Multifunctional support for a thermal management module

Abstract

Title: Multifunctional Support for a Thermal Management Module The invention relates to a multifunctional support (301) for a thermal management module (300), particularly for a vehicle, this multifunctional support (301) being configured to support fluidic components, the thermal management module (300) being configured to be disposed within a heat transfer fluid circuit, particularly a dielectric fluid, the multifunctional support (301) comprising: a receptacle (305) configured to receive a particulate filter (303) in a removable manner, the receptacle (305) comprising a heat transfer fluid inlet and a heat transfer fluid outlet such that, during operation, heat transfer fluid can circulate through the particulate filter (303) between the inlet and outlet of the receptacle (305). Figure for the abstract: Fig. 19

Description

Title of the invention: Multifunctional 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 multifunctional support for a thermal management module.

[0002] Thermal management of electric vehicles is a key element for their efficiency and range. Indeed, it is necessary to manage the thermal performance of the battery pack, power electronics, and electric motor(s), while ensuring passenger comfort under all vehicle operating conditions (summer, winter, during fast charging, during power peaks, etc.). A trend is to centralize the various functions of the cooling system within a single sub-assembly, which may integrate pumps, distribution valves, and possibly other components. Electric vehicles equipped with a heat pump can have many different operating modes, each requiring a different coolant circulation system.

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

[0004] The invention thus relates to a multifunctional support for a thermal management module, particularly for a vehicle, this multifunctional support being configured to support fluidic components, the thermal management module being configured to be disposed within a heat transfer fluid circuit, in particular a dielectric fluid, the multifunctional support comprising: - a receptacle configured to receive a removable particle filter, 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 particle filter between the inlet and 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 into the thermal management module makes it possible to group as many functions as possible within a single sub-assembly, while also allowing the particulate filter to be removed for replacement with a new one. Thanks to the invention, it is not necessary to perform complex operations to change the particulate filter.

[0007] According to one aspect of the invention, the receptacle has 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 so that it can be sealed tightly by a hood.

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

[0010] Alternatively, the hood is a separate part of the particulate filter.

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

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

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

[0014] This allows for a removable attachment of the cover to the receptacle. The invention thus makes it easy to change the particulate filter when it has reached the end of its service life.

[0015] According to one aspect of the invention, the receptacle has an overall 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 includes 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 includes the fluid inlet which is made on a cylindrical wall of this receptacle.

[0018] Thus, the heat transfer fluid enters the particulate filter laterally, then travels a path (which may involve several turns or loops) within the particulate filter to be rid of certain particles. Finally, the filtered heat transfer fluid exits the particulate filter through the fluid outlet.

[0019] Alternatively, the fluid inlet can be on one side opposite the fluid outlet so that the heat transfer fluid flows through the particle filter from one end to the other 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 fluidic connection fitting configured to allow the mounting of a hose on this fluidic connection fitting.

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

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

[0024] The presence of the particulate 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 multi-function support.

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

[0027] According to one aspect of the invention, the multifunctional support comprises at least one main face which supports several components with 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 for the multi-way valve.

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

[0030] According to one aspect of the invention, the multi-function 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 with the main plate on a slice 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 has 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 part 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 multi-function support includes a channel configured to bring the heat transfer fluid from a pump on the multi-function support to the particle filter.

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

[0040] The invention further relates to a thermal management module, in particular for a vehicle, comprising a multi-function support and fluidic function components carried by this multi-function support, one of these fluidic function components being a particulate filter, the thermal management module being configured to be disposed within a heat transfer fluid circuit, in particular a dielectric fluid, the multi-function 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 outlet of the receptacle.

[0041] The invention further 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 can 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 in the circuit and upstream of a battery assembly.

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

[0046] The invention further relates, independently or in combination with the foregoing, to a multifunctional support for a thermal management module, particularly for a vehicle, this multifunctional support being configured to support fluidic components and comprising: - a fluidic connection fitting configured to allow the connection of a pipe for the circulation of heat transfer fluid, this heat transfer fluid being in particular non-electrically 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 fluidic function components and comprising at least one static electricity discharge path configured to be made in electrical contact with the static electricity discharge path of the pipe connected to the fluidic connection fitting.

