another variant of the thermal conditioning system of [Fig.1a],

[0059] [Fig.3] is a schematic view of the thermal conditioning system of the [Fig.1a], operating according to a first direction of discharge of the bidirectional pump,

[0060] [Fig.4] is a schematic view of the thermal conditioning system of the [Fig.1a], operating according to a second direction of discharge of the bidirectional pump,

[0061] [Fig.5] is a schematic view of a thermal conditioning system according to a second embodiment of the invention,

[0062] [Fig.6] is a schematic view of the thermal conditioning system of the [Fig.5], operating according to a first operating mode, called passenger compartment heating and battery cooling mode,

[0063] [Fig.7] is a schematic view of the thermal conditioning system of the [Fig.5], operating according to a second operating mode, called passenger compartment heating mode,

[0064] [Fig.8] is a schematic view of a thermal conditioning system according to a third embodiment, operating according to the first operating mode, called passenger compartment heating and battery cooling mode,

[0065] [Fig.9] is a schematic view of the thermal conditioning system of the [Fig.7], operating in a third mode of operation, called passenger compartment dehumidification mode. Description of the embodiments

[0066] In order to facilitate the reading of the figures, the different elements are not necessarily represented to scale. In these figures, identical elements bear the same references. Certain elements or parameters may be indexed, that is to say designated for example by first element or second element, or even first parameter and second parameter, etc. This indexing is intended to differentiate similar, but not identical, elements or parameters. This indexing does not imply a priority of one element or parameter over another and the names may be interchanged.

[0067] In the following description, the expression "a first element upstream of a second element" means that the first element is placed before the second element relative to the direction of flow, or circulation, of a fluid. Similarly, the term "a first element downstream of a second element" means that the first element is placed after the second element relative to the direction of flow, or circulation of the fluid in question. In the case of a refrigerant circuit, the term "a first element is upstream of a second element" means that the refrigerant successfully travels- sively the first element, then the second element, without passing through the compression device. In other words, the refrigerant fluid leaves the compression device, possibly passes through one or more elements, then passes through the first element, then the second element, then returns to the compression device, possibly after passing through other elements. In the case of a heat transfer fluid circuit, the term "a first element is upstream of a second element" means that the heat transfer fluid successively passes through the first element, then the second element, without passing through the circulation pump. In other words, the heat transfer fluid leaves the circulation pump, possibly passes through one or more elements, then passes through the first element, then the second element, then returns to the circulation pump, possibly after passing through other elements.

[0068] The expression "a second element is placed between a first element and a third element" means that the shortest path to go from the first element to the third element passes through the second element.

[0069] When it is specified that a subsystem comprises a given element, this does not exclude the presence of other elements in this subsystem.

[0070] The thermal conditioning system 100 which will be described comprises an electronic control unit, not shown, which receives information from various sensors measuring in particular the characteristics of the refrigerant fluid at various points in the circuit. The electronic control unit also receives instructions issued by the occupants of the vehicle, such as for example the desired temperature inside the passenger compartment. The electronic control unit can also receive instructions from other electronic subsystems, such as for example the electrical energy storage battery management system. The electronic control unit implements control laws allowing the control of the various actuators, in order to ensure the control of the thermal conditioning system 100 so as to ensure the instructions received.

[0071] Interior air flow Fi is understood to mean an air flow to the passenger compartment of the motor vehicle. This interior air flow Fi can circulate in a heating, ventilation and / or air conditioning installation, frequently referred to by the English term "HVAC", for "Heating, Ventilating and Air Conditioning". This installation has not been shown in the various figures. A first motor-fan unit, not shown, is arranged in the heating, ventilation and / or air conditioning installation in order to increase the flow rate of the interior air flow Fi if necessary.

[0072] An outside air flow is understood to mean an air flow that is not intended for the passenger compartment of the vehicle. In other words, this air flow remains outside the passenger compartment of the vehicle. A second motor-fan unit, also not shown, may be activated in order to increase the flow rate of the outside air flow if necessary. The air flow provided by the first as well as by the second motor-fan unit can be adjusted in real time according to the heat exchange requirements, for example by the electronic control unit of the thermal conditioning system 100.

[0073] The term “first exchanger” is equivalent to the term “first heat exchanger”. Similarly, the term “internal exchanger” is equivalent to the term “internal heat exchanger”. The term “accumulation device” is equivalent to the term “refrigerant accumulation device”.

[0074] The heat transfer liquid circuit(s) also form one or more closed and sealed circuits in which a heat transfer liquid can circulate.

