Separation device for a refrigerant circuit

Abstract

Separation device for a refrigerant circuit The present invention relates to a separation device (1) comprising a cylindrical wall (3), a first end wall (4) and a second end wall (5) delimiting an internal volume (2), the separation device (1) comprising an inlet channel (6) comprising an inlet orifice (10) arranged in the internal volume (2), a first outlet channel (7) comprising an outlet orifice (11) arranged in the internal volume (2), and a second outlet channel (8) comprising an outlet orifice (12) arranged in the internal volume (2), characterized in that the separation device (1) comprises a moisture absorption module (19) arranged in the internal volume (2) and an expansion member (22), the moisture absorption module (19) and the expansion member (22) each being integral with one of the end walls (4, 5). (figure 1)

Description

Title of the invention: Separation device for a refrigerant circuit

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of refrigerant circuits of a heat treatment system of a motor vehicle, and more particularly concerns a separation device integrated into such refrigerant circuits.

[0002] Motor vehicles are commonly equipped with a refrigerant circuit and at least one heat transfer fluid circuit, both used to participate in a heat treatment of different zones or different components of the vehicle. It is in particular known to use the refrigerant circuit and / or the heat transfer fluid circuit to heat treat a flow of air sent into the passenger compartment of the vehicle equipped with such a circuit. This heat treatment is carried out in particular by means of a circulation of the refrigerant within a ventilation, heating and / or air conditioning installation arranged in the vehicle.

[0003] In another application of this circuit, it is known to use the heat transfer fluid circuit to cool components of the vehicle's powertrain, such as for example an electrical storage device, the latter being used to supply energy to an electric motor capable of setting the vehicle in motion. To do this, the heat transfer fluid is previously heat-treated using the refrigerant fluid thanks to a heat exchange occurring between the two circuits.

[0004] During the circulation of the refrigerant fluid within the refrigerant circuit, said refrigerant fluid is capable of switching between a liquid state and a gaseous state following a change in temperature and / or a change in pressure. However, it may happen that the refrigerant fluid circulates in the refrigerant circuit in a two-phase state, i.e. partly liquid and partly gaseous. The refrigerant circuit may thus comprise a separation device allowing an entry of the refrigerant fluid potentially in two-phase phase. The refrigerant fluid is then separated into a liquid fraction and a gaseous fraction within the separation device and each of the fractions can then exit the separation device via an outlet specific to each state.

[0005] Automobile manufacturers are aiming to continually improve their vehicles, in particular such a separation device. These improvements may in particular concern the heat treatment of the refrigerant fluid and increasing the service life of the refrigerant fluid circuit comprising such a separation device.

[0006] The present invention falls within this context and therefore proposes a device for separation for a refrigerant circuit of a heat treatment system of a vehicle, comprising at least one cylindrical wall, at least one first termination wall and one second termination wall closing on either side the cylindrical wall, the cylindrical wall and the termination walls delimiting an internal volume, the separation device further comprising an inlet channel configured to allow the entry of a refrigerant into the separation device and comprising an inlet orifice arranged in the internal volume, a first outlet channel configured to evacuate the refrigerant and comprising an outlet orifice arranged in the internal volume, and a second outlet channel configured to evacuate the refrigerant and comprising an evacuation orifice arranged in the internal volume,characterized in that the separation device comprises a moisture absorption module arranged in the internal volume and at least one expansion member, the moisture absorption module and the expansion member each being integral with one of the termination walls among the first termination wall and the second termination wall.

[0007] Thanks to the separation device according to the invention, the refrigerant fluid can be expanded before entering the internal volume. The expansion can also be carried out on the refrigerant fluid leaving the separation device for the purpose of subsequent heat treatment. The solidarity of the expansion member with the separation device can also ensure an improvement in the compactness of the refrigerant circuit.

[0008] The moisture absorption module acts as a desiccant and absorbs any trace of water that may be contained in the refrigerant fluid. Indeed, water may be present in the refrigerant circuit, for example following its installation. Since water is a source of rust in the pipes of the refrigerant circuit, it is therefore advantageous to retain it to prevent its circulation. The service life of the refrigerant circuit is thus improved.

[0009] The cylindrical wall may for example have a circular section in order to partially delimit the internal volume. The latter is adapted according to the quantity of refrigerant circulating within the refrigerant circuit. The terminal walls extend mainly according to the cylindrical shape delimited by the cylindrical wall and are arranged at the ends of this cylindrical shape, thus completely delimiting the internal volume with the cylindrical wall.

