Multi-function support for a thermal management module

Abstract

Title: Multifunction support for a thermal management module The subject of the invention is a multifunction support (301) for a thermal management module (300), in particular for a vehicle, this multifunction support (301) being configured to support components with a fluidic function and comprising: a fluidic connection end piece configured to allow the connection of a pipe (321) for the circulation of heat transfer fluid, this heat transfer fluid being in particular electrically non-conductive, being in particular a dielectric fluid, this pipe (321) being provided with a static electricity discharge path (350) formed for example by an electrically conductive cover of the pipe (321);a plate (327) configured to support fluid-function components and having at least one static electricity discharge path (360) configured to be brought into electrical contact with the static electricity discharge path (350) of the pipe (321) connected to the fluid connection tip (320; 340). Figure for abstract: Fig. 22;

Description

Title of the invention: Multifunction support for a thermal management module

[0001] The field of the present invention is that of thermal management modules. The present invention relates more particularly to a multifunction support for a thermal management module.

[0002] Thermal management of electric vehicles is a key element for their efficiency and autonomy. Indeed, it is necessary to thermally manage the battery pack, the power electronics, the electric motor(s), and ensure comfort in the passenger compartment, and this in all conditions of use of the vehicle (in summer, in winter, during rapid recharging of the vehicle, during power peaks, etc.). One trend is to centralize the different functions of the cooling system within a single subassembly which can integrate pumps, distribution valves, and possibly other components. Electric vehicles equipped with a heat pump can have many different operating modes which require as many different circulations of the coolant.

[0003] The present invention aims to further improve thermal management systems.

[0004] The invention thus relates to a multifunction support for a thermal management module, in particular for a vehicle, this multifunction support being configured to support components with a fluidic function, the thermal management module being configured to be arranged within a heat transfer fluid circuit, in particular a dielectric fluid, the multifunction support comprising: - a receptacle configured to removably receive a particulate filter, the receptacle comprising a heat transfer fluid inlet and a heat transfer fluid outlet such that, in operation, heat transfer fluid can circulate through the particulate filter between the inlet and the outlet of the receptacle.

[0005] Advantageously, the receptacle forms a sealed space for the circulation of the heat transfer fluid between the heat transfer fluid inlet and the heat transfer fluid outlet.

[0006] In the invention, the integration of a particulate filter in the thermal management module makes it possible to group together as many functions as possible within a single subassembly, while allowing the particulate filter to be dismantled for its replacement with a new particulate filter. Thanks to the invention, it is not necessary to carry out complex operations to change the particulate filter.

[0007] According to one aspect of the invention, the receptacle comprises an opening configured to allow the particle filter to be inserted into the receptacle.

[0008] According to one aspect of the invention, the opening of the receptacle is configured to be able to be closed in a sealed manner by a cover.

[0009] According to one aspect of the invention, the cover is integral with the particle filter.

[0010] Alternatively, the hood is a part independent of the particle filter.

[0011] According to one aspect of the invention, the particulate filter is configured to be screwed or snapped into the receptacle.

[0012] According to one aspect of the invention, the cover is configured to be screwed or snapped onto the receptacle.

[0013] According to one aspect of the invention, when the cover is secured to the particle filter, this cover can be configured to be screwed or snapped onto the receptacle.

[0014] This allows the cover to be detachably fixed to the receptacle. The invention thus makes it possible to easily change the particle filter when it has reached the limit of its service life.

[0015] According to one aspect of the invention, the receptacle has a generally cylindrical shape, in particular with, at one of its ends, the opening for introducing the particle filter and, at an opposite end, a bottom.

[0016] According to one aspect of the invention, the bottom comprises the fluid outlet configured to allow the evacuation of the heat transfer fluid having been filtered by the particle filter.

[0017] According to one aspect of the invention, the receptacle comprises the fluid inlet which is made on a cylindrical wall of this receptacle.

[0018] Thus the heat transfer fluid penetrates laterally into the particle filter and then the heat transfer fluid follows a path (which may have several turns or bends) within the particle filter to be freed of certain particles. Finally the heat transfer fluid thus filtered leaves the particle filter via the fluid outlet.

[0019] Alternatively, the fluid inlet may be on an opposite side to the fluid outlet such that the heat transfer fluid flows through the particulate filter from one end to another opposite end of the filter (generally straight line flow).

[0020] According to one aspect of the invention, the bottom of the receptacle is formed by a substantially flat transverse wall.

[0021] According to one aspect of the invention, the bottom is provided with a fluid connection end piece configured to allow the mounting of a pipe on this fluid connection end piece.

[0022] According to one aspect of the invention, the connection end piece may have an elbow relative to the bottom wall, for example an elbow making an angle of between 30° and 60°, for example 45°.

[0023] According to one aspect of the invention, the particulate filter is configured to filter particles having a characteristic size of 50 microns, or less than 50 microns.

[0024] The presence of the particle filter makes it possible to protect, in particular, a battery assembly from undesirable particles present in the heat transfer fluid circuit or coming from devices in the circuit, for example a radiator, an electric motor, an electronic component, a valve, etc.

[0025] According to one aspect of the invention, the receptacle is made in one piece with the multifunctional support.

[0026] According to one aspect of the invention, the multifunctional support is produced as a monolithic part, for example by molding a plastic material.

[0027] According to one aspect of the invention, the multifunction support comprises at least one main face which supports several components with a fluidic function.

