Filtration and thermal management device for a lubrication circuit of a vehicle engine and lubrication circuit comprising it

Abstract

TITLE: Filtration and thermal management device for a lubrication circuit of a vehicle engine and lubrication circuit comprising it Filtration and thermal management device (3) of a fluid for a lubrication circuit (20) of an engine (2) of a vehicle (1), comprising a casing (5) delimiting a first volume (11) configured to allow the circulation of a first fluid (F1) and a second volume (13), separated from the first volume (11) and configured to allow the circulation of a second fluid (F2), in particular an oil, so as to implement a heat exchange between the first fluid (F1) and the second fluid (F2). Abstract figure: Figure 3

Description

Title of the invention: Filtration and thermal management device for a lubrication circuit of a vehicle engine and lubrication circuit comprising it

[0001] The invention relates to a filtration and thermal management device for a lubrication circuit of an engine. The invention also relates to a lubrication circuit of a vehicle comprising such a device. The invention also extends to a vehicle, for example a vehicle with an electric, hybrid or thermal engine, comprising such a circuit and / or device. The invention finally relates to a method of operating a vehicle comprising the filtration and thermal management device.

[0002] Motor vehicles are conventionally equipped with a lubrication circuit configured to allow the circulation of an oil intended for the lubrication of various elements of the engine. Such a principle applies equally to vehicles with thermal engines as to vehicles with hybrid or electric engines. The lubrication circuit notably comprises a strainer allowing the filtration of the oil so as to extract any particles or dust before it is projected into the engine.

[0003] It is known to integrate a cooling circuit into the vehicle to lower the oil temperature. Such a circuit comprises a heat exchanger arranged in the front compartment of the vehicle, which has a significant footprint. Also, such a cooling circuit has the disadvantage of not allowing the oil to heat up when the engine is cold started.

[0004] The invention falls within this context and aims to propose a device for a lubrication circuit making it possible to combine oil filtration and thermal management functions capable of allowing the oil to be cooled or heated. The invention aims in particular to provide a device that is less bulky and less expensive than the arrangements known from the prior art. Another objective of the invention is to provide a device suitable for optimizing the overall energy efficiency of the engine.

[0005] The invention relates to a device for filtering and thermally managing a fluid for a lubrication circuit of a vehicle engine, the device comprising a casing delimiting a first volume, configured to allow the circulation of a first fluid, in particular a refrigerant fluid, and delimiting a second volume, separated from the first volume by an intermediate wall and configured to allow the circulation of a second fluid, in particular an oil, so as to implement, via the intermediate wall, a heat exchange between the first fluid and the second fluid in which the first fluid is configured to have a temperature strictly greater than a temperature of the second fluid or strictly less than a temperature of the second fluid at a given time.

[0006] The device also comprises: - a primary inlet and a primary outlet of the first fluid fluidically connected to the first volume; - a secondary inlet and a secondary outlet of the second fluid fluidically connected to the second volume; and - a filtering element for the second fluid placed in the second volume.

[0007] In particular, the filtration and thermal management device further comprises: - a first circulation loop configured to allow the circulation of the first fluid at a temperature strictly lower than a temperature of the second fluid and a second circulation loop configured to allow the circulation of the first fluid at a temperature strictly higher than the temperature of the second fluid, the first circulation loop and the second circulation loop being fluidically connected to the first volume; and - a control unit capable of controlling the supply of the first volume with the first fluid via the first circulation loop or the second circulation loop depending on the temperature of the second fluid.

[0008] Optionally, the casing comprises a first housing, delimiting the first volume, and a second housing, delimiting the second volume, the first housing being attached and fixed to the second housing.

[0009] In particular, the casing is made of a metallic material, such as aluminum or an alloy comprising aluminum.

[0010] Optionally, the filtration and thermal management device comprises a plurality of fins arranged in the first volume.

[0011] Optionally, the filtration and thermal management device comprises a plurality of ribs arranged in the second volume. For example, the plurality of ribs is configured to hold the filter element in the second volume. According to an exemplary embodiment, the plurality of ribs comprises a first subset of ribs, connected to a first wall of the housing, and a second subset of ribs, connected to a second wall of the housing, opposite the first wall, the filter element being arranged so as to be interposed between the first subset of ribs and the second subset of ribs along at least one direction.

[0012] Optionally, the filtration and thermal management device comprises: - a reservoir interposed between the secondary inlet and the secondary outlet according to a direction of circulation of the second fluid; - a second fluid recovery element, fluidically connected to the second volume.

[0013] The invention also relates to a lubrication circuit for a vehicle engine, in particular an electric motor, configured to allow the circulation of the second fluid, in particular an oil, the circuit comprising a filtration and thermal management device of the invention and a pump.