[0075] The term "loop" means a closed circuit for circulating fluid. Starting from any initial point in a loop and following this loop, we return to this initial point. A branch branch consists of exactly one inlet and one outlet. A branch branch is connected at each end to a portion of the heat transfer fluid circuit. Each connection is made at a connection point. A branch branch can connect two separate points in the same loop. A branch branch can also connect two separate loops.

[0076] [Fig. 1a] and [Fig. 1b] schematically represent a thermal conditioning system 100 according to a first embodiment. The thermal conditioning system 100 comprises a heat transfer fluid circuit 20 configured to circulate a heat transfer fluid. The heat transfer fluid circuit 20 comprises: - a main loop 20A comprising a bidirectional pump 6, the main loop 20A successively comprising, according to a first discharge direction SI of the bidirectional pump 6: — a first ESI input / output of the bidirectional pump 6, — a first heat exchanger 1, — a second heat exchanger 2, — a second ES2 input / output of the bidirectional pump 6. The heat transfer liquid circuit 20 also comprises a bypass branch 20B connecting a first connection point C1 arranged on the main loop 20A between the first inlet / outlet ESI of the bidirectional pump 6 and the first heat exchanger 1 to a second connection point C2 arranged on the main loop 20A between the first heat exchanger 1 and the second heat exchanger 2.

[0077] According to a first example of embodiment, illustrated in [Fig.1a]: the main loop 20A includes a first one-way valve 11 configured to allow circulation of heat transfer liquid through the first one-way valve 11 only from the first connection point C1 to the second connection point C2, and the bypass branch 20B comprises a second one-way valve 12 configured to allow circulation of heat transfer liquid through the second one-way valve 12 only from the second connection point C2 to the first connection point Cl.

[0078] According to an alternative embodiment, illustrated in [Fig.lb]: the main loop 20A comprises a first one-way valve 11 configured to allow circulation of heat transfer liquid through the first one-way valve 11 only from the second connection point C2 to the first connection point Cl, and the bypass branch 20B comprises a second one-way valve 12 configured to allow circulation of heat transfer liquid through the second one-way valve 12 only from the first connection point C1 to the second connection point C2.

[0079] In other words, the mounting directions of the two one-way valves 11, 12 can be jointly reversed without modifying the properties of the proposed thermal conditioning system.

[0080] In other words, according to the first exemplary embodiment, the main loop 20A comprises a first one-way valve 11 configured to allow circulation of heat transfer liquid through the first one-way valve 11 from the first connection point C1 to the second connection point C2 and configured to prohibit circulation of heat transfer liquid through the first one-way valve 11 from the second connection point C2 to the first connection point C1, and the bypass branch 20B comprises a second one-way valve 12 configured to allow circulation of heat transfer liquid through the second one-way valve 12 from the second connection point C2 to the first connection point C1 and configured to prohibit circulation of heat transfer liquid through the second one-way valve 12 from the first connection point C1 to the second connection point C2.

[0081] According to the alternative example, the main loop 20A comprises a first one-way valve 11 configured to allow circulation of heat transfer liquid through the first one-way valve 11 from the second connection point C2 to the first connection point C1 and configured to prohibit circulation of heat transfer liquid through the first one-way valve 11 from the first connection point C1 to the second connection point C2, and the bypass branch 20B comprises a second one-way valve 12 configured to allow circulation of heat transfer liquid through the second one-way valve 12 from the first connection point C1 to the second connection point C2 and configured to prohibit circulation of heat transfer liquid through the second one-way valve 12 from the second connection point C2 to the first connection point C1.

[0082] A one-way valve comprises exactly one inlet and one outlet, and allows the heat transfer fluid to circulate in a single direction. The first one-way valve 11 is configured to allow circulation of heat transfer liquid in the main loop 20A, and without passing through the two-way pump 6, from the first connection point C1 to the second connection point C2. The first one-way valve 11 is also configured to prohibit circulation of heat transfer liquid in the main loop 20A, and without passing through the two-way pump 6, from the second connection point C2 to the first connection point CL

[0083] In other words, the first one-way valve 11 allows a flow of the heat transfer liquid in the main loop 20A, from the first connection point C1 to the second connection point C2, passing through the first exchanger 1 and without passing through the two-way pump 6. The first one-way valve 11 blocks the flow in the opposite direction, that is to say that the first one-way valve 11 prohibits a flow of the heat transfer liquid in the main loop 20A, from the second connection point C2 to the first connection point Cl via the first exchanger 1, that is to say without passing through the two-way pump 6. The first one-way valve 11 allows a flow of the heat transfer liquid in the main loop 20A, from the second connection point C2 to the first connection point Cl, only by passing successively through the second exchanger 2 and through the two-way pump 6.