[0028] According to one aspect of the invention, the main face is for example configured to support one or two pumps and / or a multi-way valve and / or an actuator of the multi-way valve.

[0029] According to one aspect of the invention, the multifunction support comprises a main plate which defines this main face.

[0030] According to one aspect of the invention, the multifunction support comprises, in addition to the main plate, a secondary plate assembled with the main plate, on the opposite side of the main face of the main plate.

[0031] According to one aspect of the invention, the receptacle for the particle filter is formed in one piece with this main plate.

[0032] According to one aspect of the invention, the receptacle is joined to the main plate on an edge of this main plate.

[0033] According to one aspect of the invention, the edge of the main plate is thus connected for example to a cylindrical wall of the receptacle, in particular along a straight line generating this cylindrical wall.

[0034] According to one aspect of the invention, the main plate of the multifunction support comprises shapes defining a seat for a pump supported by the multifunction support.

[0035] According to one aspect of the invention, the main plate comprises shapes defining a portion of a multi-way valve body.

[0036] According to one aspect of the invention, the multifunctional support comprises one or more channels for the circulation / distribution of heat transfer fluid.

[0037] According to one aspect of the invention, this or these channels are formed between the main plate and the secondary plate.

[0038] According to one aspect of the invention, the multifunction support comprises a channel configured to bring the heat transfer fluid from a pump on the multifunction support to the particulate filter.

[0039] According to one aspect of the invention, the channel has a divergent shape in the direction of the receptacle of the particle filter.

[0040] The invention also relates to a thermal management module, in particular for a vehicle, comprising a multifunction support and components with a fluidic function carried by this multifunction support, one of these components with a fluidic function being a particulate filter, the thermal management module being configured to be arranged within a heat transfer fluid circuit, in particular a dielectric fluid, the multifunction support comprising a receptacle configured to receive the particulate filter in a removable manner, the receptacle comprising a heat transfer fluid inlet and a heat transfer fluid outlet so that, in operation, heat transfer fluid can circulate through the particulate filter between the inlet and the outlet of the receptacle.

[0041] The invention also relates to a heat transfer fluid circuit, comprising a thermal management module as mentioned above.

[0042] According to one aspect of the invention, the particle filter is configured to be placed, in the heat transfer fluid circuit, downstream of a pump and upstream of a battery assembly or battery to be cooled.

[0043] According to one aspect of the invention, the battery assembly or battery may be cooled by at least partial immersion of battery cells in the dielectric fluid.

[0044] According to one aspect of the invention, the particle filter is placed within the circuit, downstream of a pump of the circuit and upstream of a battery assembly.

[0045] Other placements of the particle filter within the heat transfer fluid circuit can be envisaged.

[0046] The invention also relates, independently or in combination with the above, to a multifunction support for a thermal management module, in particular for a vehicle, this multifunction support being configured to support components with a fluidic function and comprising: - a fluid connection end piece configured to allow the connection of a pipe for the circulation of heat transfer fluid, this heat transfer fluid being in particular electrically non-conductive, being in particular a dielectric fluid, this pipe being provided with a static electricity discharge path formed for example by an electrically conductive cover of the pipe; - a plate configured to support fluid-function components and comprising at least one static electricity discharge path configured to be placed in electrical contact with the static electricity discharge path of the pipe connected to the fluid connection tip.

[0047] In the case of a heat pump, or generally of a system of thermal management, particularly of an electric vehicle, using for example immersive cooling solutions for the battery and electronic components in a non-conductive heat transfer fluid, particularly a dielectric fluid, the circulation of the non-conductive dielectric fluid in flexible pipes made of non-conductive material promotes the generation of electrostatic charges. The accumulation of electrostatic charges represents a potential danger.

[0048] The invention makes it possible to efficiently discharge the accumulation of electrostatic charges using the static electricity discharge path(s) on the multifunction support. The invention thus makes it possible to integrate the static electricity discharge function on the multifunction support. This makes it possible to avoid having to resort to additional components which fulfill the electrical protection function. The invention makes it possible, if desired, to have a discharge at a single point for the entire fluid circuit.

[0049] According to one aspect of the invention, the multifunctional support comprises a plurality of fluid connection tips configured to allow the connection of a plurality of pipes for the circulation of heat transfer fluid, and the plate comprises a plurality of static electricity discharge paths configured to be placed in electrical contact with the static electricity discharge paths of the pipes connected to the fluid connection tips.

[0050] According to one aspect of the invention, the plurality of static electricity discharge paths present on the plate are mutually adjoining for at least some of them.

[0051] According to one aspect of the invention, the plurality of static electricity discharge paths present on the plate are all contiguous so that they can all be grounded via a single point. This allows for a single-point discharge for the entire thermal management module.

[0052] The grounding is done for example by bringing one of the components with a fluidic function (for example a pump or a heat exchanger) into contact with a mass of the vehicle, for example a carcass of the vehicle. Alternatively, this grounding is done using an electric cable between a discharge point of the multifunction support and a mass of the vehicle. The electric cable is called a discharge cable.

[0053] According to another aspect of the invention, the grounding is done at several locations of the multifunctional support to discharge the accumulation of electrostatic charges.

[0054] According to one aspect of the invention, the particle filter may be metallic or made of a conductive and non-conductive bi-material, so that the particle filter can serve as a static electricity discharge path.