[0047] In the case of a heat pump, or more generally of a system of Thermal management, particularly in electric vehicles, using solutions such as immersing the battery and electronic components in a non-conductive heat transfer fluid, such as a dielectric fluid, can lead to the generation of electrostatic charges. The circulation of this non-conductive dielectric fluid through flexible, non-conductive pipes promotes the generation of these charges. The accumulation of electrostatic charges poses a potential hazard.

[0048] The invention makes it possible to efficiently discharge the accumulation of electrostatic charges using the static electricity discharge path(s) on the multi-function support. The invention thus allows the static electricity discharge function to be integrated into the multi-function support. This avoids the need for additional components that perform the electrical protection function. The invention also allows, if desired, for a single-point discharge for the entire fluid circuit.

[0049] According to one aspect of the invention, the multi-function 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 made 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 contiguous 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 single-point discharge for the entire thermal management module.

[0052] Grounding is achieved, for example, by connecting one of the fluid-functioning components (e.g., a pump or a heat exchanger) to a vehicle ground, such as the vehicle body. Alternatively, this grounding is achieved using an electrical cable between a discharge point on the multifunction support and a vehicle ground. The electrical cable is called a discharge cable.

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

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

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

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

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

[0058] Alternatively, the static electricity discharge path(s) present on the plate are formed by a coating or deposit of an electrically conductive material, at least on a part of the multifunctional support.

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

[0060] According to one aspect of the invention, the plate of the multi-function support can be made of an electrically conductive material, for example, a metal such as aluminum or copper. This plate then forms, in its entirety, a path for the discharge of static electricity.

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

[0062] The invention further 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 fluidic connection fitting 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 or pipes are made of electrically non-conductive material, and the electrically conductive cover is present on this non-conductive material.

[0064] According to one aspect of the invention, the pipe is an ESD conductive pipe (ESD for "Electrostatic discharge") configured to allow 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 by means of connection fittings which are electrically conductive.

[0066] 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:

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

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

[0069] [Fig.3] is an exploded view of a valve comprising the distributing element of the [Fig. 1]

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

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

[0072] [Fig.6] schematically illustrates, according to an axial cross-section, the valve of the [Fig.5]

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

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

[0075] [Fig.9] schematically illustrates, according to a cross-sectional plane, the posi operation of the distributing organ 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 the [Fig.7],

[0077] [Fig. 11] schematically illustrates, according to a transverse section plane, the posi operation of the distributing organ 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 the [Fig.7],

[0079] [Fig. 13] schematically illustrates, according to a cross-sectional plane, the posi operation of the distributing organ 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 the [Fig.7],

[0081] [Fig. 15] schematically illustrates, according to a cross-sectional plane, the posi operation of the distributing organ 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 operating mode of the circuit of the [Fig.7],

[0083] [Fig. 17] schematically illustrates, according to a cross-sectional plane, the positioning of the distributing element 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 example of an embodiment of the invention,

[0085] [Fig. 19] illustrates part 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 the [Fig. 18],

[0088] [Fig.22] illustrates, in perspective, the thermal management module of [Fig.1], with electrostatic discharge paths.

[0089] 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.

[0090] Figures 1 and 2 illustrate a distributing element 10 of a valve for a heat transfer fluid.

[0091] This distributor 10 is intended to be free to rotate about a longitudinal axis X. The distributor 10 comprises a body 12 and may optionally include 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 10.

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

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

[0094] 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 distributing 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-110Of, 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 distributing member 10 may further have one or more second chambers 25a-25c opening radially such that angular positions of the body 12 also determine a passage of fluid between different peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels 110a-110 of the valve 100, through one or at least one of the second chambers 25a-25c. In the illustrated examples, there are four second chambers 25a-25c.

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

[0098] The distributing organ 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 of the first chamber 24 on the one hand 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 made through an opening 23.

[0100] Furthermore, the distributing organ 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 distributing member 10 comprises several chambers 24, 25a-25c, the branches separate the chambers 24, 25a-25c from each other.

