Thermal conditioning system

Abstract

The invention relates to a thermal conditioning system (100) for a motor vehicle, comprising: - a refrigerant circuit (10) including: - a main loop (A) including: - a compressor (7), - a first heat exchanger (1) thermally coupled with an internal airflow (Fi) to the vehicle, - a first expansion valve (31), - a second heat exchanger (2) thermally coupled with the internal airflow (Fi), - a first branch (B) including a third heat exchanger (3) configured to exchange heat with an external airflow (Fe) to the vehicle, - a second branch (C) including successively a second expansion valve (32) and a fourth heat exchanger (4), - a heat transfer fluid circuit (20) including a fifth heat exchanger (5) configured to exchange heat with the external airflow (Fe),in which the fourth exchanger (4) is configured to allow heat exchange between the refrigerant and the heat transfer fluid. Figure from the abstract: Figure 3,

Description

Title of the invention: Thermal conditioning system technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of thermal conditioning systems. Such systems can, for example, be fitted to motor vehicles. These systems ensure thermal regulation of various vehicle components, such as the passenger compartment or an electrical energy storage battery, when the vehicle is electrically powered. Heat exchange is managed primarily by the compression and expansion of a refrigerant circulating in a circuit containing several heat exchangers. A compressor forces the refrigerant into a high-pressure state, allowing its circulation within the circuit. Previous technique

[0002] Chemical refrigerants generally have a high global warming potential (GWP), which is a disadvantage. Carbon dioxide, which by definition has a global warming potential of one, can be used as a refrigerant. To optimize energy efficiency, it is useful to have multiple operating modes available in order to make the best use of the various available heat sources.

[0003] To this end, the refrigerant circuit comprises a set of interconnected branches, including a number of components that direct the refrigerant to different parts of the circuit, depending on the selected operating mode. The refrigerant circuit may therefore include a large number of shut-off valves and expansion valves, which makes its cost high.

[0004] There is therefore a need for a thermal conditioning system with a reduced cost price and enabling the different expected operating modes to be achieved. Summary

[0005] To this end, a thermal conditioning system for motor vehicles is proposed, comprising: - a refrigerant circuit configured to circulate a refrigerant, the refrigerant circuit comprising: — a main loop comprising successively, according to the direction of refrigerant flow: — a compressor, — a first heat exchanger thermally coupled with an airflow inside a vehicle's passenger compartment, — a first regulator, — a second heat exchanger thermally coupled with the airflow inside the vehicle's passenger compartment, — a first branch connecting a first connection point located on the main loop downstream of a compressor outlet and upstream of the first heat exchanger to a second connection point located on the main loop downstream of the first heat exchanger and upstream of the first expansion valve, the first branch comprising a third heat exchanger configured to exchange heat with an external airflow to the vehicle's passenger compartment, — a second branch connecting a third connection point located on the main loop downstream of the second connection point and upstream of the first expansion valve to a fourth connection point located on the main loop downstream of the second heat exchanger and upstream of a compressor inlet, the second branch of the line comprising successively a second expansion valve and a fourth heat exchanger, - a heat transfer fluid circuit configured to circulate a heat transfer fluid, the heat transfer fluid circuit comprising a fifth heat exchanger configured to exchange heat with the outside airflow, in which the fourth heat exchanger is arranged jointly on the second branch of the refrigerant circuit and on the heat transfer fluid circuit, and is configured to permit heat exchange between the refrigerant and the heat transfer fluid.

[0006] The proposed architecture allows for numerous operating modes, enabling the selective heating or cooling of the vehicle's passenger compartment or other vehicle components, while minimizing the number of components required. In particular, the number of expansion valves and the number of valves needed are reduced. More specifically, it is possible to recover heat from the outside air without using a dedicated expansion valve. Indeed, this particular operating mode can be achieved using the expansion valve associated with the fourth heat exchanger. The overall cost of the thermal conditioning system can be reduced.

[0007] The features listed in the following paragraphs can be implemented independently of each other or in any technically possible combination:

[0008] According to one aspect of the proposed thermal conditioning system, the main loop includes a refrigerant fluid accumulation device disposed downstream of the fourth connection point and upstream of a compressor inlet.

[0009] According to another aspect of the proposed thermal conditioning system, the first bypass branch is devoid of a pressure regulator.

[0010] Similarly, the portion of the main loop between the first exchanger and the second connection point is without a pressure regulator.

[0011] According to one embodiment, the fifth exchanger is arranged upstream of the third heat exchanger in a direction of flow of the outside air flow.

[0012] The first heat exchanger is configured to allow heat exchange between the refrigerant fluid and the internal airflow.

[0013] According to one embodiment, the first heat exchanger is configured to exchange heat with a heat transfer fluid circulating in a closed heat transfer fluid circuit, the heat transfer fluid circuit includes a heat exchanger configured to exchange heat with the airflow inside the vehicle's passenger compartment.

[0014] The second heat exchanger is configured to allow heat exchange between the refrigerant fluid and the internal airflow.

[0015] The second exchanger is arranged upstream of the first heat exchanger in a direction of flow of the internal airflow.

[0016] The fourth heat exchanger is thermally coupled with a first element of an electric traction chain of the vehicle.

[0017] The first element of the electric traction chain can thus be selectively cooled or heated.

[0018] The fourth heat exchanger is thermally coupled with a second element of the vehicle's electric powertrain.

[0019] Similarly, the second element of the electric traction chain can thus be selectively cooled or heated.

[0020] According to one embodiment of the proposed thermal conditioning system, the refrigerant circuit includes an internal heat exchanger configured to allow heat exchange between: - the refrigerant circulating in the first branch of the bypass between the third heat exchanger and the second connection point, and - the refrigerant circulating in the main loop between the accumulation device and the compressor inlet.

[0021] In this configuration, the internal exchanger is active in all operating modes, which improves the performance of the thermal conditioning system.

[0022] The internal heat exchanger includes a first heat exchange section arranged on the first branch of the bypass between the third exchanger and the second connection point. The internal heat exchanger has a second heat exchange section located on the main loop downstream of the accumulator and upstream of the compressor inlet. The internal heat exchanger is configured to allow heat exchange between the refrigerant in the first heat exchange section and the refrigerant in the second heat exchange section.

