A device for cooling or heating ambient air in an interior space, more particularly in an interior space of a building.

Abstract

A device for cooling or heating ambient air in an interior space, more particularly an interior space of a building. The present invention relates to a device for cooling or heating ambient air in an interior space, more particularly an interior space of a building. It is characterized in that it comprises at least one heat transfer fluid supply source, a ventilation system, and at least one cooling or heating duct unit comprising a duct (1) having at least two openings (1a) for the inlet / outlet of an airflow, a heat exchanger extending within the duct (1) and comprising at least one channel and heat transfer means, the channel(s) being suitable and intended to transport the heat transfer fluid and to transfer, by means of the heat transfer means,of thermal energy between the heat transfer fluid circulating in the channel(s) and a pulsed airflow circulating in the duct (1) without mixing them, the ventilation system (2) being suitable and intended to draw ambient air located outside the duct (1) through the inlet / outlet opening(s) (1a) and to blow the ambient air into the duct (1) to circulate it within the duct (1) as a pulsed airflow and expel it outside the duct through its other inlet / outlet opening(s) (1a). It also includes a fluid distribution / diffusion assembly comprising such a device. Figure to be published with the abbreviation: Fig. 1,

Description

Title of the invention: Device for cooling or heating ambient air in an interior space, more particularly in an interior space of a building.

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of systems using heat exchangers to cool or heat ambient air. Its object is a device for cooling or heating ambient air in an interior space, more particularly in an interior space of a building.

[0002] The term "building" in this application encompasses a wide range of structures, whether, for example, individual houses, apartments, offices, shops, industrial buildings, or other types of construction.

[0003] The formulation "in an interior space of a building" encompasses any interior space in a building, for example, at least one room, at least one corridor, a building hall, etc. The term "room" encompasses individual rooms such as, for example, a bedroom, a living room, an office, a kitchen.

[0004] It is known that cooling or heating the ambient air in an interior space of a building makes it possible to lower or raise the ambient air temperature by a few degrees. This air treatment notably improves the well-being and / or health of the people present in that space.

[0005] Systems such as air conditioners or fans are already known to lower the ambient air temperature, or the perceived temperature, or systems such as, for example, radiators to increase the ambient air temperature.

[0006] However, fans do not cool the air but only circulate it and therefore have very limited efficiency.

[0007] Air conditioners, whose use is increasing every year due to global warming and the rise in heat waves, are more efficient and provide undeniable comfort during hot periods, but their use has many drawbacks: noise, bulk, negative environmental impact, energy cost, and potentially health effects. Indeed, air conditioners require large and noisy installations, particularly those equipped with compressors, which require outdoor space for the outdoor unit, generating noise that is a nuisance to the occupants and neighbors. This is also true of portable air conditioners, which are installed only indoors. These units are less noisy but remain bulky and require an outlet. Outside, hot air is vented, usually via a flexible duct that is typically run through a window, which is inconvenient. If the flexible duct is faulty or poorly insulated, it can lead to a loss of efficiency and require more energy to cool the interior. Furthermore, all these air conditioners expel hot air outside, increasing the ambient temperature and thus reducing the overall efficiency of the units, particularly in dense urban areas. Expelling hot air outside also impacts the environment and contributes to the greenhouse effect. Moreover, their electricity consumption is high, especially during periods of intense heat, which can also lead to energy consumption spikes. Finally, for optimal performance, air conditioners require regular maintenance.

[0008] Radiators, while effective at heating spaces, have several drawbacks. They can be noisy, especially convection or fan-assisted models, and bulky, limiting room layout. Heat distribution is often uneven, with hot spots near the radiator and cold spots elsewhere. Their energy consumption, particularly for electric radiators, can be high, leading to significant costs and a negative environmental impact, especially if the energy comes from fossil fuels. Furthermore, they can dry out the air, stir up dust, and pose risks of burns or fire, while often being unsightly.

[0009] The present invention aims to overcome at least one of these drawbacks by providing a device for cooling or heating ambient air in an interior space, more particularly an interior space of a building, which is less noisy and has a reduced footprint, while offering high efficiency in cooling or heating ambient air.

[0010] The device, according to the present invention, for cooling or heating ambient air in an interior space, more particularly an interior space of a building, is characterized in that it comprises at least one cooling or heating duct unit, at least one heat transfer fluid supply source and a ventilation system, the duct unit or units comprising:

[0011] - a duct, preferably elongated in shape, preferably with a circular cross-section or rectangular, said duct delimiting an internal space allowing the circulation of an airflow within the duct and comprising at least two airflow inlet / outlet openings,

[0012] - a heat exchanger extending into the internal space of the sheath and comprising at least one channel and heat transfer means, the channel or channels being suitable and intended to transport the heat transfer fluid from the source supplying and transferring, by means of thermal transfer, thermal energy between the heat transfer fluid circulating in the channel(s) and a pulsed airflow circulating in the duct without mixing them,

[0013] and in that the ventilation system is suitable and intended to draw in ambient air located outside the duct of the duct unit(s), referred to as the main duct, through the inlet / outlet opening(s) and to blow the ambient air into the duct, referred to as the main duct, of the main duct unit to circulate it in the main duct in the form of a pulsed airflow and expel it outside the latter through its other inlet / outlet opening(s).

[0014] The present invention also relates to a fluid distribution / diffusion assembly, said assembly comprising at least one distribution / diffusion duct, characterized in that it further comprises the cooling or heating device according to the present invention and in that the distribution / diffusion duct is suitable and intended to receive the pulsed airflow from the device to ensure the distribution of the pulsed airflow to points of use or dissipation distant from the cooling or heating device.

