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 ensure thermal regulation of various vehicle components, such as the passenger compartment or an electrical energy storage battery, when the vehicle is electrically powered. Heat exchange is managed primarily by the compression and expansion of a refrigerant circulating in a circuit containing several heat exchangers. A compressor forces the refrigerant into a high-pressure state, allowing its circulation within the circuit. The refrigerant can absorb or release heat at the various heat exchangers arranged in the circuit. Previous technique

[0002] Fluorinated compound-based refrigerants generally have the disadvantage of possessing a high global warming potential (GWP). Some hydrocarbons, for example propane, possess thermodynamic properties that make their use as refrigerants possible and have a lower global warming potential. However, it is preferable that heat exchangers located in vehicle passenger compartments not contain hydrocarbons. In this case, the hydrocarbon-based refrigerant undergoes an intermediate heat exchange with a water-based heat transfer fluid, and the heat transfer fluid then circulates through heat exchangers located within the passenger compartment. Heating and cooling of the passenger compartment can thus be achieved through the circulation of a heat transfer fluid that has been preheated or precooled by the refrigerant, respectively.

[0003] In order to manage the different phases and modes of operation, the heat transfer fluid circuit often includes several valves allowing the circulation of heat transfer fluid to be authorized or prohibited in certain portions of the heat transfer fluid 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 fluid circuit can be simplified. Summary

[0005] To this end, a thermal conditioning system is proposed, comprising a heat transfer fluid circuit configured to circulate a heat transfer fluid, the heat transfer fluid circuit comprising: - a main loop comprising a bidirectional pump, the main loop comprising successively, according to a first direction of discharge of the bidirectional pump: — a first inlet / outlet of the bidirectional pump, — a first heat exchanger, — a second heat exchanger, — a second inlet / outlet of the bidirectional pump, - a branch connecting a first connection point located on the main loop between the first inlet / outlet of the bidirectional pump and the first heat exchanger to a second connection point located on the main loop between the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger, in which: - the main loop includes a first one-way valve located on the main loop between the first heat exchanger and the second connection point, and configured to allow heat transfer fluid to circulate through the first one-way valve only from the first connection point to the second connection point, and The bypass branch includes a second one-way valve configured to allow heat transfer fluid to circulate through the second one-way valve only from the second connection point to the first connection point. Or - the main loop includes a first one-way valve located on the main loop between the first heat exchanger and the second connection point, and configured to allow heat transfer fluid to circulate only through the first one-way valve from the second connection point to the first connection point, and The bypass branch includes a second one-way valve configured to allow heat transfer fluid to circulate 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 includes a first one-way valve configured to allow circulation of 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 includes 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 includes 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 includes 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] The first one-way valve is, for example, a check valve. Similarly, the second one-way valve can be a check valve.

[0010] 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 fluid from the first inlet / outlet to the second inlet / outlet, or - circulate, outside the bidirectional pump, the heat transfer fluid from the second inlet / outlet to the first inlet / outlet.

[0011] According to one embodiment, the bidirectional pump comprises an electric motor driving a set of moving parts configured to selectively: - in a first discharge direction, discharge the heat transfer fluid at a first inlet / outlet and draw the heat transfer fluid at a second inlet / outlet, or - according to a second direction of discharge, discharge the heat transfer fluid at the level of the second inlet / outlet and draw the heat transfer fluid in at the level of the first inlet / outlet.

[0012] For example, a first direction of rotation of the electric motor corresponds to the first direction of discharge of the bidirectional pump.

[0013] 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.

[0014] Reversing the direction of rotation of the electric motor driving the set of moving parts of the bidirectional pump allows switching from the first direction of discharge to the second direction of discharge, and vice versa.

[0015] The bidirectional pump can be inactive.

[0016] According to one example of implementation, the thermal conditioning system is a thermal conditioning system for a motor vehicle.

[0017] According to one embodiment of the thermal conditioning system, the first heat exchanger is thermally coupled with an element of an electric traction chain of a motor vehicle.

[0018] The first heat exchanger allows the element of the vehicle's electric traction chain to be selectively cooled or heated.

[0019] The element of the vehicle's electric powertrain includes, for example, an electrical energy storage battery.

[0020] Alternatively, the element of the vehicle's electric powertrain may include an electric vehicle traction motor.

[0021] Alternatively, the element of the vehicle's electric drive chain may include an electronic control unit for the vehicle's electric traction motor.

[0022] The first heat exchanger includes, for example, a wall of a housing of the element of the electric traction chain.

[0023] 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.

[0024] The second heat exchanger is a two-fluid exchanger.

[0025] 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.

[0026] According to one embodiment of the thermal conditioning system, the heat transfer fluid circuit includes an electric heating device configured to selectively heat the heat transfer fluid.