[0023] According to a variant of the thermal conditioning system, the main loop of the refrigerant circuit includes an internal heat exchanger configured to allow heat exchange between: - the refrigerant circulating between the second connection point and the third connection point, and - the refrigerant fluid downstream of the accumulation device and upstream of a compressor inlet.

[0024] This configuration allows the internal exchanger not to be traversed in certain operating modes, which makes it possible to reduce the pressure loss of the circuit in these operating modes.

[0025] The internal heat exchanger includes a first heat exchange section arranged on the main loop between the second connection point and the third connection point. The internal heat exchanger has a second heat exchange section located on the main loop downstream of the accumulator and upstream of the compressor inlet.

[0026] The internal heat exchanger is configured to allow heat exchange between the refrigerant in the first heat exchange section and the refrigerant in the second heat exchange section.

[0027] According to one embodiment of the thermal conditioning system, the refrigerant circuit includes a three-way valve arranged jointly on the main loop and on the first branch of the bypass.

[0028] The three-way valve is configured to selectively: - allow the refrigerant from the compressor to circulate in the main loop towards the first heat exchanger and simultaneously prohibit refrigerant circulation in the first bypass branch, or - allow the refrigerant from the compressor to flow in the first branch of the bypass towards the third exchanger and simultaneously prohibit refrigerant flow in the main loop towards the first exchanger.

[0029] According to one embodiment, the three-way valve is integrated into the compressor.

[0030] According to one embodiment, the thermal conditioning system comprises a third branch connecting a fifth connection point located on the main loop downstream of the first connection point and upstream of the first exchanger to a sixth connection point located on the main loop downstream of the fourth connection point and upstream of the refrigerant accumulation device, the third branch including a third expansion valve.

[0031] The third branch of the bypass allows refrigerant gas to be injected in the form of superheated vapor, in order to increase the heating power of the thermal conditioning system.

[0032] According to another embodiment, the thermal conditioning system includes a third branch connecting a fifth connection point located on the main loop downstream of the compressor and upstream of the first connection point to a sixth connection point located on the main loop downstream of the fourth connection point and upstream of the refrigerant accumulation device, the third branch including a third expansion valve.

[0033] According to one embodiment of the thermal conditioning system, the main loop includes a sixth heat exchanger thermally coupled with the outside airflow and thermally coupled with the first element of the electric traction chain.

[0034] The sixth exchanger thus allows, in certain operating modes, for a first cooling of the refrigerant fluid to be carried out, before the cooling carried out by the third exchanger. The sixth exchanger also allows, in other operating modes, the heating of the first element of the electric traction chain.

[0035] The sixth heat exchanger is arranged jointly on the main loop of the refrigerant circuit and on the heat transfer fluid circuit, and is configured to allow heat exchange between the refrigerant and the heat transfer fluid.

[0036] The main loop of the refrigerant circuit includes a first one-way valve disposed downstream of the first exchanger and upstream of the second connection point, the first one-way valve being configured to allow refrigerant to circulate through the first one-way valve only from the first exchanger to the second connection point.

[0037] The main loop of the refrigerant circuit includes a second one-way valve disposed downstream of the second exchanger and upstream of the fourth connection point, the second one-way valve being configured to allow refrigerant flow through the second one-way valve only from the second exchanger to the fourth connection point.

[0038] The first branch of the refrigerant circuit includes a third one-way valve disposed downstream of the third exchanger and upstream of the second connection point, the third one-way valve being configured to allow refrigerant flow through the third one-way valve only from the third exchanger to the second connection point.

[0039] The third one-way valve arranged on the first branch of the bypass downstream of the internal exchanger and upstream of the second connection point.

[0040] Each one-way valve can be a check valve.

[0041] Alternatively, each of the one-way valves can be an electrically operated valve.

[0042] According to one embodiment, the heat transfer fluid circuit comprises a primary heat transfer fluid circulation loop, the primary loop comprising successively a first circulation pump, a heat transfer fluid heating device, the fourth heat exchanger, a first element of the vehicle's electric traction chain.

[0043] The first circulation pump is, for example, a unidirectional pump.

[0044] The heat transfer fluid circuit includes a secondary heat transfer fluid circulation loop, the secondary loop successively comprising a second circulation pump, a second element of the vehicle's electric drive chain, and the fifth heat exchanger.

[0045] The second circulation pump is, for example, a unidirectional pump.

[0046] The first element of the vehicle's electric drive chain may include an electrical energy storage battery.

[0047] The second element of the vehicle's electric drive chain may include a vehicle electric traction motor.

[0048] In addition, or alternatively, the second element of the vehicle's electric traction chain includes an electronic control unit for the vehicle's electric traction motor.

[0049] The heat transfer fluid circuit includes a first branch connecting the primary loop to the secondary loop, the first branch connecting to a first connection point located on the primary loop downstream of the first element of the electric traction chain and upstream of the first circulation pump to a second connection point located on the secondary loop downstream of the fifth interchange and upstream of the second circulation pump.

[0050] The heat transfer fluid circuit includes a second branch connecting the primary loop to the secondary loop, the second branch connecting a third connection point located on the primary loop downstream of the first element of the electric traction chain and upstream of the first connection point to a fourth connection point located on the secondary loop downstream of the second element of the electric traction chain and upstream of the fifth exchanger.

[0051] The heat transfer fluid circuit includes a third branch connecting the primary loop to the secondary loop, the third branch connecting a fifth connection point located on the primary loop downstream of the heat transfer fluid heating device and upstream of the fourth exchanger to a sixth connection point located on the secondary loop downstream of the second element of the electric traction chain and upstream of the fourth connection point.

[0052] The heat transfer fluid circuit includes a fourth branch branch arranged on the primary loop in parallel with the first element of the electric traction chain.

[0053] The heat transfer fluid circuit includes a fourth branch connecting a seventh connection point located on the primary loop downstream of the fourth exchanger and upstream of the first element of the traction chain to an eighth connection point located on the primary loop downstream of the first element of the electric traction chain and upstream of the third connection point.

[0054] According to one embodiment of the thermal conditioning system, the heat transfer fluid circuit includes a first three-way valve arranged jointly on the primary loop and on the second branch of the bypass.