[0015] The invention will be better understood from the following description, which relates to a preferred embodiment, given by way of non-limiting example, and explained with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings, in which:

[0016] [Fig-1] is a perspective view of the main sheath unit of a device cooling or heating, according to the present invention

[0017] [Fig.2] shows the heat exchanger and the fan of the duct unit shown in [Fig.1],

[0018] [Fig.3] is a perspective view of the main cladding unit shown in [Fig.1] in another orientation, open at one end to show the internal space of the cladding,

[0019] [Fig.4] is a partial front view of the heat exchanger of [Fig.3],

[0020] [Fig.5] shows the heat exchanger of [Fig.4] on which an element of condensate recovery,

[0021] [Fig.6] is a partial perspective view of a device, according to the present invention, in a configuration with a series mounting of four juxtaposed and vertically oriented duct units, with a condensate recovery system disposed at the base of the duct units.

[0022] The accompanying figures show a device for cooling or heating, according to the present invention, ambient air in an interior space, more particularly an interior space of a building, in particular an interior space of a room of a building.

[0023] The term "building" encompasses a wide range of structures, whether they are single-family homes, apartments, offices, shops, industrial buildings, or other types of construction. The phrase "in an interior space of a building" encompasses any interior space within a building, for example, at least one room, at least one corridor, a building lobby, etc. The term "room" encompasses individual rooms such as, for example, a bedroom, a living room, an office, a kitchen. According to the present invention, such a device comprises at least one cooling or heating duct unit, a ventilation system, and at least one heat transfer fluid supply source, the duct unit(s) comprising:

[0024] - a sheath 1, preferably of circular or rectangular cross-section, delimiting a internal space allowing the circulation of an airflow within duct 1 and comprising at least one opening for the inlet / outlet of the airflow,

[0025] - and a heat exchanger 3 extending into the internal space of the sheath 1 and comprising at least one channel 3a and heat transfer means, the channel 3a, or channels 3a (forming a bundle of channels 3), being suitable and intended to transport the heat transfer fluid from the supply source and to transfer, by means of the heat transfer means, thermal energy between the heat transfer fluid circulating in the channel or each channel 3a and a pulsed airflow circulating in the duct 1 without mixing them. The channel or each channel 3a has for this purpose a wall 3b suitable and intended to separate the heat transfer fluid and the pulsed airflow.

[0026] Preferably, the sheath 1 has an elongated shape, as can be seen in Figures 1, 3, and 6. With such an elongated shape, the structure of the sheath 1 is therefore longitudinal and differs from a surface structure, or one with a large span, such as a radiator, for example, which has a flat and surface-extended shape (in width, or a spread-out or flattened shape). Preferably, the sheath 1 is rectilinear (or straight).

[0027] In accordance with the present invention, the ventilation system 2 is suitable and intended to draw in ambient air located outside the duct 1 of the duct unit(s), referred to as main duct 1, through the inlet / outlet opening(s) la and to blow the ambient air into the duct 1, referred to as main duct 1, of the main duct unit to circulate it in the main duct 1 in the form of a pulsed airflow and to expel it outside the latter through its other inlet / outlet opening(s) la.

[0028] In the elongated form, it is understood that the duct 1 (or each relevant duct 1) comprises two ends between which it extends longitudinally. In this elongated form, at least one of the inlet / outlet openings may be made in one of the ends of the duct 1 and / or at least one of the inlet / outlet openings may be made in the wall of the duct 1 connecting its two ends. ends (figures 1 and 3). The wall of the sheath 1 connecting its two ends can, for example, be rectangular (or square) in section (figures 1, 3 and 6), or another polygonal shape, thus forming several lateral sides or be circular in section, forming a cylindrical wall.

[0029] The fact that the heat exchanger 3 is placed (or extends) in the duct 1 (in its internal space) allows, in particular, for heating or cooling to be carried out directly at the level of the duct unit, and therefore room by room in a building, that is to say in the room or each room in which the duct unit or each unit of the device according to the present invention is installed.

[0030] Preferably, the heat exchanger 3 can extend along the entire length of the duct 1, that is to say over all or almost all of its length.

[0031] Preferably, the heat transfer fluid can be water, which is one of the most commonly used heat transfer fluids, particularly because of its low cost, high heat capacity, and availability. The heat transfer fluid can also be, for example, a mixture of water and glycol. Other heat transfer fluids may be used.

[0032] The power source, not shown, may include:

[0033] - a power output, preferably connected to a fluid inlet heat transfer fluid in the heat exchanger 3 of the duct unit or one of the duct units, preferably the main duct unit,

[0034] - a return inlet for the fluid from the heat exchanger 3 of the unit duct or one of the duct units, preferably the main duct unit.

[0035] The power source can be, for example,

[0036] - a heat pump. In a heat pump, such as a water-source heat pump Water, for example, can be used as a heat source or, especially if it is reversible, as a cooling source.

[0037] - an outlet point in a distribution network itself connected to a pump heat (or other type of source). Thus, the heating or cooling device according to the present invention can use a power source, such as a heat pump, already existing on the installation site. For example, a reversible heat pump used primarily during the cold season to heat the rooms of a dwelling, and which would not be used during the warm season, could be used as a power source for the device according to the present invention to supply the heat transfer fluid for cooling to the heat exchanger 3 of the duct(s) 1.

[0038] Furthermore, the power source, such as a heat pump, can be adapted, for example by including a heat sink, to treat the heat transfer fluid returning to its return inlet in order to:

[0039] - heat the heat transfer fluid, in heating mode of the device according to the present invention,

[0040] - cool the heat transfer fluid, in device cooling mode according to the present invention.

[0041] The discharge of the pulsed airflow from the main duct 1 to the outside can be a discharge directly into the ambient air outside the main duct 1 and / or, as will be described in more detail later, into the duct 1 of the other or at least one of the other duct units to create a cooling or heating circuit with at least two duct units mounted in series, one of which is the main duct unit (Figures 7 to 9).

[0042] The term inlet / outlet opening means that at least one of the two inlets / outlets can be provided for reversible use, i.e. to allow the passage of an airflow from the inside of the duct 1 to the outside of the duct 1 or vice versa from the outside to the inside of the duct 1. This is the case in particular with the series assembly ([Fig.6]), described later, of the duct units where the pulsed airflow can pass from one duct unit to the other by passing through the corresponding inlet / outlet openings provided for this purpose, forming an inlet of the pulsed airflow into the corresponding duct 1 or an outlet of the pulsed airflow from the corresponding duct 1 depending on the position of the duct unit in the assembly.

