Vehicle heat treatment module with a distribution plate

Abstract

The invention relates to a heat treatment module (1) for a vehicle, in particular for an electric vehicle, said module comprising: - a distribution plate (20), said distribution plate (20) comprising a first face (21) and a second face (22), said distribution plate (20) forming, at least partially, a wall (31) of a bottle (30), in particular an accumulator or a desiccant bottle, said distribution plate (20) comprising first integrated conduits (40) configured to be in fluidic communication with said bottle (30), - a first heat exchanger (50), attached to the first face (21), said module (1) being characterized in that it comprises a second heat exchanger (60), attached to the second face (22). Abstract figure: Figure 2

Description

Title of the invention: Vehicle heat treatment module comprising a distribution plate. Technical field

[0001] The invention relates to the technical field of vehicles, preferably motor vehicles. More particularly, the invention relates to the field of heat pumps for motor vehicles adapted for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. Prior art

[0002] Currently, most motor vehicles include an air conditioning system, a ventilation system, and a heating system whose functions are complementary and are preferably managed by a heat pump. However, in motor vehicles, traditional heating and air conditioning systems occupy a significant amount of space in the engine compartment, limiting the design and configuration options for other essential components.

[0003] A vehicle's heat pump thus allows for the heating or cooling of one or more compartments of said vehicle, as required. The pump preferably comprises at least one compressor and a heat treatment module consisting of one or more heat exchangers. The large number of components constituting said pump results in a significant size.

[0004] The published patent document FR 3 126 647 A1 discloses a heat treatment module for a motor vehicle featuring a more compact design, and more specifically a more compact design of the heat exchangers and an internal heat exchanger forming said module. An expansion device is also coupled to the heat treatment module. A space is specifically dedicated within the module to group the various fluid connectors linking the different components of the pump and the expansion device. However, in this configuration, these connectors still occupy a considerable amount of space.

[0005] The invention aims to overcome at least one of the drawbacks of the state of the the aforementioned technique. More specifically, the invention aims to reduce the space taken up by the fluidic connectors, thus reducing the size of the heat pump.

[0006] The invention also aims to reduce the size of the heat treatment module, and to improve the robustness of the desiccant bottle integrated into the heat pump.

[0007] The invention also aims to facilitate the manufacture of a heat treatment module according to the invention. Summary

[0008] To this end, the present invention proposes a heat treatment module for vehicles, in particular for electric vehicles, said module comprising: - a distribution plate comprising a first face and a second face, said distribution plate forming, at least partially, a wall of a bottle, in particular an accumulator or a desiccant bottle, said distribution plate comprising first integrated conduits configured to be put into fluidic communication with said bottle, - a first heat exchanger, attached to the first face, said module being characterized in that it comprises a second heat exchanger, attached to the second face.

[0009] In the heat pump, the heat treatment module performs the heat exchange between two different temperature levels of a refrigerant. This refrigerant is, for example, of the type R134a, R1234yf, R744 or R290.

[0010] This module also performs heat exchange between the refrigerant and one or more heat transfer fluids circulating in different components of said module. This heat exchange allows the module to regulate the temperature of vehicle compartments, such as the engine compartment or the passenger compartment.

[0011] The heat transfer fluid can be, for example, water, a mixture of water and ethylene glycol, or a dielectric fluid.

[0012] According to one embodiment of the invention, at least one of the first and second heat exchangers is fluidly connected to a first circuit and to a second circuit.

[0013] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first circuit is a heat transfer fluid circuit and the second circuit is a refrigerant fluid circuit.

[0014] According to the invention, the distribution plate forms, at least partially, the bottle, while serving as a support, on both sides, for the first and second heat exchangers.

[0015] The bottle can be either a storage accumulator or a desiccant bottle. Preferably, the bottle is a desiccant bottle. The formulation "configured to form, at least partially, a wall of the bottle" means that a portion of the distribution plate can form all or part of the wall and adapt to any shape or size of the bottle, whether it is a storage accumulator or a desiccant bottle.

[0016] More specifically, the desiccant bottle of a heat pump serves in particular to remove moisture and impurities from the refrigerant. It therefore helps to reduce The desiccant bottle mitigates damage caused by the fluid in the second circuit, reducing the risk of corrosion and preventing alteration of the refrigerant's properties. It also ensures the circulation of the refrigerant in a liquid state within the module. Finally, this bottle serves as a fluid reservoir to guarantee the proper functioning of the fluid circuit, which depends on the pump's operating conditions and the presence or absence of micro-leaks in the fluid circuit.

[0017] A desiccant bottle is generally disposed in the high pressure part of a refrigerant circuit, in particular downstream of an air condenser or a water condenser.

[0018] The accumulator, or heat accumulator, serves as a storage unit for the refrigerant. It also acts as a desiccant by trapping moisture and impurities from the refrigerant flowing through it.

[0019] An accumulator is generally located in the low pressure part of a refrigerant circuit, particularly upstream of a compressor.

[0020] According to a particular embodiment, the first heat exchanger is a plate water evaporator, or "chiller." It is configured to extract heat from the heat transfer fluid and transfer it to the low-pressure refrigerant, which then evaporates. It can, in particular, be used to cool the batteries of an electric vehicle.

[0021] According to a particular embodiment, the second heat exchanger is an internal plate heat exchanger, or IHX for "Internal Heat Exchanger". The internal heat exchanger is configured to perform heat exchange between low-pressure refrigerant and high-pressure refrigerant.

[0022] Other advantageous features of the module that is the subject of the invention are listed below. Each of these features may be considered alone or in combination with the notable features defined above. Each of these features contributes, where applicable, to solving specific technical problems defined further in the description and in which the notable features defined above do not necessarily participate. The latter may, where applicable, be the subject of one or more divisional patent applications.

[0023] According to one embodiment of the invention, the distribution plate comprises a first sub-plate, forming the first face of said distribution plate, and a second sub-plate, forming the second face of said distribution plate.

[0024] According to one embodiment of the invention, one of the first sub-plate and the second sub-plate is configured to form, at least partially, the wall of the bottle.

[0025] According to one embodiment of the invention, said first and second sub-plates are assembled together to form, at least partially, the wall of the bottle.

[0026] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first and second sub-plates comprise, respectively, first and second parts configured to form, at least partially, the wall of the bottle.

[0027] In this way, the bottle is directly formed by the sub-plates, which simplifies manufacturing, as the bottle does not need to be fixed to the distribution plate.

[0028] According to one embodiment of the invention, the parts of the first and second sub-plates configured to form, at least partially, the wall of the bottle, are fixed together at a connection oriented parallel to a longitudinal axis of the bottle.

[0029] The connection allows the two sub-plates to be fixed together to form the distribution plate. This connection also allows the two sub-plates to be fixed and sealed to facilitate the positioning and sealing of connectors, while simplifying assembly. The direction of the connection, parallel to the longitudinal axis of the bottle, also minimizes the overall size of the module and the bottle, and provides structural reinforcement. The fastening is achieved using methods known to those skilled in the art, such as welding, brazing, or bolting.

[0030] According to one embodiment of the invention, the parts of the sub-plates are fixed together by a junction positioned at a distance from the connection and oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis of the bottle.

[0031] This junction thus forms a second fastening between the sub-plates. The junction is preferably made using fastening methods known to those skilled in the art, such as brazing or welding. This second fastening between the sub-plates improves the reliability and service life of the heat treatment module. The distance between the connection and the junction can vary depending, for example, on the manufacturing constraints of the sub-plates. For instance, the junction is located on the side of the bottle opposite the connection, allowing for the formation of sub-plates of similar sizes, thus facilitating their manufacture.