[0055] The first three-way valve is configured to selectively: - allow the heat transfer fluid from the eighth connection point to flow in the primary loop towards the first connection point and simultaneously prohibit the flow of heat transfer fluid in the second branch, or - allow the heat transfer fluid from the eighth connection point to flow in the second branch of the bypass towards the fourth connection point and simultaneously prohibit a flow of heat transfer fluid in the primary loop towards the first connection point.

[0056] According to one embodiment of the thermal conditioning system, the heat transfer fluid circuit includes a second three-way valve arranged jointly on the secondary loop and on the third branch of the bypass.

[0057] The second three-way valve is configured to selectively: - allow the heat transfer fluid from the second element of the traction chain to circulate in the secondary loop towards the fourth connection point and simultaneously prohibit the circulation of heat transfer fluid in the third branch of the bypass, or - allow the heat transfer fluid from the second element of the traction chain to flow in the third branch of the bypass towards the fifth connection point and simultaneously prohibit a flow of heat transfer fluid in the secondary loop towards the fourth connection point.

[0058] According to one embodiment of the thermal conditioning system, the heat transfer fluid circuit includes a third three-way valve arranged jointly on the primary loop and on the fourth branch of the bypass.

[0059] The third three-way valve is configured to selectively: - to allow the heat transfer fluid from the fourth heat exchanger to circulate in the secondary loop towards the first element of the traction chain and simultaneously to prohibit the circulation of heat transfer fluid in the fourth bypass branch, or - allow the heat transfer fluid from the fourth exchanger to flow in the fourth branch of the bypass towards the eighth connection point and simultaneously prohibit a flow of heat transfer fluid in the primary loop towards the first element of the traction chain.

[0060] According to one embodiment, the third three-way valve is a proportional valve.

[0061] According to one embodiment, the third three-way valve is a two-position valve, known as an on / off valve.

[0062] According to one embodiment, the heat transfer fluid circuit comprises a primary heat transfer fluid circulation loop, the primary loop comprising successively a first circulation pump, a heat transfer fluid heating device, the fourth heat exchanger, a first element of the vehicle's electric traction chain.

[0063] The heat transfer fluid circuit includes a secondary heat transfer fluid circulation loop, the secondary loop successively comprising a second circulation pump, a second element of the vehicle's electric drive chain, and the fifth heat exchanger.

[0064] In this embodiment, the fifth exchanger is arranged downstream of the third exchanger in a direction of flow of the outside air flow.

[0065] The heat transfer fluid circuit includes a first branch connecting the primary loop to the secondary loop, the first branch connecting a first connection point located on the primary loop downstream of the first element of the electric traction chain and upstream of the first circulation pump to a second connection point located on the secondary loop downstream of the fifth exchanger and upstream of the second circulation pump.

[0066] The heat transfer fluid circuit includes a second branch connecting the primary loop to the secondary loop, the second branch connecting a third connection point located on the primary loop downstream of the fourth heat exchanger and upstream of the first element of the electric traction chain to a fourth connection point located on the secondary loop downstream of the second circulation pump and upstream of the second element of the electric traction chain.

[0067] The heat transfer fluid circuit includes a third branch connecting the primary loop to the secondary loop, the third branch connecting a fifth connection point located on the primary loop downstream of the first traction chain element and upstream of the first connection point to a sixth connection point located on the secondary loop downstream of the second connection point and upstream of the second circulation pump.

[0068] The heat transfer fluid circuit includes a fourth branch connecting a seventh connection point located on the primary loop downstream of the third connection point and upstream of the first element of the traction chain to an eighth connection point located on the primary loop downstream of the fifth connection point and upstream of the first connection point.

[0069] The heat transfer fluid circuit includes a fifth branch connecting a ninth connection point located on the secondary loop downstream of the second circulation pump and upstream of the fourth connection point to a tenth connection point located on the secondary loop downstream of the second element of the electric traction chain and upstream of the fifth exchanger, the fifth branch comprising the sixth heat exchanger.

[0070] The heat transfer fluid circuit includes a sixth branch connecting an eleventh connection point located on the fifth branch downstream of the sixth heat exchanger and upstream of the tenth connection point to a twelfth connection point located on the primary loop downstream of the seventh connection point and upstream of the first element of the electric traction chain.

[0071] According to this embodiment of the thermal conditioning system, the heat transfer fluid circuit includes a first three-way valve arranged jointly on the secondary loop and on the second branch of the bypass.

[0072] The first three-way valve is configured to selectively: - allow the heat transfer fluid from the ninth connection point to flow in the secondary loop towards the tenth connection point and simultaneously prohibit the flow of heat transfer fluid in the second branch of the bypass, or - allow the heat transfer fluid from the third connection point to flow in the secondary loop towards the second element of the traction chain and jointly prohibit a flow of heat transfer fluid in the secondary loop towards the ninth connection point.

[0073] According to one embodiment of the thermal conditioning system, the heat transfer fluid circuit includes a second three-way valve arranged jointly on the primary loop and on the third branch of the bypass.

[0074] The second three-way valve is configured to selectively: - allow the heat transfer fluid from the first element of the traction chain to circulate in the primary loop towards the eighth connection point and simultaneously prohibit the circulation of heat transfer fluid in the third branch of the bypass, or - allow the heat transfer fluid from the first element of the traction chain to flow in the third branch of the bypass towards the sixth connection point and simultaneously prohibit a flow of heat transfer fluid in the primary loop towards the eighth connection point.

[0075] According to this embodiment, the heat transfer fluid circuit includes a third three-way valve arranged jointly on the fifth branch and on the sixth branch.

[0076] The third three-way valve is configured to selectively: - to allow the heat transfer fluid from the sixth heat exchanger to flow in the fifth branch of the bypass towards the tenth connection point and simultaneously to prohibit the flow of heat transfer fluid in the sixth branch of the bypass, or - allow the heat transfer fluid from the sixth exchanger to flow in the sixth branch of the bypass towards the twelfth connection point and simultaneously prohibit the flow of heat transfer fluid in the fifth branch of the bypass towards the tenth connection point.

[0077] The primary loop of the heat transfer fluid circuit includes a first two-way valve located downstream of the seventh connection point and upstream of the twelfth connection point. The sixth branch of the heat transfer fluid circuit includes a second two-way valve located downstream of the seventh connection point and upstream of the eighth connection point.