[0043] It is understood that such an inlet / outlet opening is through, that is to say that it passes through the duct 1 (its wall 1b) by putting the internal space of the duct into fluidic communication with the outside of the duct 1. Such an inlet / outlet opening can have various shapes such as, for example, round or rectangular / square.

[0044] The duct 1 of the duct unit(s) is therefore designed to allow the circulation of an airflow, in particular a forced airflow. The duct unit(s) 1 thus forms a passage or tunnel through which the airflow can circulate. This passage is delimited by the wall 1b of the duct 1, in particular by the internal surface of the wall of the duct 1. The duct 1, and therefore the wall 1b of the duct 1, may have a circular or rectangular cross-section, or another geometric shape. The wall 1b of the duct may preferably be rigid. The wall 1b of the duct may be made, for example, from a metallic, plastic, or other material and may be designed to channel and direct the airflow without leakage (except at the inlet / outlet openings).

[0045] The duct 1 of the or each duct unit is preferably closed apart from its inlet / outlet openings la, which allows the pulsed airflow to be efficiently channeled into the duct 1.

[0046] It is understood that the wall 3b of the or of each channel 3a of the heat exchanger 3 (of the duct unit(s)) forms the contour of the corresponding channel 3a and that the pulsed airflow circulates in the duct 1 between the external surface of the wall 3b of the or of each channel 3a and the internal surface of the wall 1b of the duct 1.

[0047] The channel or channels 3a designates any form of passage or conduit through which a heat transfer fluid can flow. The wall 3b of the channel or channels 3a can be of various geometric shapes (circular, rectangular, oval, etc.) and can preferably be made of a thermally conductive material, for example, metallic or aluminum. The wall 3b thus separates the heat transfer fluid, flowing in the channel 3a delimited by said wall 3b, from the forced airflow circulating in the duct 1 to prevent their mixing, while facilitating heat transfer by conduction through the wall 3b. The thickness of the wall 3b is preferably determined so as to maximize the efficiency of heat transfer.

[0048] Preferably, the ventilation system may include at least one fan 2, as can be seen in Figures 1 to 3. Preferably, the fan 2 may be located in, or at, one of the inlet / outlet openings la of the main duct 1. "At" means placing the fan 2 in the immediate vicinity of the inlet / outlet opening la, that is, either directly in front of (outside the main duct 1) or behind (inside the main duct 1) the inlet / outlet opening la (thus associated with the fan 2). It is understood that this inlet / outlet opening la, thus associated with the fan 2, is dedicated solely / essentially to the intake of ambient air, by suction, into the duct 1.Placing fan 2 in or at one of the inlet / outlet openings of the main duct 1 optimizes the intake of ambient air into the main duct 1 and directs it more efficiently within the main duct 1 towards the other inlet / outlet opening(s) then dedicated to the exhaust / exhaust of the forced airflow outside the main duct 1. This improves the efficiency of heat transfer and the overall performance of the device.

[0049] Preferably, the fan 2 can be fixed to one end of the duct 1, for example by means of a mounting plate 2a (Figures 1 to 3). This end then has the inlet / outlet opening associated with the fan 2 and dedicated solely / essentially to the intake / suction of ambient air into the duct 1.

[0050] During operation, when fan 2 starts, its blades rotate rapidly to create a negative pressure on the inner side of the inlet / outlet opening associated with fan 2, which allows ambient air to be drawn into the main duct 1. This movement of the blades also allows the drawn-in ambient air to be pushed, in the form of a pulsed airflow, in the direction of the flow generated by the rotation of the blades. The force of the pulsed airflow exiting the main duct 1 depends mainly the rotation speed of fan 2, the diameter of duct 1, and any constraints inside duct 1, in particular the space occupied by heat exchanger 3 in duct 1.

[0051] Preferably, the present invention may provide that the speed of the fan 2 is variable.

[0052] The device according to the present invention may include a control unit, i.e., an electronic controller (for example, of the microprocessor or microcontroller type) adapted to adjust the speed of the fan 2 (or fans 2). The control unit thus makes it possible to automatically regulate the operation of the fan 2 by adjusting its speed, for example, according to the thermal demand (cooling or heating), the noise demand (noise reduction), the ambient conditions, and the operating mode of the system (heating, cooling, or even ventilation).This allows for better energy efficiency (in particular the use of less energy), increased comfort (maintaining a more stable ambient temperature, with fewer sudden temperature variations) and reduced noise (especially when the heating or cooling demand is low), while extending the life of the device (by preventing the fan 2 from running continuously at full speed).

[0053] The device according to the present invention may also include, alone or in addition to the control unit, manual adjustment means for adjusting the speed of the fan 2 (or fans).

[0054] In a particular embodiment where the device comprises a plurality of duct units 1, for example four juxtaposed duct units, as can be seen in [Fig. 6], the duct units can be arranged by being juxtaposed (Figures 6) and / or superimposed (form not shown in the accompanying figures) with respect to each other and interconnected to form a cooling or heating circuit according to a series arrangement of the duct units, such that:

[0055] - the heat transfer fluid can circulate, in a one-way path, from the first unit of duct, preferably the main duct unit, to the following duct units up to the last duct unit in the series, then, in a return journey, in the opposite direction, through the same duct units,

[0056] - the pulsed airflow generated by the main duct unit circulates from a duct unit to the other to supply pulsed airflow to all the duct units in the series.

[0057] This series mounting configuration of several duct units makes it possible, in particular, to distribute the supplied air in several directions within an interior space, thus improving the efficiency of cooling or heating. Furthermore, it reduces the number of fans required, since a single fan can be used for all the duct units in the circuit, and reduces the number of... heat transfer fluid inlets / outlets since only one inlet and one outlet can be provided for all interconnected duct units, thus reducing energy consumption and maintenance costs.