[0084] In a similar manner, the second one-way valve 12 allows a flow of the heat transfer liquid in the bypass branch 20B, from the second connection point C2 to the first connection point CL The second one-way valve 12 blocks the flow in the opposite direction, i.e. the second one-way valve 12 prohibits a flow of the heat transfer liquid in the bypass branch 20B, from the first connection point C1 to the second connection point C2. A flow from the first connection point Cl to the second connection point C2 can only be carried out by circulating in the main loop 20A.

[0085] The proposed arrangement of the heat transfer liquid circuit 20 makes it possible to obtain, according to the selected discharge direction of the bidirectional pump 6, either a circulation of the heat transfer liquid in series in the first heat exchanger 1 and the second heat exchanger 2, or a circulation only in the second exchanger 2. The first exchanger 1 is then isolated from the second exchanger 2. Various operating modes are thus possible, without using a complex valve of the three-way valve type, which makes it possible to reduce the cost of the thermal conditioning system 100.

[0086] The heat transfer liquid circuit 20 forms a closed circuit in which the heat transfer liquid can circulate. The heat transfer liquid circuit 20 is sealed when it is in a nominal operating state, i.e. without fault or leak. The heat transfer fluid of the circuit 20 is for example a mixture of water and glycol.

[0087] According to the example illustrated in Figures 1a, 1b and in Figures 3 to 9, the first one-way valve 11 is arranged on the main loop A between the first connection point C1 and the first exchanger 1. In other words, the first one-way valve 11 is arranged, according to the first discharge direction SI of the two-way pump 6, downstream of the first connection point Cl and upstream of the first exchanger 1.

[0088] According to an alternative embodiment, illustrated in [Fig.2], the first one-way valve 11 is arranged on the main loop A between the first exchanger 1 and the second connection point C2. In other words, the first one-way valve 11 is in this case arranged, according to the first discharge direction SI of the two-way pump 6, downstream of the first exchanger 1 and upstream of the second connection point C2.

[0089] The first one-way valve 11 is for example a non-return valve. Likewise, the second one-way valve 12 may be a check valve. A check valve is a passive member reacting to the pressure difference existing between its inlet and its outlet. No electrical control is necessary.

[0090] The bidirectional pump 6 comprises a first inlet / outlet ES 1 and a second inlet / outlet ES2. The bidirectional pump 6 is configured to selectively: - circulate, outside the bidirectional pump 6, the heat transfer liquid from the first inlet / outlet ES 1 to the second inlet / outlet ES2, or - circulate, outside the bidirectional pump 6, the heat transfer liquid from the second inlet / outlet ES2 to the first inlet / outlet ESI.

[0091] The bidirectional pump 6 comprises an electric motor driving a set of moving parts configured to selectively: - according to a first discharge direction SI, discharge the heat transfer liquid at a first inlet / outlet ESI and suck the heat transfer liquid at a second input / output ES2, or - according to a second discharge direction S2, discharge the heat transfer liquid at the second inlet / outlet ES2 and suck in the heat transfer liquid at the first inlet / outlet ESI.

[0092] For example, a first direction of rotation of the electric motor corresponds to the first direction of discharge SI of the bidirectional pump 6, shown diagrammatically in particular in [Fig.3], Likewise, a second direction of rotation of the electric motor, opposite to the first direction of rotation, corresponds to the second direction of discharge S2 of the bidirectional pump 6, shown diagrammatically in particular in [Fig.4].

[0093] A reversal of the direction of rotation of the electric motor driving the set of moving parts of the bidirectional pump 6 makes it possible to switch from the first delivery direction S1 to the second delivery direction S2, and vice versa.

[0094] The bidirectional pump 6 can be electrically controlled by a transistor bridge making it possible to control the direction of rotation and the rotation speed of the electric motor.

[0095] The bidirectional pump 6 may be inactive. When the electric motor of the bidirectional pump is not electrically powered and is not rotating, the bidirectional pump 6 is inactive, that is to say it does not provide any discharge of heat transfer liquid, and consequently no circulation of heat transfer liquid.

