Assembly for a refrigerant circuit

Abstract

Title: Assembly for a refrigerant circuit The invention relates to an assembly for a refrigerant circuit configured to use a refrigerant, in particular a flammable refrigerant, in particular of the hydrocarbon type, in particular propane, the refrigerant circuit being in particular configured to be mounted on a vehicle, the assembly comprising: at least two fluidic function components, which are in particular at least two heat exchangers; a monobloc type refrigerant distribution manifold (200), comprising: a refrigerant distribution channel (201) extending, over a major part of its length, in a straight line and being configured to be connected to said at least two fluidic function components to distribute refrigerant to these two fluidic function components;a refrigerant collection channel (202) extending, for most of its length, in a straight line and configured to be connected to said at least two fluidic function components to collect the refrigerant having circulated in these two fluidic function components. Figure for the abstract: Fig. 7;

Description

Title of the invention: Assembly for a refrigerant circuit

[0001] The present invention relates in particular to an assembly for a configured refrigerant circuit.

[0002] The refrigerant circuit is configured for example to use a refrigerant, in particular of a flammable type, for example a hydrocarbon type refrigerant, in particular propane (also referred to as R290 refrigerant).

[0003] The present invention aims to improve the safety of devices using a refrigerant, in particular of a flammable type, for example a hydrocarbon type refrigerant.

[0004] The present invention also aims to improve the construction of such a refrigerant circuit.

[0005] The invention also relates, independently or in combination with the foregoing, to an assembly for a refrigerant circuit configured to use a refrigerant, in particular a flammable refrigerant, in particular a hydrocarbon type, in particular propane, the refrigerant circuit being in particular configured to be installed on a vehicle, the assembly comprising: - at least two components with fluidic function, which include at least two heat exchangers; - a monobloc type refrigerant distribution manifold, comprising: • a refrigerant distribution channel extending, for most of its length, in a straight line and configured to be connected to said at least two fluidic function components to distribute refrigerant to these two fluidic function components; • a refrigerant collection channel extending, for most of its length, in a straight line and configured to be connected to at least two fluidic function components to collect the refrigerant that has flowed through these two fluidic function components.

[0006] According to one aspect of the invention, the distribution manifold comprises a first face on which, on the one hand, the distribution channel opens, forming a refrigerant inlet orifice and, on the other hand, the collection channel opens, forming a refrigerant outlet orifice, and the first face is configured to bear against a fluidic function component with which the distribution manifold is assembled.

[0007] According to one aspect of the invention, the assembly comprises an internal heat exchanger to be placed in the refrigerant circuit and configured to allow a heat exchange between, on the one hand, a low-pressure refrigerant flow line within the internal exchanger, and, on the other hand, a high-pressure refrigerant flow line within the internal heat exchanger, the internal heat exchanger including a high-pressure outlet port for the refrigerant, and configured to be connected directly with the distribution channel of the distribution manifold.

[0008] According to one aspect of the invention, the distribution ramp is assembled by its first face with the internal heat exchanger.

[0009] The internal heat exchanger is advantageously interposed between a compressor, in particular an electric compressor, and the distribution manifold.

[0010] In the present invention, the fluid connection between the distribution manifold and the internal heat exchanger is made directly, without an intermediate fluid connector between the outlet port of the internal heat exchanger and the distribution channel of the manifold, and in particular without any connecting tubing or pipe between the internal heat exchanger and the distribution manifold. Thus, the internal heat exchanger and the distribution manifold can form a compact assembly with a relatively small overall footprint.

[0011] According to one aspect of the invention, the distribution ramp is formed by a single piece, in particular made of metal, in particular aluminum.

[0012] For example, the one-piece component forming the distribution ramp is a forged (cast) or extruded part with machined portions. The distribution ramp can be obtained from a block that is machined.

[0013] According to one aspect of the invention, the distribution ramp has an elongated shape along a longitudinal axis X.

[0014] According to one aspect of the invention, the distribution channel and the collection channel extend substantially parallel to each other, in particular by being substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis X.

[0015] According to one aspect of the invention, the distribution ramp comprises a plurality of faces configured to come into contact with a plurality of fluidic function components, including heat exchangers and / or condensers.

[0016] According to one aspect of the invention, the distribution ramp comprises the first face oriented towards the internal heat exchanger and at least a second face, in particular perpendicular to the first face, facing the additional fluidic components, in particular additional heat exchangers.

[0017] According to one aspect of the invention, the first face of the distribution manifold comprises, on the one hand, the inlet port of the distribution channel which is configured to be made fluidically connected to the high-pressure outlet port of the internal heat exchanger and, on the other hand, the outlet port of the collection channel which is configured to be made in fluidic connection with the low pressure inlet port of the internal heat exchanger.

[0018] According to one aspect of the invention, the distribution channel is coaxial with the high-pressure outlet port of the internal heat exchanger and the collection channel is coaxial with the low-pressure inlet port of the internal heat exchanger.

[0019] According to one aspect of the invention, the first face of the distribution ramp, in particular flat, has an additional orifice which is configured to be made in fluidic connection with the high pressure inlet port of the internal heat exchanger.

[0020] According to one aspect of the invention, the distribution ramp includes a first connecting channel configured to be placed on the refrigerant path between a water condenser and the internal heat exchanger.

[0021] According to one aspect of the invention, the additional orifice on the first face of the distribution ramp is an outlet of the first connecting channel.

[0022] Thus, on the first face of the distribution ramp, there are three fluid orifices, belonging respectively to the distribution channel, the collection channel and the first connecting channel.

[0023] According to one aspect of the invention, the first connecting channel extends between an inlet orifice and said outlet orifice.

[0024] According to one aspect of the invention, the first connecting channel has a bend, in particular at 90°.

[0025] According to one aspect of the invention, the inlet port of the first connecting channel is configured to be connected to an external tube, namely one that does not belong to the distribution manifold.

[0026] According to one aspect of the invention, this external tubing, or external pipe, is configured to connect the water condenser to the distribution manifold.

[0027] Thus the refrigerant leaving the water condenser flows through the external tubing, then into the first connecting channel of the distribution manifold to the high-pressure inlet port of the internal heat exchanger.