[0058] As can be seen in [Fig. 6], the circuit can comprise, for example, four juxtaposed sheath units (three of which sheaths 1 are essentially visible in [Fig. 6] and shown partially along part of their length). It can be seen that the four sheath units can form a square of sheath units. A rectangular (or square) cross-section, for example, of the sheath 1 of each sheath unit is perfectly suitable for such a square arrangement.

[0059] Preferably, as can be seen in [Fig.6], the duct units can be oriented vertically, i.e. the X axis of the duct 1 of each duct unit can extend vertically.

[0060] In this embodiment of the circuit enabling such a series arrangement, it is understood that the main duct unit 1 can generate the forced airflow and that the other duct unit(s), for example the three other juxtaposed duct units illustrated in [Fig. 6], can receive the forced air directly from the main duct unit or from the other or at least one of the other juxtaposed or superimposed duct units. The forced air can then be discharged outside all the ducts 1 into the surrounding / ambient space through at least one of the inlet / outlet openings la of at least one of the duct units, dedicated for this purpose.

[0061] Preferably, the inlet / outlet openings dedicated to the circulation of the pulsed airflow from one duct 1 to the other (or from one duct unit to the other) can each be located in the upper part of the duct (according to a vertical operating orientation of the duct 1).

[0062] It is understood that for the passage of the forced airflow between two juxtaposed / superimposed ducts 1, i.e., from a first duct 1 to a second duct 1, through their respective dedicated inlet / outlet openings la, the two inlet / outlet openings are aligned (or positioned opposite each other) and / or connected appropriately, for example by the juxtaposition of the two ducts 1 (duct units). On the first duct 1, the dedicated inlet / outlet opening la, which can be described as an outlet opening for the forced airflow, allows the forced airflow to exit the first duct 1 and pass into the second duct 1 through the dedicated inlet / outlet opening, which can be described as an inlet opening for the forced airflow. This inlet opening for the forced airflow of the second duct 1 therefore allows the forced airflow from the first duct 1 to enter the second duct 1.The inlet / outlet opening of the first duct 1 is positioned so as to be in communication, preferably direct, with the inlet / outlet opening of the second duct 1. The inlet / outlet openings thus dedicated. The passage of the pulsed airflow between two ducts 1 are preferably large enough to allow the passage of the required pulsed airflow, and ideally can have dimensions compatible (as in the attached figures) with each other to avoid leaks or pressure losses.

[0063] Referring to Figures 1 to 3 and 6, it can be seen that the sheath 1 of the unit, or each sheath unit, can have a rectangular shape, or, in other words, a rectangular parallelepiped shape, that is, one whose six faces are rectangular. The sheath 1 can then comprise four rectangular lateral faces and two square or rectangular end faces. The wall 1b then includes all six faces. The faces can preferably be planar.

[0064] Preferably, at least one of the inlet / outlet openings, for example rectangular / square or round, of the duct 1 of the main duct unit may be located in at least one of the end faces (or in other words, in one of the ends) of the duct 1. Preferably, the inlet / outlet opening located at one of the ends may be centered on the X-axis of the duct 1. In a particular form, one of the ends of the duct 1 may have an inlet / outlet opening dedicated to drawing air into the duct 1. The fan 2 may then be located in, or at, this inlet / outlet opening located at one of the ends of the duct 1. In another particular form, possibly combined with the previous form, at least one of the ends may have an inlet / outlet opening dedicated to expelling the forced airflow to the outside of sheath 1.

[0065] Preferably, at least one of the side faces, preferably each side face, of the duct 1 of each duct unit may include one or at least one of the inlet / outlet openings, in particular dedicated to (to allow) the evacuation of the pulsed airflow outside the duct 1.

[0066] In the case of a series assembly with, for example, four rectangular ducts 1 placed side-by-side and interconnected by their channels 3a and their relevant / dedicated inlet / outlet openings la, the rectangular shape of the ducts 1 allows for a compact and modular installation. This configuration facilitates the interconnection of the ducts 1 from one duct unit to another and ensures efficient distribution of the supply air through all the duct units via their dedicated inlet / outlet openings la, which are fluidically connected (interconnected). Furthermore, it allows for simplified maintenance and increased flexibility in adding or removing duct units according to the specific needs of the installation.

[0067] In a preferred embodiment, the channel or each channel 3a of the heat exchanger 3 of the duct unit(s) may comprise two segments, namely a supply segment and a return segment, preferably parallel to the X-axis of the duct. 1, allowing the heat transfer fluid to circulate in the duct 1 in one direction in the outbound segment(s) and in the opposite direction in the return segment(s).

[0068] As can be seen in [Fig.2], the two supply and return segments of the or each channel 3a of the heat exchanger 3 can be connected to each other, at one of their ends, called the junction end, by a U-shaped junction 3c ensuring the change of direction and the passage of the heat transfer fluid between the supply segment(s) and the return segment(s).

[0069] As can be seen in particular in Figures 2, 4 and 5, if we consider a longitudinal median plane P of the heat exchanger 3, the present invention can provide that the supply segment(s) and the return segment(s) are located on either side of this median plane P, that is to say, that the supply segment(s) are located on one side and the return segment(s) are located on the other side of this median plane P. Preferably, the median plane P is located on (contains), or is in the immediate vicinity of, the axis X of the duct 1. This allows for an efficient distribution of heat exchange within the duct 1.

[0070] According to another feature, the U-shaped junction 3c may comprise a single U-shaped passage (or, in other words, a single chamber), preferably formed by a single U-shaped conduit 30c, common to all the channels (3a) of the relevant duct unit, and a fitting 31c having an inlet in the U-shaped passage connected to the junction end of the supply segment and an outlet of the U-shaped passage connected to the junction end of the return segment of each channel 3a. This simplifies the structure of the heat exchanger 3 when it is provided according to the present invention to comprise a plurality of channels 3a for transporting the heat transfer fluid through the heat exchanger 3, reduces pressure losses, and ensures a uniform distribution of the heat transfer fluid through all the channels 3a, thus improving the efficiency of the heat transfer.