[0055] According to one aspect of the invention, the static electricity discharge path(s) present on the plate are formed by an electrically conductive strip, for example made of aluminum or copper.

[0056] According to one aspect of the invention, the conductive strip(s) are on the surface of the plate, and are for example glued to the surface of the plate.

[0057] Alternatively, the conductive strip(s) are buried in the plate.

[0058] As a further variant, the static electricity discharge path(s) present on the plate are formed by a coating or deposition of an electrically conductive material, at least on a portion of the multifunctional support.

[0059] As a further variant, the static electricity discharge path(s) present on the plate are overmolded by the material of the plate, for example a plastic material.

[0060] According to one aspect of the invention, the plate of the multifunction support may be made of electrically conductive material, for example metal such as aluminum or copper. This plate then forms an entire static electricity discharge path.

[0061] The invention also relates to a thermal management module, in particular for a vehicle, configured to be arranged within a cooling circuit using a heat transfer fluid, in particular a dielectric fluid, the thermal management module comprising: - a plurality of components with a fluidic function; - a multifunctional support according to one of the preceding claims.

[0062] The invention also relates to a cooling circuit using a heat transfer fluid, the circuit comprising: - the thermal management module as mentioned above; - at least one pipe connected to a fluid connection end piece of this thermal management module, with electrical continuity between a static electricity discharge path of this pipe and a static electricity discharge path on the multifunction support.

[0063] According to one aspect of the invention, the pipe(s) are made of electrically non-conductive material, and the electrically conductive covering is present on this non-conductive material.

[0064] According to one aspect of the invention, the pipe is an ESD (Electrostatic discharge) conductive pipe configured to allow an electrostatic discharge, the pipe being for example at least partly made of electrically conductive material.

[0065] According to one aspect of the invention, the pipe(s) are fixed to the connection ends of the multifunction support, in particular using connection fittings which are electrically conductive.

[0066] Other characteristics, details and advantages of the invention will emerge more clearly on reading the description which follows on the one hand, and several exemplary embodiments given for informational and non-limiting purposes with reference to the appended schematic drawings on the other hand, in which:

[0067] [Fig-1] schematically illustrates in perspective an example of a distributor organ in accordance with the invention,

[0068] [Fig.2] schematically illustrates the organ according to a cross-sectional plane distributor of [Fig.l],

[0069] [Fig.3] is an exploded view of a valve comprising the distributor member of the [Fig.l]

[0070] [Fig.4] schematically illustrates in perspective the valve of [Fig.3],

[0071] [Fig.5] is an exploded view of another valve comprising the distributor member of the [Fig.l],

[0072] [Fig.6] schematically illustrates along an axial sectional plane the valve of the [Fig.5],

[0073] [Fig.7] schematically illustrates an example of a circuit comprising a valve comprising a distributor member according to the invention,

[0074] [Fig.8] schematically illustrates a first mode of operation of the circuit of [Fig.7],

[0075] [Fig.9] schematically illustrates along a cross-sectional plane the posi operation of the distributor member of figures 1 and 2 in a valve illustrated in figures 3 to 6 in the operating mode illustrated in [Fig.8],

[0076] [Fig. 10] schematically illustrates a second mode of operation of the circuit of [Fig.7],

[0077] [Fig. 11] schematically illustrates along a cross-sectional plane the posi operation of the distributor member of Figures 1 and 2 in a valve illustrated in Figures 3 to 6 in the operating mode illustrated in [Fig. 10],

[0078] [Fig. 12] schematically illustrates a third mode of operation of the circuit of [Fig.7],

[0079] [Fig. 13] schematically illustrates along a cross-sectional plane the posi operation of the distributor member of Figures 1 and 2 in a valve illustrated in Figures 3 to 6 in the operating mode illustrated in [Fig. 12],

[0080] [Fig. 14] schematically illustrates a fourth mode of operation of the circuit of [Fig.7],

[0081] [Fig. 15] schematically illustrates along a cross-sectional plane the posi operation of the distributor member of Figures 1 and 2 in a valve illustrated in Figures 3 to 6 in the operating mode illustrated in [Fig. 14],

[0082] [Fig. 16] schematically illustrates a fifth mode of operation of the circuit of [Fig.7],

[0083] [Fig. 17] schematically illustrates along a cross-sectional plane the positioning of the distributor member of Figures 1 and 2 in a valve illustrated in Figures 3 to 6 in the operating mode illustrated in [Fig. 16],

[0084] [Fig. 18] illustrates, in perspective, a thermal management module according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention,

[0085] [Fig. 19] illustrates a portion of the thermal management module of [Fig. 18],

[0086] [Fig.20] illustrates a variant of the thermal management module of [Fig. 18],

[0087] [Fig.21] schematically illustrates an example of a circuit integrating the module of thermal management of [Fig. 18],

[0088] [Fig.22] illustrates, in perspective, the thermal management module of [Fig.l], with electrostatic discharge paths.

[0089] The features, variants and the different embodiments of the invention may be combined with each other, in various combinations, provided that they are not incompatible or mutually exclusive. In particular, variants of the invention may be imagined comprising only a selection of features described below in isolation from the other features described, if this selection of features is sufficient to confer a technical advantage and / or to differentiate the invention from the prior art.

[0090] Figures 1 and 2 illustrate a distributor member 10 of a valve for a heat transfer liquid.