[0028] According to one aspect of the invention, the first connecting channel, which is on the refrigerant path between the water-cooled condenser and the internal heat exchanger, is so called because this connecting channel primarily serves to link the water-cooled condenser to the internal heat exchanger. This connecting channel, which is internal to the distribution manifold, replaces a portion of tubing that, in the absence of a distribution manifold according to the invention, would be longer or have a more complex path to connect the water-cooled condenser to the internal heat exchanger.

[0029] According to one aspect of the invention, the inlet orifice of this first connecting channel is present on a third face, in particular a flat face, of the distribution ramp.

[0030] According to one aspect of the invention, the inlet orifice of the first connecting channel opens onto a flange configured for the attachment of the external tubing.

[0031] According to one aspect of the invention, the distribution manifold further comprises a second connecting channel and a third connecting channel configured to serve respectively as an inlet path and an outlet path for the refrigerant, between a receiver dryer and the water condenser.

[0032] According to one aspect of the invention, the second connecting channel and the third connecting channel are substantially parallel to each other.

[0033] According to one aspect of the invention, the second connecting channel and the third connecting channel each have an elbow so that they open onto two perpendicular faces of the distribution ramp.

[0034] According to one aspect of the invention, the second connecting channel and the third connecting channel each have at their ends orifices for the inlet and outlet of refrigerant respectively.

[0035] According to one aspect of the invention, the distribution manifold comprises at least one conduit, also called a control conduit, for receiving an expansion valve, in particular at least two conduits, each for receiving an expansion valve.

[0036] According to one aspect of the invention, the distribution manifold comprises at least two sub-distribution channels in fluidic communication with the distribution channel and configured to distribute refrigerant from the distribution channel to at least two respective heat exchangers.

[0037] The two distribution sub-channels are branches of the distribution channel.

[0038] In the example described, the number of distribution sub-channels is two. Alternatively, the number of distribution sub-channels may be greater than two, for example three or four, depending on the refrigerant circuit requirements in terms of the number of heat exchangers.

[0039] According to one aspect of the invention, the distribution sub-channels all open, via refrigerant outlet ports, onto one face of the distribution manifold, for example onto a second face where, in particular, ports of the second and third connecting channels between the receiver drier and the water condenser are present. These ports are connected, in particular, to the water condenser.

[0040] According to one aspect of the invention, the distribution manifold comprises at least two collection sub-channels each connected to the outlet of one of the heat exchangers which are supplied with refrigerant by the distribution sub-channels, the collection sub-channels joining the collection channel.

[0041] According to one aspect of the invention, the collection sub-channels have one end on a face of the distribution ramp, via inlet ports, in particular on the same face as the orifices of the distribution subchannels, in particular the second face

[0042] According to one aspect of the invention, the second face of the distribution ramp comprises, for example, six orifices in total. These orifices are, for example, aligned along a geometric straight line.

[0043] According to one aspect of the invention, the first, second and third faces have a corner of the ramp in common.

[0044] In other words, a corner of the ramp connects the first face, the second face and the third face.

[0045] According to one aspect of the invention, the first, second and third faces are perpendicular to each other, two by two. According to a variant, only two faces among the first, second and third faces are perpendicular to each other.

[0046] According to one aspect of the invention, the second face of the distribution ramp receives connection flanges with the two heat exchangers and the water condenser.

[0047] According to one aspect of the invention, there are thus, on this second face, three connection flanges for each of the heat exchangers and the water condenser, and the heat exchangers and the water condenser are arranged side by side, possibly with contact, forming a row.

[0048] According to one aspect of the invention, the distribution ramp comprises a face, in particular a third face, which receives a desiccant bottle, in particular fixed directly on this face.

[0049] According to one aspect of the invention, the distribution manifold has a face which receives the expansion valve(s). For example, the expansion valves are placed along the manifold and provided with actuators which are on the third face.

[0050] According to one aspect of the invention, the various channels of the distribution ramp are made by machining in the solid of the distribution ramp.

[0051] According to one aspect of the invention, the distribution ramp makes it possible to replace several external tubes, which simplifies assembly operations, makes the assembly more mechanically robust and makes it more compact.

[0052] The advantages mentioned in connection with the direct mounting of the internal heat exchanger with the compressor are also valid for the distribution manifold which is fixed directly with fluidic function components.

[0053] According to one aspect of the invention, the distribution ramp further allows refrigerant to be distributed to a plurality of heat exchangers placed side by side, in a row.

[0054] This allows for a reduced overall footprint.

[0055] According to one aspect of the invention, the distribution ramp includes at least one perforated fixing lug configured to be placed against a mechanical fixing portion of the internal heat exchanger.

[0056] According to one aspect of the invention, the distribution ramp comprises a plurality of perforated fixing lugs configured to be placed against mechanical fixing portions of the internal heat exchanger.

[0057] According to one aspect of the invention, the assembly comprises two two-fluid heat exchangers (chillers) and a water condenser arranged in a row on one face of the distribution manifold. In particular, the fluidic components are two-fluid heat exchangers, specifically refrigerant / water heat exchangers.

[0058] According to one aspect of the invention, the refrigerant circuit comprises: - an electric compressor; - a water condenser connected to the compressor outlet; - the internal heat exchanger with a connected high-pressure inlet port to the water condenser; - the high-pressure outlet of the internal heat exchanger being connected to the distribution channel of the distribution manifold and the distribution sub-channels are configured to distribute the refrigerant to the two heat exchangers; - upstream of each distribution sub-channel is placed an expansion valve; - the two dual-fluid heat exchangers are connected at their outlet to the low-pressure inlet port of the internal heat exchanger; - The low pressure outlet port of the internal heat exchanger is connected to the electric compressor.

[0059] According to one aspect of the invention, the assembly comprises: - a compressor configured to compress the refrigerant circulating in the refrigerant circuit, the compressor including an inlet port for the refrigerant; - an internal heat exchanger configured to be placed in the refrigerant circuit and configured to allow heat exchange between, on the one hand, a low-pressure refrigerant flow line within the internal exchanger, and, on the other hand, a high-pressure refrigerant flow line within the internal heat exchanger, the internal heat exchanger including a low-pressure outlet port for the refrigerant and configured to be connected directly with the compressor inlet port.

[0060] The refrigerant could also be of type R1234yf.

[0061] The internal heat exchanger is often referred to by the acronym IHX.