[0071] Still considering the series arrangement of several duct units, it is understood that, on the one hand, the supply segments of the heat exchangers 3 of the duct units are connected to each other and, on the other hand, the return segments of the heat exchangers 3 of the duct units are connected to each other so as to ensure continuous circulation of the heat transfer fluid in the supply segments and then in the return segments. Preferably, to allow the return of the heat transfer fluid, the present invention may provide that the U-shaped junction 3c is mounted in the last duct unit in the series.

[0072] Preferably, the fluid outlet of the power source can be connected to one of the ends of the go segment(s) of the first duct unit in the series and the fluid return inlet of the power source can be connected to one of the ends of the return segment(s) of the first duct unit in the series.

[0073] Preferably, the inlet and outlet of the heat transfer fluid in or of the heat exchanger can be located at one end of the main duct 1. Preferably, the fan 2 and / or the U-shaped junction 3c can be located at the other end of the main duct 1 (Figures 1 and 3).

[0074] According to a particular embodiment of the heat transfer means of the heat exchanger 3 of the duct unit(s), as can be seen in particular in Figures 4 to 5, the heat transfer means may comprise the wall 3b of the channel(s) 3a. Preferably, as can be seen in particular in Figures 2 to 6, the heat transfer means may further comprise heat transfer fins 3d in thermal contact with the external surface of the wall 3b of the channel 3a or of the wall 3b of at least one of the channels 3a. Preferably, the heat transfer fins 3d may be fixed to, or, as shown in Figures 2 to 6, integrated into, the wall 3b of the channel 3a or channels 3a. The term "integrated" means that the 3d fins can come from a single piece or from molding with the 3b wall of the 3a channel or the wall of at least one of the 3a channels.Preferably, the 3D heat transfer fins can each extend in a plane parallel to the X-axis of duct 1 or to the median P-plane of the heat exchanger mentioned above. The 3D heat transfer fins allow for efficient heat transfer by conduction by increasing the exchange surface area with the pulsed airflow, thus improving heat dissipation and maximizing heat transfer.

[0075] As can also be seen in Figures 2 to 6, the 3D heat transfer fins can take different forms. Each can be a flat plate. The 3D heat transfer fins can form a structure defining longitudinal openings created by the spaces separating the 3D heat transfer fins, allowing the passage of the pulsed airflow between and in contact with the 3D heat transfer fins. These longitudinal openings can have various cross-sectional shapes, for example, rectangular or triangular. This configuration increases the contact area with the pulsed airflow passing through the longitudinal openings, thus further improving the heat transfer efficiency in the duct or each duct unit.

[0076] More preferably, as can also be seen in Figures 2 to 6, the heat transfer means of the cladding unit(s) may further comprise a heat transfer tube 3e, the wall of which, preferably cylindrical, has an internal heat transfer surface 30e delimiting the internal space 31e of the heat transfer tube 3e. Furthermore, the heat transfer fins 3d may extend The internal space 31e of the heat transfer tube 3e and the internal heat transfer surface 30e can be in thermal contact with the heat transfer fins 3d, or a number of them. It is understood that the internal heat transfer surface 30e of the tube 3e can be in thermal contact with all, or a number, preferably the majority, of the heat transfer fins 3d, as can be seen in Figures 2 to 6. This ensures more favorable heat transfer. Preferably, the axis of the heat transfer tube 3e coincides with the axis of the heat exchanger 3 and / or the X-axis of the duct 1.

[0077] According to another feature of the heat transfer tube 3e, its internal surface 30e (in the relevant sheath unit(s)) can be fixed to the heat transfer fins 3d, or the wall of the tube 3e can be formed in one piece or molded with them. This improves the structural stability of the assembly and ensures optimal thermal contact between the heat transfer tube 3e and the heat transfer fins 3d, further increasing heat transfer efficiency.

[0078] It can be seen more particularly in Figures 2 to 6 that the internal surface 30e of the tube 3a is in thermal contact with, or fixed to, an end edge of the heat transfer fins 3d. This end edge is preferably parallel to the axis of the tube 3a and / or the X-axis of the sheath 1.

[0079] According to another additional feature, as can be seen in particular in Figures 2, 4 to 6, the heat transfer tube 3e (of the heat exchanger 3 of the corresponding duct unit(s)) may further comprise one or more slots 32e formed longitudinally in the wall of the heat transfer tube 3e, preferably extending along the entire length of the heat transfer tube 3e, preferably parallel to the axis of the tube 3e and / or to the X-axis of the duct 1. The slot(s) 32e allow at least one longitudinal passage through and along the wall of the heat transfer tube 3e for the forced airflow. This improves the circulation of the forced air in the duct 1 along the heat exchanger 3 and increases the efficiency of the heat transfer.

[0080] The present invention may provide that the heat transfer means of the heat exchanger 3 of the duct units are not all identical; for example, at least one of the duct units may not include a heat transfer tube 3e, while the other, or at least one of the other duct units, may include such a heat transfer tube 3e. For example, the heat transfer means of the heat exchanger 3 of at least one of the duct units may include heat transfer fins 3d of a certain shape, while the heat transfer means of the heat exchanger 3 of at least another The duct unit may include 3D heat transfer fins of a different shape. However, preferably, in order to reduce production costs, all duct units may include identical heat transfer means, and more generally, identical heat exchangers.

[0081] Preferably, as can be seen in Figures 5 and 6, the device may further include a condensate recovery system. The condensate recovery system may include at least one condensate recovery element 4, 5, for example, a container suitable for receiving and containing a liquid, for example, in the form of a tray, basin, or trough. Such a condensate recovery system makes it possible to collect, or even use, the condensed water in the duct unit(s).