[0010] The separation device is arranged within the refrigerant circuit and allows the refrigerant to enter it in any state, and to exit either in the liquid state or in the gaseous state. Even if the refrigerant is in the two-phase state when entering the separation device, the latter then separates the liquid fraction from the gaseous fraction and allows the exit of each of them. Thus, the inlet channel ensures the entry of the refrigerant fluid into the separation device, the first outlet channel ensuring the exit of the liquid fraction of the refrigerant fluid from the separation device and the second outlet channel ensuring the exit of the gaseous fraction of the refrigerant fluid from the separation device. It is therefore through the inlet orifice that the refrigerant fluid enters the internal volume and through the outlet orifice or the discharge orifice that the refrigerant fluid leaves.

[0011] The moisture absorption module and the expansion member are both integral with one of the end walls of the separation device. The moisture absorption module is advantageously arranged in the internal volume of the separation device so as not to mechanically obstruct the refrigerant circuit.

[0012] The expansion member makes it possible to lower the pressure, and consequently the temperature, of the refrigerant fluid. This is useful for controlling a thermodynamic cycle of the refrigerant fluid, as well as for subsequently thermally treating a heat transfer fluid circulating in a heat transfer fluid circuit and configured to thermally treat components of a vehicle powertrain or even the passenger compartment of said vehicle. Securing the expansion member to one of the terminal walls makes it possible to integrate the latter into the separation device instead of integrating it at the level of another element of the refrigerant fluid circuit, which may be advantageous depending on the spatial environment of the separation device.

[0013] According to a characteristic of the invention, the moisture absorption module comprises a base secured to one of the end walls and an absorption element capable of being removably fixed to the base. The base constitutes the supporting structure of the moisture absorption module, allowing both the attachment to one of the end walls of the separation device and the fixing of the absorption element which is the element absorbing the water contained in the refrigerant fluid. The absorption element can be put in place and removed from the base simply and quickly, in order to be able to replace the absorption element in the event of wear.

[0014] According to a characteristic of the invention, the first outlet channel passes through the base of the moisture absorption module, the outlet orifice being arranged within the absorption element. Such a configuration ensures that the refrigerant in the liquid state is correctly dehumidified before leaving the separation device and therefore circulating in the pipes likely to rust in the presence of water. The refrigerant must therefore circulate in the liquid state through the absorbent element before leaving the separation device. The moisture is therefore absorbed in a guaranteed manner.

[0015] According to a characteristic of the invention, the moisture absorption module includes a filtering means configured to filter particles that may be present in the refrigerant fluid.

[0016] According to a characteristic of the invention, the inlet channel, the first outlet channel and the second outlet channel each passing through the first termination wall or the second termination wall, the expansion member being arranged on the inlet channel or on the first outlet channel, the expansion member being integral with the termination wall passed through by said inlet channel and / or by said first outlet channel.

[0017] Each channel passes through one or other of the terminal walls so that the refrigerant can enter the separation device via the inlet channel and exit the separation device via the first outlet channel or the second outlet channel. According to an advantageous example, depending on the orientation of the separation device, the first outlet channel preferentially passes through the lower terminal wall, so that the outlet orifice can be positioned at a lower portion of the separation device, the liquid fraction migrating towards this lower portion by gravity. Conversely, the second outlet channel preferentially passes through the upper terminal wall, so that the discharge orifice can be positioned at an upper portion of the separation device, the gaseous fraction migrating towards this upper portion.The various channels can, however, pass through any end wall, the essential thing being to extend until the orifice attached to the channel is correctly positioned within the separation device.

[0018] According to a characteristic of the invention, the separation device comprises a first expansion member arranged on the inlet channel and a second expansion member arranged on the first outlet channel, the first expansion member and the second expansion member being respectively integral with the end wall crossed by said inlet channel and with the end wall crossed by said first outlet channel. In such a configuration, the refrigerant fluid is therefore expanded a first time before entering the separation device, and the liquid fraction of the refrigerant fluid is expanded a second time at the outlet of the separation device, in order to ensure a heat treatment of the heat transfer fluid as mentioned previously.

[0019] According to a characteristic of the invention, the first outlet channel is divided into two paths, the expansion member comprising two expansion elements, each of the expansion elements being arranged on one of the paths, each of the expansion elements being integral with the termination wall crossed by the first outlet channel. Such a configuration is compatible with a refrigerant circuit capable of thermally treating the heat transfer fluid at two sections of the refrigerant circuit. carrier or two heat transfer fluid circuits. A distribution of the expanded refrigerant can therefore be implemented with a first outlet channel configured in two ways. Thus, the refrigerant can be expanded, regardless of the route taken.

[0020] According to a characteristic of the invention, the separation device comprises at least a first separation plate and a second separation plate distant from each other and arranged in the internal volume, the first separation plate being arranged between the inlet orifice and the outlet orifice, the second separation plate being arranged between the inlet orifice and the discharge orifice, at least one of the separation plates among the first separation plate and the second separation plate being arranged in the internal volume so as to delimit an annular space between said separation plate and the cylindrical wall.