[0078] The invention also relates to a method of operating a thermal conditioning system as described above, in a so-called "heat pump" mode in which: - a flow of refrigerant circulates in the compressor where it passes through a high pressure, and circulates in the main loop, successively in the first heat exchanger where it gives heat to the internal airflow, in the second expansion valve where it undergoes expansion and passes through a low pressure lower than the high pressure, in the fourth heat exchanger where it receives heat from the heat transfer fluid, in the accumulation device and returns to the compressor, - a flow of heat transfer fluid circulates successively in the second element of the traction chain, in the fourth exchanger where it gives up heat to the refrigerant fluid, in the fifth exchanger where it receives heat from the outside air flow, and returns to the second circulation pump.

[0079] The refrigerant cools in the first exchanger, which allows the interior airflow and therefore the vehicle's passenger compartment to be heated. The refrigerant then evaporates in the fourth exchanger, with the heat of vaporization being supplied by the heat transfer fluid in the circuit. The heat transfer fluid, cooled by the evaporation of the refrigerant in the fourth heat exchanger, then circulates through the fifth heat exchanger and is heated by heat exchange with the outside air. The vehicle's interior can thus be heated using heat extracted from the outside airflow.

[0080] The invention also relates to a method of operating a thermal conditioning system as described above, in a so-called "parallel dehumidification with assistance" mode in which: - an initial flow of refrigerant circulates in the compressor where it is under high pressure, and circulates in the main loop, successively in the first heat exchanger where it transfers heat to the internal airflow, and divides into: — a second flow circulating in the main loop, successively in the first expansion valve where it undergoes expansion and passes to a low pressure lower than the high pressure, in the second exchanger where it receives heat from the internal airflow, and — a third flow circulating in the second bypass branch, successively in the second expansion valve where it undergoes expansion and passes to low pressure, in the fourth exchanger where it receives heat from the heat transfer fluid, and rejoins the refrigerant flow from the second exchanger, the total flow formed circulates in the accumulation device and returns to the compressor, - an initial flow of heat transfer fluid circulates in the first circulation pump, and then circulates in the heating device where it receives heat, - a second flow of heat transfer fluid circulates in the second pump, circulates in the second element of the traction chain, and joins the heat transfer fluid from the heating device; the total flow formed circulates successively in the fourth exchanger where it transfers heat to the refrigerant, in the fifth exchanger where it receives heat from the outside airflow, and is divided into: - the first flow of heat transfer fluid returning to the first pump, and - the second flow of heat transfer fluid returning to the second pump.

[0081] The refrigerant cools in the first exchanger, which allows the interior airflow and therefore the vehicle's passenger compartment to be heated. Part of the refrigerant then evaporates in the second heat exchanger, cooling the indoor airflow. This dehumidifies the indoor airflow. Another part of the refrigerant evaporates in the fourth heat exchanger. In this operating mode, the heating system is activated and heats the heat transfer fluid circulating in the circuit. The heat transferred between the heat transfer fluid and the refrigerant at the fourth heat exchanger can thus be increased, thereby increasing the heat output supplied to the interior airflow. Furthermore, heat losses from the second element of the powertrain are recovered to heat the passenger compartment.

[0082] In an alternative to this mode, the second pump is stopped and the second flow rate of heat transfer fluid is zero. The first flow rate of heat transfer fluid is then equal to the total flow rate of heat transfer fluid.

[0083] The invention further relates to a method of operating a thermal conditioning system as described above, in a so-called "first assisted heat pump mode" in which: - a flow of refrigerant circulates in the compressor where it is under high pressure, and circulates in the main loop, successively in the first heat exchanger where it transfers heat to the internal airflow, in the second expansion valve where it undergoes expansion and passes to a lower pressure than the high pressure, in the fourth exchanger where it receives heat from the heat transfer fluid, in the accumulation device and returns to the compressor, - an initial flow of heat transfer fluid circulates in the first circulation pump, and then circulates in the heating device where it receives heat, - a second flow of heat transfer fluid circulates in the second circulation pump, circulates in the second element of the traction chain, and joins the heat transfer fluid coming from the heating device, The total flow formed circulates successively through the fourth exchanger where it transfers heat to the refrigerant, through the fifth exchanger where it receives heat from the outside air flow, and is divided into: - the first flow of heat transfer fluid returning to the first pump, and - the second flow of heat transfer fluid returning to the second pump.

[0084] In an alternative to this mode, the second pump is stopped and the second flow rate of heat transfer fluid is zero. The first flow rate of heat transfer fluid is then equal to the total flow rate of heat transfer fluid.

[0085] The invention further relates to a method of operating a thermal conditioning system as described above, in a so-called "second assisted heat pump mode" in which: - a flow of refrigerant circulates in the compressor where it passes through a high pressure, and circulates in the main loop, successively in the first heat exchanger where it gives heat to the internal airflow, in the second expansion valve where it undergoes expansion and passes through a low pressure lower than the high pressure, in the fourth heat exchanger where it receives heat from the heat transfer fluid, in the accumulation device and returns to the compressor, - a first flow of heat transfer fluid circulates in the first circulation pump, and circulates successively in the heating device where it receives heat, in the fourth exchanger where it gives heat to the refrigerant, and returns to the first circulation pump without circulating in the first element of the traction chain, - a second flow of heat transfer fluid circulates in the second circulation pump, and circulates successively in the second element of the traction chain, in the fifth exchanger, and returns to the second circulation pump.

[0086] As in the previous operating mode, the heating device is activated and heats the heat transfer fluid. The heat transferred between the heat transfer fluid and the refrigerant at the fourth heat exchanger can thus be increased. The heat supplied to the interior airflow can therefore be increased, resulting in faster heating of the vehicle's passenger compartment.