[0091] This distributor member 10 is intended to be movable in rotation around a longitudinal axis X. The distributor member 10 comprises a body 12 and may optionally comprise a first plate 14 and a second plate 16, parallel and orthogonal to the longitudinal axis X, connected by the body 12. The body 12 has lateral edges 18, located in the present example at the level of a fictitious cylinder connecting peripheral edges 20 of the plates 14, 16. It is understood that the first and second plates 14, 16, when present, define a diameter of the distributor member 10.

[0092] The distributor member 10 can be configured to rotate in a clockwise and / or counterclockwise direction.

[0093] The body 12 of the distributor member 10 further has a first distribution channel 22 for the fluid. This first distribution channel 22 extends axially along the longitudinal axis X. This means that the longitudinal axis X of rotation of the distributor member 12 passes through the distribution channel 22. Advantageously, the first distribution channel 22 is centered on the longitudinal axis X.

[0094] The body 12 also has a first chamber 24 communicating with the distribution channel 22. This first chamber 24 also opens radially.

[0095] In this way, angular positions of the body 12 of the distributor member 10 determine a passage of the fluid between an inlet and / or outlet channel, called axial 108, and at least one of the inlet and / or outlet channels, called peripheral 110a-110f, of the valve 100 (see figures 3 to 6), through the first chamber 24 and the first distribution channel 22.

[0096] The body 12 of the distributor member 10 may further have one or more second chambers 25a-25c opening radially so that angular positions of the body 12 also determine a passage of the fluid between different of the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels 110a-110f of the valve 100, through the or at least one of the second chambers 25a-25c. In the examples illustrated, there are four second chambers 25a-25c.

[0097] The first chamber 24 and / or said second chamber(s) 25a-25c advantageously extend angularly around the longitudinal axis X.

[0098] The distributor member 10, in particular the body 12, has a height h, extending along the longitudinal axis X. It is understood that the height h corresponds to a height on the one hand of the first chamber 24 and on the other hand, when they exist, of the second chamber(s) 25a-25c.

[0099] Advantageously, the first distribution channel 22 communicates with the first chamber 24 over all or part of the height h of the first chamber 24. This communication between the distribution channel 22 and the first chamber 24 is done via an opening 23.

[0100] Furthermore, the distributor member 10, in particular the body 12, advantageously comprises a central part 26. The body 12 may also comprise branches 28a, 28b connected to each other at the central part 26. The branches advantageously extend substantially radially from the central part to the lateral edges 18.

[0101] The chamber(s) 24, 25a-25c are defined between two of the branches. In other words, when the distributor member 10 comprises several chambers 24, 25a-25c, the branches separate the chambers 24, 25a-25c from each other.

[0102] The branches 28a, 28b comprise walls 30a, 30b which extend along the longitudinal axis X from the first plate 14 towards the second plate 16.

[0103] The walls 30a of the branches 28a delimiting the first chamber 24 may be substantially flat.

[0104] Here, the angular amplitude of the first chamber 24 is between 35 and 45 degrees.

[0105] The branches 28b delimiting at least one of the second chambers 25a-25c can form a curved bottom 34 at the level of the central part 26. This curved bottom 34 can be concave to facilitate the flow of fluid.

[0106] Here, the angular amplitude of each second chamber 25a-25c is between 70 and 90 degrees.

[0107] Advantageously, at least one of the branches 28b comprises a through channel 36 configured to connect one of the chambers with another of the adjacent chambers. With reference to the illustrated example, it is understood that the chamber 25c is composed of two half-chambers connected to each other by the through channel 36 to form an enlarged chamber, corresponding to the chamber 25c.

[0108] With reference to Figures 3 to 6, the invention also relates to a valve 100 for fluid, in particular a heat transfer liquid, which comprises a distributor member 10 as described above.

[0109] The valve 100 comprises a housing 102 defining a housing 104 for the distributor member 10. It is understood that the housing 104 then has a diameter substantially identical to the diameter of the distributor member 10, with a clearance necessary for the rotation of the distributor member 10 in the housing 104. The lateral edges 18 of the body 12 are located opposite and in the immediate vicinity, with the clearance, of an internal face of a side wall 106 of the housing 102.

[0110] The housing 102 is provided with peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels 110, opening laterally into the housing 104. In the examples illustrated, the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels 110a-110f are six in number, namely a first inlet and / or outlet channel 110a, a second inlet and / or outlet channel 110b, a third inlet and / or outlet channel 110c, a fourth inlet and / or outlet channel 110d, a fifth inlet and / or outlet channel 110e and a sixth inlet and / or outlet channel 110f.

[0111] Each of the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels 110a-110f is arranged as a radial projection from a side wall 106 of the housing 102. Advantageously, the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels 110a-110f are divided into two diametrically opposite groups. It is understood, with reference to the figures, that a first group of peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels 110a-110c is positioned on one side of the housing while a second group of peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels 110d-110f is positioned diametrically opposite the first group. Each of the first and second groups may comprise three of the inlet and / or peripheral channels HOa-110f. The peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels HOa-110f of the same group here extend over an angular interval of at most 120 degrees.

[0112] Depending on its angular position, the first chamber 24 of the distributor member is placed or not in communication with one or more of said peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels. Said first chamber 24 is intended to communicate radially with the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels 110a-110f. Avanta gentely, the first chamber 24 is intended to communicate with at most one of the peripheral channels 110a-110f, and this, whatever the angular position of the body 12 of the distributor member 10.