[0021] Thanks to the separation plates arranged in the internal volume, the inlet of the refrigerant fluid is made so as not to be in direct contact with the refrigerant fluid in the liquid state or the refrigerant fluid in the gaseous state. This avoids phenomena of bubbling of the refrigerant fluid at the level of a volume of refrigerant fluid in the liquid state at the level of the refrigerant fluid in the two-phase state entering the separation device flows directly. A phenomenon of direct projection of the refrigerant fluid in the two-phase state towards the second outlet channel is also avoided thanks to the separation plates.

[0022] The separating plates are arranged so as to separate two orifices from each other. The first separating plate is therefore interposed between the inlet orifice and the outlet orifice, through which the liquid fraction of the refrigerant fluid exits. However, it is common for a volume of refrigerant fluid in the liquid state to stagnate within the separating device, at the outlet orifice because it is through this orifice that the liquid fraction of the refrigerant fluid exits.

[0023] Thus, the first separation plate is positioned so that, when the refrigerant enters the internal volume of the separation device via the inlet orifice, it flows against the first separation plate instead of flowing directly into the volume of refrigerant in the liquid state, which can potentially form bubbling at the level of this volume of refrigerant, thus impairing the good separation of the fractions of the refrigerant.

[0024] By flowing against the first separating plate, a separation of the fractions of the refrigerant fluid is carried out. Subsequently, the liquid fraction flows to the volume of refrigerant fluid in the liquid state via a periphery of the first separating plate.

[0025] The second separation plate is positioned between the inlet orifice and the outlet orifice, through which the gaseous fraction of the refrigerant fluid exits. This The second separation plate prevents liquid refrigerant from being projected towards the discharge port and polluting the second outlet channel, which ensures the exit of only gaseous refrigerant. The separation plates thus ensure improved separation of the fractions of the two-phase refrigerant, while avoiding disturbance of the incoming refrigerant on the already separated fractions.

[0026] The annular space promotes the flow of the fractions towards the outlet orifice or the discharge orifice depending on the state of the fraction. Advantageously, the two separating plates delimit an annular space with the cylindrical wall.

[0027] After entering the separation device, the refrigerant in the two-phase state is initially between the two separation plates. The latter must therefore include an opening so that the refrigerant can subsequently reach the outlet orifice or the discharge orifice. It has been determined that an annular space facilitates the circulation of the refrigerant in the separation device compared to a point opening. The annular space then ensures that the pressure drop of the refrigerant is minimized when the latter is within the separation device.

[0028] According to a characteristic of the invention, the inlet channel, the first outlet channel and the second outlet channel all pass through the same termination wall among the first termination wall and the second termination wall. This configuration makes it possible to arrange all of the channels on the same side of the separation device. Such a configuration may be advantageous depending on the positioning of the separation device, because the spatial size of the refrigerant circuit or of another adjacent system may be such that it is not possible to arrange channels on each side of the separation device.

[0029] The invention also covers a refrigerant circuit for a vehicle heat treatment system, comprising a separation device as described above, the refrigerant circuit further comprising a compression device, a main branch starting at an outlet of the compression device and extending to the inlet channel of the separation device, a first heat exchanger arranged on the main branch, at least a first branch extending between the first outlet channel of the separation device and a first inlet of the compression device, a second heat exchanger arranged on the first branch, and a second branch extending between the second outlet channel of the separation device and a second inlet of the compression device.

[0030] The refrigerant fluid is circulated in the gaseous state by the compression device and then circulates to the first heat exchanger. Each of the exchangers thermal is the heart of a heat exchange between the refrigerant circulating in the refrigerant circuit and the heat transfer fluid, mentioned above, circulating in the heat transfer fluid circuit. Thus, the refrigerant being put under high pressure and high temperature by the compression device, said refrigerant is cooled within the first heat exchanger arranged on the main branch. The refrigerant is then at least partially condensed due to its cooling while the heat transfer fluid is heated to subsequently heat the passenger compartment of the vehicle or a component of a vehicle powertrain if necessary.

[0031] The at least partially condensed refrigerant fluid then continues its circulation within the main branch until it reaches the inlet channel to enter the separation device. As previously described, the liquid fraction and the gaseous fraction are separated from each other within the separation device. The liquid fraction circulates within the first outlet channel and then in the first branch, while the gaseous fraction circulates in the second outlet channel and then in the second branch.