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

[0103] The walls 30a of the branches 28a delimiting the first chamber 24 can 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 central part 26. This curved bottom 34 can to be concave in order 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 chamber 25c is composed of two half-chambers connected to each other by the through channel 36 to form an enlarged chamber, corresponding to 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 fluid, which includes a distributing element 10 as described above.

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

[0110] The housing 102 is provided with peripheral input and / or output channels 110, opening laterally into the housing 104. In the illustrated examples, there are six peripheral input and / or output channels 110a-1 lOf, namely a first input and / or output channel 110a, a second input and / or output channel 110b, a third input and / or output channel 110c, a fourth input and / or output channel 1 lOd, a fifth input and / or output channel 110e and a sixth input and / or output channel 1 lOf.

[0111] Each of the peripheral input and / or output channels 110a-1 lOf is formed as a radial projection on a side wall 106 of the housing 102. Advantageously, the peripheral input and / or output channels 110a-1 lOf are divided into two diametrically opposed groups. It can be understood, with reference to the figures, that a first group of peripheral input and / or output channels 110a-1 lOf is positioned on one side of the housing, while a second group of peripheral input and / or output channels 110d-1 lOf is positioned diametrically opposite the first group. Each of the first and second groups may comprise three of the peripheral input and / or output channels HOa-1llOf. The peripheral input and / or output channels HOa-1llOf of the same group extend here over an angular interval of at most 120 degrees.

[0112] Depending on its angular position, the first chamber 24 of the distributing element is either connected or not to one or more of said peripheral input and / or output channels. Said first chamber 24 is intended to communicate radially with the peripheral input and / or output channels 110a-110Of. Advantage Most importantly, the first chamber 24 is intended to communicate with at most one of the peripheral channels 110a-1 lOf, regardless of the angular position of the body 12 of the distributing organ 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-1 lOf, regardless of the angular position of the body 12 of the distributing member 10.

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

[0115] The valve 100 may also include a first annular seal 50, located between the distributing member 10 and the inner 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 fixedly mounted.

[0116] In order to avoid damaging the sealing gasket 50, particularly at the ports 52, during rotation of the distributor member 10, the branches 28a, 28b may have external ends, i.e. opposite the central part 26, having a chamfer 32. In the illustrated example, only the branches 28a have chamfers 32. According to a preferred embodiment, the branches 28a, 28b all have external ends with a chamfer 32.

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

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

[0119] The valve 100 may include a second annular seal 60 configured for sealing with the distribution support. In such a case, the plate 112 advantageously has a groove 116 on one of its outer faces. This groove 116 is designed to accommodate the second annular seal 60. This second seal 60 may be a flat, multi-part seal, for example, one part around each port 114a-114f and one part around the port 114g, as illustrated in [Fig. 4].

[0120] Alternatively, as shown in Figures 5 and 6, the valve is intended for autonomous use, connected to fluid circulation hoses. The plate 112 includes an axial inlet and / or outlet conduit 108 communicating with the first channel 22. The plate may also include peripheral inlet and / or outlet conduits 118a-118f communicating respectively with the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels HOa-11F. 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 fluid circuit, in particular a heat transfer fluid.

[0122] Different distribution positions of the valve 100 shown in Figures 7 to 17 are represented 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 distributing element 10 according to the invention, is intended to be used.

[0123] In what follows, the heat transfer fluid flows through the chambers 24, 25a-25c of the distributing unit 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 an electric drive motor of a motor vehicle and / or an electrical assembly consisting of 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 include a first heat exchanger 208, in particular a cooler, a second heat 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 branch being connected to one of the inlet and / or outlet channels 108, 110a-110f of the valve 100, for example via the circuit board described previously.

[0126] The heat transfer fluid circuit 200 further includes 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, pump 214a drives the heat transfer fluid from valve 100 to the coil 202 to cool it, while pump 214b drives the heat transfer fluid from the electric motor 204 to valve 100.

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

[0128] This first mode of operation then allows the battery 202 to be cooled 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. Chamber 25b connects the sixth 250f and seventh 250g branches. Chamber 25c connects the third 250c and fifth 250e branches; in particular, the fluid passes through chamber 25c via the through passage.