[0062] In the present invention, the fluid connection between the compressor and the internal heat exchanger is made directly, without an intermediate fluid connector between the low-pressure outlet port of the internal heat exchanger and the inlet port of the compressor, and in particular without any connecting pipe or hose between the internal heat exchanger and the compressor. Thus, the internal heat exchanger and the compressor can form a compact unit with a relatively small overall size, since the fluid connection between the compressor and the internal heat exchanger is made over a very short distance, given that no connecting pipe or hose (sometimes called a "jumper line") is used.The invention also makes it possible to reduce the amount of refrigerant used (because less tubing is required, and therefore a shorter flow line distance) and to reduce the pressure drop on the low-pressure line. By reducing the amount of refrigerant used, which is, for example, propane (a flammable substance), the severity of an incident is reduced because there is less flammable product present. In the case of propane as a refrigerant, it is preferable to have a quantity of propane in the refrigerant circuit that is less than or equal to 150 g.

[0063] In addition, the number of fluid connections between the components can be reduced, and thus, for example, risks of refrigerant leakage at these connections can be avoided.

[0064] The invention is particularly advantageous when the refrigerant is flammable, for example propane, because it reduces the probability of a potential refrigerant leak (a leak that can be dangerous due to the risk of explosion) by decreasing the number of connections and, where applicable, seals, and by creating robust connections. In particular, the connection of the low-pressure outlet port of the internal heat exchanger with the compressor inlet port can be made in a robust manner, notably more robust than a pipe-to-flange connection. The invention thus improves the safety of the circuit.

[0065] According to one aspect of the invention, the compressor inlet port is made on a compressor body.

[0066] According to one aspect of the invention, the compressor inlet port is monolithic with the compressor body. In other words, the compressor inlet port is integrated into the compressor body. In particular, the compressor inlet port is made of the same material as the compressor body. For example, when the compressor body is made of metal, such as aluminum, the inlet port is also made of that material.

[0067] According to one aspect of the invention, the compressor inlet port is made of a machined part.

[0068] In another embodiment of the invention, the compressor inlet port is made in a separate part from the compressor body and the inlet port is fixed to the compressor body, for example by being welded or brazed to the compressor body.

[0069] Alternatively, the inlet port is fixed to the compressor body using, for example, screws.

[0070] In summary, the compressor inlet port is integrated with the compressor body.

[0071] According to one aspect of the invention, the inlet port protrudes from a side wall of the compressor.

[0072] According to one aspect of the invention, the side wall, in particular globally cylindrical, of the compressor body has a main axis Xc and the compressor inlet port includes an opening with axis CP which is in particular orthogonal to the main axis Xc of the compressor.

[0073] According to one aspect of the invention, the opening of the compressor inlet port is formed on a hollow shape, which defines a channel forming the inlet port. The hollow shape may have the form of a hollow column.

[0074] According to one aspect of the invention, the compressor includes at least one mechanical fastening portion configured to be assembled with the internal heat exchanger so that once the compressor and the internal heat exchanger are assembled together, the inlet port of the compressor is connected to the low-pressure outlet port of the heat exchanger.

[0075] According to one aspect of the invention, the mechanical fixing portion of the compressor is configured to be in contact with the heat exchanger.

[0076] According to one aspect of the invention, the mechanical fixing portion of the compressor may include a tapped hole to receive, for example, a stud or a screw allowing the assembly of the compressor with the internal heat exchanger.

[0077] According to one aspect of the invention, the compressor comprises a plurality of mechanically fixed portions, for example 2 or 3 or 4.

[0078] According to one aspect of the invention, the mechanical fixing portion(s) of the compressor are placed on a periphery of the compressor inlet port.

[0079] For example, the compressor inlet port is formed on a hollow shape and the mechanical fixing portion(s) each have a hollow stud, in particular with a tapped hole in the middle.

[0080] According to one aspect of the invention, the hollow shape extends over a lateral wall, in particular cylindrical, of the compressor body.

[0081] According to one aspect of the invention, the CP axis of the hollow form is orthogonal to the Xc axis of the compressor body.

[0082] According to one aspect of the invention, the hollow shape and the studs are joined. For example, one of the studs connects to the periphery of the hollow shape.

[0083] Thus the hollow shape and the studs are part of the same group of reliefs protruding from the body of the compressor.

[0084] The inlet port provides the connection for the fluid and the studs provide the mechanical assembly between the compressor and the internal heat exchanger.

[0085] According to one aspect of the invention, the low-pressure outlet port of the internal heat exchanger is monolithic with the body of the internal heat exchanger. In other words, the low-pressure outlet port of the internal heat exchanger is integrated into the body of the internal exchanger.

[0086] In particular, the low-pressure outlet port of the heat exchanger is made of the same material as the body of the internal exchanger. For example, when the body of the internal heat exchanger is made of metal, for example aluminum, the low-pressure outlet port is also made of that material.

[0087] In one embodiment of the invention, the low-pressure outlet port of the internal heat exchanger is made in a flange separate from the body of the internal heat exchanger.

[0088] In this case, the flange is attached to the body of the internal heat exchanger, for example by being welded or brazed to the body of the internal heat exchanger. The body of the internal heat exchanger defines a heat exchange volume between the low-pressure refrigerant flow line and the high-pressure refrigerant flow line. In the case of a plate internal heat exchanger, this heat exchange region is formed by plates between which the said flow lines pass.

[0089] In summary, the flange of the internal heat exchanger is part of the internal heat exchanger.

[0090] According to one aspect of the invention, the flange of the internal heat exchanger protrudes on a face, in particular a flat face, of the body of the internal heat exchanger.

[0091] According to one aspect of the invention, the body of the internal heat exchanger has an overall substantially parallelepiped shape.

[0092] According to one aspect of the invention, the low pressure outlet port protrudes on one face of this parallelepiped.

[0093] According to one aspect of the invention, the flange is configured to be mechanically assembled with the compressor.

[0094] The flange is made for example of the same material as the body of the internal heat exchanger, for example aluminium.

[0095] According to one aspect of the invention, the flange, in particular being a forged or extruded part, comprises one or more machined parts.

[0096] According to one aspect of the invention, the flange includes at least one openwork fixing lug configured to be placed against a mechanical fixing portion of the compressor.