[0087] The invention also relates to a method of operating a thermal conditioning system as described above, in a so-called "battery heating" mode in which: - an initial flow of refrigerant circulates in the compressor where it is under high pressure, circulates in the main loop, and splits into: — a second flow circulating successively in the first exchanger, in the second expansion valve where it undergoes expansion and passes to a low pressure lower than the high pressure, in the fourth exchanger where it releases heat from the heat transfer fluid, and — a third flow circulating in the third bypass branch, in the third expansion valve where it undergoes expansion and drops to low pressure, and joins the refrigerant coming from the fourth exchanger, The total flow produced circulates through the accumulation device and returns to the compressor. - an initial flow of heat transfer fluid circulates in the first circulation pump, and then circulates successively through the heating system without receiving heat, through the fourth heat exchanger where it receives heat from the refrigerant, and returns to the first circulation pump, - a second flow of heat transfer fluid circulates in the second circulation pump, and circulates successively in the second element of the traction chain, in the fifth exchanger, and returns to the second circulation pump.

[0088] The low-pressure refrigerant exiting the second expansion valve heats the heat transfer fluid in the fourth heat exchanger, and the hot heat transfer fluid heats the coil. The refrigerant exits the fourth heat exchanger at low pressure and in a two-phase state. The injection of hot, low-pressure refrigerant at the outlet of the third expansion valve maintains a low-pressure level suitable for heating the heat transfer fluid by the refrigerant in the fourth heat exchanger, and completes the thermodynamic cycle, meaning that the refrigerant is essentially in liquid / vapor equilibrium at the inlet of the accumulator.

[0089] According to an example of implementation of this operating mode, the refrigerant circulates in the first exchanger without exchanging heat with the internal airflow.

[0090] Thus, the heat given to the heat transfer fluid at the level of the fourth exchanger can be increased, which makes it possible to accelerate the heating of the battery.

[0091] According to an example of an implementation of this operating mode, the flow of heat transfer fluid from the fourth exchanger is divided into: - a third flow circulating in the first element of the traction chain, and - a fourth flow avoiding the first element of the traction chain and joining the heat transfer fluid from the first element of the traction chain, the total flow formed returns to the first circulation pump.

[0092] The flow rate of heat transfer fluid circulating in the first element of the traction chain can be adjusted between 0% and 100% of the flow rate of heat transfer fluid coming from the fourth exchanger. The battery can thus be heated. Brief description of the drawings

[0093] Other features, details and advantages will become apparent upon reading the detailed description below, and upon analysis of the accompanying drawings, on which:

[0094] [Fig-1] is a schematic view of a thermal conditioning system according to a first embodiment of the invention,

[0095] [Fig.2] is a schematic view of a thermal conditioning system according to a second embodiment of the invention,

[0096] [Fig.3] is a schematic view of a thermal conditioning system according to a first variant of the second embodiment,

[0097] [Fig.4] is a schematic view of a thermal conditioning system according to a third embodiment of the invention,

[0098] [Fig.5] is a schematic view of a thermal conditioning system according to a second variant of the second embodiment of the invention,

[0099] [Fig.6] is a schematic view of a thermal conditioning system according to a fourth embodiment of the invention,

[0100] [Fig.7] is a detailed view of the heat transfer fluid circuit of a system of thermal conditioning as shown in figures 1 to 5,

[0101] [Fig.8] is a detailed view of the heat transfer fluid circuit of a system of thermal conditioning according to the fourth embodiment, illustrated in [Fig.6],

[0102] [Fig.9] is a schematic view of the thermal conditioning system of the [Fig.3], operating according to a first mode of operation, called heat pump mode,

[0103] [Fig. 10] is a schematic view of the thermal conditioning system of [Fig. 3], operating according to a second operating mode, called parallel dehumidification mode with assistance,

[0104] [Fig. 11] is a schematic view of the thermal conditioning system of [Fig. 3], operating according to a third operating mode, called the first heat pump mode with assistance,

[0105] [Fig. 12] is a schematic view of the thermal conditioning system of [Fig. 3], operating according to a fourth operating mode, called the second heat pump mode with assistance,

[0106] [Fig. 13] is a schematic view of the thermal conditioning system of [Fig.4], operating according to a fifth operating mode, called battery heating mode. Description of the implementation methods

[0107] To facilitate reading the figures, the different elements are not necessarily shown 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 any priority of one element or parameter over another, and the designations may be interchanged.

[0108] In the following description, the expression "a first element upstream of a second element" means that the first element is placed before the second element with respect to the direction of flow, or path, of a fluid. Similarly, the term "a first element downstream of a second element" means that the first element is placed after the second element with respect to the direction of flow, or path, of the fluid in question. In the case of the refrigerant circuit, the term "a first element is upstream of a second element" means that the refrigerant flows successively through the first element, then the second element, without passing through the compression device. In other words, the refrigerant exits the compression device, possibly passes through one or more elements, then passes through the first element, then the second element, and then returns to the compression device, possibly after passing through other elements..

[0109] The expression "a second element is placed between a first element and a third element" means that the shortest path to go from the first element to the third element or from the third element to the first element passes through the second element.

[0110] When it is specified that a subsystem includes a given element, this does not exclude the presence of other elements in that subsystem.

[0111] The thermal conditioning system 100 that will be described includes an electronic control unit receiving information from various sensors measuring, in particular, the characteristics of the refrigerant at various points in the circuit. The unit The electronic control unit also receives instructions from the vehicle occupants, such as the desired cabin temperature. It can also receive instructions from other electronic subsystems, such as the battery management system. The electronic control unit implements control laws to operate the various actuators, ensuring that the climate control system is controlled in a way that adheres to the received instructions.

[0112] A compression device 7, also called a compressor, allows a refrigerant to circulate in a refrigerant circulation circuit 10. The compression device 7 can be an electric compressor, that is, a compressor whose moving parts are driven by an electric motor. The compression device 7 has a low-pressure refrigerant intake side, also called the inlet 7a of the compression device, and a high-pressure refrigerant discharge side, also called the outlet 7b of the compression device 7. The internal moving parts of the compressor 7 cause the refrigerant to pass from a low pressure at the inlet 7a to a high pressure at the outlet 7b. After expansion in one or more expansion chambers and circulation in at least part of the circuit, the refrigerant returns to the inlet 7a of the compressor 7 and begins a new thermodynamic cycle.