[0082] In a first embodiment of the device equipped with such a condensate recovery system, the duct unit(s) can be equipped with their own condensate recovery element 4 as can be seen in [Fig. 5],

[0083] In a particular embodiment, the heat recovery element 4 can be located inside the relevant sheath 1. It can, for example, be attached to the heat exchanger 3, as can be seen in [Fig. 5]. Preferably, in the embodiment of the heat transfer means comprising a heat transfer tube 3e, the heat recovery element 4 can be attached to the heat transfer tube 3e of the heat exchanger 3, preferably by extending below the latter, i.e., by being suspended from it.

[0084] In one variant, the recovery element can be disposed outside the duct 1, for example under the corresponding duct unit, particularly when the latter is oriented vertically in operation.

[0085] In this last variant outside the duct 1, where the present invention provides for the series mounting of a plurality of duct units 1, the condensate recovery system may include a condensate recovery element 5 specific to each duct unit, for example by being placed under the corresponding duct unit, particularly when the duct units are oriented vertically in operation as can be seen in [Fig. 6]. One end of each duct unit, i.e., one end of the duct 1 of each duct unit, may then be disposed in or above the corresponding recovery element 5 and may have an opening in its end allowing the condensate to flow by gravity into the recovery element 5. Also in this last variant, as can be seen again in [Fig.6], the present invention may provide that the device comprises a base surmounted by the sheath units, for example the four sheath units of [Fig.6], . oriented vertically, the base includes a drawer incorporating the condensate collection elements 5, each a tray specific to each duct unit. The drawer can be divided into compartments, for example, four compartments, each forming a collection element 5 for receiving the condensate from one of the duct units, for example, one of the four duct units in [Fig. 6]. This allows the operator to remove all the collection elements 5 in a single operation by sliding the drawer out, for example, to easily empty the collection elements 5. The drawer may optionally include a handle or gripping feature to facilitate easier handling by the user. It is understood that the condensate collection element 5 specific to each duct unit can form one end of the duct 1, or lower end (relative to the vertical orientation of the duct in operation).This end forming such a recovery element 5 can therefore be removable or movable and be connected or in contact, preferably in a sealed manner, with the corresponding fixed end of the duct 1 to limit or prevent the pulsed airflow from passing between this removable end and the fixed end of the duct 1 during operation.

[0086] According to a preferred embodiment of the heat transfer means of the heat exchanger 3 of the duct unit(s), as can be seen in Figures 2 to 6, the heat exchanger 3 of the duct unit(s) may consist of a rigid body of complex shape integrating, on the one hand, the channel 3a or channels 3a and, on the other hand, the heat transfer means. The heat exchanger 3 may be made up of two parts, each called a half-heat exchanger 3, which are assembled together. The two parts may be assembled together, for example, by snap-fitting. Each half-heat exchanger 3 may comprise one half-channel or a plurality of half-channels forming (in the assembled state), with the half-channel, or half-channels, of the other half-heat exchanger 3, the channel 3a or channels 3a of the heat exchanger 3.

[0087] Preferably, each half-heat exchanger 3 can then also include a half-heat transfer tube and a part of the heat transfer fins 3d, each half-heat transfer tube forming (in the assembled state), with the other half-heat transfer tube, the corresponding complete heat transfer tube 3e.

[0088] Preferably, when the present invention provides the condensate recovery system, it can also be seen in [Fig.5] that the condensate recovery element 4 can be fixed on one of the heat transfer half-tubes.

[0089] In order to be able to fix the condensate recovery element 4 onto the heat transfer tube 3e, where applicable onto one of the heat transfer half-tubes, it can be seen in [Fig. 5] that the condensate recovery element 4 may comprise two assembly edges 4a, each of which may form an end edge, parallel to the axis of tube 3a, and that tube 3e, where applicable one of the heat transfer half-tubes, may have two longitudinal edges 33e folded, for example outwards, so as to form two grooves, each receiving one of the assembly edges 4a of the condensate recovery element 4. In another embodiment, not shown in the accompanying figures, the two assembly edges may each be assembled to one of the longitudinal edges of one of the slots 32e of tube 3e. Other assembly methods may be envisaged without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0090] In a preferred form, as can be seen in [Fig.5], in particular thanks to the assembly methods described above, the condensate recovery element 4 located inside the duct 1 can be suspended from the heat exchanger 3 by extending under the latter.

[0091] Thus, the device according to the present invention offers several advantages. It allows for efficient transfer of thermal energy between the heat transfer fluid and the forced airflow without mixing them, thanks to the wall 3b of the channels 3a. The heat transfer fins 3d increase the contact surface area for improved heat exchange. The heat transfer tube 3e and its longitudinal slots 32e allow for optimal circulation of the forced air. The condensate recovery element 4 can manage the condensate generated during the cooling or heating process. The two-part heat exchanger 3 facilitates assembly and maintenance of the device.

[0092] In a preferred embodiment, as shown in [Fig. 6], the heat exchanger 3 of the unit or at least one of the duct unit(s) may comprise several heat exchange modules, each forming a portion of the heat exchanger 3. The heat exchange modules are joined together by being fluidically interconnected (or, in other words, in fluidic communication with each other) to allow the heat transfer fluid to flow continuously from one heat exchange module to another. This enables the heat transfer fluid to flow continuously from one heat exchange module to another, thus ensuring increased modularity and flexibility in the design and installation of the device. Furthermore, this configuration facilitates the maintenance and replacement of individual modules without requiring complete disassembly of the heat exchanger.

[0093] Preferably, as can also be seen in [Fig. 6], the channels 3a of the heat exchange modules can be connected to each other via fittings 6. This allows the heat transfer fluid to circulate continuously from one heat exchange module to another, thus ensuring greater modularity and flexibility in the design and installation of the device. Furthermore, this configuration facilitates maintenance and replacement of the modules without requiring disassembly. complete heat exchanger 3. The fittings 6 are configured to ensure a tight and reliable connection between the heat exchange modules, i.e. between the channels 3a of the heat exchange modules, thus improving the overall efficiency of the system.