[0032] The liquid fraction thus circulates in the second branch and a new heat exchange is carried out between the refrigerant fluid and the heat transfer fluid, this time with the aim of evaporating the refrigerant fluid while cooling the heat transfer fluid. The latter is cooled to subsequently cool the passenger compartment of the vehicle or a component of the vehicle's powertrain if necessary. The evaporated refrigerant fluid is subsequently compressed again via the compression device by entering the latter via the first inlet.

[0033] The gaseous fraction leaves the separation device through the second outlet channel and then circulates within the second branch to directly reach the compression device by entering it via the second inlet. The refrigerant fluid then recirculates in a loop in the refrigerant fluid circuit as long as necessary.

[0034] According to a characteristic of the invention, the refrigerant circuit comprises a first expansion member arranged between the first heat exchanger and the inlet orifice, and a second expansion member arranged between the outlet orifice and the second heat exchanger. As mentioned previously, to complete the thermodynamic cycle of the refrigerant, the latter must be expanded after having been condensed within the first heat exchanger and before being evaporated within the second heat exchanger. Two expansion members are therefore arranged upstream and downstream of the separation device. At least one of the expansion members is integral with one of the terminal walls of the separation device. The expansion members can also be arranged on the main branch and / or on the first branch.

[0035] Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description on the one hand, and from several examples of embodiment given for informational and non-limiting purposes with reference to the attached schematic drawings on the other hand, in which:

[0036] [Fig.l] represents a first embodiment of a separation device according to the invention,

[0037] [Fig.2] represents a second embodiment of the separation device according to the invention,

[0038] [Fig.3] represents a third embodiment of the separation device according to the invention,

[0039] [Fig.4] represents a fourth embodiment of the separation device according to the invention,

[0040] [Fig.5] is an illustration of a refrigerant circuit comprising the first embodiment of the separation device,

[0041] [Fig.6] is an illustration of the refrigerant circuit comprising the second embodiment of the separation device,

[0042] [Fig.7] is an illustration of the refrigerant circuit comprising the third embodiment of the separation device,

[0043] [Fig.8] is an illustration of the refrigerant circuit comprising the fourth embodiment of the separation device.

[0044] [Fig.l] is a representation of a first embodiment of a separation device 1 according to the invention. Such a separation device 1 is configured to be integrated within a refrigerant circuit of a thermal treatment system of a vehicle. It is therefore a two-phase refrigerant which circulates in the different components of the refrigerant circuit, including within the separation device 1.

[0045] The separation device 1 comprises an internal volume 2 defined by a cylindrical wall 3 closed by a first termination wall 4 and a second termination wall 5. The cylindrical wall 3 may for example be of circular section, and the termination walls 4, 5 are arranged at each end of the cylinder formed by the cylindrical wall 3.

[0046] According to an example illustrated in Figures 1 to 4, the first termination wall 4 constitutes an upper wall of the separation device 1, while the second termination wall 5 constitutes a lower wall of the separation device 1.

[0047] The separation device 1 further comprises an inlet channel 6, a first outlet channel 7 and a second outlet channel 8. The inlet channel 6 ensures the entry of the refrigerant fluid into the separation device 1, while the first outlet channel 7 and the second outlet channel 8 ensure the exit of the refrigerant fluid outside the separation device 1. of the separation device 1.

[0048] Depending on its state, the refrigerant fluid exits the separation device 1 via the first outlet channel 7 or via the second outlet channel 8. Indeed, as mentioned previously, the refrigerant fluid is two-phase, that is to say it can be in the liquid state or in the gaseous state. In addition, it is possible for the refrigerant fluid to enter the separation device 1 in a two-phase state, that is to say it is partly in the liquid state and partly in the gaseous state. In this configuration, the separation device 1 has the function of separating a liquid fraction and a gaseous fraction from the refrigerant fluid in the incoming two-phase state. The fractions formed can then circulate out of the separation device 1 via the outlet channel 7, 8 corresponding to the state of the refrigerant fluid.According to an example illustrated in all the figures, the first outlet channel 7 corresponds to the outlet of the refrigerant fluid in the liquid state and the second outlet channel 8 corresponds to the outlet of the refrigerant fluid in the gaseous state.

[0049] The inlet channel 6, the first outlet channel 7 and the second outlet channel 8 pass through one of the termination walls 4, 5 among the first termination wall 4 and the second termination wall 5. According to the configuration illustrated in [Fig.l], the inlet channel 6 and the second outlet channel 8 pass through the first termination wall 4, while the first outlet channel 7 passes through the second termination wall 5, but other configurations are possible as will be illustrated later. The separation device 1 may in this respect comprise a plurality of flanges 9 ensuring the passage through the termination walls 4, 5 in a sealed manner.