[0014] The invention also relates to a motor vehicle comprising at least one engine, in particular an electric motor, and a lubrication circuit according to the invention configured to spray the second fluid onto at least one part of the engine.

[0015] The invention finally relates to a method of operating a vehicle according to the invention, comprising: - a step of preheating the second fluid triggered prior to starting the engine when it is detected that the temperature of the second fluid at a given time t is lower than a defined starting temperature threshold, the preheating step comprising the implementation of a heat exchange between the first fluid, circulating in the first volume at a temperature strictly higher than the temperature of the second fluid, and the second fluid via the intermediate wall; - an engine start step; - a step of regulating the temperature of the second fluid by heat exchange with the first fluid.

[0016] In particular, the regulation step comprises the implementation of a heat exchange between the first fluid, circulating in the first volume at a temperature strictly lower than the temperature of the second fluid, and the second fluid via the intermediate wall.

[0017] Other details, characteristics and advantages will emerge more clearly on reading the detailed description given below, for informational and non-limiting purposes, in relation to the various exemplary embodiments illustrated in the following figures:

[0018] [Fig.l] is a schematic view of a vehicle comprising a lubrication circuit and a thermal management circuit.

[0019] [Fig.2] is a schematic view of a filtration and management device thermal of the lubrication circuit.

[0020] [Fig.3] is a schematic sectional view of the filtration and thermal management device.

[0021] [Fig.4] is a sectional representation of a first volume of the device of filtration and thermal management.

[0022] [Fig.l] schematically illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a vehicle 1 in car. Vehicle 1 in question can be of any type. For example, vehicle 1 can be powered by a thermal, electric, or hybrid engine. Vehicle 1 can also be a private vehicle, a utility vehicle, or a vehicle used for public transport.

[0023] By convention in the description below, a reference frame represented in the figures requiring it is defined as comprising a first direction 100, a second direction 200, orthogonal to the first direction, and a third direction 300, orthogonal to the first direction 100 and to the second direction 200. Also, the terms “first”, “second”, “primary” and “secondary” are intended to distinguish similar elements and not to define a hierarchy of importance.

[0024] The vehicle 1 comprises at least one engine 2, also referred to as a powertrain. In a known manner, not detailed, the engine 2 comprises a casing, or engine housing 2. In particular, the engine 2 is an electric motor. Alternatively or additionally, the engine 2 is a thermal engine.

[0025] The vehicle 1 also comprises a thermal management circuit 10 for a portion of the vehicle 1. The thermal management circuit 10 is configured to allow the circulation of a first fluid FL. For example, the first fluid FL may be a refrigerant fluid with a change of state. As further detailed below, the thermal management circuit 10 is, for example, a ventilation, heating and / or air conditioning installation intended for the thermal management of the passenger compartment. Such an exemplary embodiment is notably implemented in a vehicle 1 with an electric or hybrid engine. Alternatively, the thermal management circuit 10 considered is a thermal management circuit for the engine 2. Such an alternative is notably implemented in a vehicle 1 with a thermal engine.

[0026] The vehicle 1 also comprises a lubrication circuit 20 configured to allow the circulation of a second fluid F2 capable of allowing the lubrication of at least one component of the engine 2. In this case, the second fluid F2 is an oil. The lubrication circuit 20 comprises a filtration and thermal management device 3 according to the invention and a pump 4. In particular, the pump 4 is arranged downstream of the filtration and thermal management device 3 in a direction of circulation of the second fluid F2.

[0027] Generally, the filtration and thermal management device 3 comprises a casing 5, a primary inlet 6 and a primary outlet 7 of the first fluid F1, a secondary inlet 8 and a secondary outlet 9 of the second fluid F2 and a filtering element 31.

[0028] When the filtration and thermal management device 3 is assembled and arranged in the vehicle 1, the casing 5 delimits on the one hand a first volume 11 configured to allow the circulation of the first fluid F1 and on the other hand a strainer 12 forming a second volume 13. The casing 5 comprises a plurality of walls. The second volume 13 is separated from the first volume 11 by an intermediate wall 14 so as to allow the implementation of a heat exchange between the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 via the intermediate wall 14. Here, the term "separated" means that the first volume 11 and the second volume 13 are not fluidically connected and that the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 do not mix. The filtration and thermal management device 3 is thus arranged so that the intermediate wall 14 is interposed between the first volume 11 and the second volume 13 along at least one direction.