[0096] [Fig. 3] illustrates the circulation of the heat transfer liquid in the circuit 20 when the bidirectional pump 6 operates in the first delivery direction SL The heat transfer fluid circulates in the entire main loop 20A and does not circulate in the bypass branch 20B. The heat transfer liquid is discharged in the first discharge direction SI by the first inlet / outlet ESI of the bidirectional pump 6 and passes successively through the first connection point Cl, through the first one-way valve 11, through the first exchanger 1, through the second connection point C2, through the second exchanger 2, and returns to the second inlet / outlet ES2 of the bidirectional pump 6. At the first connection point C1, the second one-way valve 12 blocks the circulation of heat transfer liquid in the bypass branch 20B, from the first connection point C1 to the second connection point C2. The first one-way valve 11 allows the heat transfer fluid to pass from the first connection point Cl to the first exchanger 1. At the second connection point C2, the pressure of the heat transfer fluid is lower than the pressure at the first connection point Cl due to the pressure drop of the main loop portion 20A extending from the first connection point connection Cl to the second connection point C2, and including the first exchanger 1. In the bypass branch 20B, no traffic is therefore possible from the second connection point C2 to the first connection point Cl. The arrows QL1 show the flow rate of heat transfer fluid when the bidirectional pump 6 delivers the heat transfer fluid in the first delivery direction SI.

[0097] [Fig.4] illustrates the circulation of the heat transfer liquid in the circuit 20 when the bidirectional pump 6 operates in the second delivery direction S2. The heat transfer liquid is discharged in the second discharge direction S2 through the second inlet / outlet ES2 of the bidirectional pump 6 and passes successively through the second exchanger 2, through the second connection point C2, through the second one-way valve 12, and returns to the first inlet / outlet ESI of the bidirectional pump 6. At the second connection point C2, the first one-way valve 11 blocks the circulation of heat transfer fluid to the first exchanger 1 then the first connection point CL The second one-way valve 12 allows the heat transfer liquid to pass through the bypass branch 20B, from the second connection point C2 to the first connection point CL. At the first connection point C1, the pressure of the heat transfer liquid is lower than the pressure at the second connection point C2 due to the pressure drop of the bypass branch 20B comprising the second one-way valve 12. In the main loop 20A, no circulation is therefore possible from the first connection point C1 to the second connection point C2. The arrows QL2 diagram the flow rate of heat transfer liquid when the bidirectional pump 6 delivers the heat transfer liquid in the second delivery direction SL

[0098] According to the example illustrated, the thermal conditioning system 100 is a thermal conditioning system 100 for a motor vehicle.

[0099] The first heat exchanger 1 is thermally coupled with an element 25 of an electric traction chain of a motor vehicle. The first heat exchanger 1 makes it possible to selectively cool or heat the element 25 of the electric powertrain of the vehicle.

[0100] The element 25 of the electric powertrain of the vehicle comprises, for example, an electrical energy storage battery. Alternatively, the element 25 of the electric traction chain of the vehicle may comprise an electric traction motor of the vehicle. As a further variant, the element 25 of the electric traction chain of the vehicle may comprise an electronic unit for controlling the electric traction motor of the vehicle. The electric energy storage battery can provide the electrical energy needed to provide the motive power to drive the vehicle.

[0101] The first heat exchanger 1 comprises for example a wall of a casing of the element 25 of the electric traction chain. The heat transfer fluid passing through the first exchanger 1 is in contact with the wall of the casing.

[0102] According to one mode of operation, the heat released by the operation of the element 25 of the electric traction chain can pass through the wall of the casing and be transferred to the heat transfer liquid at the level of the first exchanger 1. In the same way, according to another mode of operation the heat from the heat transfer liquid can be transferred to the element 25 of the traction chain in order to heat it.

[0103] According to the embodiments of the thermal conditioning system 100 illustrated in FIGS. 5 to 9, the second heat exchanger 2 is arranged jointly on the main loop 20A of heat transfer liquid and on a loop 10A of refrigerant fluid so as to allow an exchange of heat between the heat transfer liquid and the refrigerant fluid.

[0104] The second heat exchanger 2 is a two-fluid exchanger. The first fluid is the heat transfer fluid. The second fluid is the refrigerant.

[0105] The second heat exchanger 2 comprises a first heat exchange section 2a arranged on the main heat transfer fluid loop 20A and a second heat exchange section 2b arranged on the refrigerant fluid loop 10A. The second heat exchanger 2 is configured to allow heat exchange between the refrigerant in the second heat exchange section 2b and the heat transfer liquid in the first heat exchange section 2a.

[0106] The heat transfer fluid circuit 20 comprises an electric heating device 15 configured to selectively heat the heat transfer fluid. The electric heating device 15 comprises, for example, an electrical resistor capable of exchanging heat with the heat transfer liquid.

[0107] The electric heating device 15 is arranged on the main loop 20A of heat transfer liquid. When the electric heating device 15 is activated, i.e. when an electric current passes through it, the heat transfer liquid is heated.

[0108] According to the example illustrated, the electric heating device 15 is arranged on the main loop 20A of heat transfer liquid between the second connection point C2 and the second exchanger 2. In other words, when the bidirectional pump 6 delivers the heat transfer fluid according to the first discharge direction SI, the electric heating device 15 is upstream of the second exchanger 2 according to the flow direction of the heat transfer liquid. When the bidirectional pump 6 discharges the heat transfer liquid according to the second discharge direction S2, the electric heating device 15 is downstream of the second exchanger 2 according to the flow direction of the heat transfer liquid.