[0050] The inlet channel 6, the first outlet channel 7 and the second outlet channel 8 respectively comprise an inlet orifice 10, an outlet orifice 11 and an evacuation orifice 12 arranged in the internal volume 2. Each orifice 10, 11, 12 constitutes one end of each channel 6, 7, 8 through which the refrigerant enters or leaves the separation device 1.

[0051] Advantageously, the outlet orifice 11 is arranged in the internal volume 2 at a lower portion 13 where the gas in the liquid state is present. This lower portion 13 contains a volume of refrigerant fluid in the liquid state ready to exit through the first outlet channel 7 if necessary. The internal volume 2 also comprises an upper portion 14, containing a volume of refrigerant fluid in the gaseous state ready to exit through the second outlet channel 8 if necessary. As a result, the discharge orifice 12 is advantageously arranged at this upper portion 14.

[0052] The separation device 1 further comprises a first separation plate 15 and a second separation plate 16 arranged in the internal volume 2 so that each separation plate 15, 16 separates the inlet orifice 10 from the outlet orifice 11 or the discharge orifice 12. In other words, the separating plates 15, 16 extend on either side of the inlet orifice 10. As a result, the separating plates 15, 16 are therefore distant from each other.

[0053] Thus, when the refrigerant enters the separation device 1 via the inlet channel 6, the flow occurs against one or other of the separation plates 15, 16, here on the first separation plate 15 according to [Fig. 1]. A direct flow at the level of the lower portion 13 is avoided so as not to disturb the refrigerant in the liquid state contained in the separation device 1. In addition, this makes it possible to promote the separation of the refrigerant in the two-phase state because the latter does not flow directly into the refrigerant in the liquid state.

[0054] The second separating plate 16 is disposed between the inlet orifice 10 and the discharge orifice 12 and prevents projections of refrigerant in the liquid state towards the discharge orifice 12 when the refrigerant in the two-phase state enters. This makes it possible to prevent the circulation of refrigerant in the liquid state in the second outlet channel 8 intended for the circulation of refrigerant in the gaseous state. The first separating plate 15 and / or the second separating plate 16 may comprise a peripheral edge 17 projecting by a main dimension in order to facilitate the flow of the refrigerant in the liquid state or to further protect the discharge orifice 12 from projections of refrigerant.

[0055] In order for the inlet orifice 10 to be positioned between the separation plates 15, 16, the inlet channel 6 must extend so as to pass through one of the separation plates 15, 16. In [Fig.l], the inlet channel 6 passes through the second separation plate 16.

[0056] At least one of the separation plates 15, 16 is arranged so as to delimit an annular space 18 between said separation plate 15, 16 and the cylindrical wall 3. In all of FIGS. 1 to 4, the two separation plates 15, 16 each delimit an annular space 18. The latter allows, once the refrigerant fluid has entered and been separated into fractions, to migrate each of them towards the outlet orifice 11 or the discharge orifice 12, and this without causing a loss of charge of the refrigerant fluid.

[0057] Thus, the liquid fraction can flow along the first separation plate 15, then join the lower portion 13 by gravity via the annular space 18 formed by the first separation plate 15. The gaseous fraction can join the upper portion 14 by circulating through the annular space 18 formed by the second separation plate 16. The separation device 1 therefore guarantees separation of a refrigerant fluid in the two-phase state without disturbance and without pressure loss.

[0058] In order to improve the thermal treatment of the refrigerant fluid while optimizing the spatial size and the service life of the separation device and / or the circuit of refrigerant fluid incorporating such a separation device 1, the latter is provided with a humidity absorption module 19 and at least one expansion member 22, the latter both being integral with one of the termination walls 4, 5.

[0059] According to [Fig.l], the moisture absorption module 19 is arranged within the internal volume 2 and is integral with the second termination wall 5. Arranging the moisture absorption module 19 in the internal volume 2 is advantageous in the sense that this avoids arranging it outside the internal volume 2 and therefore reduces the spatial size of the separation device 1.

[0060] The moisture absorption module 19 has a desiccant role, that is to say that it absorbs the water contained in the refrigerant fluid. Water can in fact form in the refrigerant circuit comprising the separation device 1, for example following capture of ambient air during assembly of the refrigerant circuit. The presence of water in the refrigerant circuit can cause rusting of the pipes and therefore degradation of the refrigerant circuit. The moisture absorption module 19 therefore guarantees the retention of any trace of water contained in the refrigerant fluid in the liquid state, while allowing the circulation of said refrigerant fluid. The moisture absorption module 19 is advantageously positioned at the outlet orifice 11 in order to ensure that any fluid in the liquid state leaving the separation device 1 via the first outlet channel 7 does not contain water.