[0027] The electric heating device is for example arranged on the main heat transfer fluid loop.

[0028] The electric heating device allows the heat transfer fluid circulating in the circuit to be heated.

[0029] According to one embodiment of the thermal conditioning system, the electric heating device is arranged on the main loop of heat transfer fluid between the second connection point and the second heat exchanger.

[0030] According to one embodiment, the thermal conditioning system comprises a refrigerant circuit configured to circulate a refrigerant, comprising, according to a direction of refrigerant circulation: - a compressor, - a third heat exchanger, - an expansion valve, - the second heat exchanger, jointly arranged on the refrigerant circuit and on the main heat transfer fluid loop.

[0031] The refrigerant circuit includes an accumulation device located downstream of the second heat exchanger and upstream of an inlet of the refrigerant compressor.

[0032] Alternatively, the accumulation device is located downstream of the third heat exchanger and upstream of the expansion valve.

[0033] The third heat exchanger can operate as a refrigerant fluid cooler.

[0034] According to one embodiment, the third heat exchanger is thermally coupled with an airflow inside a passenger compartment of a motor vehicle.

[0035] According to one embodiment, the third heat exchanger is configured to exchange heat with the airflow inside the vehicle's passenger compartment.

[0036] According to one embodiment, the third heat exchanger is configured to exchange heat with a heat transfer fluid circulating in a closed heat transfer fluid circuit, the heat transfer fluid circuit comprising a heat exchanger configured to exchange heat with the airflow inside the vehicle's passenger compartment.

[0037] According to another embodiment, the third heat exchanger is thermally coupled with an outside airflow to a passenger compartment of a motor vehicle.

[0038] According to one embodiment, the third heat exchanger is configured to exchange heat with the outside airflow to the vehicle's passenger compartment. 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 includes a heat exchanger configured to exchange heat with the outside airflow to the vehicle's passenger compartment.

[0039] The second exchanger can operate as a refrigerant fluid evaporator.

[0040] According to one embodiment, the bypass branch includes a fourth heat exchanger.

[0041] The fourth heat exchanger is arranged between the second one-way valve and the first connection point.

[0042] The fourth heat exchanger is arranged between the second connection point and the second one-way valve.

[0043] The fourth heat exchanger is configured to exchange heat with an airflow.

[0044] According to one embodiment, the airflow is an airflow inside a passenger compartment of a motor vehicle.

[0045] Alternatively, the airflow is an airflow from outside the passenger compartment of a motor vehicle.

[0046] A method of operating a thermal conditioning system as described above is also proposed, in a so-called first operating mode in which the bidirectional pump discharges the heat transfer fluid in the first discharge direction, and in which: A flow of heat transfer fluid circulates successively in the bidirectional pump, in the first heat exchanger, in the second heat exchanger.

[0047] According to this first mode of operation, the flow rate of heat transfer fluid in the bypass branch is zero.

[0048] In the first operating mode, 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 both receive a flow of heat transfer fluid and perform heat exchange.

[0049] A method of operating a thermal conditioning system as described above is also proposed, in a so-called second operating mode in which the bidirectional pump discharges the heat transfer fluid in the second discharge direction, and in which: A flow of heat transfer fluid circulates successively in the bidirectional pump, in the second heat exchanger, in the second unidirectional valve.

[0050] According to this second mode of operation, the flow rate of heat transfer fluid in the first heat exchanger is zero.

[0051] A method for 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 circulates in the compressor where it passes through high pressure, and circulates successively in the third heat exchanger where it releases heat, in the expansion valve where it undergoes expansion and passes through low pressure, in the second heat exchanger where it receives heat from the heat transfer fluid, 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, in the first heat exchanger where it receives heat, and returns to the second heat exchanger.

[0052] A method for 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 circulates in the compressor where it passes through high pressure, and circulates successively in the third heat exchanger where it releases heat, in the expansion valve where it undergoes expansion and passes through low pressure, in the second heat exchanger where it receives heat from the heat transfer fluid, and returns to the compressor, - the electric heating device is activated 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 up heat from the refrigerant, in the electric heating device where it receives heat, and returns to the second heat exchanger. Brief description of the drawings

[0053] Other features, details and advantages will become apparent upon reading the detailed description below, and upon analysis of the accompanying drawings, on which:

[0054] [Fig.la] is a schematic view of a thermal conditioning system according to a first embodiment of the invention,

[0055] [Fig.lb] is a schematic view of a variant of the thermal conditioning system of [Fig.la],

[0056] [Fig.2] is a schematic view of another variant of the thermal conditioning system of [Fig.la],