[0109] The thermal conditioning system 100 comprises a refrigerant circuit 10 configured to circulate a refrigerant, comprising, according to a direction of circulation of the refrigerant: - a compressor 7, - a third heat exchanger 3, - an expansion valve 31, - the second heat exchanger 2, arranged jointly on the refrigerant circuit 10 and on the main heat transfer fluid loop 20A.

[0110] The compressor 7 makes it possible to circulate a refrigerant fluid in the refrigerant circulation circuit 10. The compressor 7 may be an electric compressor, that is to say a compressor whose moving parts are driven by an electric motor. The compressor 7 has a suction side for the refrigerant fluid at low pressure, also called the inlet 7a of the compressor, and a discharge side for the refrigerant fluid at high pressure, also called the outlet 7b of the compressor 7. The internal moving parts of the compressor 7 cause the refrigerant fluid to pass from a low pressure on the inlet side 7a to a high pressure on the outlet side 7b. After expansion in one or more expansion members and circulation in at least part of the circuit 10, the refrigerant fluid returns to the inlet 7a of the compressor 7 and begins a new thermodynamic cycle.

[0111] The refrigerant circuit 10 forms a closed circuit in which the refrigerant can circulate. The refrigerant circuit 10 is sealed when it is in a nominal operating state, that is to say without fault or leak.

[0112] The refrigerant fluid used by the refrigerant circuit 10 may be a natural fluid, such as R290 or R744. A chemical refrigerant fluid such as R1234yf, or 134a may also be used.

[0113] The expansion valve 31 may be an electronic expansion valve. In an electronic expansion valve, the passage section allowing the refrigerant to pass through can be continuously adjusted between a closed position and a maximum open position. For this, an electronic control module of the expansion valve drives an electric motor which moves a movable shutter controlling the passage section offered to the refrigerant.

[0114] The refrigerant circuit 10 also comprises an accumulation device 8 arranged downstream of the second heat exchanger 2 and upstream of an inlet 7a of the 7 refrigerant compressor. The accumulation device 8 is an accumulator.

[0115] The second heat exchange section 2b of the second heat exchanger 2 is arranged on the refrigerant loop 10A downstream of the expansion valve 31 and upstream of the accumulator 8.

[0116] According to a variant not shown, the accumulation device 8 is arranged downstream of the third heat exchanger 3 and upstream of the expansion valve 31. The accumulation device 8 is then a dehydrating bottle.

[0117] The third heat exchanger 3 can operate as a refrigerant fluid cooler.

[0118] According to the embodiments illustrated in Figures 5 to 9, the third heat exchanger 3 is thermally coupled with an air flow Fi inside a passenger compartment of a motor vehicle.

[0119] According to the illustrated example, the third heat exchanger 3 is configured to exchange heat with the interior air flow Fi to the passenger compartment of the vehicle. The thermal coupling between the third heat exchanger 3 and the indoor air flow Fi is said to be direct. In fact, the air flow Fi is in contact with the walls of the heat exchanger 3 in which the refrigerant circulates. In this embodiment, the third heat exchanger 3 is arranged in the heating, ventilation and / or air conditioning system of the vehicle. The condensation of the refrigerant fluid in the third heat exchanger 3 makes it possible to heat the interior air flow Fi, and thus to heat the passenger compartment of the vehicle in order to ensure the thermal comfort of the passengers.

[0120] According to an alternative embodiment, not shown, the third heat exchanger 3 is configured to exchange heat with a heat transfer liquid circulating in a closed heat transfer liquid circuit, the closed heat transfer liquid circuit comprising a heat exchanger configured to exchange heat with the interior air flow Fi in the passenger compartment of the vehicle. The thermal coupling between the third heat exchanger 3 and the interior air flow Fi is in this case said to be indirect, since it is achieved by means of a heat transfer fluid which transfers the heat supplied by the refrigerant fluid to the air flow Fi supplying the passenger compartment of the vehicle. The heat transfer fluid circulating in the circuit is, for example, a mixture of water and glycol. In this variant, the heat exchanger of the heat transfer fluid circuit, also called the heating radiator, is arranged in the heating, ventilation and / or air conditioning system of the vehicle.

[0121] According to another embodiment, not shown in the figures, the third heat exchanger 3 is thermally coupled with an air flow outside a passenger compartment of a motor vehicle.