[0032] According to one embodiment of the invention, the parts of the first and second sub-plates are fixed together by the link and by the junction, the wall of the bottle also being closed by at least one end portion.

[0033] Advantageously, the bottle wall comprises the portions of the first and second sub-plates and the end portion which are fixed together. This This variant is particularly preferred because it simplifies the design and assembly of the heat pump, while also reducing its mass. The end portion and the sub-plates are fixed together using methods known to those skilled in the art, such as brazing or welding.

[0034] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first heat exchanger is attached to the first sub-plate, the second heat exchanger being attached to the second sub-plate.

[0035] In this way, the manufacture of the module is facilitated, being limited to the manufacture and assembly of the first and second heat exchangers and two sub-plates.

[0036] According to one embodiment of the invention, the distribution plate includes at least one orifice, in particular a plurality of orifices, configured to put the first heat exchanger in fluidic relation with the second heat exchanger.

[0037] Thus, the module does not require specific pipes to ensure fluid circulation between the first and second heat exchangers. Fluid communication between the first and second heat exchangers is achieved directly via the distribution plate, in particular through the faces of the first and second heat exchangers in contact with the distribution plate.

[0038] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first integrated conduits are configured to be fluidly connected to the second circuit.

[0039] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first integrated conduits are fluidically connected to the bottle.

[0040] According to one embodiment of the invention, channels are formed in the first sub-plate and / or in the second sub-plate, the assembly of the first and second sub-plates closing said channels to form the first integrated conduits.

[0041] The production of shaped channels in the distribution plate simplifies the assembly of the module, the bottle and the distribution plate, reducing the number of connectors and pipes to be manufactured and installed in the pump.

[0042] Preferably, the channels are formed in both the first subplate and the second subplate.

[0043] Alternatively, the channels are stamped into the first sub-plate, with the second sub-plate closing off said channels to form the first integrated conduits. Alternatively, the channels can also be stamped into the second sub-plate or into the distribution plate, when a single plate is used to form the bottle wall.

[0044] Stamping is a technique known to those skilled in the art and easy to implement, which facilitates the manufacture of plates, sub-plates and channels. The seal can be ensured by fixing methods known to those skilled in the art, such as welding, brazing or bolting, this seal allowing the proper circulation of the fluid between the bottle and the second refrigerant circuit.

[0045] According to one embodiment of the invention, the distribution plate is configured to thermally insulate, at least partially, the first heat exchanger from the second heat exchanger.

[0046] In this way, the first and second heat exchangers are thermally decoupled.

[0047] According to one embodiment of the invention, the distribution plate includes a first insulating interface, in particular in the form of a layer of insulating material, said insulating interface being inserted between the first and second heat exchangers, in particular between the first and second sub-plates.

[0048] In this way, the insulating interface, in particular the insulating material, makes it possible to thermally decouple the first and second heat exchangers.

[0049] According to one embodiment of the invention, the insulating interface is for example made of polystyrene or polyurethane or wood fiber.

[0050] According to another embodiment of the invention, the distribution plate includes at least a first opening configured to thermally insulate, at least partially, the first heat exchanger from the second heat exchanger.

[0051] In particular, each of the first and second sub-plates includes at least one opening configured to thermally insulate, at least partially, the first heat exchanger from the second heat exchanger. Said openings overlap at least partially.

[0052] In this way, a layer of gas, in particular air, or vacuum, extending between the first and second heat exchangers, constitutes the insulating interface and thermally decouples the first and second heat exchangers.

[0053] According to one embodiment of the invention, the module includes a third heat exchanger, at least partially attached to the first or second face, said third heat exchanger being in particular directly fluidly connected to the first integrated conduits.

[0054] According to a particular embodiment, the third heat exchanger is a plate water condenser, or "Water Cooled Condenser". It is configured to transfer heat from the high-pressure refrigerant, which undergoes condensation, to the heat transfer fluid.

[0055] The condenser is thus directly connected to the bottle, which eliminates the need for connecting pipes.

[0056] According to one embodiment of the invention, the third heat exchanger is attached to the first sub-plate or to the second sub-plate.

[0057] According to one embodiment of the invention, the distribution plate comprises a first portion and a second portion, the second portion being, for example, arranged in line with the first portion.

[0058] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger are attached to the first portion, said first portion being at least partially intercalated between the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger, the third heat exchanger being attached to the second portion.

[0059] According to an embodiment, in which the distribution plate comprises a first sub-plate, forming the first face of said distribution plate, and a second sub-plate, forming the second face of said distribution plate: - the first portion is formed by a first segment of the first and second sub-plates, - the second portion is formed by a second segment of the first and second sub-plates.

[0060] Thus, the distribution plate, formed of the first and second sub-plates, extends from the first portion to the second portion.

[0061] In this way, the heat exchanges between the first and second heat exchangers on the one hand and the third heat exchanger on the other hand are limited.

[0062] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first portion of the distribution plate extends along a first plane, the second portion extends along a second plane, different from the first plane, in particular parallel to the first plane.

[0063] In this way, the height of the module, that is to say the dimension of the module in a first direction, perpendicular to one of the first and / or second planes, is improved, in particular in the case where the height of the third heat exchanger, measured along the first direction, is greater than the height of the first heat exchanger, measured along the first direction, and / or the height of the second heat exchanger, measured along the first direction.

[0064] In this way, with the first and second heat exchangers attached on either side of the first portion and the third heat exchanger attached to the second portion, offset from the first portion along the first direction, the height of the module corresponds to a minimum of: - the stacking height of the first heat exchanger, the distribution plate, and the second heat exchanger, - the stacking height of the third heat exchanger and the distribution plate.

[0065] According to one embodiment of the invention, the distribution plate comprises a third portion, said third portion extending at least partially along a third plane, different from the first and second planes, in particular intersecting the first and second planes.

[0066] According to one embodiment of the invention, the third portion comprises the wall of the bottle.

[0067] According to one embodiment of the invention, a first angle formed between, on the one hand, the first plane and / or the second plane, and, on the other hand, the third plane, said first angle is between 15° and 85°, preferably between 30° and 60°.

[0068] According to one embodiment of the invention, the distribution plate comprises at least one angled section, ensuring the connection between the third portion and one of the first and second portions.

[0069] In this way, the bottle can be tilted at a given angle so as to limit the volume occupied by the module.

[0070] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first portion and the second portion of the distribution plate are separated by at least one cutout of said distribution plate.

[0071] This cut allows thermal decoupling between the first and second portions.

[0072] According to one embodiment of the invention, the distribution plate comprises two angled sections, the first angled section providing the connection between the third portion and the first portion, the second angled section providing the connection between the third portion and the second portion.

[0073] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first portion and the second portion of the distribution plate extend on either side of the wall of the bottle.

[0074] In this way, the bottle and / or the cutouts form a thermal barrier between the first portion and the second portion.

[0075] According to one embodiment of the invention, the second portion of the distribution plate includes a second opening, in particular opposite the third heat exchanger.

[0076] This opening makes it possible to limit the weight of material of the distribution plate, and to limit the conduction between the distribution plate and said third heat exchanger.

[0077] According to one embodiment of the invention, the module comprises a plurality of first connectors forming inlets and outlets for heat transfer fluid, said first connectors being fluidly connected to the first fluid circuit heat transfer fluid, the said first connectors being attached to the first face of the distribution plate and / or to the first heat exchanger.