[0057] [Fig.3] is a schematic view of the thermal conditioning system of the [Fig. a], operating in a first direction of discharge of the bidirectional pump,

[0058] [Fig.4] is a schematic view of the thermal conditioning system of the [Fig. a], operating in a second direction of discharge of the bidirectional pump,

[0059] [Fig.5] is a schematic view of a thermal conditioning system according to a second embodiment of the invention,

[0060] [Fig.6] is a schematic view of the thermal conditioning system of the [Fig.5], operating according to a first mode of operation, called passenger compartment heating and battery cooling mode,

[0061] [Fig.7] is a schematic view of the thermal conditioning system of the [Fig. 5], operating according to a second mode of operation, called passenger compartment heating mode,

[0062] [Fig.8] is a schematic view of a thermal conditioning system according to a third embodiment, operating according to the first operating mode, called the passenger compartment heating and battery cooling mode,

[0063] [Fig.9] is a schematic view of the thermal conditioning system of the [Fig.7], operating according to a third mode of operation, called passenger compartment dehumidification mode. Description of the implementation methods

[0064] To facilitate reading the figures, the various elements are not necessarily drawn to scale. In these figures, identical elements bear the same reference numerals. Certain elements or parameters may be indexed, that is, designated, for example, as first element or second element, or first parameter and second parameter, etc. This indexing aims to differentiate similar, but not identical, elements or parameters. This indexing does not imply any priority of one element or parameter over another, and the designations may be interchanged.

[0065] 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 with respect 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 with respect 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 flows through successively the first element, then the second element, without passing through the compression device. In other words, the refrigerant exits 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 flows successively 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, and then returns to the circulation pump, possibly after passing through other elements.

[0066] 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.

[0067] When it is specified that a subsystem includes a given element, this does not exclude the presence of other elements in that subsystem.

[0068] The thermal conditioning system 100, which will be described below, includes an electronic control unit (not shown) that receives information from various sensors measuring, in particular, the characteristics of the refrigerant at various points in the circuit. The electronic control unit also receives instructions from the vehicle occupants, such as the desired temperature inside the passenger compartment. The electronic control unit can also receive instructions from other electronic subsystems, such as the electrical energy storage battery management system. The electronic control unit implements control laws to operate the various actuators in order to control the thermal conditioning system 100 and ensure compliance with the received instructions.

[0069] The term "interior airflow Fi" refers to an airflow directed towards the passenger compartment of the motor vehicle. This interior airflow Fi may circulate within a heating, ventilation, and / or air conditioning (HVAC) system. This system is not shown in the various figures. A first fan-motor unit, not shown, is located within the HVAC system to increase the flow rate of the interior airflow Fi if necessary.

[0070] Outside airflow is defined as airflow that is not destined for the vehicle's passenger compartment. In other words, this airflow remains outside the vehicle's passenger compartment. A second motor-fan assembly, also not shown, may can be activated to increase the flow rate of outside air if necessary. The airflow provided by the first and second fan motor groups can be adjusted in real time according to heat exchange requirements, for example by the electronic control unit of the thermal conditioning system 100.

[0071] 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 "storage device" is equivalent to the term "refrigerant storage device".

[0072] The heat transfer fluid circuit(s) also form one or more closed and sealed circuits in which a heat transfer fluid can circulate.

[0073] A "loop" is understood to mean a closed circuit of fluid circulation. Starting from any initial point of a loop and following this loop, one returns to this initial point. A branch line consists of exactly one inlet and one outlet. Each branch line is connected at each end to a portion of the heat transfer fluid circuit. Each connection is made at a junction point. A branch can connect two distinct points within the same loop. A branch can also connect two distinct loops.

[0074] Fig. 1a and Fig. 1b schematically represent a thermal conditioning system 100 according to a first embodiment. The thermal conditioning system 100 includes a heat transfer fluid circuit 20 configured to circulate a heat transfer fluid. The heat transfer fluid circuit 20 comprises: - a main 20A loop comprising a bidirectional pump 6, the main 20A loop comprising successively, according to a first discharge direction SI, the bidirectional pump 6: — a first ESI inlet / outlet 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 fluid circuit 20 also includes a branch branch 20B connecting a first connection point Cl located 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 located on the main loop 20A between the first heat exchanger 1 and the second heat exchanger 2.

[0075] According to a first embodiment, illustrated in [Fig.1a]: The main loop 20A includes a first one-way valve 11 configured to allow circulation of heat transfer fluid 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 includes a second one-way valve 12 configured to permit circulation of heat transfer fluid through the second one-way valve 12 only from the second connection point C2 to the first connection point Cl.