[0122] According to an exemplary implementation, the third heat exchanger 3 is configured to exchange heat with the air flow outside the passenger compartment of the vehicle. The thermal coupling between the third exchanger 3 and the outside air flow is then direct. According to another exemplary implementation, the third heat exchanger 3 is configured to exchange heat with a heat transfer fluid circulating in a closed heat transfer fluid circuit, and the heat transfer fluid circuit comprises a heat exchanger configured to exchange heat with the air flow outside the passenger compartment of the vehicle. This exchanger is called a radiator and is, for example, located on the front of the vehicle, just behind the grille in order to directly receive the air flow resulting from the vehicle's movement. The thermal coupling between the third exchanger 3 and the outside air flow is then indirect.

[0123] The second exchanger 2 can operate as a refrigerant fluid evaporator. The second exchanger 2 can in fact receive low-pressure refrigerant fluid, which has been expanded by the expansion valve 31. The low pressure refrigerant can evaporate in the second exchanger 2. The vaporization heat is provided by the heat transfer liquid circulating in the first heat exchange section 2a of the second exchanger 2.

[0124] Figures 8 and 9 illustrate a third embodiment. The third embodiment differs from the second embodiment in that the bypass branch 20B comprises a fourth heat exchanger 4.

[0125] In the example illustrated, the fourth heat exchanger 4 is arranged between the second connection point C2 and the second one-way valve 12.

[0126] According to a variant not shown, the fourth heat exchanger 4 is arranged between the second one-way valve 12 and the first connection point CL

[0127] The fourth heat exchanger 4 is configured to exchange heat with an air flow F. The air flow F here is an air flow Fi inside a passenger compartment of a motor vehicle. The fourth exchanger 4 is arranged in the heating, ventilation and / or air conditioning system of the vehicle. The fourth exchanger 4 is arranged upstream of the third exchanger 3 in the direction of flow of the interior air flow Fi.

[0128] According to an example not shown, the air flow F is an air flow outside the passenger compartment of the motor vehicle. The fourth exchanger 4 then allows the heat transfer fluid to be heated with the outside air flow. Heat pump mode operation is possible, in which the heat recovered from the outside air flow contributes to heating the passenger compartment. In this operating mode, the heat recovered from the outside air flow at the fourth exchanger 4 allows the evaporation of the refrigerant at the second exchanger 2, and the condensation of the refrigerant at the third exchanger 3 allows the interior air flow Fi to be heated.

[0129] Figures 6 and 7 illustrate two operating modes of a thermal conditioning system according to the second embodiment, and Figures 8 and 9 illustrate two operating modes of a thermal conditioning system according to the third embodiment. In these figures, the portions of the circuit 20 in which a flow of heat transfer liquid circulates are shown in continuous thick lines, while the portions in which the heat transfer liquid does not circulate are shown in fine dotted lines.

[0130] [Fig.6] illustrates a method of operating a thermal conditioning system 100 according to the second embodiment, in a first operating mode called passenger compartment heating and battery cooling.

[0131] According to this first mode of operation: - a flow Qr of refrigerant fluid circulates in the compressor 7 where it passes at high pressure, and circulates successively in the third heat exchanger 3 where it gives off heat, in the expansion valve 31 where it undergoes expansion and passes at low pressure, in the second heat exchanger 2 where it receives heat from the heat transfer liquid, and returns to the compressor 11. - a flow rate QL of heat transfer fluid circulates successively in the second heat exchanger 2 where the heat transfer fluid gives up heat from the refrigerant fluid, in the first heat exchanger 1 where it receives heat, and returns to the second heat exchanger 2.

[0132] The high pressure state corresponds to the pressure at the outlet of the compressor 7. The low pressure state corresponds to the pressure after expansion in the regulator 31. The low pressure is lower than the high pressure.

[0133] In this first operating mode, the bidirectional pump 6 delivers the heat transfer liquid in the first delivery direction SL A flow rate QL of heat transfer liquid circulates successively in the bidirectional pump 6, in the first heat exchanger 1, in the second heat exchanger 2. The flow rate of heat transfer fluid in the bypass branch 20B is zero.

[0134] In the first operating mode, the heat transfer liquid flows through the main loop 20A and does not flow through the bypass branch 20B. The heat transfer liquid is discharged in the first discharge direction SI by the first inlet / outlet ESI of the bidirectional pump 6 and passes successively through the first connection point C1, through the first one-way valve 11, through the first exchanger 1, through the second connection point C2, through the second exchanger 2, through the heating device 15 and returns to the second inlet / outlet ES2 of the bidirectional pump 6. The second one-way valve 12 blocks the circulation of heat transfer liquid in the bypass branch 20B. The first exchanger 1 and the second exchanger 2 are fluidically connected in series. The first heat exchanger 1 and the second heat exchanger 2 are both traversed by a flow of heat transfer liquid QL and each carry out a heat exchange.