[0029] In this way, the filtration and thermal management device 3 is advantageously capable of implementing a heat exchange between the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 via the intermediate wall 14. In particular, the filtration and thermal management device 3 according to the invention is capable of allowing a heat exchange between the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2 in which the first fluid F1 has a temperature strictly higher than a temperature of the second fluid or strictly lower than a temperature of the second fluid at a given instant. In other words, the filtration and thermal management device 3 is capable of allowing the cooling or heating of the second fluid F2 depending on the temperature of the latter.

[0030] Preferably, the casing 5, that is to say all or part of the plurality of walls, is made of a metallic material, such as aluminum or an alloy comprising aluminum. According to an alternative embodiment, the casing 5 is made of a plastic material, in particular a plastic material capable of withstanding temperatures greater than or equal to 150°C, such as, for example, polytetrafluoroethylene. Such an alternative may in particular be implemented in a vehicle 1 with an electric motor, in which the temperatures of the first fluid F1 and second fluid F2 tend to be lower than in a vehicle 1 with a thermal motor.

[0031] Figures 2 to 4 illustrate a preferred embodiment of the casing 5. In such an example, the casing 5 comprises a first housing 15, delimiting the first volume 11, and a second housing 16, forming the strainer 12 delimiting the second volume 13. Optionally, the second housing 16 comprises two assembled half-housings.

[0032] The first housing 15 is attached and fixed to the second housing 16. In particular, the first housing 15 is fixed to the second housing 16 by means of at least one fixing means, such as a screw. Alternatively, as illustrated, the first housing 15 is fixed to the second housing 16 by brazing. Optionally, the filtration and thermal management device 3 comprises a sealing means, not shown, such as a seal, arranged at the interface between the first housing 15 and the second housing 16.

[0033] For example, as illustrated in [Fig.3], the first housing 15 is open on one side, said side being turned towards the second housing 16 when the filtration and thermal management device 3 is assembled. The first volume 11 and the second volume 13 are thus separated by a single wall, the intermediate wall 14, in order to optimize the heat exchange implemented between the first fluid F1 and the second fluid F2.

[0034] The first housing 15 comprises primary lateral walls 15a and a main primary wall 15b connecting said primary lateral walls 15a to each other. The second housing 16 comprises secondary lateral walls 16a, the intermediate wall 14 and a main secondary wall 16b. The intermediate wall 14 and the main secondary wall 16b are opposite each other and connect the secondary lateral walls 16a to each other. The second housing 16 is arranged so that the intermediate wall 14 carries the first housing 15 and participates in delimiting the first volume 11 on the one hand and the second volume 13 on the other hand when the filtration and thermal management device 3 is assembled.

[0035] Optionally, the first housing 15 comprises a rim, bordering all or part of the open side, intended to rest on the second housing 16. In this case, said rim is carried by the primary lateral walls 15a and arranged on the intermediate wall 14 of the second housing 16.

[0036] It is understood that the invention can extend to a casing 5 comprising a first closed housing 15, comprising the intermediate wall 14, and a second housing 16 open on one side, said side being turned towards the first housing 15 when the filtration and thermal management device 3 is assembled.

[0037] The primary inlet 6 and the primary outlet 7 of the first fluid F1 are fluidically connected to the first volume 11. By "fluidically connected" is meant that they are in fluid connection. In other words, the primary inlet 6 and the primary outlet 7 open onto the first volume 11. According to the illustrated example, the primary inlet 6 and the primary outlet 7 are arranged at distinct walls of the casing 5, in particular at distinct primary lateral walls 15a of the first housing 15. For example, in a non-limiting manner, said primary lateral walls 15a are opposite. Alternatively, the primary inlet 6 and the primary outlet 7 are arranged on adjacent primary lateral walls 15a or are included in the same wall, for example the main primary wall 15b.

[0038] The secondary inlet 8 and the secondary outlet 9 of the second fluid F2 are fluidically connected to the second volume 13. In other words, the secondary inlet 8 and the secondary outlet 9 open onto the second volume 13. According to the illustrated example, the secondary inlet 8 and the secondary outlet 9 are arranged at the level of the same wall, here the intermediate wall 14 of the second housing 16. Alternatively, the secondary inlet 8 and the secondary outlet 9 are arranged at the level of lateral secondary walls 16a of the casing 5, for example at the level of separate walls of the casing 5, opposite or adjacent.

[0039] Figures 2 to 4 illustrate a particular example of positioning of the secondary inlet 8, the secondary outlet 9, the primary inlet 6 and the primary outlet 7. Such an exemplary embodiment is particularly adapted in order to limit the space required and the connections required for a defined vehicle 1. It is understood that such a positioning is not limiting. In the example illustrated, the primary inlet 6 and the primary outlet 7 extend along the first direction 100 while the secondary inlet 8 and the secondary outlet 9 extend along the second direction 200, transverse, or even orthogonal, to the first direction 100.