[0076] According to an alternative embodiment, illustrated in [Fig.lb]: The main loop 20A includes a first one-way valve 11 configured to allow circulation of heat transfer fluid 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 includes a second one-way valve 12 configured to allow circulation of heat transfer fluid through the second one-way valve 12 only from the first connection point Cl to the second connection point C2.

[0077] In other words, the mounting directions of the two one-way valves 11, 12 can be jointly reversed without altering the properties of the proposed thermal conditioning system.

[0078] In other words, according to the first embodiment, the main loop 20A comprises a first one-way valve 11 configured to allow circulation of heat transfer fluid through the first one-way valve 11 from the first connection point Cl to the second connection point C2 and configured to prohibit circulation of heat transfer fluid through the first one-way valve 11 from the second connection point C2 to the first connection point Cl, and the branch branch 20B includes a second one-way valve 12 configured to permit circulation of heat transfer fluid through the second one-way valve 12 from the second connection point C2 to the first connection point Cl and configured to prohibit circulation of heat transfer fluid through the second one-way valve 12 from the first connection point Cl to the second connection point C2.

[0079] According to the alternative example, the main loop 20A includes a first one-way valve 11 configured to allow circulation of heat transfer fluid 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 fluid through the first one-way valve 11 from the first connection point Cl to the second connection point C2, and the branch branch 20B includes a second one-way valve 12 configured to permit circulation of heat transfer fluid through the second one-way valve 12 from the first connection point Cl to the second connection point C2 and configured to prohibit circulation of heat transfer fluid through the second one-way valve 12 from the second connection point C2 to the first connection point Cl.

[0080] A one-way valve comprises exactly one inlet and one outlet, and allows the heat transfer fluid to circulate in only one direction. The first one-way valve 11 is configured to allow circulation of heat transfer fluid in the main loop 20A, bypassing 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 prevent circulation of heat transfer fluid in the main loop 20A, bypassing the two-way pump 6, from the second connection point C2 to the first connection point C1.

[0081] In other words, the first one-way valve 11 allows the heat transfer fluid to flow into the main loop 20A, from the first connection point Cl 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, the first one-way valve 11 prohibits a flow of the heat transfer fluid 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 the heat transfer fluid to flow into 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 the two-way pump 6.

[0082] Similarly, the second one-way valve 12 allows the heat transfer fluid to flow 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 fluid in the bypass branch 20B, from the first connection point Cl to the second connection point C2. Flow from the first connection point Cl to the second connection point C2 can only occur by circulating in the main loop 20A.

[0083] The proposed arrangement of the heat transfer fluid circuit 20 allows, depending on the selected discharge direction of the bidirectional pump 6, either circulation of the heat transfer fluid in series in the first heat exchanger 1 and the second heat exchanger 2, or circulation only in the second heat exchanger 2. The first heat exchanger 1 is then isolated from the second heat exchanger 2. Various operating modes are thus possible, without using a complex valve such as a three-way valve, which reduces the cost of the thermal conditioning system 100.

[0084] The heat transfer fluid circuit 20 forms a closed circuit in which the heat transfer fluid can circulate. The heat transfer fluid circuit 20 is leak-proof when it is in a nominal operating state, that is to say, without any fault or leak. The heat transfer fluid of circuit 20 is, for example, a mixture of water and glycol.

[0085] 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 Cl and the first heat 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.

[0086] 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.

[0087] The first one-way valve 11 is, for example, a non-return valve. Similarly, the second one-way valve 12 can be a check valve. A check valve is a passive device that reacts to the pressure difference between its inlet and outlet. No electrical control is required.

[0088] The bidirectional pump 6 includes a first inlet / outlet ESI and a second inlet / outlet ES2. The bidirectional pump 6 is configured to selectively: - circulate, outside the bidirectional pump 6, the heat transfer fluid from the first inlet / outlet ES 1 to the second inlet / outlet ES2, or - circulate, outside the bidirectional pump 6, the heat transfer fluid from the second inlet / outlet ES2 to the first inlet / outlet ESI.

[0089] 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 fluid at a first inlet / outlet ESI and draw the heat transfer fluid at a second inlet / outlet ES2, or - according to a second direction of discharge S2, discharge the heat transfer fluid at the level of the second inlet / outlet ES2 and draw the heat transfer fluid at the level of the first inlet / outlet ESI.

[0090] For example, a first direction of rotation of the electric motor corresponds to the first direction of discharge SI of the bidirectional pump 6, schematically shown in particular on [Fig.3], Similarly, 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, schematically shown in particular on [Fig.4].

[0091] Reversing the direction of rotation of the electric motor driving the set of moving parts of the bidirectional pump 6 allows switching from the first discharge direction S1 to the second discharge direction S2, and vice versa.

[0092] The bidirectional pump 6 can be electrically controlled by a transistor bridge allowing control of the direction of rotation and the rotation speed of the electric motor.