[0097] According to one aspect of the invention, this mounting lug for the internal heat exchanger flange has an opening that aligns with a hollow stud on the compressor's mechanical mounting portion. A stud or screw, for example, is inserted through the open lug and the hollow stud to tighten the internal heat exchanger flange onto the compressor's mechanical mounting portion. This forms a mechanical link between the compressor and the internal heat exchanger.

[0098] According to one aspect of the invention, the flange comprises a plurality of fixing lugs, for example 2, 3 or 4 fixing lugs.

[0099] According to one aspect of the invention, the flange of the internal heat exchanger includes at least one light configured to receive a temperature and / or pressure sensor to measure the temperature and / or pressure of the refrigerant flowing through the low-pressure outlet port of the internal heat exchanger.

[0100] According to one aspect of the invention, the flange includes a through channel forming the low pressure outlet port.

[0101] According to one aspect of the invention, the through channel has a bend, for example substantially at 45°.

[0102] According to one aspect of the invention, the through channel forming the low pressure outlet port opens into an opening configured to be positioned opposite the opening of the compressor inlet port.

[0103] According to one aspect of the invention, the opening of the low pressure outlet port of the internal heat exchanger has a PE axis inclined with respect to the main face of the body of the internal heat exchanger on which the flange is present.

[0104] According to one aspect of the invention, the opening of the low pressure outlet port makes, for example, an angle between 20° and 70° with this main face of the body of the internal heat exchanger.

[0105] According to one aspect of the invention, the height of the flange is less than the height of the body of the internal heat exchanger.

[0106] According to one aspect of the invention, the flange fixing ears extend in different planes.

[0107] Thus the mutual mounting of the compressor with the internal heat exchanger is achieved in particular with the direct cooperation between, on the one hand, the flange of the internal heat exchanger and, on the other hand, the mechanical fixing portions on the compressor.

[0108] This mechanical assembly allows the low-pressure outlet port of the internal heat exchanger and the inlet port of the compressor to be directly connected via fluidic means.

[0109] According to one aspect of the invention, the low pressure outlet port of the internal heat exchanger to the compressor can be of male or female type, configured to cooperate with the compressor inlet port of the respective female or male type.

[0110] According to one aspect of the invention, the internal heat exchanger comprises a first main face provided with the low pressure outlet port to the compressor, and a second main face, in particular opposite to the first main face, provided with other ports to other fluidic function components of the refrigerant circuit.

[0111] According to one aspect of the invention, the internal heat exchanger comprises, in addition to the low pressure outlet port, a low pressure inlet port, a high pressure inlet port, and a high pressure outlet port.

[0112] The low-pressure refrigerant line within the internal heat exchanger is thus defined between the low-pressure inlet port and the low-pressure outlet port, and the high-pressure refrigerant line within the internal heat exchanger is thus defined between the high-pressure inlet port and the high-pressure outlet port.

[0113] According to one aspect of the invention, the first main face and the second main face are two opposite, in particular parallel, faces of the body of the internal heat exchanger.

[0114] The invention further relates to a heat pump system, in particular of indirect type, comprising an assembly as described above, in particular configured to be mounted on a vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle.

[0115] These heat exchangers are fluidly connected to the internal heat exchanger.

[0116] The invention also relates, independently or in combination with the foregoing, to an assembly for a refrigerant circuit configured to use a refrigerant, in particular a flammable refrigerant, in particular a hydrocarbon type, in particular propane, the refrigerant circuit being in particular configured to be installed on a vehicle, the assembly comprising: - a water condenser; - a desiccant bottle (or "receiver dryer" in English); - a refrigerant distribution manifold (also called a "manifold" in English) including: • one face (specifically the second face mentioned above) configured for fluidic connection with the water condenser, and a face (in particular the aforementioned third face) configured for the fluidic connection with the desiccant bottle, these faces being perpendicular to each other; • at least one connecting channel (in particular one of the second and third connecting channels mentioned above) for refrigerant circulation between the water condenser and the receiver drier within the distribution manifold, this connecting channel being in particular bent, in particular at 90°.

[0117] According to one embodiment of the invention, the connecting channel is arranged at least partially in a plane perpendicular to the aforementioned distribution channel and / or collection channel.

[0118] Other features, details and advantages of the invention will become clearer upon reading the following description on the one hand, and several illustrative and non-limiting examples of embodiments given with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings on the other hand, in which:

[0119] [Fig-1] The [Fig. 1] is a perspective representation of an assembly for a refrigerant circuit according to an example of an embodiment of the invention;

[0120] [Fig.2] The [Fig.2] is a perspective representation of the assembly of the [Fig.1], according to another view;

[0121] [Fig.3] Fig.3 is a perspective representation of the compressor and the internal heat exchanger of the assembly of the [Fig.1], once assembled;

[0122] [Fig.4] Fig.4 is a perspective representation of the compressor alone. the assembly of the [Fig.1];

[0123] [Fig.5] [Fig.5] is a perspective representation of the heat exchanger internal only of the assembly of the [Fig.l];

[0124] [Fig.6] [Fig.6] is a perspective representation of the heat exchanger internal only of the assembly of [Fig.1], according to a view opposite to that of [Fig.5];

[0125] [Fig.7] Fig.7 is a perspective representation of the distribution ramp only one of the assembly of [Fig.1];

[0126] [Fig.8] The [Fig.8] is a perspective representation of the distribution ramp alone of the assembly of the [Fig.1], according to a view opposite to that of the [Fig.7];

[0127] [Fig.9] Fig.9 is a perspective representation of a bi- fluid of the assembly of the [Fig.l];

[0128] [Fig. 10] The [Fig. 10] is a representation illustrating, by transparency of the distribution ramp, the different channels of the distribution ramp of the assembly of the [Fig.1];

[0129] [Fig. 11] The [Fig. 11] is a diagram of the refrigerant circuit formed using the assembly of the [Fig.1].

[0130] The features, variants, and different embodiments of the invention can be combined in various ways, provided they are not incompatible or mutually exclusive. In particular, variants of the invention may be conceived comprising only a selection of features, described hereafter in isolation from the other described features, if this selection of features is sufficient to confer a technical advantage and / or to differentiate the invention from the prior art.

[0131] Figures 1 and 2 show an assembly 1 for a refrigerant circuit 100 configured to use a refrigerant, here a flammable hydrocarbon-type refrigerant, in particular propane also designated as refrigerant fluid R290.