[0113] The second chamber(s) 25a-25c communicate radially with the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels HOa-llOf. Advantageously, the second chamber(s) 25a-25c communicate with at most two of the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels 110a-110f, regardless of the angular position of the body 12 of the distributor member 10.

[0114] The valve 100 may comprise an actuator, not shown, for example a stepper motor, for driving the distributor member 10 in rotation around the longitudinal axis X. The distributor member 10 may then comprise a drive shaft, intended to be engaged with the actuator.

[0115] The valve 100 may also comprise a first annular seal 50, located between the distributor member 10 and the internal face of the side wall 106 of the housing 102. This first annular seal 50 advantageously has openings 52 having a contour corresponding to a contour of an opening part of the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels HOa-llOf in the housing 104. Preferably, the first annular seal 50 is mounted fixed.

[0116] In order to avoid damaging the seal 50, in particular at the level of the openings 52, during rotation of the distributor member 10, the branches 28a, 28b may have external ends, that is to say opposite the central part 26, having a chamfer 32. In the example illustrated, only the branches 28a comprise chamfers 32. According to a preferred embodiment, the branches 28a, 28b all have external ends having a chamfer 32.

[0117] The valve 100 may further comprise a plate 112 which is designed to close the housing 102. This plate 112 is mounted orthogonally to the longitudinal axis X of the distributor member 10. The plate 112 may be fixed, in particular welded, to the housing 102. In the embodiment of FIGS. 3 and 4, the plate 112 is configured to be fixed to a fluid distribution support, not illustrated, in particular to a casing of such a support.

[0118] The plate 112 advantageously comprises slots 114a-114g located in the axial extension of the first distribution channel 22 and / or the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels HOa-110f. Thus, the slot 114a is located in the axial extension of the channel 110a, the slot 114b in the axial extension of the channel 110b, the slot 114c in the axial extension of the channel 110c, the slot 114d in the axial extension of the channel 110d, the slot 114e in the axial extension of the channel 110e, the slot 114f in the axial extension of the channel 110f and the slot 114g is located in the axial extension of the first distribution channel 22.

[0119] The valve 100 may comprise a second annular seal 60 configured for sealing with the distribution support. In such a case, the plate 112 advantageously comprises, on an external face, a groove 116. This groove 116 is designed to accommodate the second annular seal 60. This second seal 60 may be a flat seal in several parts, for example a part around each light 114a-114f and a part around the light 114g, as illustrated in [Fig.4].

[0120] Alternatively, shown in Figures 5 and 6, the valve is intended to be used independently, by being connected to fluid circulation hoses. The plate 112 comprises an axial inlet and / or outlet conduit 108 communicating with the first channel 22. The plate may also comprise peripheral inlet and / or outlet conduits 118a-118f communicating respectively with the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels HOa-110f. The axial inlet and / or outlet conduits 108 or peripheral inlet and / or outlet conduits 118a-118f may be oriented along the longitudinal axis X.

[0121] The plate 112 allows interchangeability of the valve 100 according to the type of distribution support used in a circuit of a fluid, in particular of a heat transfer liquid.

[0122] Different distribution positions of the valve 100 of FIGS. 7 to 17 are shown below in the context of an example of a heat transfer fluid circuit 200 illustrated in [Fig. 7]. Such a circuit 200 is only a non-limiting example of a circuit in which the valve 100, with its distributor member 10 according to the invention, is intended to be used.

[0123] In the following, the flows of the heat transfer fluid through the chambers 24, 25a-25c of the distributor member are represented by arrows in the corresponding figures.

[0124] With reference to [Fig.7], the heat transfer fluid circuit 200 is configured to allow the thermal regulation of a battery 202 supplying a motor vehicle's electric drive motor and / or an electrical assembly formed by the electric motor 204 and control electronics 206 of an electrical circuit connecting the battery 202 to the motor 204. The fluid circuit 200 may also comprise a first heat exchanger 208, in particular a cooler, a second exchanger 210, in particular a low-temperature cooling radiator 210, and / or a third heat exchanger 212.

[0125] The battery 202, the electric motor 204, the control electronics 206, the cooler 208, the cooling radiator 210 and the third heat exchanger 212 are distributed over first 250a, second 250b, third 250c, fourth 250d, fifth 250e, sixth 250f and seventh 250g branches of the circuit 200, each of the branches being connected to one of the inlet and / or outlet channels 108, 110a-110f of the valve 100, for example via the plate described previously.

[0126] The heat transfer fluid circuit 200 also comprises pumps 214a, 214b respectively on the fourth branch 250d and the fifth branch 250e, to drive the heat transfer fluid in the circuit 200. In particular, the pump 214a drives the heat transfer fluid from the valve 100 to the battery 202 to cool it, while the pump 214b drives the heat transfer fluid from the electric motor 204 to the valve 100.

[0127] In a first operating mode illustrated in [Fig.8] and corresponding to a first of the distribution positions, illustrated in [Fig.9], the heat transfer fluid circulates respectively according to two independent loops. The first of the loops comprises the second 250b and the fourth 250d branches and, in series, the sixth 250f and seventh 250g branches. The second loop comprises the third 250c and the fifth 250e branches. There is no circulation of fluid in the first branch 250a.