[0078] In this way, all the connectors associated with the first heat transfer fluid circuit are gathered on one side of the distribution plate, which facilitates the connection of the module to said first circuit.

[0079] According to a particular embodiment, in which the third heat exchanger is attached to the first face, in particular to the first sub-plate, at least one of the first connectors, in particular two of the first connectors, are attached to said third heat exchanger.

[0080] According to one embodiment of the invention, at least one of the first connectors, in particular the first two connectors, are attached to the second portion of the distribution plate, in particular to the first face of the distribution plate.

[0081] According to one embodiment of the invention, at least one of the first connectors, in particular the first two connectors, are attached to the first sub-plate or to the second sub-plate.

[0082] According to one embodiment of the invention, the module comprises a plurality of second connectors forming refrigerant fluid inlets and outlets, said second connectors being fluidically connected to the second refrigerant fluid circuit, said second connectors being attached to the second face of the distribution plate and / or to the second heat exchanger.

[0083] According to a particular embodiment, at least one of the second connectors, in particular two second connectors, are attached to said third heat exchanger.

[0084] According to one embodiment of the invention, at least one of the second connectors, in particular two second connectors, are attached to the first sub-plate or to the second sub-plate.

[0085] According to one embodiment of the invention, the module includes one or more third fluidic connectors adapted to each receive a fluid expansion device.

[0086] According to a particular embodiment, said third fluidic connectors are attached to the second heat exchanger.

[0087] According to one embodiment of the invention, said third fluidic connectors are attached to the second sub-plate.

[0088] In this way, all the connectors associated with the second refrigerant circuit are gathered on one side of the distribution plate, which facilitates the connection of the module to said second circuit.

[0089] According to one embodiment of the invention, said third fluidic connectors are attached to the first sub-plate.

[0090] Expansion valves serve to reduce the pressure and temperature of the refrigerant at the inlet of the heat exchangers. This improves heat exchange between the refrigerant and the heat transfer fluid circulating in the heat exchanger, thus enabling more efficient cooling of the refrigerant. The integration of these valves also improves temperature control of the fluid, making it more precise. This integration also reduces the number of parts required by simplifying the design and manufacturing of the module.

[0091] According to one embodiment of the invention, the distribution plate comprises at least one second integrated conduit, said second integrated conduit fluidly connecting the second heat exchanger to the third heat exchanger.

[0092] According to one embodiment of the invention, the third heat exchanger is a water condenser, said third heat exchanger comprising a first fraction, called condensation, and a second fraction, called subcooling, the second fraction being interposed between the distribution plate and the first fraction.

[0093] According to one embodiment of the invention, the module includes a fourth heat exchanger, said fourth heat exchanger being attached to the first heat exchanger, so that said first heat exchanger is interposed between the distribution plate and said fourth heat exchanger.

[0094] The fourth heat exchanger is, for example, a plate water evaporator, or "chiller." It is configured to extract heat from the heat transfer fluid and transfer it to the low-pressure refrigerant, which then evaporates. In particular, the fourth heat exchanger is intended to cool the heat transfer fluid coming from a heat exchanger known as an air cooler, which is used to cool the passenger compartment, especially when R290 is used as the refrigerant.

[0095] According to one embodiment of the invention, at least one of the first connectors is attached to the fourth heat exchanger.

[0096] According to one embodiment of the invention, the distribution plate comprises a fourth portion extending at least partially along a fourth plane, intersecting the first and second planes.

[0097] According to one embodiment of the invention, the fourth portion extends from the first portion or the second portion, said fourth portion having a free end, opposite to the first portion or the second portion from which it extends.

[0098] According to one embodiment of the invention, the distribution plate comprises at least one angled section, ensuring the connection between the fourth portion and one of the first portion and the second portion.

[0099] According to one embodiment of the invention, the fourth portion comprises the wall of the bottle.

[0100] In this way, the bottle can be tilted at a given angle, so as to limit the volume occupied by the module.

[0101] According to a particular embodiment, the first heat exchanger is a plate water condenser, or "Water Cooled Condenser". It is configured to transfer heat to the heat transfer fluid from the high-pressure refrigerant, which undergoes condensation.

[0102] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first heat exchanger is directly fluidically connected to the first integrated conduits.

[0103] The condenser is thus directly connected to the bottle, which eliminates the need for connecting pipes.

[0104] According to this particular embodiment, the third heat exchanger is a plate water evaporator, or "chiller." It is configured to extract heat from the heat transfer fluid and transfer it to the low-pressure refrigerant, which then evaporates. It can, in particular, be used to cool the batteries of the electric vehicle.

[0105] According to one embodiment of the invention, the third heat exchanger is at least partially attached to the second heat exchanger, in particular the second heat exchanger being interposed at least partially between the distribution plate and the third heat exchanger.

[0106] In this way, fluidic communication between the second and third heat exchangers is directly obtained via the faces of the second and third heat exchangers in contact.

[0107] This design simplifies the manufacturing of the heat treatment module by attaching the third heat exchanger to the second heat exchanger, thus allowing the second and third heat exchangers to be directly connected. It therefore has the advantage of reducing the module's mass by decreasing the amount of metal required for its manufacture. This, in turn, reduces the vehicle's weight and the manufacturing cost of the heat pump, while increasing battery operating time, particularly in hybrid or electric vehicles.

[0108] According to one embodiment of the invention, said first connectors are attached to the second face of the distribution plate and / or to the third heat exchanger.

[0109] In this way, all the connectors associated with the first heat transfer fluid circuit are gathered on one side of the distribution plate, which facilitates the connection of the module to said first circuit.

[0110] According to one embodiment of the invention, said second connectors are attached to the first face of the distribution plate and / or to the first heat exchanger.

[0111] According to one embodiment of the invention, said third fluidic connectors are attached to the first face of the distribution plate.

[0112] In this way, all the connectors associated with the second refrigerant circuit are gathered on one side of the distribution plate, which facilitates the connection of the module to said second circuit.

[0113] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first heat exchanger is a water condenser, said first heat exchanger comprising the first fraction, called condensation, and the second fraction, called subcooling, the second fraction being intercalated between the distribution plate and the first fraction.

[0114] According to one embodiment of the invention, said heat treatment module is configured to thermally isolate, at least partially, the second heat exchanger from the third heat exchanger.

[0115] In this way, the second and third heat exchangers are thermally decoupled.

[0116] According to one embodiment of the invention, said heat treatment module includes a second insulating interface, in particular in the form of an air gap, said second insulating interface being inserted between the second and third heat exchangers.

[0117] According to one embodiment of the invention, the second heat exchanger comprises a first end plate, the third heat exchanger comprises a second end plate, said first and second end plates being configured to thermally insulate the second heat exchanger from the third heat exchanger.

[0118] According to one embodiment of the invention: - the first end plate comprises a first rib directed towards the third heat exchanger, said first rib surrounding a first open passage in the first end plate, - the second end plate includes a second rib directed towards the second heat exchanger, said second rib surrounding a second open passage in the second end plate, said first and second ribs being in contact, for example welded or brazed together, so as to ensure a sealed fluidic communication between the first and second passages.

[0119] In this way, the third heat exchanger is in contact with the second heat exchanger only at the junction between the first and second ribs. A second insulating interface, formed for example by an air gap or an insulating material, thus thermally insulates the second heat exchanger from the third heat exchanger.

[0120] The first and second ribs are, for example, circular, triangular or rectangular in shape.

[0121] The first and second passages are for example circular, triangular or rectangular in shape.