[0093] The bidirectional pump 6 can be inactive. When the electric motor of the bidirectional pump is not electrically powered and is not turning, the bidirectional pump 6 is inactive, that is to say, it does not then ensure any discharge of heat transfer fluid, and consequently no circulation of heat transfer fluid.

[0094] Fig. 3 illustrates the circulation of the heat transfer fluid in the circuit 20 when the bidirectional pump 6 operates in the first discharge direction SL. The heat transfer fluid circulates throughout the main loop 20A and does not circulate in the bypass branch 20B. The heat transfer fluid is discharged in the first direction S1 through 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 heat exchanger 1, through the second connection point C2, through the second heat exchanger 2, and returns to the second inlet / outlet ES2 of the bidirectional pump 6. At the first connection point Cl, the second one-way valve 12 blocks the circulation of heat transfer fluid in the bypass branch 20B, from the first connection point Cl 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 loss of the portion of the main loop 20A extending from the first connection point Cl to the second connection point C2, and including the first exchanger 1. In the branch branch 20B, no circulation is therefore possible from the second connection point C2 to the first connection point Cl. The arrows QL1 schematically represent the flow rate of the heat transfer fluid when the bidirectional pump 6 discharges the heat transfer fluid in the first discharge direction SL

[0095] Figure 4 illustrates the circulation of the heat transfer fluid in the circuit 20 when the bidirectional pump 6 operates in the second discharge direction S2. The heat transfer fluid 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 heat exchanger 2, through the second connection point C2, through the second unidirectional 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 flow of heat transfer fluid towards the first heat exchanger 1 and then the first connection point CL The second one-way valve 12 allows the flow of heat transfer fluid in the bypass branch 20B, from the second connection point C2 to the first connection point CL At the first connection point Cl, the heat transfer fluid pressure is lower than the pressure at the second connection point C2 due to the pressure drop in the bypass branch 20B, which includes the second one-way valve 12. Therefore, no circulation is possible in the main loop 20A from the first connection point Cl to the second connection point C2. The arrows QL2 schematically represent the heat transfer fluid flow rate when the two-way pump 6 delivers the heat transfer fluid in the second discharge direction SL.

[0096] According to the illustrated example, the thermal conditioning system 100 is a thermal conditioning system 100 for motor vehicles.

[0097] 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 allows for selective cooling or heating of element 25 of the vehicle's electric drive chain.

[0098] Element 25 of the vehicle's electric drive chain includes, for example, an electrical energy storage battery. Alternatively, element 25 of the vehicle's electric drivetrain may include an electric vehicle traction motor. Alternatively, element 25 of the vehicle's electric drive chain may include an electronic control unit for the vehicle's electric traction motor. The electrical energy storage battery can provide the electrical energy needed to provide the motive power to move the vehicle.

[0099] The first heat exchanger 1 includes, for example, a wall of a housing of the element 25 of the electric traction chain. The heat transfer fluid passing through the first heat exchanger 1 is in contact with the wall of the casing.

[0100] 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 fluid at the level of the first exchanger 1. Similarly, according to another mode of operation, the heat from the heat transfer fluid can be transferred to the element 25 of the traction chain in order to heat it.

[0101] According to the embodiments of the thermal conditioning system 100 illustrated in Figures 5 to 9, the second heat exchanger 2 is arranged jointly on the main loop 20A of heat transfer fluid and on a loop 10A of refrigerant fluid so as to allow heat exchange between the heat transfer fluid and the refrigerant fluid.

[0102] The second heat exchanger 2 is a two-fluid exchanger. The first fluid is the heat transfer fluid. The second fluid is the refrigerant.

[0103] The second heat exchanger 2 comprises a first heat exchange section 2a arranged on the main loop 20A of heat transfer fluid 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 fluid in the first heat exchange section 2a.

[0104] The heat transfer fluid circuit 20 includes an electric heating device 15 configured to selectively heat the heat transfer fluid. The electric heating device 15 includes, for example, an electric resistance that can exchange heat with the heat transfer fluid.

[0105] The electric heating device 15 is arranged on the main loop 20A of heat transfer fluid. When the electric heating device 15 is activated, i.e. when an electric current flows through it, the heat transfer fluid is heated.

[0106] According to the illustrated example, the electric heating device 15 is arranged on the main loop 20A of heat transfer fluid between the second connection point C2 and the second exchanger 2. In other words, when the bidirectional pump 6 discharges the heat transfer fluid in the first discharge direction SI, the electric heating device 15 is upstream of the second exchanger 2 in the direction of flow of the heat transfer fluid. When the bidirectional pump 6 discharges the heat transfer fluid in the second discharge direction S2, the electric heating device 15 is downstream of the second heat exchanger 2 in the direction of flow of the heat transfer fluid.