[0113] The refrigerant circuit 10 forms a closed circuit in which the refrigerant can circulate. The refrigerant circuit 10 is leak-proof when it is in its nominal operating condition, i.e., without any faults or leaks. Each connection point of the circuit 10 allows the refrigerant to flow into one or the other of the circuit sections that converge at that connection point. The distribution of the refrigerant between the circuit sections that converge at a connection point is achieved by opening or closing the shut-off valves, check valves, or expansion devices included on each of these sections. In other words, each connection point is a means of redirecting the refrigerant arriving at that connection point.Various shut-off valves and check valves thus allow the refrigerant to be selectively directed into the different branches of the refrigerant circuit, in order to ensure different operating modes, as will be described later.

[0114] The refrigerant used by the refrigerant circuit 10 is a natural refrigerant, such as R744. R290 can also be used. It is also possible to use a chemical refrigerant, such as R1234yf or R134a.

[0115] Each refrigerant expansion device, also called an expansion valve, can be an electronic expansion valve. In an electronic expansion valve, the passage cross-section The flow of refrigerant can be continuously adjusted between a fully closed position and a fully open position. An electronic control module drives an electric motor that moves a movable damper, thus controlling the cross-sectional area available to the refrigerant. Closed-loop control of the damper's position regulates the refrigerant flow rate through the expansion valve.

[0116] Interior airflow refers to the flow of air directed towards the passenger compartment of a motor vehicle. Interior airflow may circulate within a heating, ventilation, and / or air conditioning (HVAC) system. A vehicle may be equipped with several HVAC systems. For example, one system may manage the front area of ​​the passenger compartment, and a second system may manage the rear area. These installations have not been shown in the various figures. One or more motor-fan units, not shown, are located in each heating, ventilation and / or air conditioning system in order to increase, if necessary, the flow rate of the indoor air supplied by that system.

[0117] The term "external airflow Fe" refers to an airflow that is not directed towards the vehicle's passenger compartment. In other words, this airflow Fe remains outside the vehicle's passenger compartment. Another motor-fan assembly, also not shown, can be activated to increase the flow rate of the external airflow Fe if necessary. The airflow provided by each of the motor-fan groups can be adjusted in real time according to the heat exchange requirements, for example by the electronic control unit of the thermal conditioning system 100.

[0118] The term "first exchanger" is equivalent to the term "first heat exchanger". Similarly, the term "internal exchanger" is equivalent to the term "internal heat exchanger". The term "storage device" is equivalent to the term "refrigerant storage device".

[0119] The heat transfer fluid circuit(s) also form one or more closed and sealed circuits in which a heat transfer fluid can circulate. The heat transfer fluid can be, for example, a mixture of water and glycol.

[0120] A first embodiment of a thermal conditioning system 100 for a motor vehicle is shown in [Fig.1]. The thermal conditioning system 100 includes a refrigerant fluid circuit 10 configured to circulate a refrigerant fluid. The refrigerant circuit 10 comprises a main loop A consisting successively, according to the direction of refrigerant flow: - a 7-inch compressor, - a first heat exchanger 1 thermally coupled with an internal airflow Fi to a vehicle passenger compartment, - a first regulator 31, - a second heat exchanger 2 thermally coupled with the internal airflow Fi to the vehicle's passenger compartment. The refrigerant circuit 10 includes a first branch B connecting: - a first connection point 11 located on the main loop A downstream of an outlet 7b of the compressor 7 and upstream of the first heat exchanger 1, at - a second connection point 12 arranged on the main loop A downstream of the first heat exchanger 1 and upstream of the first expansion valve 31, the first branch branch B comprising a third heat exchanger 3 configured to exchange heat with an outside airflow Fe to the vehicle's passenger compartment. The refrigerant circuit 10 includes a second branch C connecting: - a third connection point 13 located on the main loop A downstream of the second connection point 12 and upstream of the first regulator 31, at - a fourth connection point 14 arranged on the main loop A downstream of the second exchanger 2 and upstream of an inlet 7a of the compressor 7, the second branch C comprising successively a second expansion valve 32 and a fourth heat exchanger 4. The fourth heat exchanger 4 is thermally coupled with a first element 25 of an electric traction chain of the vehicle. The thermal conditioning system 100 includes a heat transfer fluid circuit 20 configured to circulate a heat transfer fluid, the heat transfer fluid circuit 20 having a fifth exchanger 5 configured to exchange heat with the outside airflow Fe. The fourth heat exchanger 4 is arranged jointly on the second branch of the refrigerant circuit C and on the heat transfer fluid circuit 20, and is configured to allow heat exchange between the refrigerant and the heat transfer fluid.

[0121] The proposed architecture allows for numerous operating modes, enabling the selective heating or cooling of the vehicle's passenger compartment or other vehicle components, while minimizing the number of components required. In particular, the number of expansion valves and the number of valves needed are reduced. More specifically, it is possible to recover heat from the outside air Fe without using a specific expansion valve for this function. Indeed, this mode A particular operating procedure can be achieved by using the second expansion valve 32, which is associated with the fourth heat exchanger 4. The cost of the thermal conditioning system 100 can be reduced compared to a conditioning system requiring an additional expansion valve.

[0122] The main loop A includes a refrigerant fluid accumulation device 9 disposed downstream of the fourth connection point 14 and upstream of an inlet 7a of the compressor 7. The accumulation device 9, called accumulator, makes it possible to compensate for variations in the quantity of refrigerant circulating in the refrigerant circuit 10, depending on the operating conditions of the thermal conditioning system 100.

[0123] The first branch of the bypass B is without a regulator. Similarly, the portion of the main loop A between the first exchanger 1 and the second connection point 12 is without a pressure regulator.

[0124] In this embodiment, the fifth exchanger 5 is arranged upstream of the third heat exchanger 3 in a direction of flow of the outside air flow Fe. In other words, the outside airflow Fe exchanges heat first with the fifth exchanger 5, then with the third exchanger 3. The fifth exchanger 5 and the third heat exchanger 3 can be installed in the front of the vehicle, just behind the grille.

[0125] Alternatively, the fifth exchanger 5 can be arranged in a first wheel arch of the vehicle, and the third heat exchanger 3 can be arranged in a second wheel arch of the vehicle.

[0126] Thermal coupling between the first exchanger 1 and the internal airflow Fi can be ensured in different ways.

[0127] According to one embodiment, the first heat exchanger 1 is configured to allow heat exchange between the refrigerant fluid and the internal airflow Fi. The thermal coupling between the first heat exchanger 1 and the first external airflow Fel is then of the so-called direct type.