[0061] The moisture absorption module 19 comprises a base 20 which constitutes the part secured to the second termination wall 5 and which is crossed by the first outlet channel 7, as well as an absorption element 21 fixed to the base 20 in a removable manner. It is this absorption element 21 which allows the retention of water and its removability allows the absorption element 21 to be changed simply in the event of wear. The outlet orifice 11 is therefore arranged within the absorption element 21.

[0062] In this embodiment, the moisture absorption module 19 may comprise a filtering means. The filtering means is arranged, for example, near the outlet orifice 11.

[0063] Thus, in addition to guaranteeing efficient and disturbance-free separation of the fluid in the two-phase state, the separation device 1 according to the invention therefore makes it possible to avoid any circulation of water in the refrigerant circuit.

[0064] The expansion member 22 is secured to the first termination wall 4. The expansion member 22 is arranged outside the internal volume 2 and ensures the expansion of the refrigerant fluid before it enters the separation device 1. The expansion member 22 expands the refrigerant fluid circulating in the inlet channel 6 in order to lower its temperature. The securing of the expansion member 22 to the separation device 1 can be advantageous in terms of spatial size compared to a expansion device arranged on a pipe of the refrigerant circuit. According to an alternative not illustrated, the separation device 1 may comprise a single expansion member 22 secured to the second termination wall 5.

[0065] [Fig. 2] represents a second embodiment of the separation device 1. This second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the separation device 1 comprises two expansion members 22, namely a first expansion member 22a arranged at the inlet channel 6 as is also the case for the first embodiment and a second expansion member 22b arranged at the first outlet channel 7. The refrigerant fluid in the two-phase state is therefore expanded a first time by the first expansion member 22a before entering the internal volume 2 of the separation device. Then, the liquid fraction, once separated from the gaseous fraction, is expanded a second time by the second expansion member 22b while circulating within the first outlet channel 7.

[0066] The expansion of the refrigerant fluid in the liquid state leaving the separation device 1 guarantees a heat treatment subsequently carried out by the refrigerant fluid in order to cool a heat transfer fluid. Just like the first expansion member 22a, the second expansion member 22b is integral with one of the end walls 4, 5, here the second end wall 5. The first outlet channel 7 therefore passes through the humidity absorption module 19 and the second expansion member 22b.

[0067] The rest of the structural and functional elements of the second embodiment being identical to the first embodiment, reference will be made to the description of [Fig.l] for the elements common to both embodiments.

[0068] [Fig. 3] represents a third embodiment of the separation device 1. The third embodiment differs from the previous embodiments in that one of the expansion members 22, here the second expansion member 22b, comprises two expansion elements 23, namely a first expansion element 23a and a second expansion element 23b. Indeed, the first outlet channel 7 is divided into a first path 24a and a second path 24b, each of the paths 24 comprising one of the expansion elements 23. This third embodiment is therefore particularly suitable for a refrigerant circuit comprising two branches allowing the cooling of the heat transfer fluid at two different locations, the refrigerant in the liquid state being expanded regardless of the path 24 taken. This configuration of the refrigerant circuit will be detailed later.

[0069] The rest of the structural and functional elements of the third embodiment being identical to the first or second embodiment, reference will be made to the description of figures 1 and 2 for the elements common to all the embodiments.

[0070] [Fig.4] represents a fourth embodiment of the separation device 1. This fourth embodiment is similar to the first embodiment because it includes the same elements as the latter.

[0071] However, the fourth embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the inlet channel 6, the first outlet channel 7 and the second outlet channel 8 all three pass through a single termination wall 4, 5, here the first termination wall 4. It should be noted that according to an example not illustrated, the inlet channel 6, the first outlet channel 7 and the second outlet channel 8 may all three pass through the second termination wall 5.

[0072] This fourth embodiment is particularly advantageous in the situation where it is not possible to arrange channels at both ends of the separation device 1 due to concerns about space requirements. In such a configuration, the separation device 1 can rest on a flat support (not illustrated), without this being a hindrance to the positioning of the various channels ensuring the proper functioning of the separation device 1.

[0073] This involves rethinking the structure of at least one of the channels 6, 7, 8, here the first outlet channel 7. This in fact passes through the first termination wall 4 but must however extend so that the outlet orifice 11 is arranged at the level of the lower portion 13 so that the refrigerant fluid in the liquid state can circulate out of the separation device 1 via the first outlet channel 7. Thus, the first outlet channel 7 extends so as to pass through the first separation plate 15 and the second separation plate 16 until it reaches the lower portion 13.

[0074] Furthermore, the humidity absorption module 19 is positioned as illustrated in the previous embodiments, that is to say integral with the second termination wall 5, but is not crossed by the first outlet channel 7. The humidity absorption module 19 is however in the vicinity of the outlet orifice 11 which allows it to maintain humidity absorption efficiency within the refrigerant fluid in the liquid state intended to circulate within the first outlet channel 7.