[0135] In this mode of operation, a flow Qr of low-pressure refrigerant fluid circulates in the second exchanger 2 and evaporates. The heat required for vaporization is provided by the heat transfer fluid, which is thus cooled. The electric heating device 15 is not activated. The heat transfer fluid cooled at the second exchanger 2 then circulates in the first exchanger 1. The element 25 of the traction chain is thus cooled at the first exchanger 1. The interior airflow Fi is heated at the third exchanger 3, which heats the vehicle's passenger compartment.

[0136] [Fig.7] illustrates a method of operating a conditioning system thermal 100 according to the second embodiment, in a second operating mode, called passenger compartment heating mode.

[0137] According to this second mode of operation: - a flow Qr of refrigerant fluid circulates in the compressor 7 where it passes at high pressure, and circulates successively in the third heat exchanger 3 where it gives off heat, in the expansion valve 31 where it undergoes expansion and passes at low pressure, in the second heat exchanger 2 where it receives heat from the heat transfer liquid, and returns to the compressor 11. - the electric heating device 15 is activated so as to heat the heat transfer fluid. - a flow rate QL of heat transfer fluid circulates successively in the second heat exchanger 2 where the heat transfer fluid gives off heat from the fluid re refrigerant, into the electric heating device 15 where it receives heat, and returns to the second heat exchanger 2.

[0138] In this second operating mode, the bidirectional pump 6 delivers the heat transfer liquid in the second delivery direction S2. The flow rate of heat transfer fluid in the first heat exchanger 1 is zero. The heat transfer fluid circulates in the bypass branch 20B and circulates in a part of the main loop 20A.

[0139] The heat transfer liquid is discharged in the second discharge direction S2 by the second inlet / outlet ES2 of the bidirectional pump 6 and passes successively through the second exchanger 2, through the heating device 15, through the second connection point C2, through the second one-way valve 12, and returns to the first inlet / outlet ESI of the bidirectional pump 6. At the second connection point C2, the first one-way valve 11 blocks the circulation of heat transfer fluid to the first exchanger 1 then the first connection point CL The second one-way valve 12 allows the heat transfer liquid to pass through the bypass branch 20B, from the second connection point C2 to the first connection point CL.

[0140] When the thermal conditioning system 100 operates in this second operating mode, only the second heat exchanger 2 is traversed by a flow of heat transfer liquid QL and carries out a heat exchange. The first heat exchanger 1 is not traversed by heat transfer liquid and does not participate in the heat exchanges.

[0141] The circulation of the heat transfer liquid in the first heat exchanger 1 can thus be authorized or prohibited simply by reversing the direction of delivery of the bidirectional pump 6. The only electrical control to be applied to switch from one operating mode to the other is that determining the direction of discharge of the bidirectional pump, since the non-return valves react mechanically to the direction of discharge imposed by the bidirectional pump 6.

[0142] In this operating mode, a flow Qr of refrigerant fluid circulates in the compressor 7 where it passes at high pressure, and circulates successively in the third exchanger 3 where it gives off heat to the outside air flow Fi, in the expansion valve 31 where it undergoes expansion and passes at low pressure, in the second exchanger 2 where it receives heat from the heat transfer liquid, and returns to the compressor 7.

[0143] The electric heating device 15 is activated. The heat supplied by the heating device 15 to the heat transfer fluid is transferred to the refrigerant fluid at the level of the second exchanger 2, and thus to the flow indoor air Fi at the level of the third exchanger 3. Element 25 does not carry out any heat exchange since the first exchanger 1 is inactive.

[0144] [Fig.8] illustrates a method of operating a thermal conditioning system 100 according to the third embodiment, in the first operating mode called passenger compartment heating and battery cooling.

[0145] The circulation of the heat transfer fluid in the circuit 20 and the circulation of the refrigerant fluid in the circuit 10 are identical to what was previously described for the second embodiment, and illustrated in [Fig.7]. Since the bypass branch 20B is not traversed by heat transfer liquid in this operating mode, the fourth exchanger 4 is itself not traversed by a flow of heat transfer liquid, and is thermally inactive. The heat exchanges within the thermal conditioning system 100 are the same as those already described previously for the second embodiment.

[0146] [Fig.9] illustrates a method of operating a conditioning system thermal 100 according to the third embodiment, in a third operating mode, called passenger compartment dehumidification mode.