[0130] In a second operating mode, illustrated in [Fig. 10], corresponding to a second distribution position, illustrated in [Fig. 11], the heat transfer fluid circulates in 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 fluid circulation in the first branch 250a.

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

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

[0133] In a third operating mode, illustrated in [Fig. 12], corresponding to a third distribution position, illustrated in [Fig. 13], the fluid circulates respectively in two independent loops. The first loop 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 fluid circulation in the first branch 250a.

[0134] This third operating mode allows the electrical assembly 204, 206 to be cooled using the cooler 208 and / or the cooling radiator 210. The battery 202, however, is isolated from the electrical assembly 204, 206 and can be heated or cooled using the third heat exchanger 212, the pump 214a carrying 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. Chamber 25a connects the fifth 250e and seventh 250g branches. Chamber 25c connects the second 250b and third 250c branches.

[0136] In a fourth operating mode, illustrated in [Fig. 14], corresponding to a fourth of the distribution positions, illustrated in [Fig. 15], the fluid circulates respectively in two independent loops. The first loop 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 fluid circulation in the third branch 250c.

[0137] This fourth operating mode allows the electrical assembly 204, 206 to be cooled using only the cooler 208. As with 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 carrying 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. Chamber 25a connects the fifth 250e and seventh 250g branches. Chamber 25c connects the first 250a and second 250b branches.

[0139] In a fifth operating mode, illustrated in [Fig. 16], corresponding to one-fifth of the distribution positions, illustrated in [Fig. 17], the fluid circulates in 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 fluid circulation in the third branch 250c.

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

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

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

[0143] In light of this example, it is understood that the invention, through the combined use of the first chamber 24, the second chamber(s) 25a-25c, and the first channel 22, allows for several fluid distribution possibilities, with a reduced radial and / or axial footprint for the valve 100. Indeed, the position of the first distribution channel 22, for example centrally, simplifies the architecture of the distributor element 10 and thus makes the valve 100 more compact. In the illustrated circuit, said distribution channel is advantageously connected to the branch or branches of the circuit communicating with the largest number of other branches, namely, in this case, branch 250d comprising the battery 202.

[0144] Figures 18 and 19 show a thermal management module 300 according to an example of an 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 includes a multifunction support 301 and fluidic function components carried by this multifunction support 301.

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

[0147] The multi-function support 301 includes a receptacle 305 configured to receive the particulate filter 303 in a removable manner, and the receptacle 305 includes 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 particulate filter 303 into the thermal management module 300 makes it possible to group as many functions as possible within a single sub-assembly, while also allowing the particulate filter 303 to be removed for replacement with a new one. Thanks to the invention, it is not necessary to perform complex operations to change the 303 particulate filter.

[0150] The receptacle 305 has an opening 310, here of 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 so that it can be sealed by a cover 311, which cover 311 is integral with the particle filter 303.

[0152] Alternatively, the hood 311 is a separate part of the particulate filter 303, which is then placed on the receptacle 305 by two successive steps.

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

[0154] This allows for a removable attachment of the cover 311 to the receptacle 305. The invention thus makes it easy to change the particulate filter 303 when it has reached the limit of its service life.

[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 includes 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 includes the fluid inlet 306 which is made on a cylindrical wall 314 of this receptacle 305.

[0158] Thus, the heat transfer fluid enters the particle filter 303 laterally, then the heat transfer fluid travels along a path 317 (which may have several bends or turns) within the particle filter 303 to be rid of certain particles. Finally, the filtered heat transfer fluid leaves the particle filter 303 through the fluid outlet 307.

[0159] Alternatively, as illustrated in [Fig.20], the fluid inlet 306 can be on one side opposite the fluid outlet 307 so that the heat transfer fluid flows through the particle filter 303 from one end to the other 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 base 312 is provided with a fluidic connection fitting 320 configured for to allow the mounting of a 321 pipe on this 320 fluid connection fitting.

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

[0163] The particle 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 multi-function support 301 is made as a monolithic piece, for example by molding a plastic material.

[0166] The multi-function support 301 has a main face 324 which supports several fluidic function components 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 multi-function support 301 includes a main plate 327 which defines this main face 324.