[0040] Particularly, optionally, the secondary fluid inlet 8 and / or the secondary fluid outlet 9 extend(s) through the first volume 11 and open(s) into the second volume 13. Optionally, the first housing 15 comprises at least one orifice 17 through which the secondary inlet 8 and / or the secondary outlet 9 extends. The second fluid F2 thus circulates partly through the first volume 11, separately from the first fluid F1 and without direct contact or mixing with the latter.

[0041] Optionally but preferably, the primary inlet 6 of the first fluid F1 is arranged close to the secondary outlet 9 of the second fluid F2 so as to optimize the heat exchange implemented. In particular, the primary inlet 6 has greater proximity to the secondary outlet 9 than to the secondary inlet 8 of the second fluid F2.

[0042] The filter element 31 is arranged in the second volume 13, that is to say here in the second housing 16, and is configured to allow the passage of the second fluid F2 while extracting particles or dust from said second fluid F2 by filtration. The filter element 31 is a conventional filter element 31, of defined permeability, for example comprising glass wool. Alternatively or additionally, the filter element 31 comprises cardboard. The filter element 31 is inscribed, for example, in a plane or substantially in a plane, as schematically represented in dotted lines in [Fig. 3].

[0043] When it is arranged in the filtration and thermal management device 3, the filtering element 31 delimits, within the second volume 13 of the strainer 12, a first chamber 18 and a second chamber 19, communicating and fluidically connected, arranged on either side of the filtering element 31. In particular, the filtration and thermal management device 3 is arranged so that the secondary inlet 8 opens at the level of the first chamber 18 while the secondary outlet 9 of the second fluid F2 is open onto the second chamber 19.

[0044] The filtering element 31 is arranged so that the second fluid F2 circulating in the second volume 13 passes through the filtering element 31. In particular, the filtering element 31 is at least arranged opposite the secondary inlet 8 and / or so as to be interposed between the secondary inlet 8 and the secondary outlet 9 according to the direction of circulation of the second fluid F2 so that the second fluid F2 entering the second volume 13 circulates through said filter element 31 before reaching the secondary outlet 9 and before being sent to the engine 2.

[0045] The filter element 31 extends over all or part of a dimension of the second volume 13 defined along the first direction 100 and / or along the third direction 300.

[0046] Optionally, the filtration and thermal management device 3 comprises a reservoir 21 of second fluid F2. In particular, said reservoir 21 is arranged in the second volume 13 and interposed between the secondary inlet 8 and the secondary outlet 9 according to the direction of circulation of the second fluid F2. Alternatively, said reservoir 21 is fluidically connected to the second volume 13.

[0047] In particular, the reservoir 21 is formed by a bottom of the second housing 16 when the filtration and thermal management device 3 is arranged in the vehicle 1. In this case, the reservoir 21 is formed by the main secondary wall 16b and at least a portion of the various lateral secondary walls 16a, in particular in the second chamber 19. In particular, the reservoir 21 is arranged so that the filtering element 31 is interposed between at least a portion of the reservoir 21 and the secondary inlet 8 of the second fluid F2 along at least one direction.

[0048] Optionally but preferably, the filtration and thermal management device 3 comprises a recovery element 22 for the second fluid F2. In a known manner, the recovery element 22 for the second fluid F2 is capable of recovering a portion of the second fluid F2 sent to the engine 2. The recovery element 22 is fluidically connected to the second volume 13. In particular, the recovery element 22 is fluidically connected to the reservoir 21. In this case, the recovery element 22 comprises an opening 23 capable of allowing the circulation of the second fluid F2 from and to the reservoir 21.

[0049] The recovery element 22 comprises a cylinder surrounding at least in part the secondary outlet 9 of the second fluid F2, for example a cylinder with a circular base. It is thus capable of receiving said secondary outlet 9. The recovery element 22 extends along an extension direction 400, for example here parallel to the second direction 200. In particular, the recovery element 22 is centered on the secondary outlet 9. Optionally, the recovery element 22 comprises a grid 24 capable of filtering the second fluid F2. The grid 24 is arranged transversely, or even orthogonally to the extension direction 400. The grid 24 is fixed on an inner face of the recovery element 22, facing the secondary outlet 9, and / or on the secondary outlet 9.

[0050] Optionally still, the recovery element 22 comprises a configured edge to cooperate with the casing of the engine 2, in particular so as to allow the fixing of the recovery element 22, and by extension of the filtration and thermal management device 3, on the engine 2.