[0128] According to an alternative embodiment, illustrated in [Fig. 5], the first heat exchanger 1 is configured to exchange heat with a heat transfer fluid circulating in a closed heat transfer fluid circuit 40. The heat transfer fluid circuit 40 includes a heat exchanger IA configured to exchange heat with the interior airflow Fi to the vehicle's passenger compartment. The thermal coupling between the first heat exchanger 1 and the indoor airflow Fi is then of the so-called indirect type, since it is achieved via a heat transfer fluid.

[0129] The second heat exchanger 2 is configured to allow heat exchange between the refrigerant fluid and the internal airflow Fi. In other words, the heat exchange between the refrigerant fluid and the indoor airflow Fi is, at the level of the second heat exchanger 2, of the direct type.

[0130] The first heat exchanger 1 is disposed in the heating, ventilation and / or air conditioning system of the vehicle. Similarly, the second exchanger 2 is located in the heating, ventilation and / or air conditioning system. The second exchanger 2 is arranged upstream of the first heat exchanger 1 according to a direction of flow of the internal air flow Fi.

[0131] The fourth heat exchanger 4 includes a refrigerant inlet and a refrigerant outlet. The fourth heat exchanger 4 also includes a heat transfer fluid inlet and a heat transfer fluid outlet. The heat transfer fluid and the refrigerant can exchange heat by circulating in the fourth heat exchanger 4.

[0132] The fourth heat exchanger 4 is thermally coupled with a first element 25 of an electric drive chain of the vehicle. The first element 25 of the electric traction chain can thus be selectively cooled or heated.

[0133] The fourth heat exchanger 4 is thermally coupled with a second element 26 of the vehicle's electric drive chain.

[0134] Similarly, the second element 26 of the electric traction chain can thus be selectively cooled or heated.

[0135] For this purpose, the first element 25 and the second element 26 of the electric traction chain are both arranged on the same heat transfer fluid circuit 20. This circuit 20 will be described in detail later.

[0136] According to the illustrated example, the first element 25 of the vehicle's electric drive chain comprises an electrical energy storage battery.

[0137] According to the illustrated example, the second element 26 of the vehicle's electric drive chain comprises an electronic control unit for the vehicle's electric traction motor. Alternatively, or in addition, the second element 26 of the vehicle's electric drive chain may include an electric vehicle traction motor. At least part of the heat dissipated by the operation of the first element 25 and the second element 26 of the vehicle's electric drive chain is transferred to the heat transfer fluid of the circuit 20.

[0138] Fig. 2 represents a second embodiment of the proposed thermal conditioning system 100.

[0139] In this embodiment, the refrigerant circuit 10 includes an internal exchanger 8 configured to allow heat exchange between: - the refrigerant circulating in the first branch of bypass B between the third exchanger 3 and the second connection point 12, and - the refrigerant circulating in the main loop A between the storage device 9 and the inlet 7a of the compressor 7.

[0140] In this configuration, the internal exchanger 8 is active in all operating modes, which improves the performance of the thermal conditioning system.

[0141] The internal heat exchanger 8 has a first heat exchange section 8A arranged on the first branch branch B between the third exchanger 3 and the second connection point 12. The internal heat exchanger 8 has a second heat exchange section 8B arranged on the main loop A downstream of the accumulator 9 and upstream of the inlet 7a of the compressor 7. The internal heat exchanger 8 is configured to allow heat exchange between the refrigerant in the first heat exchange section 8A and the refrigerant in the second heat exchange section 8B.

[0142] Fig. 3 represents a first variant of the second embodiment.

[0143] According to this variant, the main loop A of the refrigerant circuit 10 includes an internal heat exchanger 8 configured to allow heat exchange between: - the refrigerant circulating between the second connection point 12 and the third connection point 13, and - the refrigerant fluid downstream of the accumulation device 9 and upstream of an inlet 7a of the compressor 7.

[0144] This configuration allows the internal exchanger 8 not to be traversed in certain operating modes, which reduces the pressure loss of the circuit in these operating modes.

[0145] According to this variant, the internal heat exchanger 8 comprises a first heat exchange section 8A arranged on the main loop A between the second connection point 12 and the third connection point 13. The internal heat exchanger 8 has a second heat exchange section 8B arranged on the main loop A downstream of the accumulator 9 and upstream of the inlet 7a of the compressor 7.

[0146] As with the first variant described above, the internal heat exchanger 8 is configured to allow heat exchange between the refrigerant in the first heat exchange section 8A and the refrigerant in the second heat exchange section 8B.

[0147] According to the illustrated example, the refrigerant fluid circuit 10 includes a three-way valve 40 arranged jointly on the main loop A and on the first branch of bypass B.

[0148] The three-way valve 40 is configured to selectively: - allow the refrigerant from compressor 7 to circulate in the main loop A towards the first heat exchanger 1 and simultaneously prohibit refrigerant circulation in the first bypass branch B, or - allow the refrigerant from compressor 7 to flow in the first branch of bypass B towards the third exchanger 3 and simultaneously prohibit refrigerant flow in the main loop A towards the first exchanger 1.

[0149] In other words, the three-way valve 40 allows the refrigerant from the outlet 7b of the compressor 7 to be directed either to the first exchanger 1, circulating in the main loop A, or to the third exchanger 3, circulating in the first branch of bypass B. The three-way valve 40 comprises one refrigerant inlet and two refrigerant outlets. One outlet is closed when the other outlet allows refrigerant to pass through.

[0150] According to variants not shown, the three-way valve can be replaced by two two-way valves. A two-way valve is understood to be a valve that has exactly one inlet and one outlet. One of the two two-way valves is located on the main loop A downstream of the first connection point 11 and upstream of the first interchange 1. The second two-way valve is located on the first branch of the bypass B downstream of the first connection point 11 and upstream of the third interchange 3. The two two-way valves are controlled so that one of these valves is in the open position when the other valve is in the closed position.

[0151] According to one embodiment, the three-way valve 40 is integrated into the compressor 7. In other words, the compressor housing 7 includes a housing for the three-way valve 40. The three-way valve is disposed in this housing and is fixed to the compressor 7. The compressor housing 7 incorporates a portion of the fluid circulation channels forming the inlet and the two outlets of the three-way valve.