[0107] The thermal conditioning system 100 includes a refrigerant circuit 10 configured to circulate a refrigerant, comprising, according to a direction of refrigerant flow: - a 7-inch compressor, - a third heat exchanger 3, - an expansion valve 31, - the second heat exchanger 2, arranged jointly on the refrigerant fluid circuit 10 and on the main loop 20A of heat transfer fluid.

[0108] The compressor 7 allows a refrigerant to circulate in the refrigerant circulation circuit 10. The compressor 7 may be an electric compressor, that is, a compressor whose moving parts are driven by an electric motor. The compressor 7 has a low-pressure refrigerant intake side, also called the compressor inlet 7a, and a high-pressure refrigerant discharge side, also called the compressor outlet 7b. The internal moving parts of the compressor 7 cause the refrigerant to pass from a low pressure at the inlet 7a to a high pressure at the outlet 7b. After expansion in one or more expansion valves and circulation in at least part of the circuit 10, the refrigerant returns to the inlet 7a of the compressor 7 and begins a new thermodynamic cycle.

[0109] The refrigerant circuit 10 forms a closed circuit in which the refrigerant can circulate. The refrigerant circuit 10 is leak-proof when it is in a nominal operating state, i.e., without any fault or leak.

[0110] The refrigerant used by the refrigerant circuit 10 can be a natural fluid, such as R290 or R744. A chemical refrigerant such as R1234yf, or 134a can also be used.

[0111] The expansion valve 31 can be an electronic expansion valve. In 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 control module for the expansion valve drives an electric motor that moves a movable shutter, controlling the passage area available to the refrigerant.

[0112] The refrigerant fluid circuit 10 also includes an accumulation device 8 located downstream of the second heat exchanger 2 and upstream of a refrigerant fluid inlet 7a of the compressor 7. The accumulation device 8 is an accumulator.

[0113] The second heat exchange section 2b of the second heat exchanger 2 is arranged on the refrigerant fluid loop 10A downstream of the expansion valve 31 and upstream of the accumulator 8.

[0114] According to an unrepresented variant, the accumulation device 8 is disposed downstream of the third heat exchanger 3 and upstream of the expansion valve 31. The accumulation device 8 is then a desiccant bottle.

[0115] The third heat exchanger 3 can operate as a refrigerant fluid cooler.

[0116] According to the embodiments illustrated in figures 5 to 9, the third heat exchanger 3 is thermally coupled with an airflow Fi inside a passenger compartment of a motor vehicle.

[0117] According to the illustrated example, the third heat exchanger 3 is configured to exchange heat with the interior airflow Fi to the vehicle's passenger compartment. The thermal coupling between the third heat exchanger 3 and the interior airflow Fi is said to be direct. Indeed, the airflow 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 disposed in the vehicle's heating, ventilation and / or air conditioning system. The condensation of the refrigerant fluid in the third heat exchanger 3 heats the interior airflow Fi, thus heating the vehicle's passenger compartment to ensure thermal comfort for the passengers.

[0118] According to an alternative embodiment, not shown, the third heat exchanger 3 is configured to exchange heat with a heat transfer fluid circulating in a closed heat transfer fluid circuit, the closed heat transfer fluid circuit comprising a heat exchanger configured to exchange heat with the interior airflow Fi to the vehicle's passenger compartment. The thermal coupling between the third heat exchanger 3 and the interior airflow Fi is in this case said to be indirect, since it is achieved via a heat transfer fluid which transfers the heat supplied by the refrigerant fluid to the airflow Fi supplying the vehicle's passenger compartment. The heat transfer fluid circulating in the circuit is, for example, a mixture of water and glycol. According to this variant, the heat exchanger of the heat transfer fluid circuit, also called a heater core, is located in the vehicle's heating, ventilation and / or air conditioning system.

[0119] According to another embodiment, not shown in the figures, the third heat exchanger 3 is thermally coupled with an outside airflow to a passenger compartment of a motor vehicle.

[0120] According to one embodiment, the third heat exchanger 3 is configured to exchange heat with the outside airflow to the vehicle's passenger compartment. The thermal coupling between the third heat exchanger 3 and the outside airflow is then direct. According to another implementation example, 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 includes a heat exchanger configured to exchange heat with the outside airflow to the vehicle's passenger compartment. This heat exchanger is called a radiator and is, for example, located at the front of the vehicle, just behind the grille, in order to directly receive the airflow resulting from the vehicle's movement. The thermal coupling between the third exchanger 3 and the outside airflow is then indirect.