[0051] In order to optimize the heat exchange implemented, the filtration and thermal management device 3 optionally comprises a plurality of fins 25 arranged in the first volume 11. The fins 25 define a circulation path of the first fluid F1 in the first volume 11. They have the shape of elongated members. Here, the term “elongated” means that a length of a fin considered is at least twice its thickness and greater than or equal to its height. Here, the dimension of a fin 25 considered measured between the main primary wall 15b and a free end of the fin located at the open side of the first housing 15, for example here along the second direction 200, is referred to as height. In particular, the fins 25 extend over all or part of a height of the first housing 15.

[0052] In particular, the fins 25 are connected to the main primary wall 15b of the first housing 15 and extend transversely, or even orthogonally, to the latter, towards the open side and the second housing 16. Optionally, the plurality of fins 25 and the walls of the first housing 15 form a single-piece assembly, that is to say that they cannot be separated from said walls without resulting in the deterioration, or even the destruction, of the first housing 15. Alternatively, said fins 25 are attached and fixed to the walls of the first housing 15.

[0053] Similarly, according to an optional but preferred embodiment, the filtration and thermal management device 3 comprises a plurality of ribs 26 arranged in the second volume 13. The ribs 26 make it possible to optimize the heat exchange and participate in maintaining the filtering element 31 in the second volume 13. The ribs 26 define a circulation path for the second fluid F2 in the second volume 13. They have the shape of elongated members. Here, the term “elongated” means that a length of a rib considered is at least twice its thickness and greater than or equal to its height. Here, the dimension of a rib considered measured between the main secondary wall 16b and the intermediate wall 14 of the second housing 16 is called height, for example here along the second direction 200.

[0054] In particular, the ribs 26 are connected to the main secondary wall 16b and / or to the intermediate wall 14 and extend transversely, or even orthogonally, to them. Optionally, the plurality of ribs 26 and the walls of the second housing 16 form a single-piece assembly. Alternatively, said ribs 26 are attached and fixed to the walls of the second housing 16.

[0055] In particular, the ribs 26 extend over a portion of a height of the second housing 16. Preferably, the plurality of ribs 26 comprises a first subset of ribs 26a, connected to a first wall of the strainer 12, and a second subset of ribs 26b, connected to a second wall, opposite the first wall, of the strainer 12. Specifically, the first subset of ribs 26a is connected to the intermediate wall 14 and extends transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the latter. The second subset of ribs 26b is connected to the main secondary wall 16b and extends transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the latter. The first subset of ribs 26a thus extends towards the main secondary wall 16b while the second subset of ribs 26b extends towards the intermediate wall 14.The various ribs 26 are advantageously dimensioned so as to extend over a portion of the height of the second housing 16 while allowing the filter element 31 to be held in a flat or substantially flat manner. In particular, the various ribs 26 are dimensioned so as to hold the filter element 31 in a flat or substantially flat manner.

[0056] Thus, the filter element 31 is held in the second volume 13 by the plurality of ribs 26. In particular, it is arranged so as to be at least partly interposed between the first subset of ribs 26a and the second subset of ribs 26b along at least one direction, here the second direction 200. The filter element 31 is thus held in position in both directions of this direction by the plurality of ribs 26. Optionally, the ribs 26 of the first subset and the ribs 26 of the second subset extend transversely, or even orthogonally to each other. For example, in a non-limiting manner, the ribs 26 of the first subset extend along the third direction 300 and those of the second subset extend along the first direction 100.

[0057] Optionally, the filtration and thermal management device 3 further comprises a first circulation loop 27 of the first fluid F1, a second circulation loop 28 of the first fluid F1 and a control assembly 29 capable of controlling the circulation of the first fluid F1. The first circulation loop 27 and the second circulation loop 28 are fluidically connected to the first volume 11, that is to say they are in fluidic connection with said volume.

[0058] Note that, alternatively, the first circulation loop 27, the second circulation loop 28 and the control assembly 29 are included in the lubrication circuit 20 and connected to the filtration and thermal management device 3 instead of being directly included in the filtration and thermal management device 3. The first circulation loop 27 and the second circulation loop 28 then comprise the filtration and thermal management device 3 according to the invention, in particular the first volume 11 of said device.

[0059] The first circulation loop 27, also referred to as a cooling loop, is configured to allow the circulation of the first fluid F1 at a temperature strictly lower than a temperature of the second fluid F2 at a given time. In particular, the first circulation loop 27 is configured to allow the circulation of the first fluid F1 at a temperature lower than or equal to a first defined temperature threshold St1. The first temperature threshold St1 is, for example, between 0 and 70°C, or even between 15 and 45°C. The first fluid F1, when it has such a temperature and circulates in the first volume 11, is then able to capture calories from the second fluid F2 circulating in the second volume 13 of the strainer 12 by heat exchange in order to cool it.The first volume 11 can then be likened to an evaporation volume of the first fluid F1, which is capable of capturing calories from the second fluid F2 by heat exchange and can, in particular, be a phase-change refrigerant fluid.