[0132] The refrigerant circuit 100, integrated into a heat pump system, here of indirect type, is configured to be mounted on a motor vehicle.

[0133] Assembly 1 includes an electric-type compressor 2 configured to compress the refrigerant circulating in the refrigerant circuit 100, the compressor 2 including an inlet port 3 for the refrigerant.

[0134] The assembly 1 also includes an internal heat exchanger 4 configured to be placed in the refrigerant circuit 100 and configured to allow heat exchange between, on the one hand, a low-pressure refrigerant flow line 101, within the internal heat exchanger 4, and, on the other hand, a high-pressure refrigerant flow line 102, within the internal heat exchanger 4, the internal heat exchanger 4 comprising a low-pressure outlet port 6 for the refrigerant and configured to be connected directly with the inlet port 3 of the compressor 2.

[0135] The internal heat exchanger 4 is often referred to by the acronym IHX.

[0136] In the present invention, the fluid connection between the compressor 2 and the internal heat exchanger 4 is made directly, without an intermediate fluid connector between the low-pressure outlet port 6 of the internal heat exchanger 4 and the inlet port 3 of the compressor 2, and in particular without a connecting tube or pipe between the internal heat exchanger 4 and the compressor 2. Thus, the internal heat exchanger 4 and the compressor 2 can form a compact assembly with a relatively small overall footprint, because the fluid connection between the compressor 2 and the internal heat exchanger 4 is made over a very short distance, since no connecting tube or pipe (sometimes called a "Jumper Line") is used.The invention also makes it possible to reduce the amount of refrigerant used (because less tubing is required, and therefore a shorter flow line distance) and to reduce the pressure drop on the low-pressure line. By reducing the amount of refrigerant... When using a refrigerant such as propane (which is flammable), the severity of an incident is reduced because there is less flammable product present. In the case of propane as a refrigerant, it is preferable to have a quantity of propane in the refrigerant circuit that is less than or equal to 150 g.

[0137] In addition, the number of fluid connections between components can be reduced, and thus, for example, risks of refrigerant leakage at these connections can be avoided.

[0138] The invention is particularly advantageous when the refrigerant is flammable, in this case propane, because it reduces the probability of a potential refrigerant leak (a leak that can be dangerous due to the risk of explosion) by decreasing the number of connections and, where applicable, seals, and by creating robust connections. In particular, the connection of the low-pressure outlet port 6 of the internal heat exchanger 4 with the inlet port 3 of the compressor 2 can be made in a robust manner, notably more robust than a pipe-to-flange connection.

[0139] The inlet port 3 of the compressor 2 is made on a body 7 of the compressor 2.

[0140] The inlet port 3 of the compressor 2 is monolithic with the compressor body 7 2. In other words, the inlet port 3 of the compressor 2 is integrated into the body 7 of the compressor 2. In particular, the inlet port 3 of the compressor 2 is made of the same material as the body 7 of the compressor 2. For example, when the body 7 of the compressor 2 is made of metal, for example aluminium, the inlet port 3 is also made of this material.

[0141] In another embodiment of the invention, the inlet port 3 of the compressor 2 is made in a separate part from the body 7 of the compressor 2 and the inlet port 3 is fixed to the body 7 of the compressor 2, for example by being welded or brazed to the body 7 of the compressor 2.

[0142] Alternatively, the inlet port 3 is fixed to the body 7 of the compressor 2 using, for example, screws.

[0143] The inlet port 3 protrudes on a side wall 8 of the body 7 of the compressor 2.

[0144] As illustrated in particular in [Fig. 4], the side wall 8, overall cylindrical, of the body 7 of the compressor 2 has a principal axis Xc and the inlet port 3 of the compressor 2 includes an opening 9 of axis CP which is notably orthogonal to the principal axis Xc of the compressor 2.

[0145] The opening 9 of the inlet port 3 of the compressor 2 is formed on a hollow shape of the hollow column type 10.

[0146] The compressor 2 has mechanical fastening portions 11 configured to be assembled with the internal heat exchanger 4 so that once the compressor 2 and the internal heat exchanger 4 are assembled together, the inlet port 3 of compressor 2 is connected to the low pressure outlet port 6 of the internal heat exchanger 4.

[0147] The mechanical fixing portions 11 of the compressor 2 are configured to bear, with contact, on the internal heat exchanger 4.

[0148] Each portion of the mechanical fixing 11 of the compressor 2 may have a tapped hole to receive for example a stud or a screw allowing the assembly of the compressor 2 with the internal heat exchanger 4.

[0149] Two of the mechanical fixing portions 11 of the compressor 2 are placed on a periphery of the inlet port 3 of the compressor 2.

[0150] Here, the inlet port 3 of the compressor 2 is formed on a hollow form 12 and the mechanical fixing portions 11 are each defined by a hollow stud, with a tapped hole in the middle, protruding on the hollow form 12 forming the inlet port 3.

[0151] The hollow shape 12 extends over the side wall 8 of the body 7 of the compressor 2.

[0152] The CP axis of the hollow shape 12 is orthogonal to the Xc axis of the compressor body 7 2.

[0153] The hollow shape 12 and the studs 11 are joined. Here, two studs 11 connect to the periphery of the hollow shape 12.

[0154] Thus the hollow shape 12 and the studs 11 are part of the same group of reliefs protruding from the body 7 of the compressor 2.

[0155] The inlet port 3 provides the connection for the fluid and the studs 11 provide the mechanical assembly between the compressor 2 and the internal heat exchanger 4.

[0156] The low pressure outlet port 6 of the internal heat exchanger 4 protrudes from the body 14 of the internal heat exchanger 4, as illustrated for example in Figures 5 and 6.

[0157] In one embodiment of the invention, the low pressure outlet port 6 of the internal heat exchanger 4 is made in a separate part, here a flange 17, on the body 14 of the internal heat exchanger 4.

[0158] The flange 17 protrudes on a flat face 15 of the body 14, which is generally substantially parallelepiped in shape, of the internal heat exchanger 4, as can be seen in [Fig.5].

[0159] The flange 17 is configured to be mechanically assembled with the compressor 2.

[0160] The flange 17 is a separate part from the body 14 of the internal heat exchanger 4.