[0128] This first operating mode then allows cooling of the battery 202 by means of the cooler 208 alone. The electrical assembly 204, 206 is then cooled by the cooling radiator 210 alone.

[0129] In this first distribution position, the first chamber 24 connects the second 250b and fourth 250d branches. The chamber 25b connects the sixth 250f and seventh 250g branches. The chamber 25c connects the third 250c and fifth 250e branches, in particular, the fluid passes through the chamber 25c via the through passage.

[0130] In a second mode of operation, illustrated in [Fig. 10], corresponding to a second of the distribution positions, illustrated in [Fig. 11], the heat transfer fluid circulates according to a single loop comprising, in series, the second 250b and third 250c branches, the fourth 250d and fifth 250e branches, and the sixth 250f and seventh 250g branches. There is no circulation of fluid in the first branch 250a.

[0131] This second operating mode then allows cooling of the battery 202 and of the electrical assembly 204, 206 using the cooler 208 and / or the cooling radiator 210, the heat transfer fluid passing successively through the cooler 208 then through the cooling radiator 210 before reaching the electrical assembly 204, 206 then the battery 202.

[0132] In this second distribution position, the first chamber 24 connects the fourth 250d and fifth 250e branches. The chamber 25b connects the second 250b and third 250c branches. The chamber 25c connects the sixth 250f and seventh 250g branches.

[0133] In a third mode of operation, illustrated in [Fig. 12], corresponding to a third of the distribution positions, illustrated in [Fig. 13], the fluid circulates respectively according to two independent loops. The first of the loops comprises the second 250b and third 250c branches and, in series, the fifth 250e and seventh 250g branches. The second loop comprises the fourth 250d and sixth 250f branches. There is no circulation of fluid in the first branch 250a.

[0134] This third operating mode allows the cooling of the electrical assembly 204, 206 using the cooler 208 and / or the cooling radiator 210. The battery 202 is isolated from the electrical assembly 204, 206 and can be heated or cooled using the third heat exchanger 212, the pump 214a driving the heat transfer fluid from the valve 100 to the battery 202.

[0135] In this third distribution position, the first chamber 24 connects the fourth 250d and sixth 250f branches. The chamber 25a connects the fifth 250e and seventh 250g branches. The chamber 25c connects the second 250b and third 250c branches.

[0136] In a fourth mode of operation, illustrated in [Fig. 14], corresponding to a fourth of the distribution positions, illustrated in [Fig. 15], the fluid circulates respectively according to two independent loops. The first of the loops comprises the first 250a and second 250b branches and, in series, the fifth 250e and seventh 250g branches. The second loop comprises the fourth 250d and sixth 250f branches. There is no circulation of fluid in the third branch 250c.

[0137] This fourth operating mode allows the cooling of the electrical assembly 204, 206 using only the cooler 208. As for the third operating mode, the battery 202 is isolated from the electrical assembly 204, 206 and can be heated or cooled using the third heat exchanger 212, the pump 214a driving the heat transfer fluid from the valve 100 to the battery 202.

[0138] In this fourth distribution position, the first chamber 24 connects the fourth 250d and sixth 250f branches. The chamber 25a connects the fifth 250e and seventh 250g branches. The chamber 25c connects the first 250a and second 250b branches.

[0139] In a fifth mode of operation, illustrated in [Fig. 16], corresponding to a fifth of the distribution positions, illustrated in [Fig. 17], the fluid circulates according to a single loop comprising, in series, the first 250a and second 250b branches, the fourth 250d and fifth 250e branches, and the sixth 250f and seventh 250g branches. There is no circulation of fluid in the third branch 250c.

[0140] This fifth operating mode then allows cooling of the battery 202 and of the electrical assembly 204, 206 using only the cooler 208.

[0141] In this fifth distribution position, the first chamber 24 connects the fourth 250d and fifth 250e branches. The chamber 25b connects the first 250a and second 250b branches. The chamber 25c connects the sixth 250f and seventh 250g branches.

[0142] In the example illustrated, as a reminder, there are five distribution positions and they involve circulation of the fluid in at least one of the chambers 24, 25a-25c. Furthermore, each distribution position involves circulation of the fluid in the first channel 22.

[0143] In light of this example, it is understood that the invention allows, thanks to the combined use of the first chamber 24, the second chamber(s) 25a-25c and the first channel 22, several possibilities for distributing the fluid, with a reduced radial and / or axial size of the valve 100. Indeed, the position of the first distribution channel 22, for example central, makes it possible to simplify the architecture of the distributor member 10 and thus make the valve 100 more compact. In the illustrated circuit, said distribution channel is advantageously connected to the one or one of the branches of the circuit communicating with the greatest number of other branches, namely here that 250d comprising the battery 202.

[0144] Figures 18 and 19 show a thermal management module 300 according to an exemplary implementation of the invention. The thermal management module 300 is configured to be arranged within the heat transfer fluid circuit 200 described above.

[0145] The thermal management module 300 comprises a multifunction support 301 and components with a fluidic function carried by this multifunction support 301.

[0146] One of these fluidic function components is a particulate filter 303.

[0147] The multifunction support 301 comprises a receptacle 305 configured to removably receive the particulate filter 303, and the receptacle 305 comprises a heat transfer fluid inlet 306 and a heat transfer fluid outlet 307 so that, in operation of the circuit 200, heat transfer fluid can circulate through the particulate filter 303 between the inlet 306 and the outlet 307 of the receptacle 305.