[0060] In particular, the first circulation loop 27 of the first fluid F1 comprises a first supply branch 27a, arranged in fluid connection with the primary inlet 6 and configured to bring the first fluid F1 to the first volume 11 at the temperatures indicated above. Optionally, the first circulation loop 27 of the first fluid F1 also comprises a first discharge branch 27b, arranged in fluid connection with the primary outlet 7 and configured to discharge the first fluid F1 from the first volume 11.

[0061] The second circulation loop 28, also referred to as a heating loop, is configured to allow the circulation of the first fluid F1 at a temperature strictly higher than a temperature of the second fluid F2 at a given time. In particular, the first fluid F1 circulating in the second circulation loop 28 has a temperature strictly higher than a second temperature threshold St2. In particular, the second temperature threshold St2 is identical to the first temperature threshold St1. The second temperature threshold is, for example, higher than 50°C, or even 60°C. The first fluid F1, when it has such a temperature and circulates in the first volume 11, is then able to transfer calories from the second fluid F2 circulating in the second volume 13 of the strainer 12 by heat exchange in order to heat it.The first volume 11 can then be likened to a condensation volume of the first fluid F1, which is capable of transferring calories to the second fluid F2 and can be a phase-change refrigerant fluid.

[0062] In particular, the second circulation loop 28 of the first fluid F1 comprises a second supply branch 28a, arranged in fluid connection with the primary inlet 6 and configured to bring the first fluid F1 to the first volume 11 at the temperatures indicated above. Optionally, the second circulation loop 28 of the first fluid F1 also comprises a second branch evacuation 28b, arranged in fluid connection with the primary outlet 7 and configured to evacuate the first fluid Fl from the first volume 11.

[0063] According to an exemplary embodiment, in particular implemented in a vehicle 1 with an electric or hybrid motor, the first circulation loop 27, in particular the first supply branch 27a, is connected to a first pipe of a ventilation, heating and / or air conditioning installation intended for the thermal management of the passenger compartment and in which the first fluid F1 circulates at a temperature as defined above. The second circulation loop 28, in particular the second supply branch 28a, is connected to a second pipe of the ventilation, heating and / or air conditioning installation, separate from the first pipe, and in which the first fluid F1 circulates at a temperature as defined above.

[0064] A similar principle applies, mutatis mutandis, with a thermal management circuit 10 of the engine 2 instead of the ventilation, heating and / or air conditioning installation. Such an alternative is notably implemented in a vehicle 1 with a thermal engine.

[0065] The control assembly 29 is capable of controlling the supply of the first volume 11 with first fluid F1 via the first circulation loop 27, in particular by means of the first supply branch 27a, or the second circulation loop 28, in particular by means of the second supply branch 28a, as required.

[0066] The control assembly 29 comprises at least one solenoid valve 30, in particular a three-way, two-state solenoid valve 30. For example, said solenoid valve 30 is arranged at or upstream of the primary inlet 6 in a direction of circulation of the first fluid FL. Optionally but preferably, the control assembly 29 comprises two solenoid valves 30 fluidically connected to the primary inlet 6 and the primary outlet 7 respectively.

[0067] Thus, depending on the need, the first volume 11 is connected or included in the first circulation loop 27 or in the second circulation loop 28 depending on the state of the at least one solenoid valve 30.

[0068] Optionally, the control assembly 29 comprises at least one temperature sensor, configured to measure a temperature of the second fluid F2, and an electronic control unit, capable of receiving the temperature data, defining the type of thermal management to be implemented and controlling the at least one solenoid valve 30 accordingly. Optionally, the control assembly 29 further comprises temperature sensors capable of measuring the temperature of the first fluid F1 in the thermal management circuit 10. Alternatively, such sensors are included in the thermal management circuit 10 considered.