[0161] The flange 17 is brazed to the body 14 of the internal heat exchanger 4, in particular during the same brazing operation of the different components of the body of the internal heat exchanger 4. Thus, in the case where the internal heat exchanger 4 is of the plate type, the brazing of the flange 17 is carried out at the same time as the brazing of the plates of the body of the internal heat exchanger 4.

[0162] For example, the flange 17 of the heat exchanger is made of the same material as the body 14 of the internal heat exchanger. For example, when the body 14 of the internal heat exchanger 4 is made of metal, for example aluminum, the flange 17 is also made of that material.

[0163] Flange 17 has been machined.

[0164] The flange 17 has openwork fixing lugs 19 configured to be placed against a mechanical fixing portion of the compressor 2.

[0165] These mounting lugs 19 of the flange 17 of the internal heat exchanger 4 each have an opening 20 opposite a hollow stud 11 of the mechanical mounting portion of the compressor 2. A stud or a screw is inserted through the openwork mounting lug 19 and the hollow stud 11 to tighten the flange 17 of the internal heat exchanger 4 onto the mechanical mounting portion of the compressor 2. A mechanical link is thus formed between the compressor 2 and the internal heat exchanger 4.

[0166] The flange 17 of the internal heat exchanger 4 has at least one light 21 configured to receive a temperature and / or pressure sensor 22 for measuring the temperature and / or pressure of the refrigerant flowing through the low-pressure outlet port 6 of the internal heat exchanger 4.

[0167] The flange 17 has a through channel 23 forming the low pressure outlet port 6.

[0168] The channel through 23 has a bend, for example approximately at 45°.

[0169] The channel through 23 forming the low-pressure outlet port 6 opens onto an opening 24 (visible on fig 5) configured to be positioned in relation to the opening 9 of the inlet port 3 of compressor 2.

[0170] The opening 24 of the low pressure outlet port 6 of the internal heat exchanger 4 has an axis PE inclined relative to the main face 15 of the body 14 of the internal heat exchanger 4 on which the flange 17 is present.

[0171] The opening 24 of the low pressure outlet port 6 makes, for example, an angle between 20° and 70° with the main face of the body 14 of the internal heat exchanger 4.

[0172] The height of the flange 17 is less than the height of the body 14 of the internal heat exchanger 4.

[0173] The fixing lugs 19 of the flange 17 extend in different planes.

[0174] Thus the mutual mounting of the compressor 2 with the internal heat exchanger 4 is achieved in particular with the direct cooperation between, on the one hand, the flange 17 of the internal heat exchanger 4 and, on the other hand, the mechanical fixing portions 11 on the compressor 2.

[0175] This mechanical assembly allows the low pressure outlet port 6 of the internal heat exchanger 4 and the inlet port 3 of the compressor 2 to be directly connected in fluidic connection.

[0176] The low pressure outlet port 6 of the internal heat exchanger 4 to the compressor 2 can be of male or female type, configured to cooperate with the inlet port 3 of the compressor 2 of the respective female or male type.

[0177] The internal heat exchanger 4 has the first main face 15 provided with the low pressure outlet port 6 to the compressor 2, and a second main face 27 (see [Fig.6]) provided with other ports to other fluidic function components of the refrigerant circuit 100, as will be explained.

[0178] The first main face 15 and the second main face 27 are two opposite, parallel faces of the body 14 of the internal heat exchanger 4. The height of the internal exchanger 4 extends orthogonally between these two faces 15 and 27.

[0179] The internal heat exchanger 4 comprises, in addition to the low pressure outlet port 6, a low pressure inlet port 30, a high pressure inlet port 31, and a high pressure outlet port 32.

[0180] As can be seen in [Fig. 11], the low pressure line 101 of the refrigerant within the internal heat exchanger 4 is thus defined between the low pressure inlet port 30 and the low pressure outlet port 6, and the high pressure line 102 of the refrigerant within the internal heat exchanger 4 is thus defined between the high pressure inlet port 31 and the high pressure outlet port 32.

[0181] The high-pressure inlet port 31 is connected to an outlet of a water condenser 35. This water condenser 35 is supplied with high-pressure refrigerant through an external tube 39 connected to a high-pressure outlet port of the compressor 2 (see [Fig.2] in particular).

[0182] The high-pressure outlet port 32 is connected to a distribution manifold 200 which distributes the refrigerant to two two-fluid heat exchangers 41 and 42 (or "Chiller" in English), as explained below.

[0183] The low pressure inlet port 30 is connected to the distribution manifold 200 which collects the refrigerant from the two two-fluid exchangers 41 and 42.

[0184] The body 14 defines a heat exchange volume between the low-pressure refrigerant flow line and the high-pressure refrigerant flow line. The body 14 is specifically configured to contain stacked plates that define refrigerant flow paths within the body 14. The internal heat exchanger 4 is of the plate type.

[0185] As can be seen in Figures 7 and 10, the distribution rail 200 is of the monobloc type and comprises: - a high-pressure refrigerant distribution channel 201 extending, for most of its length, in a straight line and configured to be connected to the two two-fluid exchangers 41 and 42 to distribute refrigerant to these two two-fluid exchangers 41 and 42; - a low-pressure refrigerant collection channel 202, extending, for most of its length, in a straight line and configured to be connected to the two two-fluid exchangers 41 and 42 to collect the refrigerant having circulated in these two two-fluid exchangers 41 and 42.

[0186] Fig. 10 shows the different channels of the distribution ramp 200, in transparency, for better understanding.

[0187] The distribution ramp 200 has a first face 204 on which, on the one hand, the distribution channel 201 opens, forming a refrigerant inlet orifice 205 and, on the other hand, the collection channel 202 opens, forming a refrigerant outlet orifice 206, and the first face 204 is configured to bear against the internal heat exchanger 4.

[0188] The inlet port 205 of the distribution channel 201 is configured to be made in fluidic connection with the high pressure outlet port 32 of the internal heat exchanger 4 and the outlet port 206 of the collection channel 202 is configured to be made in fluidic connection with the low pressure inlet port 30 of the internal heat exchanger 4.

[0189] The distribution channel 201 is coaxial with the high pressure outlet port 32 of the internal heat exchanger 4 and the collection channel 202 is coaxial with the low pressure inlet port 30 of the internal heat exchanger 4.