[0122] The first and second ribs thus form ridges around the first and second passages.

[0123] When the first and second ribs are in contact, for example welded, brazed or glued, the first and second end plates ensure a sealed fluidic communication between the second and third heat exchangers.

[0124] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first passage is in fluidic communication with a manifold of the second heat exchanger, and the second passage is in fluidic communication with a manifold of the third heat exchanger. In this way, the first and second end plates ensure a sealed fluidic communication between the second and third heat exchangers.

[0125] According to one embodiment of the invention, in which the module includes the fourth heat exchanger, said fourth heat exchanger is attached to the third heat exchanger, so that said third heat exchanger is interposed between the second heat exchanger and said fourth heat exchanger.

[0126] The invention also relates to a heat pump for a vehicle, the heat pump comprising a heat treatment module according to the invention. Brief description of the drawings

[0127] Other features, details and advantages will become apparent from the detailed description below, and from the analysis of the accompanying drawings, on which:

[0128] [Fig-1] schematically illustrates a first variant of the implementation of a two-fluid circuit of a heat pump comprising a thermal treatment module according to a first embodiment of the invention.

[0129] [Fig.2] is a perspective view of a heat treatment module according to the first embodiment of the invention.

[0130] [Fig.3] is a perspective view of a distribution plate of the heat treatment module of [Fig.2].

[0131] [Fig.4] is a side view of the distribution plate of [Fig.3].

[0132] [Fig.5] is an exploded view of the heat treatment module of [Fig.2].

[0133] [Fig.6] schematically illustrates a second variant of the embodiment of a two-fluid circuit of a heat pump comprising a thermal treatment module according to a second embodiment of the invention.

[0134] [Fig.7] is a perspective view of a heat treatment module according to the second embodiment of the invention.

[0135] [Fig.8] is a perspective view of a heat treatment module according to a third embodiment of the invention.

[0136] [Fig.9] is a perspective view of a heat treatment module according to a fourth embodiment of the invention.

[0137] [Fig. 10] is an exploded view of the heat treatment module of [Fig.9].

[0138] [Fig. 11] is an exploded view of a first end plate of a second heat exchanger and a second end plate of a third heat exchanger of the heat treatment module of the [Fig.9]. Description of the implementation methods

[0139] To facilitate reading the figures, the different elements are not necessarily drawn to scale. In these figures, identical elements bear the same reference numerals. Certain elements or parameters may be indexed, that is, designated, for example, as first element or second element, or first parameter and second parameter, etc. This indexing aims to differentiate similar, but not identical, elements or parameters. This indexing does not imply a priority of one element or parameter over another. The designations 'first', 'second', 'third', etc., can thus be interchanged.

[0140] Figure 1 represents a two-fluid circuit 100 of a heat pump for a motor vehicle, according to a first embodiment. This two-fluid circuit 100 comprises a refrigerant loop 101 through which a refrigerant, for example R 134a, R744, or R290, circulates; a first heat transfer fluid loop 102 (shown schematically) through which a first heat transfer fluid, for example glycol water or a dielectric fluid, circulates; and a second heat transfer fluid loop 103 (shown schematically) through which a second heat transfer fluid, for example glycol water or a dielectric fluid, circulates. The first and second heat transfer fluids may be of the same type or of different types.

[0141] The refrigerant loop 101 comprises, in the direction of refrigerant flow: - a 104 compressor, - a first two-fluid heat exchanger 105, located downstream of the compressor 104, configured to extract heat from the high-pressure refrigerant by its condensation and transfer it to the heat transfer fluid of the first heat transfer fluid loop 102, this exchanger can be designated as a water condenser or as WCDS for "Water Cooled Condenser" in English, - a desiccant bottle 106 or a bottle configured to capture moisture from the refrigerant, - a high-pressure pass of a second internal heat exchanger 107 (generally designated as an internal heat exchanger or IHX for "Internai Heat eXchanger" in English abbreviation) configured to cool the refrigerant by heat exchange between the high-pressure refrigerant of the high-pressure pass and the low-pressure refrigerant of a low-pressure pass of the second internal heat exchanger 107, - a first branch 101A comprising: — a first expansion device 108, this first expansion device 108 being connected to a third bifluid heat exchanger 109, — said third two-fluid heat exchanger 109, configured to extract heat from the heat transfer fluid of the second heat transfer fluid loop 103 and transfer it to the low-pressure refrigerant by its evaporation, this exchanger being able to be designated as a water evaporator (or “Water Chiller” in English), - a second branch 101B, in parallel with the first branch 101A, comprising: — a second expansion device 110, this second expansion device 110 being connected to a fourth air heat exchanger 111, — said fourth air heat exchanger 111, configured to extract heat from an internal airflow Fi passing through it and transfer it to the low-pressure refrigerant fluid by its evaporation, this exchanger being able to be designated as an air evaporator, - the low-pressure pass of the second internal heat exchanger 107.

[0142] According to a particular embodiment, the refrigerant loop 101 also includes a third branch 10IC directly connecting, in the direction of refrigerant flow, the compressor 104 to the low-pressure pass of the second internal heat exchanger 107. The third branch 10IC includes a third expansion device 112.

[0143] This third circulation branch 101C allows, in a so-called "lossy mode", to inject steam from the outlet of the compressor 104 towards the low pressure inlet of the second internal heat exchanger 107. In In this mode, the third two-fluid heat exchanger 109 and the fourth air-cooled heat exchanger 111 are inactive. The fluid downstream of the third and fourth heat exchangers 109 and 111 is therefore a low-pressure liquid-vapor two-phase fluid. This low-pressure liquid-vapor two-phase fluid is mixed with the steam from the compressor 104, which is expanded by the third expansion valve 112. This mixing ensures that the fluid exiting the low-pressure pass of the second internal heat exchanger 107 is indeed in a vapor state, so as not to damage the compressor 104.

[0144] The refrigerant loop 101 is not described in further detail as it is known from the prior art. The same applies to the first and second heat transfer fluid loops 102, 103.

[0145] Figures 2 to 5 represent a heat treatment module 1 for a vehicle, in particular for an electric vehicle, according to a first embodiment of the invention.

[0146] According to the first embodiment of the invention, said module comprises: - a distribution plate 20 comprising a first face 21 and a second face 22, said distribution plate 20 forming, at least partially, a wall 31 of a bottle 30, in particular an accumulator or a desiccant bottle, said distribution plate 20 comprising first integrated conduits 40 configured to be put into fluidic communication with said bottle 30, - a first heat exchanger 50, attached to the first face 21, said module 1 being characterized in that it comprises a second heat exchanger 60, attached to the second face 22.

[0147] In the heat pump, the heat treatment module 1 carries out the heat exchange between two different temperature levels of a refrigerant. This refrigerant is, for example, of type R134a, R1234yf, R744 or R290.

[0148] This module 1 also carries out heat exchanges between the refrigerant and one or more heat transfer fluids circulating in different components of said module 1. These heat exchanges allow module 1 to regulate the temperature of vehicle compartments, such as the engine compartment or the passenger compartment.

[0149] The heat transfer fluid can be, for example, water, a mixture of water and ethylene glycol, or a dielectric fluid.

[0150] At least one of the first and second heat exchangers 50, 60 is fluidically connected to a first circuit and a second circuit.

[0151] The first circuit is a heat transfer fluid circuit and the second circuit is a refrigerant fluid circuit.

[0152] According to the embodiment illustrated in figures 2 to 5, the first heat exchanger 50 is connected to the first circuit and the second circuit.