[0169] The multifunction support 301 includes, 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 particulate filter 303 is formed as a single piece with the main plate 324.

[0171] The receptacle 305 is joined with the main plate 324 on a slice 329 of this main plate 324.

[0172] The slice 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 has shapes defining seats 330 respectively for the pumps 214a and 214b supported by the multifunction support 301.

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

[0175] The multi-function support 301 has 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] Figure 19 shows in particular 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 towards the receptacle 305 of the particle filter 303.

[0178] The particulate 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 unwanted 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 connections via pipes 321 which are fixed 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 path for discharging static electricity, symbolized by the rectangle 350 in [Fig.22], formed here by an electrically conductive cover 351 (for example a cover 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 has a static electricity discharge path, symbolized by the rectangle 360 ​​in the [Fig.22], configured to be made in electrical contact with the static electricity discharge path 50 of each pipe 321 connected to the fluidic connection nozzle 320 or 340.

[0184] Thus the multi-function support 301 has a plurality of fluid connection tips 320 (of the receptacle 305) and 340 (of the multi-function support 301 other than tip 320) and the main plate 327 has a plurality of static electricity discharge paths 360 configured to be made 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 electrically conductive connection fittings 339.

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

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

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

[0188] The conductive ribbons 361 are on the surface of the main plate 327, for example by being glued onto it.

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

[0190] Alternatively, the static electricity discharge paths 360 present on the main plate 327 are formed by a coating or deposit of an electrically conductive material, at least on a part of the multi-function support 301.

[0191] Alternatively, 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] 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 strips 361 of the multi-function support 301.

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

Claims

Demands

1. Multifunctional support (301) for a thermal management module (300), in particular for a vehicle, this multifunctional support (301) being configured to support fluidic function components, the thermal management module (300) being configured to be disposed within a heat transfer fluid circuit (200), in particular a dielectric fluid, the multifunctional support (301) comprising: - a receptacle (305) configured to receive in a removable manner a particulate filter (303), the receptacle (305) 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 (303) between the inlet and outlet of the receptacle (305).

2. Multifunctional support (301) according to the preceding claim, wherein the receptacle (305) has an opening (310) configured to allow the particle filter (303) to be introduced into the receptacle (305), and the opening (310) of the receptacle (305) is in particular configured to be able to be sealed tightly by a cover (311).

3. Multifunctional support (301) according to the preceding claim, wherein the cover (311) is integral with the particulate filter (303).

4. Multifunctional support (301) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the receptacle (305) has an overall cylindrical shape, in particular with, at one of its ends, the opening (310) for introducing the particle filter (303) and, at an opposite end, a bottom (312).

5. Multifunctional support (301) according to the preceding claim, wherein the bottom (312) is provided with a fluidic connection nozzle (320) configured to allow the mounting of a hose on this fluidic connection nozzle, the connection nozzle being able to have an elbow relative to the bottom wall, for example an elbow making an angle between 30° and 60°, for example 45°.

6. Multifunctional support (301) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the receptacle (305) is made in one piece with the multifunctional support (301).

7. Multifunctional support (301) according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the multi-function support (301) has a channel (335) configured to bring the heat transfer fluid from a pump on the multi-function support (301) to the particle filter (303).

8. Thermal management module (300), particularly for a vehicle, comprising a multi-function support (301) and fluidic function components carried by this multi-function support (301), one of these fluidic function components being a particulate filter (303), the thermal management module (300) being configured to be disposed within a heat transfer fluid circuit, in particular a dielectric fluid, the multi-function support (301) comprising a receptacle (305) configured to receive the particulate filter (303) in a removable manner, the receptacle (305) comprising a heat transfer fluid inlet and a heat transfer fluid outlet such that, in operation, heat transfer fluid can flow through the particulate filter (303) between the inlet and outlet of the receptacle (305).

9. Heat transfer fluid circuit, comprising a thermal management module (300) according to claim 8.

10. Heat transfer fluid circuit according to the preceding claim, wherein the particulate filter (303) is configured to be placed, in the heat transfer fluid circuit, downstream of a pump and upstream of a battery assembly to be cooled, in particular by at least partial immersion of battery cells in the dielectric fluid.

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