[0094] Such a fitting 6 can also be used to connect the duct unit(s) to the supply outlet and return inlet of the heat transfer fluid from the supply source.

[0095] Preferably, in the embodiment where the heat exchanger 3 comprises at least one flow segment and at least one return segment, such a fitting 6 connecting two heat exchange modules, namely a first module and a second module, may include a first fluid passage 6a for connecting the flow segment(s) of the first module with the flow segment(s) of the second module and a second fluid passage 6b for connecting the return segment(s) of the first module with the return segment(s) of the second module. Preferably, the first passage 6a may be a single passage / chamber in fluidic communication with all the flow segments and the second passage 6b may be a single passage / chamber in fluidic communication with all the return segments.

[0096] In the present application, the term "thermal contact" between two elements, for example between the tube 3e and the fins 3d or between the fins 3d and the wall 3b of the channels 3a, refers to the point, or surface, where the two elements are in physical contact and where heat can be transferred by conduction from one element to the other. This term is commonly used in thermodynamics.

[0097] The heat exchanger 3, where appropriate in the form comprising the heat exchanger modules, can be fixed, and preferably centered, in the duct 1 by means of fixing means, not shown in the accompanying figures, which may include, for example, fixing tabs fixed both on the heat exchanger 3 and on the wall of the duct 1. Preferably, in the case where the heat exchanger 3 comprises the tube 3e with the longitudinal slots 32e, the fixing tabs can be adapted to be fixed on the heat exchanger 3 by being fixed / hooked on the edges of the relevant slots 32e of the tube 32e.

[0098] The present invention may provide that the cooling or heating device according to the present invention further comprises a filtration system which may include one or more filters, each disposed in the duct or one of the ducts in or at the level of the inlet / outlet opening(s) 1b. Preferably, the filter or at least one of the filters may be disposed in the upper part of the duct 1 or of each relevant duct 1 (oriented vertically). Such a filter may be adapted to retain suspended particles, such as dust, pollen, Mold spores, allergens, and other contaminants are trapped by the filter. This improves air quality: The filter prevents these particles from being redistributed into the room's ambient air, contributing to cleaner, healthier air. By trapping debris and particles, the filter prevents the fouling of internal components such as the fan(s), heat exchanger, and ducts. This extends the system's lifespan and maintains its performance. Such a filter can help limit pathogens and irritants that can cause respiratory problems or allergies, especially in sensitive environments like homes, offices, or hospitals. This type of filter also allows for smoother airflow within the duct, improving its energy efficiency.

[0099] Preferably, access to the shaft 1 of the shaft or each shaft unit, for example for maintenance, repair, or inspection of the shaft 1, may include at least one access hatch having an access opening in the wall of the shaft 1 and a closing device (flap) integrated into the wall of the shaft 1. The flap may be mounted, for example, as pivoting, sliding, or removable. A locking system may be provided for closing the access hatch.

[0100] The present invention also relates to a fluid distribution / diffusion assembly, said assembly comprising at least one distribution / diffusion conduit.

[0101] Such an assembly further includes the cooling or heating device according to the present invention and the distribution / diffusion duct is suitable and intended to receive the pulsed airflow from the device to ensure the distribution of the pulsed airflow to points of use or dissipation distant from the device.

[0102] The distribution / diffusion assembly may further include at least one fluid movement device, such as a fan, disposed in the distribution / diffusion duct(s) and enabling the pulsed airflow from the device according to the present invention to circulate with greater speed / energy.

[0103] Thus the cooling or heating device according to the present invention can perform the heat transfer between the ambient of an interior space and a heat transfer fluid (cooling or heating fluid) to cool or heat the ambient air, then the distribution / diffusion assembly can direct / diffuse the pulsed airflow (cooled or heated ambient airflow) from the cooling or heating device to points of use or dissipation distant from the cooling or heating device.

[0104] The distribution / diffusion duct comprises at least one inlet opening allowing the entry of the forced airflow from the cooling or heating device into the internal space of the duct and at least one outlet opening allowing the forced airflow to exit the duct for diffusion / distribution to points of use or dissipation that are distant from (or outside of) the cooling or heating device.

[0105] The distribution / diffusion duct can be of any shape. It can, for example, comprise two partitions / walls, particularly vertical ones, separated by a space forming the internal space of the duct. One of the partitions / walls can be an internal partition / wall and the other an external partition / wall. The internal partition is in direct contact with the internal space / ambient air of the room in question in the building, and the external partition / wall is the partition in contact with the outside of the room or the one closest to the external space of the room. The forced airflow enters the internal space between the two partitions / walls and is then diffused / distributed into the room to cool or heat it, exiting through the outlet(s) of the distribution / diffusion duct, each of which can be defined as an opening (or gap) extending, for example, between the two internal and external partitions and the ceiling of the room.Furthermore, the presence of the forced airflow in the internal space between the two internal and external partitions creates overpressure, acting as a natural insulating air layer between the two partitions, thus insulating the interior space of the room from the outside and further reducing energy loss in the room, while also allowing, through the diffusion / distribution of the forced airflow, its cooling or heating (depending on the method used: cooling or heating heat transfer fluid).

[0106] Of course, the invention is not limited to the embodiment described and shown in the accompanying drawings. Modifications remain possible, particularly with regard to the composition of the various elements or by substitution of technical equivalents, without departing from the scope of protection of the invention.