[0190] The distribution rail 200 is formed from a single piece of metal, in particular aluminum. For example, the single piece forming the distribution rail 200 is a forged part with machined portions.

[0191] The distribution ramp 200 has an elongated shape along a longitudinal axis X.

[0192] The distribution channel 201 and the collection channel 202 extend substantially parallel to each other, being substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis X.

[0193] The distribution ramp 200 includes, in addition to the first flat face 204, oriented towards the internal heat exchanger 4, a second face 207, in particular perpendicular to the first face, opposite the two-fluid exchangers 41 and 42.

[0194] The first face 204 of the distribution ramp 200 has an additional orifice 209 (see [Fig.7]) which is configured to be made into fluidic connection with the high pressure inlet port 31 of the internal heat exchanger 4.

[0195] The distribution ramp 200 includes a first connecting channel 210 configured to be placed on the refrigerant path between a water condenser 35, and the internal heat exchanger 4.

[0196] The additional orifice 209 on the first face 204 of the distribution ramp 200 is an outlet of the first connecting channel 210.

[0197] Thus on the first face 204 of the distribution ramp 200, there are three fluid orifices, belonging respectively to the distribution channel 201, the collection channel 202 and the first connecting channel 210.

[0198] The first connecting channel 210 extends between an inlet port 211 and said outlet port 209.

[0199] The first connecting channel 210 has a bend, here at 90°.

[0200] The inlet port 211 of the first link channel 210 is configured to be connected to an external 212 pipe, namely one that does not belong to the distribution rail 200.

[0201] This external tubing 212, or external pipe, is configured to connect the water condenser 35 to the distribution manifold 200.

[0202] Thus the refrigerant leaving the water condenser 35 flows through the external tubing 212, then in the first connecting channel 210 of the distribution manifold 200 to the high-pressure inlet port 31 of the internal heat exchanger 4.

[0203] The first connecting channel 210, which is on the refrigerant path between the water condenser 35 and the internal heat exchanger 4, is so called because this connecting channel mainly allows the connection between the water condenser and the internal heat exchanger 4. This connecting channel, which is internal to the distribution manifold 200, replaces a portion of tubing which, in the absence of a distribution manifold 200 according to the invention, would be longer or have a more complex path to connect the water condenser to the internal heat exchanger 4.

[0204] The inlet port 211 of this first connecting channel 210 is present on a third flat face 215 of the distribution ramp 200.

[0205] The inlet port 211 of the first connecting channel 210 opens onto a flange 216 configured for the attachment of the external tubing 212.

[0206] The distribution ramp 200 further includes a second connecting channel 218 and a third connecting channel 219 configured to serve respectively as an inlet path and an outlet path for the refrigerant, between a receiver dryer 220 and the water condenser 35.

[0207] The second link channel 218 and the third link channel 219 are substantially parallel to each other.

[0208] The second connecting channel 218 and the third connecting channel 219 each have an elbow so that they open onto two perpendicular faces of the distribution ramp 200, namely the second face 207 and the third face 215.

[0209] The second connecting channel 218 and the third connecting channel 219 each have ports 222 at their ends for the inlet and outlet of refrigerant respectively.

[0210] The second connecting channel 218 and the third connecting channel 219 open at one of their ends onto the second face 207 of the distribution ramp 200 and, at the other of their ends, onto the third face 215 of the distribution ramp 200 which is perpendicular to the second face 207 of the distribution ramp 200.

[0211] The distribution manifold 200 has two conduits 225, also called control conduits, each to receive an expansion valve 226, in particular the expansion valve chamber 226. The conduits 225 are perpendicular to the distribution channel 201.

[0212] These conduits 225 open onto the third face 215 of the distribution ramp 200.

[0213] The expansion valves 226, placed along the ramp 200, are provided with actuators 227 which are on the third face 215. The third face 215 of the distribution ramp 200 is stepped.

[0214] The distribution manifold 200 has two distribution sub-channels 230 in fluidic communication with the distribution channel 201, via conduits 225, and configured to distribute refrigerant from the distribution channel 201 to at least two respective heat exchangers.

[0215] The two distribution sub-channels 230 are branches of the distribution channel 201, and are perpendicular to the conduits 225.

[0216] Each conduit 225, at the outlet of the expansion valve 226, opens onto one of the distribution sub-channels 230. The expansion valves 226 are used to control the circulation of refrigerant in the heat exchangers 41, 42.

[0217] The conduits 225 are offset, transversely to the distribution channel 201, from one another, such that the upstream conduit 225 is more eccentric with respect to the distribution channel 201 than the downstream conduit 225. This allows sufficient refrigerant to flow, in the distribution channel 201, from the upstream conduit 225 to the downstream conduit 225.

[0218] In the example described, the number of distribution sub-channels 230 is two. Alternatively, the number of distribution sub-channels 230 may be greater than two, for example three or four, depending on the refrigerant circuit requirements in terms of the number of heat exchangers, particularly chiller type.

[0219] The distribution sub-channels 230 all open, via refrigerant outlet ports 231, onto the second face 207 of the distribution rail 200.

[0220] The distribution ramp 200 has two collection sub-channels 233 each connected to the outlet of one of the heat exchangers 41, 42 which are supplied with refrigerant by the distribution sub-channels 230, the collection sub-channels 233 joining the collection channel 202.

[0221] The collection sub-channels 233 have one end on the second face 207 of the distribution ramp 200, via inlet ports 234.

[0222] The second face 207 of the distribution ramp 200 thus comprises, for example, six orifices in total. These orifices are, for example, aligned along a geometric straight line.

[0223] Thus, the second face 207 of the distribution manifold 200 is configured to be connected to a series of heat exchangers, in particular two, three, or four, arranged one after the other, in particular a water condenser 35 and two chiller-type two-fluid heat exchangers 41, 42. Preferably, the distribution manifold 200 is configured so that the water condenser 35 is arranged closer to the internal heat exchanger 4 than the two chiller-type two-fluid heat exchangers 41, 42.

[0224] The first, second and third faces 204, 207 and 215 are perpendicular to each other, two by two.

[0225] The second face 207 of the distribution ramp 200 receives three connection flanges 221 with respectively the two heat exchangers 41, 42 and the water condenser 35.

[0226] Thus, on the second face 207, there are three connection flanges 221 for each of the heat exchangers 41, 42 and the water condenser 35 which are arranged side by side, with or without contact, forming a row (see figures 2 and 9).