[0153] The distribution plate 20 forms the bottle 30, while also serving as a support, on both sides, for the first and second heat exchangers 50, 60.

[0154] The bottle 30 can be, interchangeably, a desiccant bottle 106 or an accumulator. Preferably, the bottle 30 is a desiccant bottle. The formulation "configured to form, at least partially, a wall 31 of the bottle 30" means that a portion of the distribution plate 20 can form all or part of the wall and adapt to any shape or size of the bottle 30, whether it is an accumulator or a desiccant bottle.

[0155] More specifically, the desiccant bottle of a heat pump serves, in particular, to remove moisture and impurities from the refrigerant. It therefore reduces the damage caused by the fluid to the secondary circuit, decreasing the risk of corrosion of said circuit and preventing alteration of the refrigerant's properties. The desiccant bottle also ensures the circulation of the refrigerant in a liquid state within the module. Finally, this bottle also serves as a fluid reservoir to guarantee the proper functioning of the fluid circuit in which it circulates, which depends on the pump's operating conditions and the presence or absence of micro-leaks in the fluid circuit.

[0156] The accumulator, or heat accumulator, serves as a storage unit for the refrigerant. It also acts as a desiccant by trapping moisture and impurities from the refrigerant flowing through it.

[0157] According to the first embodiment, illustrated in particular in [Fig. 2], the first heat exchanger 50 corresponds, for example, to the third two-fluid heat exchanger 109 of [Fig. 1]. The first heat exchanger 50 is here a plate water evaporator, or "chiller." It is configured to extract heat from the heat transfer fluid and transfer it to the low-pressure refrigerant, which then evaporates. It can, in particular, be used to cool the batteries of the electric vehicle.

[0158] According to this embodiment, the second heat exchanger 60 corresponds, for example, to the second internal heat exchanger 107 of [Fig. 1]. The second heat exchanger 60 is here an internal plate heat exchanger, or IHX for "Internal Heat Exchanger". The internal heat exchanger is configured to perform heat exchange between low-pressure refrigerant and high-pressure refrigerant.

[0159] As illustrated [Fig. 5], the distribution plate 20 comprises a first sub-plate 210, forming the first face 21 of said distribution plate 20, and a second sub-plate 220, forming the second face 22 of said plate. distribution 20. The said first and second sub-plates 210, 220 are assembled together to form, at least partially, the wall 31 of the bottle 30.

[0160] According to the illustrated example [Fig.2], the first heat exchanger 50 is attached to the first sub-plate 210, the second heat exchanger 60 being attached to the second sub-plate 220.

[0161] In this way, the manufacture of module 1 is facilitated, being limited to the assembly of the first and second heat exchangers 50, 60 and two sub-plates 210, 220.

[0162] As illustrated [Fig.3], the distribution plate 20 includes at least one orifice 23, in particular a plurality of orifices 23, configured to put the first heat exchanger 50 into fluidic relation with the second heat exchanger 60.

[0163] Thus, module 1 does not require specific pipes to ensure fluid circulation between the first and second heat exchangers 50, 60. Fluid communication between the first and second heat exchangers 50, 60 is obtained directly through the distribution plate 20, in particular via the faces of the first and second heat exchangers 50, 60 in contact with the distribution plate 20.

[0164] The first and second subplates 210, 220 comprise, respectively, first and second parts 211, 221 configured to form, at least partially, the wall 31 of the bottle 30.

[0165] In this way, the bottle 30 is directly formed by the sub-plates 210, 220, which simplifies manufacturing, as the bottle 30 does not need to be fixed to the distribution plate 20.

[0166] The first and second parts 211, 221 of the first and second sub-plates 210, 220 configured to form, at least partially, the wall 31 of the bottle 30, are fixed together at a connection 24 oriented parallel to a longitudinal axis of the bottle 30.

[0167] The link 24 allows the two sub-plates 210, 220 to be fixed together to form the distribution plate 20. This link 24 also allows the two sub-plates 210, 220 to be fixed and sealed in order to facilitate the positioning and sealing of connectors, while simplifying assembly. The direction of the link 24, parallel to the longitudinal axis of the bottle 30, also minimizes the overall size of the module 1 and the bottle 30, and provides structural reinforcement. The fixing is achieved using methods known to those skilled in the art, such as welding, brazing, or bolting.

[0168] The parts 211, 221 of the sub-plates 210, 220 are fixed together by a junction 25 positioned at a distance from the link 24 and oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis of the bottle 30.

[0169] This junction 25 thus forms a second fastening between the sub-plates 210, 220. The junction 25 is therefore preferably made using fastening methods known to those skilled in the art, such as brazing or welding. This second fastening between the sub-plates 210, 220 improves the reliability and service life of the heat treatment module 1. The distance between the link 24 and the junction 25 can vary depending, for example, on the manufacturing constraints of the sub-plates 210, 220. For example, the junction 25 is located on the side of the bottle 30 opposite the link 24, allowing the formation of sub-plates 210, 220 of similar sizes, thus facilitating their manufacture.

[0170] The parts 211, 221 of the first and second sub-plates 210, 220 are fixed together by the link 24 and by the junction 25, the wall 31 of the bottle 30 also being closed by at least one end portion 32.

[0171] Advantageously, the wall 31 of the bottle 30 comprises the portions 211, 221 of the first and second sub-plates 210, 220 and the end portion 32, which are fixed together. This variant is particularly preferred because it simplifies the design and assembly of the heat pump, while limiting its mass. The end portion 32 and the sub-plates 210, 220 are fixed together using methods known to those skilled in the art, such as brazing or welding, for example.

[0172] The first integrated conduits 40 are configured to be fluidly connected to the second circuit.

[0173] Said first integrated conduits 40 are fluidically connected to the bottle 30.

[0174] Channels 41, illustrated in particular [Fig.5], are formed in the first sub-plate 210 and / or in the second sub-plate 220, the assembly of the first and second sub-plates 210, 220 closing said channels 41 to form the first integrated conduits 40.

[0175] The production of channels 41 formed in the distribution plate 20 simplifies the assembly of the module 1, the bottle 30 and the distribution plate 20, reducing the number of connectors and pipes to be manufactured and installed in the pump.

[0176] Preferably, the channels 41 are formed in both the first sub-plate 210 and the second sub-plate 220.

[0177] Alternatively, the channels 41 are stamped into the first sub-plate 210, the second sub-plate 220 closing said channels 41 to form the first integrated conduits 40. Alternatively again, the channels 40 can also be stamped into the second sub-plate 210 or into the distribution plate 20, when a single plate is used to form the wall 31 of the bottle 30.

[0178] Stamping is a technique known to those skilled in the art and easy to implement, which facilitates the manufacture of plates, sub-plates and channels. The seal can be ensured by fixing methods known to those skilled in the art, such as welding, brazing or bolting, this seal allowing the proper circulation of the fluid between the bottle 30 and the second refrigerant circuit.

[0179] The distribution plate 20 is configured to thermally insulate, at least partially, the first heat exchanger 50 from the second heat exchanger 60.

[0180] In this way, the first and second heat exchangers 50, 60 are thermally decoupled.

[0181] According to the first embodiment illustrated in particular [Fig.5], the distribution plate 20 comprises a first insulating interface, in particular in the form of a layer of insulating material 90, said insulating interface being inserted between the first and second heat exchangers 50, 60, in particular between the first and second sub-plates 210, 220.

[0182] In this way, the insulating interface, in particular the insulating material 90, allows the first and second heat exchangers 50, 60 to be thermally decoupled.