Claims

Demands

1. A device for cooling or heating ambient air in an interior space, more particularly an interior space of a building, characterized in that it comprises at least one cooling or heating duct unit, at least one heat transfer fluid supply source, and a ventilation system, the duct unit(s) comprising: - a duct (1), preferably elongated in shape, preferably with a circular or rectangular cross-section, said duct (1) delimiting an internal space (the) allowing the circulation of an airflow within the duct (1) and having at least two airflow inlet / outlet openings (the), - a heat exchanger (3) extending within the internal space (the) of the duct (1) and comprising at least one channel (3a) and heat transfer means, the channel (3a) or channels (3a) being suitable and intended to transport the heat transfer fluid from the supply source and to transfer,thanks to the means of heat transfer, thermal energy is transferred between the heat transfer fluid circulating in the channel(s) (3a) and a pulsed airflow circulating in the duct (1) without mixing them, and in that the ventilation system (2) is suitable and intended to draw ambient air located outside the duct (1) of the duct unit(s), referred to as the main duct (1), through the inlet / outlet opening(s) (la) and to blow the ambient air into the duct (1), referred to as the main duct (1), of the main duct unit to circulate it in the main duct (1) as a pulsed airflow and to expel it outside the latter through its other inlet / outlet opening(s) (la).

2. Cooling or heating device according to claim 1, characterized in that the ventilation system comprises at least one fan (2) located in, or at, one of the inlet / outlet opening(s) (la) of the main duct (1).

3. Cooling or heating device according to any one of claims 1 to 2, characterized in that the channel or each channel (3a) of the heat exchanger (3) of the duct unit(s) comprises two segments, namely a forward segment and a return segment, preferably parallel to the axis (X) of the duct (1), allowing the heat transfer fluid to circulate in the duct (1) in one direction in the forward segment(s) and in the opposite direction in the return segment(s).

4. Cooling or heating device according to claim 3, characterized in that the two supply and return segments of the or each channel (3a) of the heat exchanger (3) are connected to each other, at one of their ends, called the junction end, by a U-shaped junction (3c) ensuring the change of direction and the passage of the heat transfer fluid between the supply segment(s) and the return segment(s).

5. Cooling or heating device according to claim 4, characterized in that the U-junction (3c) comprises a single U-pass, preferably formed by a single U-pipe (30c), common to all channels (3a) of the relevant duct unit and a fitting (31c) comprising an inlet in the U-pass connected to the junction end of the forward segment of each channel (3a) and an outlet of the U-pass connected to the junction end of the return segment of each channel (3a).

6. Cooling or heating device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the channel or each channel (3a) comprises a wall (3b) suitable and intended to separate the heat transfer fluid and the pulsed airflow and in that the heat transfer means of the heat exchanger (3) of the duct unit(s) comprise said wall (3b) and heat transfer fins (3d) in thermal contact with the external surface of the wall (3b) of the channel (3a) or the wall (3b) of at least one of the channels (3a).

7. A cooling or heating device according to claim 6, characterized in that the heat transfer means of the duct unit(s) or at least one of them further comprise a heat transfer tube (3e), the wall of which has an internal heat transfer surface (30e) delimiting the internal space (31e) of the heat transfer tube (3e), and in that the heat transfer fins (3d) extend into the internal space (31e) of the heat transfer tube (3e) and the internal heat transfer surface (30e) is in thermal contact with the (3d) heat transfer fins or a number of (3d) heat transfer fins.

8. Cooling or heating device according to claim 7, characterized in that the heat transfer tube (3e) further comprises one or more longitudinal slot(s) (32e) made in the wall of the heat transfer tube (3e), preferably extending over the entire length of the heat transfer tube (3e), preferably parallel to the axis of the tube (3e) and / or the duct (X) of the duct (1), allowing at least one longitudinal passage through the wall of the heat transfer tube (3e) for the pulsed airflow.

9. Cooling or heating device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the heat exchanger (3) of the duct unit(s) consists of a rigid body of complex shape integrating, on the one hand, the channel (3a) or channels (3a) and, on the other hand, the heat transfer means and in that the heat exchanger (3) is made up of two parts, each called a half-heat exchanger (3), which are assembled with each other, for example by snap-fitting, each half-heat exchanger (3) comprising a half-channel or a plurality of half-channels forming with the half-channel, or half-channels, of the other half-heat exchanger (3) the channel (3a) or channels (3a) of the heat exchanger (3).

10. Cooling or heating device according to claim 9 taken in combination with any one of claims 7 to 8, characterized in that each heat exchanger half (3) further comprises a heat transfer half-tube and a portion of the heat transfer fins (3d), each heat transfer half-tube forming, with the other heat transfer half-tube, the complete heat transfer tube (3e).

11. Cooling or heating device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that it further comprises a condensate recovery system.

12. Cooling or heating device according to claim 11, characterized in that the condensate recovery system comprises at least one condensate recovery element (4), for example a container suitable for receiving and containing a liquid, for example in the form of a tray or basin or trough, located inside of the relevant sheath (1) and fixed on the heat exchanger (3), where appropriate preferably fixed on the heat transfer tube (3e) of the heat exchanger (3).

13. Cooling or heating device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the heat exchanger (3) of the or at least one of the duct unit(s) comprises several heat exchange modules, each forming a portion of the heat exchanger (3), the heat exchange modules being butted together by being fluidly interconnected so as to allow the heat transfer fluid to circulate continuously from one heat exchange module to another.

14. Cooling or heating device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the duct units are arranged by being juxtaposed and / or superimposed with respect to each other and interconnected to form a cooling or heating circuit according to a series arrangement of the duct units, such that: - the heat transfer fluid can circulate, in a forward path, from the first duct unit, preferably the main duct unit, to the following duct units up to the last duct unit in the series, and then, in a return path, in the opposite direction, through the same duct units, - the pulsed airflow generated by the main duct unit circulates from one duct unit to the next to supply pulsed airflow to all the duct units in the series.

15. Cooling or heating device according to claim 14 taken in combination with any one of claims 4 to 5, characterized in that the U-shaped junction (3c) is mounted in the last duct unit of the series to allow the return of the heat transfer fluid.

16. Fluid distribution / diffusion assembly, said assembly comprising at least one distribution / diffusion duct, characterized in that it further comprises the cooling or heating device according to any one of claims 1 to 15 and in that the distribution / diffusion duct is suitable and intended to receive the pulsed airflow from the device to ensure distribution of the pulsed airflow towards points of use or dissipation far from the cooling or heating device.

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