[0075] The rest of the structural and functional elements of the fourth embodiment being identical to the first embodiment, reference will be made to the description of [Fig.l] for the elements common to the two embodiments.

[0076] Figures 5 to 8 schematically represent the refrigerant circuit 25 comprising one of the embodiments illustrated in Figures 1 to 4 of the separation device 1.

[0077] Each of the illustrated refrigerant circuits comprises a compression device 26 and a main branch 27 starting at an outlet 28 of the compression device 26. The main branch 27 extends from the compression device 26 to the inlet channel 6 of the separation device 1, said inlet channel 6 being positioned in the continuity of the main branch 27.

[0078] The main branch 27 passes through a first heat exchanger 29 configured to carry out a heat exchange between the refrigerant fluid and the heat transfer fluid circulating in the heat transfer fluid circuit 30. The refrigerant fluid having previously been put under pressure, and therefore under high temperature, by the compression device 26, the heat exchange taking place within the first heat exchanger 29 ensures both the temperature increase of the heat transfer fluid while at least partially condensing the refrigerant fluid. In a manner not illustrated, once heated, the heat transfer fluid can for example be used to heat the passenger compartment of the vehicle or a component of a powertrain of the vehicle.

[0079] At the outlet of the first heat exchanger, the at least partially condensed refrigerant fluid is expanded by the first expansion member 22a, which is integral with the first termination wall as illustrated in [Fig.l].

[0080] Once the refrigerant fluid has been expanded, it enters the separation device 1 as described previously, then is separated into the liquid fraction and the gaseous fraction if necessary.

[0081] The refrigerant circuit 25 thus comprises a first branch 31 connected to the first outlet channel 7 and a second branch 32 connected to the second outlet channel 8.

[0082] The first branch 31, as illustrated in [Fig.5], comprises the second expansion member 22b ensuring the expansion of the refrigerant fluid in the liquid state. The second expansion member 22b is not integral with one and / or the other of the terminal walls. As the refrigerant fluid must be expanded at the outlet of the separation device 1, the second expansion member 22b is therefore positioned here on the first branch 31, between the first outlet channel 7 and a second heat exchanger 33.

[0083] At the outlet of the separation device 1, the refrigerant fluid in the liquid state continues its circulation at low pressure and low temperature until it passes through the second heat exchanger 33 within which a heat exchange also takes place with the heat transfer fluid of the heat transfer fluid circuit 30 in order to cool the latter, while evaporating the refrigerant fluid. In a manner not illustrated, once cooled, the heat transfer fluid can for example be used to cool the passenger compartment of the vehicle or a component of the vehicle's powertrain.

[0084] At the outlet of the second heat exchanger 33, the evaporated refrigerant fluid returns to the compression device 26 via a first inlet 34 to be compressed again.

[0085] The refrigerant fluid in the gaseous state contained in the separation device 1 leaves via the second outlet channel 8 and circulates in the second branch 32. The latter makes it possible to directly reach the compression device 26 via a second entry 35 to be compressed again.

[0086] The circulation of the refrigerant fluid is similar for all of the following figures compared to [Fig.5]. [Fig.6] represents the refrigerant fluid circuit 25 provided with the second embodiment of the separation device 1 illustrated in [Fig.2], that is to say with the two expansion members 22 integrated into the separation device 1, namely the first expansion member 22a and the second expansion member 22b. The latter is therefore not positioned on the first branch 31 as illustrated in [Fig.5].

[0087] [Fig.7] illustrates a refrigerant circuit 25 comprising the third embodiment of the separation device 1 illustrated in [Fig.3], that is to say with the second expansion member 22b which comprises the two expansion elements 23. This third embodiment of the separation device 1 is therefore compatible with a refrigerant circuit 25 which, in addition to comprising the elements described previously, also comprises a third branch 36 and a third heat exchanger 37 crossed by the third branch 36.Thus, it is possible to divide the refrigerant fluid in the liquid state leaving the separation device 1 within the first branch 31 and the third branch 36 in order to cool two heat transfer fluid loops within the second heat exchanger 33 and the third heat exchanger 37 respectively, and this in order to cool the passenger compartment of the vehicle and one of the components of the vehicle's powertrain simultaneously for example. At the outlet of the aforementioned heat exchangers, the first branch 31 and the third branch 36 join and the refrigerant fluid subsequently joins the compression device 26.

[0088] [Fig. 8] illustrates a refrigerant circuit 25 comprising the fourth embodiment of the separation device 1 illustrated in [Fig. 4], i.e. with the inlet channel 6, the first outlet channel 7 and the second outlet channel 8 passing through the same terminal wall. All of the elements are identical to what is illustrated in [Fig. 5] except for the position of the first outlet channel 7.