[0227] The third face 215 receives the desiccant bottle 220 which is fixed directly on this face 215, and also the actuators 227 of the expansion valves 226.

[0228] In the example described, the distribution channel 201 is open at the opposite end to its inlet port 205 so as to be able to connect the distribution channel 201 to a charging port 229.

[0229] Another charging port 229 is present on flange 17.

[0230] These charging ports 229 equipped with a valve (visible on the charging port 229 on the flange 17 and valve not shown on the charging port 229 at the end of the distribution channel 201) are used when filling the refrigerant circuit, one of the charging ports 229 being used to pull the refrigerant and the other to push the refrigerant.

[0231] The various channels of the distribution rail 200 are made by machining from the solid of the distribution rail 200.

[0232] The 200 distribution ramp allows for the replacement of several external pipes, which simplifies assembly operations, makes the assembly more mechanically robust and allows it to be more compact. It also serves as a support for various components.

[0233] The distribution ramp 200 also allows refrigerant to be distributed to a plurality of heat exchangers placed side by side, in a row.

[0234] This allows for a reduced overall footprint.

[0235] The distribution manifold 200 has openwork mounting lugs 228 configured to be placed against a portion of the mechanical fixing 11 of the internal heat exchanger 4. Screws or studs inserted into the openwork mounting lugs 228 thus allow the distribution manifold 200 to be fixed to the internal heat exchanger 4.

[0236] In summary, it can be seen that the assembly 1 described comprises two two-fluid heat exchangers 41, 42 (“Chillers” in English), the two fluids being the refrigerant and glycol water, and a water condenser 35 (or “water condenser” in English) arranged in a row on a face 207 of the distribution ramp 200.

[0237] Assembly 1 is integrated into refrigerant circuit 100 which comprises: - the electric compressor 2; - the water condenser 35 connected to the outlet of compressor 2; - the internal heat exchanger 4 with the high-pressure inlet port 31 connected to water condenser 35; - the high pressure outlet 32 ​​of the internal heat exchanger 4 being connected to the distribution channel 201 of the distribution manifold 200 and the distribution sub-channels 230 are configured to distribute the refrigerant to the two heat exchangers; - upstream of each distribution sub-channel 230 is placed one of the expansion valves 226; - the two two-fluid heat exchangers 41,42 (here of the plate type) are connected at their outlet to the low pressure inlet port 30 of the internal heat exchanger 4; - the low pressure outlet port 6 of the internal heat exchanger 4 is connected to the electric compressor 2.

[0238] The internal heat exchanger 4 is interposed between the electric compressor 2 and the distribution rail 200.

Claims

1.

2. Demands Assembly (1) for a refrigerant circuit (100) configured to use a refrigerant, in particular a flammable refrigerant, in particular a hydrocarbon type, in particular propane, the refrigerant circuit being configured in particular for installation on a vehicle, the assembly comprising: - at least two components with fluidic function (41, 42), which are in particular at least two heat exchangers; - a monobloc type refrigerant distribution manifold (200), comprising: - a refrigerant distribution channel (201) extending, over most of its length, in a straight line and configured to be connected to said at least two fluidic function components (41, 42) to distribute refrigerant to these two fluidic function components; - a refrigerant collection channel (202) extending, for most of its length, in a straight line and configured to be connected to at least two fluidic components to collect the refrigerant having flowed in these two fluidic components (41, 42), the assembly comprising an internal heat exchanger (4) to be placed in the refrigerant circuit and configured to allow heat exchange between, on the one hand, a low-pressure refrigerant flow line (101), within the internal exchanger, and, on the other hand, a high-pressure refrigerant flow line (102), within the internal heat exchanger (4), the internal heat exchanger (4) comprising a high-pressure outlet port (32) for the refrigerant, and configured to be connected directly with the distribution channel (201) of the distribution manifold (200),said internal heat exchanger (4) being interposed between a compressor (2) and the distribution rail (200). Assembly (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the fluidic function components (41, 42) are heat exchangers bi-fluid heat, including refrigerant / pn 11 heat exchangers

3. CdLl. Assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the distribution manifold (200) has a first face (204) on which, on the one hand, the distribution channel (201) opens, forming a refrigerant inlet orifice (205) and, on the other hand, the collection channel (202) opens, forming a refrigerant outlet orifice (206), and the first face (204) is configured to bear against a fluidic function component with which the distribution manifold (200) is assembled.

4. Assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the distribution manifold (200) has a first connecting channel (210) configured to be placed on the refrigerant path between a water condenser (35), and the internal heat exchanger (4), in particular an inlet port of the first connecting channel being configured to be connected to an external tube (212).

5. Assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the distribution ramp (200) has a plurality of perforated fixing lugs (228) configured to be placed against mechanical fixing portions (11) of the internal heat exchanger (4).

6. Assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the distribution ramp (200) is formed by a single piece, in particular made of metal, in particular aluminum.

7. Assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the distribution ramp (200) has an elongated shape along a longitudinal axis X, and the distribution channel (201) and the collection channel (202) extend substantially parallel to each other, in particular by being substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis X.

8. Assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the distribution ramp (200) has a plurality of faces configured to bear against a plurality of fluidic function components, including heat exchangers and / or condensers.

9. Assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the distribution ramp (200) comprises at least two distribution subchannels (230) in fluidic communication with the distribution channel (201) and configured to distribute refrigerant from the distribution channel (201) to at least two respective heat exchangers (41, 42), and the distribution subchannels (230) opening in particular all, via refrigerant outlet ports, onto one face of the distribution manifold (200).

10. Assembly (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the distribution manifold (200) has at least two collection subchannels (233) each connected to the outlet of one of the heat exchangers (41, 42) which are supplied with refrigerant by the distribution subchannels, the collection subchannels (233) joining the collection channel (202).

11. Assembly (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the collection subchannels (233) have one end on one face of the distribution ramp (200), via inlet ports (234), in particular on the same face as the ports of the distribution subchannels, in particular a second face.

12. Assembly (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the distribution ramp (200) has a face, in particular a third face, which receives a desiccant bottle (220), in particular fixed directly on this face.

13. Heat pump system, in particular of indirect type, comprising an assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, in particular configured to be mounted on a vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle.

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