[0148] The receptacle 305 forms a sealed space for the circulation of the heat transfer fluid between the heat transfer fluid inlet 306 and the heat transfer fluid outlet 307.

[0149] In the invention, the integration of a particle filter 303 in the thermal management module 300 makes it possible to group together as many functions as possible within the same subassembly, while allowing the particle filter 303 to be dismantled for its replacement with a new particle filter. Thanks to the invention, it is not necessary to perform complex operations to change the 303 particulate filter.

[0150] The receptacle 305 comprises an opening 310, here with a circular circumference, configured to allow the particle filter 303 to be introduced into the receptacle 305.

[0151] The opening 310 of the receptacle 305 is configured to be able to be closed in a sealed manner by a cover 311, which cover 311 is integral with the particle filter 303.

[0152] Alternatively, the cover 311 is a part independent of the particle filter 303, which is then placed on the receptacle 305 in two successive steps.

[0153] The particle filter 303 secured to the cover 311 is configured to be screwed or snapped into the receptacle 305.

[0154] This allows removable fixing of the cover 311 on the receptacle 305. The invention thus makes it possible to easily change the particle filter 303 when it has reached its service life limit.

[0155] The receptacle 305 has a generally cylindrical shape with, at one of its ends, the opening 310 for introducing the particle filter 303 and, at an opposite end, a bottom 312.

[0156] The bottom 312 comprises the fluid outlet 307 configured to allow the evacuation of the heat transfer fluid having been filtered by the particle filter 303.

[0157] The receptacle 305 comprises the fluid inlet 306 which is produced on a cylindrical wall 314 of this receptacle 305.

[0158] Thus the heat transfer fluid penetrates laterally into the particle filter 303 then the heat transfer fluid completes a path 317 (which may have several turns or bends) within the particle filter 303 to be freed of certain particles. Finally the heat transfer fluid thus filtered leaves the particle filter 303 via the fluid outlet 307.

[0159] Alternatively as illustrated in [Fig.20], the fluid inlet 306 may be on an opposite side to the fluid outlet 307 so that the heat transfer fluid flows through the particulate filter 303 from one end to another opposite end of the filter (generally straight line flow).

[0160] The bottom of the receptacle 305 is formed by a substantially flat transverse wall.

[0161] The bottom 312 is provided with a fluid connection tip 320 configured to allow the mounting of a pipe 321 on this fluid connection tip 320.

[0162] The connection end piece 320 may have an elbow 322 relative to the bottom wall 312, for example an elbow making an angle of between 30° and 60°, for example 45°.

[0163] The particulate filter 303 is configured to filter particles having a characteristic size of 50 microns, or less than 50 microns.

[0164] The receptacle 305 is made in one piece with the multifunction support 301.

[0165] The multifunctional support 301 is produced as a monolithic part, for example by molding a plastic material.

[0166] The multifunction support 301 comprises a main face 324 which supports several components with a fluidic function which are, in the illustrated example, the two pumps 214a and 214b described above.

[0167] The main face 324 also supports a multi-way valve 325 and its actuator 326. The multi-way valve 325 allows the same operation as the valve 100 described above.

[0168] The multifunction support 301 comprises a main plate 327 which defines this main face 324.

[0169] The multifunction support 301 comprises, in addition to the main plate 327, a secondary plate 328 assembled with the main plate 327, on the opposite side of the main face 324 of the main plate 327.

[0170] The receptacle 305 for the particle filter 303 is formed in one piece with the main plate 324.

[0171] The receptacle 305 is joined to the main plate 324 on an edge 329 of this main plate 324.

[0172] The edge 329 of the main plate 324 is thus connected for example to the cylindrical wall 314 of the receptacle 305, along a straight line generating this cylindrical wall 314.

[0173] The main plate 324 of the multifunction support 301 comprises shapes defining seats 330 respectively for the pumps 214a and 214b supported by the multifunction support 301.

[0174] The main plate 324 comprises shapes 332 defining a portion of a body of the multi-way valve 325.

[0175] The multifunctional support 301 comprises several channels 335 for the circulation / distribution of heat transfer fluid, which are formed between the main plate 324 and the secondary plate 328.

[0176] In particular, [Fig. 19] shows a channel 335 configured to bring the heat transfer fluid from a pump 214b on the multifunction support 301 to the particle filter 303.

[0177] This channel 335 has a divergent shape in the direction of the receptacle 305 of the particle filter 303.

[0178] The particle filter 303 is configured to be placed, in the heat transfer fluid circuit 200, downstream of a pump 214a and upstream of a battery 202 (see [Fig.21]), which is cooled by at least partial immersion of cells of the battery 202 in the dielectric fluid.

[0179] The invention thus makes it possible to protect the battery 202 from undesirable particles which would be transported by the heat transfer fluid.

[0180] Other placements of the particle filter 303 within the heat transfer fluid circuit 200 can be envisaged.

[0181] As illustrated in [Fig.22], the thermal management module 300 is configured to receive various pipe connections 321 which are attached to the connection tips 320 of the receptacle 305 and other tips 340 of the multifunction support 301.

[0182] All the pipes 321 are each provided with a static electricity discharge path, symbolized by the rectangle 350 in [Fig.22], formed here by an electrically conductive cover 351 (for example a cover made of copper or other electrically conductive metal) of the pipe 321. This cover 351 is for example made by a metallic deposit on the outside of the pipe 321.