[0183] The insulating interface is for example made of polystyrene or polyurethane or wood fiber.

[0184] According to another alternative embodiment of the invention, not illustrated, the distribution plate 20 includes at least a first opening configured to thermally insulate, at least partially, the first heat exchanger 50 from the second heat exchanger 60.

[0185] In particular, each of the first and second subplates 210, 220 includes at least one opening configured to thermally insulate, at least partially, the first heat exchanger 50 from the second heat exchanger 60. Said openings overlap at least partially.

[0186] In this way, a layer of gas, in particular air, or vacuum, extending between the first and second heat exchangers 50, 60, constitutes the insulating interface and thermally decouples the first and second heat exchangers 50, 60.

[0187] Module 1 includes a third heat exchanger 70, at least partially attached to the first or second face 21, 22, said third heat exchanger 70 being in particular directly fluidically connected to the first integrated conduits 40.

[0188] According to the first embodiment, the third heat exchanger 70 corresponds, for example, to the first two-fluid heat exchanger 105 of [Fig. 1]. The third heat exchanger 70 is here a plate water-cooled condenser. It is configured to transfer heat from the high-pressure refrigerant, which undergoes condensation, to the heat transfer fluid.

[0189] The condenser is directly connected to the bottle 30, which eliminates the need for connecting pipes.

[0190] The third heat exchanger 70 is attached to the first sub-plate 210 or to the second sub-plate 220, here to the second sub-plate 220.

[0191] The distribution plate 20 comprises a first portion 26 and a second portion 27, the first heat exchanger 50 and the second heat exchanger 60 being attached to the first portion 26, said first portion 26 being at least partially intercalated between the first heat exchanger 50 and the second heat exchanger 60. The third heat exchanger 70 is, for its part, attached to the second portion 27.

[0192] According to the first embodiment: - the first portion 26 is formed by a first segment of the first and second sub-plates 210, 220, - the second portion 27 is formed by a second segment of the first and second subplates 210, 220.

[0193] Thus, the distribution plate 20, formed of the first and second sub-plates 210, 220, extends from the first portion 26 to the second portion 27.

[0194] In this way, the heat exchanges between the first and second heat exchangers 50, 60 on the one hand and the third heat exchanger 70 on the other hand are limited.

[0195] As illustrated in Figures 3 and 4, the first portion 26 of the distribution plate 20 extends along a first plane PI, the second portion 27 extending along a second plane P2, different from the first plane PI, here parallel to the first plane PL

[0196] In this way, the height of module 1, that is to say the dimension of module 1 in a first direction D, perpendicular to the first and second planes PI, P2, is improved, in particular in the case where the height of the third heat exchanger 70, measured along the first direction D, is greater than the height of the first heat exchanger 50, measured along the first direction D, added to the height of the second heat exchanger 60, measured along the first direction D.

[0197] In this way, the first and second heat exchangers 50, 60 being attached on either side of the first portion 26 and the third heat exchanger 70 being attached to the second portion 27, offset from the first portion 27 along the first direction D, the height of module 1 corresponds to the minimum of: - the height of the stack of the first heat exchanger 50, the distribution plate 20 and the second heat exchanger 60, - the height of the stack of the third heat exchanger 70 and the distribution plate 20.

[0198] As illustrated in particular [Fig.4], the distribution plate 20 includes a third portion 2627, said third portion 2627 extending at least partially along a third plane P3, intersecting the first and second planes PI, P2.

[0199] Said third portion 2627 comprises the wall 31 of the bottle 30.

[0200] A first angle Al, formed between the first plane PI and the third plane P3, is between 15° and 85°, preferably between 30° and 60°.

[0201] The distribution plate 20 has at least one angled section 28, ensuring the connection between the first portion 26 and the second portion 27.

[0202] In particular, the distribution plate 20 has two angled sections 28, ensuring the connection on the one hand between the third portion 2627 and the first portion 26, on the other hand between the third portion 2627 and the second portion 27.

[0203] In this way, the bottle 30 can be tilted at a given angle so as to limit the volume occupied by the module 1.

[0204] In particular, the first portion 26 and the second portion 27 of the distribution plate 20 are separated by at least one cutout 29 of said distribution plate 20.

[0205] This cut 29 allows thermal decoupling between the first and second portions 26, 27.

[0206] The first portion 26 and the second portion 27 of the distribution plate 20 extend on either side of the wall 31 of the bottle 30.

[0207] In this way, the bottle 30 and the cutouts 29 form thermal barriers between the first portion 26 and the second portion 27.

[0208] The second portion 27 of the distribution plate 20 includes a second opening 91, illustrated [Fig.3], in particular opposite the third heat exchanger 70.

[0209] This opening makes it possible to limit the weight of material of the distribution plate 20, and to limit the conduction between the distribution plate 20 and said third heat exchanger 70.

[0210] The module comprises a plurality of first connectors 42 forming inlets and outlets of heat transfer fluid, said first connectors 42 being fluidly connected to the first heat transfer fluid circuit.

[0211] Said first connectors 42 are attached to the first face 21 of the distribution plate 20 and to the first heat exchanger 50.

[0212] In this way, all the connectors associated with the first heat transfer fluid circuit are gathered on one side of the distribution plate 20, which facilitates the connection of module 1 to said first circuit.

[0213] According to an embodiment not illustrated, in which the third heat exchanger 70 is attached to the first face 21, in particular to the first sub-plate 210, at least one of the first connectors 42, in particular the first two connectors 42, are attached to said third heat exchanger 70.

[0214] According to a particular embodiment, at least one of the first connectors 42, in particular the first two connectors 42, are attached to the second portion 27 of the distribution plate 20, in particular to the first face 21 of the distribution plate 20.

[0215] According to one embodiment of the invention, at least one of the first connectors 42, in particular the first two connectors 42, are attached to the first sub-plate 210 or to the second sub-plate 220.

[0216] The module includes a plurality of second connectors 43 forming refrigerant inlets and outlets, said second connectors 43 being fluidically connected to the second refrigerant circuit, said second connectors 43 being attached to the second face 22 of the distribution plate 20 and / or to the second heat exchanger 60.

[0217] According to the first embodiment, in which the third heat exchanger 70 is attached to the second face 22, in particular to the second sub-plate 220, at least one of the second connectors 43, in particular two second connectors 43, are attached to said third heat exchanger 70.

[0218] According to one embodiment of the invention, at least one of the second connectors 43, in particular two second connectors 43, are attached to the first sub-plate 210 or to the second sub-plate 220.

[0219] Module 1 includes one or more third fluidic connectors 44 adapted to receive each a fluid expansion member 45, corresponding for example to the first and second expansion members 108, 110 of [Fig.1], said third fluidic connectors 44 being attached to the second heat exchanger 60.

[0220] In this way, all the connectors associated with the second refrigerant circuit are gathered on one side of the distribution plate 20, which facilitates the connection of module 1 to said second circuit.

[0221] The expansion valves 45 serve to reduce the pressure and temperature of the refrigerant at the inlet of the heat exchangers. This improves heat exchange between the refrigerant and the heat transfer fluid circulating in the heat exchanger, thus enabling more efficient cooling of the refrigerant. The integration of these valves also improves temperature control of the fluid, making it more precise. This integration also reduces the number of parts required by simplifying the design and manufacture of module 1.

[0222] The distribution plate 20 includes at least one second integrated conduit 400, said second integrated conduit 400 fluidly connecting the second heat exchanger 60 to the third heat exchanger 70.