[0121] The second exchanger 2 can operate as a refrigerant fluid evaporator. The second exchanger 2 can indeed 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 heat of vaporization is supplied by the heat transfer fluid circulating in the first heat exchange section 2a of the second exchanger 2.

[0122] Figures 8 and 9 illustrate a third embodiment. The third embodiment differs from the second embodiment in that the branch branch 20B includes a fourth heat exchanger 4.

[0123] In the illustrated example, the fourth heat exchanger 4 is arranged between the second connection point C2 and the second one-way valve 12.

[0124] According to an unrepresented variant, the fourth heat exchanger 4 is arranged between the second one-way valve 12 and the first connection point Cl.

[0125] The fourth heat exchanger 4 is configured to exchange heat with an airflow F. The airflow F here is an airflow Fi inside the passenger compartment of a motor vehicle. The fourth heat exchanger 4 is located in the vehicle's heating, ventilation and / or air conditioning system. The fourth exchanger 4 is positioned upstream of the third exchanger 3 according to the direction of flow of the internal air flow Fi.

[0126] According to an example not shown, the airflow F is an airflow from 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. A heat pump mode of operation is possible, in which heat recovered from the outside airflow helps to heat the passenger compartment. In this operating mode, the heat recovered from the outside airflow at the fourth heat exchanger 4 allows the refrigerant to evaporate at the second heat exchanger 2, and the condensation of the refrigerant at the third heat exchanger 3 allows the interior airflow Fi to be heated.

[0127] Figures 6 and 7 illustrate two modes of operation of a thermal conditioning system according to the second embodiment, and Figures 8 and 9 illustrate two modes of operation of a thermal conditioning system according to the third embodiment. In these figures, the portions of circuit 20 in which a flow of heat transfer fluid circulates are in thick solid line, while the portions in which the heat transfer fluid does not circulate are in thin dotted lines.

[0128] Fig. 6 illustrates a method of operation of a thermal conditioning system 100 according to the second embodiment, in a first operating mode called passenger compartment heating and battery cooling.

[0129] According to this first mode of operation: - a flow Qr of refrigerant fluid circulates in the compressor 7 where it passes to high pressure, and circulates successively in the third heat exchanger 3 where it gives up heat, in the expansion valve 31 where it undergoes expansion and passes to low pressure, in the second heat exchanger 2 where it receives heat from the heat transfer fluid, 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 releases heat from the fluid refrigerant, in the first heat exchanger 1 where it receives heat, and returns to the second heat exchanger 2.

[0130] The high pressure state corresponds to the pressure at the outlet of compressor 7. The low pressure state corresponds to the pressure after expansion in the regulator 31. The low pressure is less than the high pressure.

[0131] In this first operating mode, the bidirectional pump 6 discharges the heat transfer fluid in the first discharge direction SL A flow QL of heat transfer fluid 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 branch 20B is zero.

[0132] In the first operating mode, the heat transfer fluid flows through the main loop 20A and does not flow through the bypass branch 20B. The heat transfer fluid is discharged in the first direction of discharge S1 through the first inlet / outlet ESI of the bidirectional pump 6 and passes successively through the first connection point Cl, through the first unidirectional 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 fluid in the bypass branch 20B. The first heat exchanger 1 and the second heat exchanger 2 are fluidically connected in series. Both the first heat exchanger 1 and the second heat exchanger 2 carry a flow of heat transfer fluid QL and each performs a heat exchange.

[0133] In this operating mode, a flow Qr of low-pressure refrigerant circulates in the second heat exchanger 2 and evaporates. The heat required for vaporization is supplied by the heat transfer fluid, which is thus cooled. The electric heating device 15 is not activated. The cooled heat transfer fluid 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 allows the vehicle's passenger compartment to be heated.

[0134] Fig. 7 illustrates a method of operation of a thermal conditioning system 100 according to the second embodiment, in a second mode of operation, called passenger compartment heating mode.

[0135] According to this second mode of operation: - a flow Qr of refrigerant fluid circulates in the compressor 7 where it passes to high pressure, and circulates successively in the third heat exchanger 3 where it gives up heat, in the expansion valve 31 where it undergoes expansion and passes to low pressure, in the second heat exchanger 2 where it receives heat from the heat transfer fluid, and returns to the compressor 11. - the electric heating device 15 is activated so as to heat the heat transfer fluid. - a flow 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 electric heating device 15 where it receives heat, and returns to the second heat exchanger 2.

[0136] In this second mode of operation, the bidirectional pump 6 discharges the heat transfer fluid in the second discharge 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 part of the main loop 20A.