[0183] The main plate 327 comprises a static electricity discharge path, symbolized by the rectangle 360 in [Fig.22], configured to be brought into electrical contact with the static electricity discharge path 50 of each pipe 321 connected to the fluid connection tip 320 or 340.

[0184] Thus the multifunction support 301 comprises a plurality of fluid connection tips 320 (of the receptacle 305) and 340 (of the multifunction support 301 other than the tip 320) and the main plate 327 comprises a plurality of static electricity discharge paths 360 configured to be placed in electrical contact with the static electricity discharge paths 350 of the pipes 321 connected to the fluid connection tips 320 and 340, for example using connection fittings 339 which are electrically conductive.

[0185] The plurality of static electricity discharge paths 360 on the plate are mutually joined so that they can all be grounded via a single point 359.

[0186] The grounding is done for example by bringing one of the fluidic function components or a pipe 321 into contact with a ground of the vehicle, for example a carcass of the vehicle. In the example of [Fig.22], this grounding is done using an electric cable 363 between the discharge point 359 of the multifunction support 301 and a ground of the vehicle.

[0187] The static electricity discharge paths 360 present on the main plate 327 are formed by electrically conductive strips 361, here made of aluminum or copper.

[0188] The conductive strips 361 are on the surface of the main plate 327, for example being glued thereon.

[0189] Alternatively, the conductive strips 361 are buried in the mass of the main plate 327.

[0190] As a further variant, the static electricity discharge paths 360 present on the main plate 327 are formed by a coating or deposition of an electrically conductive material, at least on a portion of the multifunction support 301.

[0191] As a further variant, the static electricity discharge paths 360 present on the main plate 327 are overmolded by the material of the main plate 327, for example a plastic material.

[0192] The electrical contact between the static electricity discharge paths 350 of the pipes 321 and the static electricity discharge paths 360 is made by direct contact between the electrically conductive cover 351 of the pipes 321 and the conductive ribbons 361 of the multifunction support 301.

[0193] The particle filter 303 may be metallic or made of a conductive and non-conductive bi-material, so that the particle filter 303 may serve as a static electricity discharge path.

Claims

Claims

1. Multifunction support (301) for a thermal management module (300), in particular for a vehicle, this multifunction support (301) being configured to support components with a fluidic function and comprising: - a fluidic connection end piece (320) configured to allow the connection of a pipe (321) for the circulation of heat transfer fluid, this heat transfer fluid being in particular electrically non-conductive, being in particular a dielectric fluid, this pipe (321) being provided with a static electricity discharge path (350) formed for example by an electrically conductive cover of the pipe (321); - a plate (327) configured to support components with a fluidic function and comprising at least one static electricity discharge path (360) configured to be brought into electrical contact with the static electricity discharge path (350) of the pipe (321) connected to the fluidic connection end piece (320; 340).

2. Multi-function support (301) according to the preceding claim, wherein the multi-function support (301) comprises a plurality of fluid connection tips configured to allow the connection of a plurality of pipes (321) for the circulation of heat transfer fluid, and the plate (327) comprises a plurality of static electricity discharge paths (360) configured to be placed in electrical contact with the static electricity discharge paths of the pipes (321) connected to the fluid connection tips (320; 340).

3. A multifunctional support (301) according to the preceding claim, wherein the plurality of static electricity discharge paths (360) present on the plate (327) are mutually adjoining for at least some of them.

4. A multi-function support (301) according to the preceding claim, wherein the plurality of static electricity discharge paths (360) on the plate (327) are all contiguous so that they can all be grounded via a single point (359).

5. Multi-function support (301) according to one of claims 1 to 3, in which grounding is made at several locations of the multifunction support (301) to discharge the accumulation of electrostatic charges.

6. A multi-function support (301) according to one of the preceding claims, configured to receive a particle filter (303), wherein the particle filter is metallic or made of conductive and non-conductive bi-material, so that the particle filter can serve as a static electricity discharge path (360).

7. Multifunction support (301) according to one of the preceding claims, in which the static electricity discharge path(s) present on the plate (327) are formed by an electrically conductive strip (361), for example made of aluminum or copper, the conductive strip(s) are in particular on the surface of the plate (327), and are for example glued to the surface of the plate (327) or the conductive strip(s) are buried in the plate (327).

8. Multifunction support (301) according to one of claims 1 to 6, in which the static electricity discharge path(s) present on the plate (327) are formed by a coating or deposition of an electrically conductive material, at least on a part of the multifunction support (301).

9. Thermal management module (300), in particular for a vehicle, configured to be arranged within a cooling circuit using a heat transfer fluid, in particular a dielectric fluid, the thermal management module (300) comprising: - a plurality of components with a fluidic function; - a multifunction support (301) according to one of the preceding claims.

10. Cooling circuit using a heat transfer fluid, the circuit comprising: - the thermal management module (300) according to claim 9; - at least one pipe (321) connected to a fluid connection end piece (320; 340) of this thermal management module (300), with electrical continuity between a static electricity discharge path (350) of this pipe (321) and a static electricity discharge path on the multi-support function (301).

11. Circuit according to the preceding claim, in which the pipe(s) (321) are fixed to the connection tips of the multifunction support (301), in particular using connection fittings which are electrically conductive.

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