[0069] Thus, when the filtration and thermal management device 3 is installed in the vehicle, the second fluid F2 circulates by actuation of the pump 4 in the lubrication circuit 20 by passing successively into the secondary inlet 8, into the second volume 13 so as to pass through the filtering element 31 and in particular by following a path delimited by the plurality of ribs 26, then into the secondary outlet 9 in order to be sent to the engine 2. Optionally, as described above, a portion of the second fluid F2 is stored in the reservoir 21 and / or a portion of the second fluid sent to the engine 2 is recovered at the recovery element 22. In parallel, the first fluid F1 circulates in the thermal management circuit 10. The first fluid F1 may be a refrigerant fluid with a change of state.A portion Fl' of the first fluid Fl may be extracted, as required, in order to be sent to the first volume 11 of the filtration and thermal management device 3. In particular, such extraction is carried out by the control assembly 29 via the first circulation loop 27, in particular the first supply branch 27a, or the second circulation loop 28, in particular the second supply branch 28a, as required. The portion Fl' of the first fluid Fl thus extracted circulates in the primary inlet 6, in the first volume 11, in particular by following a path delimited by the plurality of fins 25, then in the primary outlet 7 in order to be returned to the thermal management circuit 10.In particular, the portion Fl' of the first fluid Fl is returned to the thermal management circuit 10 via the first discharge branch 27b when the first circulation loop 27 is used, that is to say when the portion Fl' of the first fluid Fl has been brought to the first volume 11 via the first supply branch 27a. Conversely, the portion Fl' of the first fluid Fl is returned to the thermal management circuit 10 via the second discharge branch 28b when the second circulation loop 28 is used, that is to say when the portion Fl' of the first fluid Fl has been brought to the first volume 11 via the second supply branch 28a.

[0070] The simultaneous circulation of the first fluid F1, particularly of the portion F1' of the first fluid F1 extracted, in the first volume 11 and of the second fluid F2 in the second volume allows the implementation of a heat exchange between said fluids. Advantageously, depending on the temperature of said fluids, the heat exchange implemented can allow the heating or cooling of the second fluid F2 and can be adapted as needed depending on the flow rate and the pressure of the first fluid F1, by means of the control assembly 29 and the at least one solenoid valve 30 in particular, and depending on the flow rate of the second fluid F2, by means of the pump 4 in particular.

[0071] The invention also relates to a method of operating the vehicle 1 equipped of a lubrication circuit 20 according to the invention. The method comprises, firstly, a preheating step which is triggered when the vehicle 1 is switched on if it is detected that the temperature of the second fluid F2 is lower than a defined starting temperature threshold Std. Such detection is carried out in particular by the control assembly 29. The starting temperature threshold corresponds in particular to a temperature below which the second fluid F2 is likely to solidify or form flakes, for example a temperature below 0°C or even -20°C, or even -30°C.

[0072] During preheating, the filtration and thermal management device 3 is supplied with first fluid F1 having a temperature strictly higher than the temperature of the second fluid F2 via the second circulation loop 28 of the first fluid F1, in particular via the second supply branch 28a. In particular, the control assembly 29 controls the at least one solenoid valve 30 in order to allow the sampling of a portion F1' of first fluid F1 having a temperature adapted to the level of the second pipe of the thermal management circuit 10. Such a step is in particular implemented until the second fluid F2 has a temperature higher than or equal to the start temperature threshold Std or to a set temperature defined by the control assembly 29.

[0073] In this way, the second fluid F2 is heated by heat exchange with the first fluid F1 when it is detected that the second fluid F2 has a temperature that is too cold for suitable use at a given time t. On the other hand, when it is detected that the second fluid F2 has a suitable temperature, the above preheating step is not executed.

[0074] The method comprises a step of starting the engine 2 of the vehicle 1 then a step of regulating the temperature of the second fluid F2. The regulation of the temperature of the second fluid F2 is thus triggered when the engine 2 of the vehicle 1 is actually started and during operation of the vehicle 1 in order to vary the temperature of the second fluid F2 as required until it reaches a set temperature, defined by the control assembly 29. The regulation of the temperature of the second fluid F2 can be configured to implement the heating or cooling of the second fluid F2 at a given time as required.

[0075] In particular, when the control assembly 29 detects that the second fluid F2 has, at a given instant, a temperature strictly higher than a maximum authorized temperature threshold Smax, for example of the order of 90°C, the filtration and thermal management device 3 is supplied with first fluid F1 having a temperature strictly lower than the temperature of the second fluid F2 by via the first circulation loop 27, in particular the first supply branch 27a, of the first fluid F1 in order to allow the cooling of the second fluid F2. In particular, the control assembly 29 controls the at least one solenoid valve 30 in order to allow the sampling of a portion of first fluid F1 having a temperature adapted to the level of the first pipe of the thermal management circuit 10. Such a step is in particular implemented until the second fluid F2 has a temperature strictly lower than the maximum authorized temperature threshold Smax or lower than or equal to a set temperature defined by the control assembly 29.

[0076] Conversely, when the control assembly 29 detects that the second fluid F2 has, at a given instant, a temperature strictly lower than a minimum authorized temperature threshold Smin, for example of the order of 50°C, the filtration and thermal management device 3 is supplied with first fluid F1 having a temperature strictly higher than the temperature of the second fluid F2 via the second circulation loop 28, in particular the second supply branch 28a, of the first fluid F1 in order to allow the heating of the second fluid F2. In particular, the control assembly 29 controls the at least one solenoid valve 30 in order to allow the sampling of a portion F1' of first fluid F1 having a temperature adapted to the level of the first pipe of the thermal management circuit 10.Such a step is notably implemented until the second fluid F2 has a temperature strictly higher than the minimum authorized temperature threshold Smin or higher than or equal to a set temperature defined by the control unit 29.