[0137] The heat transfer fluid 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 heating device 15, through the second connection point C2, through the second unidirectional 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 flow of heat transfer fluid towards the first heat exchanger 1 and then the first connection point CL The second one-way valve 12 allows the flow of heat transfer fluid in the bypass branch 20B, from the second connection point C2 to the first connection point CL

[0138] When the thermal conditioning system 100 operates in this second mode, only the second heat exchanger 2 receives a flow of heat transfer fluid QL and performs a heat exchange. The first heat exchanger 1 does not receive a flow of heat transfer fluid and does not participate in the heat exchange.

[0139] The circulation of the heat transfer fluid in the first heat exchanger 1 can thus be allowed or prohibited simply by reversing the discharge direction of the bidirectional pump 6. The only electrical control required to switch between operating modes is the one that determines the direction of discharge of the bidirectional pump. since the check valves react mechanically to the direction of discharge imposed by the bidirectional pump 6.

[0140] In this mode of operation, a flow Qr of refrigerant circulates in the compressor 7 where it passes to high pressure, and circulates successively in the third exchanger 3 where it gives up heat to the outside air flow Fi, in the expansion valve 31 where it undergoes expansion and passes to low pressure, in the second exchanger 2 where it receives heat from the heat transfer fluid, and returns to the compressor 7.

[0141] 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 at the level of the second exchanger 2, and thus to the indoor airflow Fi at the level of the third exchanger 3. Element 25 does not perform heat exchange since the first exchanger 1 is inactive.

[0142] Fig. 8 illustrates a method of operation of a thermal conditioning system 100 according to the third embodiment, in the first operating mode known as passenger compartment heating and battery cooling.

[0143] 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 has been described previously for the second embodiment, and illustrated in [Fig.7]. Since the bypass branch 20B is not traversed by heat transfer fluid in this operating mode, the fourth exchanger 4 is itself not traversed by a flow of heat transfer fluid, and is thermally inactive. The heat exchanges within the thermal conditioning system 100 are the same as those previously described for the second embodiment.

[0144] Figure 9 illustrates a method of operation of a thermal conditioning system 100 according to the third embodiment, in a third operating mode, called passenger compartment dehumidification mode.

[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 has been described previously for the second embodiment, and illustrated in [Fig.6]. In this third embodiment, the bypass branch 20B includes a fourth heat exchanger 4 capable of exchanging heat with the indoor airflow Fi. In this operating mode, the bypass branch 20B carries a flow rate QL of heat transfer fluid. The heat transfer fluid, cooled in the second heat exchanger 2, then circulates through the fourth heat exchanger 4 and cools the indoor airflow Fi. The indoor airflow Fi is heated at the third exchanger 3 and cooled at the fourth exchanger 4, and is thus dehumidified.

Claims

1. Demands Thermal conditioning system (100), comprising a heat transfer fluid circuit (20) configured to circulate a heat transfer fluid, the heat transfer fluid circuit (20) comprising: - a main loop (20A) comprising a bidirectional pump (6), the main loop (20A) comprising successively 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 branch (20B) connecting a first connection point (C1) located on the main loop (20A) between the first inlet / outlet (ES1) of the bidirectional pump (6) and the first heat exchanger (1) to a second connection point (C2) located on the main loop (20A) between the first heat exchanger (1) and the second heat exchanger (2), in which: - the main loop (20A) includes a first one-way valve (11) disposed on the main loop (A) between the first heat exchanger (1) and the second connection point (C2) and configured to allow circulation of heat transfer fluid 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) includes a second one-way valve (12) configured to allow circulation of heat transfer fluid 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) includes a first one-way valve (11) located on the main loop (A) between the first heat exchanger (1) and the second connection point (C2) and configured to allow heat transfer fluid to circulate only through the first one-way valve (11). from the second connection point (C2) to the first connection point (Cl), and the bypass branch (20B) includes a second one-way valve (12) configured to allow circulation of heat transfer fluid 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 any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first heat exchanger (1) is thermally coupled with an element (25) of an electric drivetrain of a motor vehicle.

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

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

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

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

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

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

9. Method of operating a thermal conditioning system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, in a mode called first mode of operation in which the bidirectional pump (6) discharges the heat transfer fluid in the first discharge direction (SI), and in which: a flow (QL) of heat transfer fluid circulates successively in the bidirectional pump (6), in the first heat exchanger (1), in the second heat exchanger (2), and in which the flow of heat transfer fluid in the bypass branch (20B) is zero.

10. Method of operating a thermal conditioning system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, in a so-called second operating mode in which the bidirectional pump (6) discharges the heat transfer fluid in the second discharge direction (S2), in which: a flow rate (QL) of heat transfer fluid circulates successively in the bidirectional pump (6), in the second heat exchanger (2), in the second unidirectional valve (12), and in which the flow rate of heat transfer fluid in the first heat exchanger (1) is zero.