[0147] The circulation of the heat transfer fluid in the circuit 20 and the circulation of the refrigerant fluid in the circuit 10 are identical to what was previously described for the second embodiment, and illustrated in [Fig.6]. In this third embodiment, the bypass branch 20B comprises a fourth exchanger 4 capable of exchanging heat with the interior air flow Fi. In this operating mode, the bypass branch 20B is traversed by a flow QL of heat transfer liquid. The heat transfer liquid cooled at the second exchanger 2 then circulates in the fourth exchanger 4 and cools the interior air flow Fi. The indoor air flow Fi is heated at the third exchanger 3 and is cooled at the fourth exchanger 4, and is thus dehumidified.

Claims

1. Claims Thermal conditioning system (100), comprising a heat transfer liquid circuit (20) configured to circulate a heat transfer liquid, the heat transfer liquid circuit (20) comprising: - a main loop (20A) comprising a bidirectional pump (6), the main loop (20A) successively comprising, according to a first discharge direction (SI) of the bidirectional pump (6): — a first inlet / outlet (ESI) of the bidirectional pump (6), — a first heat exchanger (1), — a second heat exchanger (2), — a second inlet / outlet (ES2) of the bidirectional pump (6), - a bypass branch (20B) connecting a first connection point (Cl) arranged on the main loop (20A) between the first inlet / outlet (ESI) of the bidirectional pump (6) and the first heat exchanger (1) to a second connection point (C2) arranged on the main loop (20A) between the first heat exchanger (1) and the second heat exchanger (2), in which: - the main loop (20A) comprises a first one-way valve (11) configured to allow circulation of heat transfer liquid through the first one-way valve (11) only from the first connection point (Cl) to the second connection point (C2), and the bypass branch (20B) comprises a second one-way valve (12) configured to allow circulation of heat transfer liquid through the second one-way valve (12) only from the second connection point (C2) to the first connection point (Cl), or - the main loop (20A) comprises a first one-way valve (11) configured to allow circulation of heat transfer liquid through the first one-way valve (11) only from the second connection point (C2) to the first connection point (Cl), and the bypass branch (20B) comprises a second one-way valve (12) configured to allow circulation of heat transfer liquid through the second one-way valve (12) only from the first connection point (Cl) to the second connection point (C2).

2. Thermal conditioning system (100) according to claim 1, wherein the first one-way valve (11) is arranged on the main loop (A) between the first connection point (Cl) and the first exchanger (1).

3. Thermal conditioning system (100) according to claim 1, wherein the first one-way valve (11) is arranged on the main loop (A) between the first exchanger (1) and the second connection point (C2).

4. Thermal conditioning system (100) according to one of the preceding claims, in which the first heat exchanger (1) is thermally coupled with an element (25) of an electric powertrain of a motor vehicle.

5. Thermal conditioning system (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the second heat exchanger (2) is arranged jointly on the main loop (20A) of heat transfer liquid and on a loop (10A) of refrigerant fluid so as to allow heat exchange between the heat transfer liquid and the refrigerant fluid.

6. Thermal conditioning system (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the heat transfer fluid circuit (20) comprises an electric heating device (15) configured to selectively heat the heat transfer fluid.

7. Thermal conditioning system (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein the electric heating device (15) is arranged on the main loop (20A) of heat transfer liquid.

8. Thermal conditioning system (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein the electric heating device (15) is arranged on the main loop (20A) of heat transfer liquid between the second connection point (C2) and the second exchanger (2).

9. Thermal conditioning system (100) according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a refrigerant circuit (10) configured to circulate a refrigerant, comprising according to a direction of circulation of the refrigerant: - a compressor (7), - a third heat exchanger (3), - an expansion valve (31), - the second heat exchanger (2), arranged jointly on the refrigerant circuit (10) and on the main loop (20A) of heat transfer liquid.

10. Thermal conditioning system (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the bypass branch (20B) comprises a fourth heat exchanger (4).

11. Method of operating a thermal conditioning system (100) according to one of claims 1 to 10, in a mode called the first operating mode in which the bidirectional pump (6) delivers the heat transfer liquid in the first delivery direction (SI), and in which: a flow rate (QL) of heat transfer liquid circulates successively in the bidirectional pump (6), in the first heat exchanger (1), in the second heat exchanger (2), and in which the flow rate of heat transfer liquid in the bypass branch (20B) is zero.

12. Method of operating a thermal conditioning system (100) according to one of claims 1 to 10, in a mode called second operating mode in which the bidirectional pump (6) delivers the heat transfer liquid in the second delivery direction (S2), in which: a flow rate (QL) of heat transfer liquid circulates successively in the bidirectional pump (6), in the second heat exchanger (2), in the second one-way valve (12), and in which the flow rate of heat transfer liquid in the first heat exchanger (1) is zero.

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