[0089] Of course, the invention is not limited to the examples which have just been described and numerous adjustments can be made to these examples without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0090] The invention, as just described, achieves the aim it set itself, and makes it possible to propose a separation device comprising a humidity absorption module and at least one expansion member optimizing the operation of a refrigerant circuit comprising such a separation device. Variants not described here could be implemented without departing from the context of the invention, provided that, in accordance with the invention, they comprise a separation device in accordance with the invention.

Claims

Claims

1. Separation device (1) for a refrigerant circuit (25) of a heat treatment system of a vehicle, comprising at least one cylindrical wall (3), at least one first termination wall (4) and one second termination wall (5) closing on either side the cylindrical wall (3), the cylindrical wall (3) and the termination walls (4, 5) delimiting an internal volume (2), the separation device (1) further comprising an inlet channel (6) configured to allow the entry of a refrigerant into the separation device (1) and comprising an inlet orifice (10) arranged in the internal volume (2), a first outlet channel (7) configured to evacuate the refrigerant and comprising an outlet orifice (11) arranged in the internal volume (2), and a second outlet channel (8) configured to evacuate the refrigerant and comprising an evacuation orifice (12) arranged in the internal volume (2),characterized in that the separation device (1) comprises a moisture absorption module (19) arranged in the internal volume (2) and at least one expansion member (22, 22a, 22b), the moisture absorption module (19) and the expansion member (22, 22a, 22b) each being integral with one of the termination walls (4, 5) among the first termination wall (4) and the second termination wall (5).,

2. Separation device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the moisture absorption module (19) comprises a base (20) integral with one of the end walls (4, 5) and an absorption element (21) capable of being fixed to the base (20) in a removable manner.

3. Separation device (1) according to the preceding claim, in which the first outlet channel (7) passes through the base (20) of the moisture absorption module (19), the outlet orifice (11) being arranged within the absorption element (21).

4. Separation device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the inlet channel (6), the first outlet channel (7) and the second outlet channel (8) each pass through the first termination wall (4) or the second termination wall (5), the expansion member (22, 22a, 22b) being arranged on the inlet channel (6) or on the first outlet channel (7), the expansion member (22, 22a, 22b) being integral with the termination wall (4, 5) crossed by said inlet channel (6) and / or by said first outlet channel (7). exit (7).

5. Separation device (1) according to the preceding claim, comprising a first expansion member (22a) arranged on the inlet channel (6) and a second expansion member (22b) arranged on the first outlet channel (7), the first expansion member (22a) and the second expansion member (22b) being respectively integral with the termination wall (4, 5) crossed by said inlet channel (6) and with the termination wall (4, 5) crossed by said first outlet channel (7).

6. Separating device (1) according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the first outlet channel (7) divides into two paths (24, 24a, 24b), the expansion member (22, 22a, 22b) comprising two expansion elements (23, 23a, 23b), each of the expansion elements (23, 23a, 23b) being arranged on one of the paths (24, 24a, 24b), each of the expansion elements (23, 23a, 23b) being integral with the termination wall (4, 5) crossed by the first outlet channel (7).

7. Separation device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising at least a first separation plate (15) and a second separation plate (16) spaced from each other and arranged in the internal volume (2), the first separation plate (15) being arranged between the inlet orifice (10) and the outlet orifice (11), the second separation plate (15) being arranged between the inlet orifice (10) and the discharge orifice (12), at least one of the separation plates (15, 16) among the first separation plate (15) and the second separation plate (16) being arranged in the internal volume (2) so as to delimit an annular space (18) between said separation plate (15, 16) and the cylindrical wall (3).

8. Separation device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the inlet channel (6), the first outlet channel (7) and the second outlet channel (8) all pass through the same termination wall (4, 5) among the first termination wall (4) and the second termination wall (5).

9. A refrigerant circuit (25) for a vehicle heat treatment system, comprising a separation device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, the refrigerant circuit (25) further comprising a compression device (26), a main branch (27) starting at an outlet (28) of the compression device (26) and extending to the inlet channel (6) of the separation device (1), a first heat exchanger (29) arranged on the main branch (27), at least a first branch (31) extending between the first outlet channel (7) of the separation device (1) and a first inlet (34) of the compression device (26), a second heat exchanger (33) arranged on the first branch (31), and a second branch (32) extending between the second outlet channel (8) of the separation device (1) and a second inlet (35) of the compression device (26).

10. Refrigerant fluid circuit (25) according to the preceding claim, comprising a first expansion member (22a) arranged between the first heat exchanger (29) and the inlet orifice, and a second expansion member (22b) arranged between the outlet orifice and the second heat exchanger (33).

Images