[0223] The third heat exchanger 70 is a water condenser, said third heat exchanger 70 comprising a first fraction 71, called condensation, and a second fraction 72, called subcooling, the second fraction 72 being interposed between the distribution plate 20 and the first fraction 71.

[0224] Figure 6 represents a two-fluid circuit 100 of a heat pump for a motor vehicle, according to a second embodiment. This two-fluid circuit 100 comprises a refrigerant loop 101 in which a refrigerant circulates, a first heat transfer fluid loop 102 (shown very schematically) in which a first heat transfer fluid, for example glycol water or a dielectric fluid, circulates, a second heat transfer fluid loop 103 (shown very schematically) in which a second heat transfer fluid, for example glycol water or a dielectric fluid, circulates, and a third heat transfer fluid loop 104 (shown very schematically) in which a third heat transfer fluid, for example glycol water or a dielectric fluid, circulates.The first heat transfer fluid, the second heat transfer fluid, and the third heat transfer fluid can be of the same type or of different types.

[0225] The refrigerant loop 101 comprises, in the direction of refrigerant flow: - a compressor 104, - a first two-fluid heat exchanger 105, located downstream of the compressor 104, configured to extract heat from the high-pressure refrigerant by its condensation and transfer it to the heat transfer fluid of the first heat transfer fluid loop 102, this exchanger being able to be designated as a water condenser or WCDS for "Water Cooled Condenser", - a desiccant bottle 106 or bottle configured to capture moisture from the refrigerant,- a high-pressure pass of a second internal heat exchanger 107 (generally designated as an internal heat exchanger or IHX for "Internai Heat eXchanger" in English abbreviation) configured to cool the refrigerant by heat exchange between the high-pressure refrigerant of the high-pressure pass and the low-pressure refrigerant of a low-pressure pass of the second internal heat exchanger 107, - a first branch 101A comprising: , — a first expansion device 108, this first expansion device 108 being connected to a third bifluid heat exchanger 109, — said third two-fluid heat exchanger 109, configured to extract heat from the heat transfer fluid of the second heat transfer fluid loop 103 and the transferring heat to the low-pressure refrigerant through its evaporation; this exchanger can be referred to as a water evaporator (or "Chiller" in English). - a second branch 101B, in parallel with the first branch 101A, comprising: — a second expansion device 110, this second expansion device 110 being connected to a fourth heat exchanger 111, — said fourth heat exchanger 111 being, according to this second embodiment, a two-fluid heat exchanger, configured to extract heat from the heat transfer fluid of the third heat transfer fluid loop 104 and transfer it to the low-pressure refrigerant by its evaporation, this exchanger being able to be designated as a water evaporator (or “Chiller” in English), - the low-pressure pass of the second internal heat exchanger 107.

[0226] According to a particular embodiment, the refrigerant loop 101 also includes a third branch 10IC directly connecting, in the direction of refrigerant flow, the compressor 104 to the low-pressure pass of the second internal heat exchanger 107. The third branch 10IC includes a third expansion device 112.

[0227] This third circulation branch 101C allows, in a so-called "lossy mode," the injection of steam from the outlet of the compressor 104 to the low-pressure inlet of the second internal heat exchanger 107. In this mode, the third two-fluid heat exchanger 109 and the fourth two-fluid heat exchanger 111 are inactive. The fluid downstream of the third and fourth heat exchangers 109 and 111 is therefore a low-pressure liquid-vapor two-phase fluid. This low-pressure liquid-vapor two-phase fluid is mixed with the steam from the compressor 104, which has been expanded by the third expansion valve 112. This mixing ensures that the fluid exiting the low-pressure pass of the second internal heat exchanger 107 is indeed in a vapor state, so as not to damage the compressor 104.

[0228] The refrigerant loop 101 is not described in further detail as it is known from the prior art. The same applies to the first, second and third heat transfer fluid loops 102, 103, 104.

[0229] Figure 7 represents a heat treatment module 1 for a vehicle, in particular for electric vehicle, according to a second embodiment of the invention.

[0230] Subsequently, we will only describe the characteristics which differentiate the second embodiment from the first embodiment.

[0231] According to the second embodiment of the invention, module 1 comprises a fourth heat exchanger 80 corresponding, for example, to the second two-fluid heat exchanger 111. The fourth heat exchanger 80 is here a plate water evaporator, or "chiller." It is configured to extract heat of the heat transfer fluid and to transfer it to the low-pressure refrigerant, which then evaporates. In particular, the fourth heat exchanger 80 is designed to cool the heat transfer fluid coming from a heat exchanger known as an air cooler, intended to cool the passenger compartment, especially when R290 is used as the refrigerant.

[0232] Said fourth heat exchanger 80 is here attached to the first heat exchanger 50, so that said first heat exchanger 50 is interposed between the distribution plate 20 and said fourth heat exchanger 80.

[0233] Said first heat exchanger 50 can in particular be used for cooling the batteries of the electric vehicle.

[0234] According to a particular embodiment of the invention, said fourth heat exchanger 80 is associated with an expansion device, not shown. In this way, each of the first and fourth heat exchangers 50, 80 having its own expansion device, the pressure levels, and therefore the temperature levels, within said first and fourth heat exchangers 50, 80 can be controlled independently so as to meet the cooling requirements of the batteries and the passenger compartment, respectively.

[0235] According to the second embodiment of the invention, at least one of the first connectors 42 is attached to the fourth heat exchanger 80.

[0236] Figure [Fig.8] represents a heat treatment module 1 for a vehicle, in particular for an electric vehicle, according to a third embodiment of the invention.

[0237] Subsequently, we will only describe the characteristics which differentiate the third embodiment from the first embodiment.

[0238] According to the third embodiment of the invention, the distribution plate 20 comprises a fourth portion 2628, said fourth portion 2628 extending at least partially along a fourth plane P4, intersecting the first, second and third planes PI, P2, P3.

[0239] Said fourth portion 2628 comprises the wall 31 of the bottle 30.

[0240] Said fourth portion 2628 extends from the second portion 27 and comprises a free end 200, opposite the second portion 27 from which it extends.

[0241] The distribution plate 20 has an angled section 28, ensuring the connection between the fourth portion 2628 and the second portion 27.

[0242] In this way, the bottle 30 can be tilted at a given angle so as to limit the volume occupied by the module 1.

[0243] Figures 9 to 11 represent a heat treatment module 1 for a vehicle, in particular for an electric vehicle, according to a fourth embodiment of the invention.

[0244] Subsequently, we will only describe the characteristics which differentiate the fourth embodiment from the first embodiment.

[0245] According to the fourth embodiment of the invention, the first heat exchanger 50 corresponds, for example, to the first two-fluid heat exchanger 105 of [Fig. 1]. The first heat exchanger 50 is here a plate water-cooled condenser. It is configured to transfer heat from the high-pressure refrigerant, which undergoes condensation, to the heat transfer fluid.

[0246] The first heat exchanger 50 is directly fluidically connected to the first integrated conduits 40.

[0247] The water condenser is thus directly connected to the bottle 30, which eliminates the need for connecting pipes.

[0248] The second heat exchanger 60 corresponds, for example, to the second internal heat exchanger 107 of [Fig. 1]. The second heat exchanger 60 is here an internal plate heat exchanger, or IHX for "Internal Heat Exchanger". The internal heat exchanger is configured to perform heat exchange between low-pressure refrigerant and high-pressure refrigerant.