[0077] The present invention thus proposes a filtration and thermal management device configured to ensure a function of filtration of a fluid of a lubrication circuit of a motor vehicle engine while ensuring the thermal management of said fluid by allowing it to be heated or cooled as needed. The device according to the invention thus allows optimization of the operation of the vehicle engine by using components and circuits existing in the vehicle.

[0078] The present invention cannot, however, be limited to the means and configurations described and illustrated here and it also extends to any equivalent means or configuration and to any technically operative combination of such means insofar as they ultimately fulfill the functionalities described and illustrated in the present document.

Claims

Claims

1. Device (3) for filtering and thermally managing a fluid for a lubrication circuit (20) of an engine (2) of a vehicle (1), the device comprising a casing (5) delimiting a first volume (11) configured to allow the circulation of a first fluid (Fl, Fl'), in particular a refrigerant fluid, and delimiting a second volume (13), separated from the first volume (11) by an intermediate wall (14) and configured to allow the circulation of a second fluid (F2), in particular an oil, so as to implement, via the intermediate wall (14), a heat exchange between the first fluid (Fl, Fl') and the second fluid (F2) in which the first fluid (Fl, Fl') is configured to have a temperature strictly higher than a temperature of the second fluid (F2) or strictly lower than a temperature of the second fluid (F2) at a given instant,the device comprising: - a primary inlet (6) and a primary outlet (7) of the first fluid (Fl, Fl') fluidically connected to the first volume (11); - a secondary inlet (8) and a secondary outlet (9) of the second fluid (F2) fluidically connected to the second volume (13); and - a filter element (31) of the second fluid (F2) arranged in the second volume (13).,

2. Filtration and thermal management device (3) according to the preceding claim, further comprising: - a first circulation loop (27) configured to allow the circulation of the first fluid (Fl, Fl') at a temperature strictly lower than a temperature of the second fluid (F2) and a second circulation loop (28) configured to allow the circulation of the first fluid (Fl, Fl') at a temperature strictly higher than the temperature of the second fluid (F2), the first circulation loop (27) and the second circulation loop (28) being fluidically connected to the first volume (11); and - a control assembly (29) capable of controlling the supply of the first volume (11) with first fluid (Fl, Fl') via the first circulation loop (27) or the second circulation loop (28) as a function of the temperature of the second fluid (F2).

3. Filtration and thermal management device (3) according to one of the preceding claims, in which the casing (5) comprises a first housing (15), delimiting the first volume (11), and a second housing (16), delimiting the second volume (13), the first housing (15) being attached and fixed to the second housing (16).

4. Filtration and thermal management device (3) according to one of the preceding claims, in which the casing (5) is made of a metallic material, such as aluminum or an alloy comprising aluminum.

5. Filtration and thermal management device (3) according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a plurality of fins (25) arranged in the first volume (11).

6. Filtration and thermal management device (3) according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a plurality of ribs (26) arranged in the second volume (13).

7. Filtration and thermal management device (3) according to one of the preceding claims, comprising: - a reservoir (21) interposed between the secondary inlet (8) and the secondary outlet (9) in a direction of circulation of the second fluid (F2); - a recovery element (22) of the second fluid (F2), fluidically connected to the second volume (13).

8. Lubrication circuit (20) for an engine (2) of a vehicle (1), in particular an electric motor, configured to allow the circulation of the second fluid (F2), in particular an oil, the circuit comprising a filtration and thermal management device (3) according to one of the preceding claims and a pump (4).

9. Motor vehicle (1) comprising at least one engine (2), in particular an electric motor, and a lubrication circuit (20) according to the preceding claim configured to project the second fluid (F2) onto at least one part of the engine (2).

10. Method for operating a vehicle (1) according to the preceding claim, comprising: - a step of preheating the second fluid (F2) triggered prior to starting the engine (2) when it is detected that the temperature of the second fluid (F2) at a given time t is lower than a defined starting temperature threshold (Std), the preheating step comprising the implementation of a heat exchange between the first fluid (Fl, Fl'), circulating in the first volume (11) at a temperature strictly higher than the temperature of the second fluid (F2), and the second fluid (F2) via the intermediate wall (14); - an engine starting step (2); - a step of regulating the temperature of the second fluid (F2) by heat exchange with the first fluid (Fl, Fl').

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