[0249] According to the fourth embodiment of the invention, the third heat exchanger 70 corresponds to the third bi-fluid heat exchanger 109 of [Fig. 1]. The third heat exchanger 70 is here a plate water evaporator, or "chiller." It is configured to extract heat from the heat transfer fluid and transfer it to the low-pressure refrigerant, which then evaporates. It can, in particular, be used to cool the batteries of the electric vehicle.

[0250] According to this fourth embodiment of the invention, said first connectors 42 are attached to the second face 22 of the distribution plate 20 and to the third heat exchanger 70.

[0251] In this way, all the connectors associated with the first heat transfer fluid circuit are gathered on one side of the distribution plate 20, which facilitates the connection of module 1 to said first circuit.

[0252] According to this embodiment, said second connectors 43 are attached to the first face 21 of the distribution plate 20 and to the first heat exchanger 50.

[0253] Said third fluidic connectors 44 are attached to the first face 21 of the distribution plate 20.

[0254] In this way, all the connectors associated with the second refrigerant circuit are gathered on one side of the distribution plate 20, which facilitates the connection of module 1 to said second circuit.

[0255] The first heat exchanger 50 is a water condenser, said first heat exchanger 50 comprising the first fraction 71, called condensation, and the second fraction 72, called subcooling, the second fraction 72 being intercalated between the distribution plate 20 and the first fraction 71.

[0256] According to this embodiment, the third heat exchanger 70 is at least partially attached to the second heat exchanger 60, the second heat exchanger 60 being interposed at least partially between the distribution plate 20 and the third heat exchanger 70.

[0257] In this way, fluidic communication between the second and third heat exchangers 60, 70 is directly obtained via the faces of the second and third heat exchangers 60, 70 in contact.

[0258] According to this embodiment, said heat treatment module 1 is configured to thermally insulate, at least partially, the second heat exchanger 60 from the third heat exchanger 70.

[0259] In this way, the second and third heat exchangers 60, 70 are thermally decoupled.

[0260] Said heat treatment module 1 includes a second insulating interface, in particular in the form of an air gap, said second insulating interface being inserted between the second and third heat exchangers 60, 70.

[0261] According to this embodiment, the second heat exchanger 60 comprises a first end plate 610, the third heat exchanger 70 comprises a second end plate 710, said first and second end plates being configured to thermally insulate the second heat exchanger 60 from the third heat exchanger 70.

[0262] According to this embodiment, as illustrated [Fig. 11]: - the first end plate 610 comprises a first rib 620 directed towards the third heat exchanger 70, said first rib 620 surrounding a first passage 630 open in the first end plate 610, - the second end plate 710 includes a second rib 720 directed towards the second heat exchanger 60, said second rib 720 surrounding a second passage 730 open in the second end plate 710, said first and second ribs 620, 720 being in contact, for example welded or brazed together, so as to ensure a sealed fluidic communication between the first and second passages 630, 730 between the second and third heat exchangers 60, 70.

[0263] In this way, the third heat exchanger 70 is in contact with the second heat exchanger 60 only at the junction between the first and second ribs 620, 720. A second insulating interface, formed by an air gap, insulates thus thermally the second heat exchanger 60 of the third heat exchanger 70.

[0264] The first and second ribs 620, 720 are for example circular, triangular or rectangular in shape.

[0265] The first and second passages 630, 730 are for example circular, triangular or rectangular in shape.

[0266] The first and second ribs 620, 720 thus form ridges around the first and second passages 630, 730.

[0267] When the first and second ribs 620, 720 are in contact, for example welded, brazed or glued, the first and second end plates 610, 710 ensure a sealed fluidic communication between the second and third heat exchangers 60, 70.

[0268] The first passage 630 is in fluidic communication with a manifold of the second heat exchanger 60, the second passage 730 is in fluidic communication with a manifold of the third heat exchanger 70. In this way, the first and second end plates 610, 710 ensure a sealed fluidic communication between the second and third heat exchangers 60, 70.

[0269] According to the fourth embodiment of the invention, said third fluidic connectors 44 are attached to the first sub-plate 210.

[0270] According to a particular embodiment of the invention, not shown, a fourth heat exchanger 80 is attached to the third heat exchanger 70, so that said third heat exchanger 70 is interposed between the second heat exchanger 60 and said fourth heat exchanger 80.

Claims

Demands

1. Heat treatment module (1) for vehicle, in particular for electric vehicle, said module comprising: - a distribution plate (20) comprising a first face (21) and a second face (22), said distribution plate (20) forming, at least partially, a wall (31) of a bottle (30), in particular an accumulator or a desiccant bottle, said distribution plate (20) comprising first integrated conduits (40) configured to be put into fluidic communication with said bottle (30), - a first heat exchanger (50), attached to the first face (21), said module (1) being characterized in that it comprises a second heat exchanger (60), attached to the second face (22).

2. Heat treatment module (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the distribution plate (20) comprises a first sub-plate (210), forming the first face (21) of said distribution plate (20), and a second sub-plate (220), forming the second face (22) of said distribution plate (20), said first and second sub-plates (210, 220) being assembled together to form, at least partially, the wall (31) of the bottle (30), the first heat exchanger (50) being attached to the first sub-plate (210), the second heat exchanger (60) being attached to the second sub-plate (220).

3. Heat treatment module (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the distribution plate (20) comprises at least one orifice (23), in particular a plurality of orifices (23), configured to put the first heat exchanger (50) into fluidic relationship with the second heat exchanger (60).

4. Heat treatment module (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first integrated conduits (40) are fluidly connected to the bottle (30).

5. Heat treatment module (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the distribution plate (20) is configured to thermally insulate, at least partially, the first heat exchanger (50) of the second heat exchanger (60).

6. Heat treatment module (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the module (1) comprises a third heat exchanger (70), at least partially attached to the second heat exchanger (60), the second heat exchanger (60) being interposed between the distribution plate (20) and the third heat exchanger (70), said first heat exchanger (50) being in particular directly fluidically connected to the first integrated conduits (40).

7. Heat treatment module (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the module (1) comprises a third heat exchanger (70), at least partially attached to the first or second face (21, 22), said third heat exchanger (70) being in particular directly fluidically connected to the first integrated conduits (40).

8. Heat treatment module (1) according to claim 7, wherein the distribution plate (20) comprises a first portion (26) and a second portion (27), the first heat exchanger (50) and the second heat exchanger (60) being attached to the first portion (26), said first portion (26) being at least partially intercalated between the first heat exchanger (50) and the second heat exchanger (60), the third heat exchanger (70) being attached to the second portion (27).

9. Heat treatment module (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the first portion (26) and the second portion (27) of the distribution plate (20) extend on either side of the wall (31) bottle (30).

10. Heat treatment module (1) according to any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein the module (1) comprises: - a plurality of first connectors (42) forming inlets and outlets of heat transfer fluid, said first connectors (42) being fluidically connected to a first heat transfer fluid circuit, said first connectors (42) being attached: — to the first face (21) of the distribution plate (20) and / or — to the first heat exchanger (50) and / or — to the third heat exchanger (70), said third heat exchanger (70) being attached to the first face (21), - a plurality of second connectors (43) forming refrigerant fluid inlets and outlets, said second connectors (43) being fluidly connected to a second refrigerant fluid circuit, said second connectors (43) being attached to the second face (22) of the distribution plate (20) and / or to the second heat exchanger (60) and / or to the third heat exchanger (70).

11. Heat treatment module (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the module (1) comprises one or more third fluidic connectors (44) adapted to receive each a fluid expansion member (45), said third fluidic connectors (44) being attached to the first face (21) or to the second heat exchanger (60).

Images