[0152] Fig. 4 represents a third embodiment of the proposed thermal conditioning system.

[0153] According to this third embodiment, the thermal conditioning system 100 comprises a third branch D connecting: - a fifth connection point 15 located on the main loop A downstream of the first connection point 11 and upstream of the first interchange 1, at - a sixth connection point 16 located on the main loop A downstream of the fourth connection point 14 and upstream of the refrigerant storage device 9. The third branch D includes a third expansion valve 33.

[0154] The third branch of the bypass D allows refrigerant gas to be injected in the form of superheated vapor, so as to increase the heating power of the thermal conditioning system 100.

[0155] Each regulator 31, 32, 33 can be an electronic regulator. The flow of refrigerant through each expansion valve is interrupted when that valve is in the closed position. In other words, each expansion valve can act as a shut-off valve, in addition to controlling the rate of expansion of the refrigerant as it passes through it.

[0156] Fig. 6 represents a fourth embodiment of the proposed thermal conditioning system.

[0157] According to this fourth embodiment, the thermal conditioning system 100 comprises a third branch branch D' connecting: - a fifth connection point 15' located on the main loop A downstream of compressor 7 and upstream of the first connection point 11, at - a sixth connection point 16' located on the main loop A downstream of the fourth connection point 14 and upstream of the refrigerant fluid accumulation device 9. The third branch of the D branch includes a third regulator 33.

[0158] According to the embodiment of [Fig. 6], the main loop A comprises a sixth exchanger 6 thermally coupled with the outside air flow Fe and thermally coupled with the first element 25 of the electric traction chain.

[0159] The sixth exchanger 6 thus allows, in certain operating modes, for a first cooling of the refrigerant fluid to be carried out, before the cooling carried out by the third exchanger 3. The thermal power can thus be increased. The sixth interchange 6 also allows, in other operating modes, the heating of the first element 25 of the electric traction chain.

[0160] The sixth heat exchanger 6 is arranged jointly on the main loop A of the refrigerant circuit 10 and on the heat transfer fluid circuit 20. The sixth heat exchanger 6 includes a refrigerant inlet, a refrigerant outlet, as well as a heat transfer fluid inlet and a heat transfer fluid outlet. The sixth heat exchanger 6 is configured to allow heat exchange between the refrigerant and the heat transfer fluid. In other words, the heat transfer fluid and the refrigerant can exchange heat as they circulate through the sixth heat exchanger 6.

[0161] The refrigerant fluid circuit 10 includes a set of one-way valves.

[0162] The main loop A of the refrigerant circuit 10 includes a first one-way valve 41 disposed downstream of the first heat exchanger 1 and upstream of the second connection point 12. The first one-way valve 41 is configured to allow refrigerant to circulate through the first one-way valve 41 only from the first heat exchanger 1 to the second connection point 12.

[0163] The first one-way valve 41 is thus configured to allow refrigerant fluid to circulate through the first one-way valve 41 from the first exchanger 1 to the second connection point 12, and is configured to prohibit refrigerant fluid to circulate through the first one-way valve 41 from the second connection point 12 to the first exchanger 1.

[0164] The main loop A of the refrigerant circuit 10 includes a second one-way valve 42 disposed downstream of the second heat exchanger 2 and upstream of the fourth connection point 14. The second one-way valve 42 is configured to allow refrigerant to circulate through the second one-way valve 42 only from the second heat exchanger 2 to the fourth connection point 14.

[0165] The second one-way valve 42 is thus configured to allow refrigerant fluid to circulate through the second one-way valve 42 from the second exchanger 2 to the fourth connection point 14, and is configured to prohibit refrigerant fluid to circulate through the second one-way valve 42 from the fourth connection point 14 to the second exchanger 2.

[0166] The first branch B of the refrigerant circuit 10 includes a third one-way valve 43 located downstream of the third heat exchanger 3 and upstream of the second connection point 12. The third one-way valve 43 is configured to allow refrigerant to circulate through the third one-way valve 43 only from the third exchanger 3 to the second connection point 12.

[0167] The third one-way valve 43 is configured to allow refrigerant flow through the third one-way valve 43 from the third exchanger 3 to the second connection point 12, and is configured to prohibit refrigerant flow through the third one-way valve 43 from the second connection point 12 to the third exchanger 3.

[0168] According to the second embodiment, illustrated in [Fig.2], the third one-way valve 43 is arranged on the first branch branch B downstream of the internal exchanger 8 and upstream of the second connection point 12.

[0169] In other words, the third one-way valve 43 is in this case arranged between the first heat exchange section 8A of the internal exchanger 8 and the second connection point 12.

[0170] Each one-way valve 41, 42, 43 can be a check valve. A check valve is a passive device, i.e. without any electrical control. Alternatively, each of the one-way valves 41, 42, 43 can be an electrically operated valve.

[0171] The heat transfer fluid circuit 20 will now be described. In order to make it easier to read the configuration of the circuit 20, [Fig.7] and [Fig.8] are enlarged representations of the circuit 20, in which the refrigerant fluid circuit 10 has been omitted for better readability.

[0172] Fig. 7 represents the heat transfer fluid circuit 20 according to embodiments 1 to 3 and their variants, illustrated in figures 1 to 5. In this figure, the heat transfer fluid circuit 20 includes a primary loop 20A for circulating heat transfer fluid, the primary loop 20A comprising successively a first circulation pump 21, a heating device 30 for the heat transfer fluid, the fourth heat exchanger 4, the first element 25 of the vehicle's electric drive chain.

[0173] The first circulation pump 21 is, for example, a unidirectional pump. The first circulation pump 21 can be selectively switched on or off.

[0174] In passing through the primary loop 20A of the heat transfer fluid circuit 20, the heat transfer fluid discharged by the first circulation pump 21 circulates successively in the heat transfer fluid heating device 30, then in the fourth heat exchanger 4, then in the first element 25 of the vehicle's electric traction chain, and returns to the inlet of the first circulation pump 21.

[0175] The heat transfer fluid circuit 20 includes a secondary loop 20B for circulating the heat transfer fluid, the secondary loop 20B comprising successively a second circulation pump 22, a second element 26 of the vehicle's electric drive chain, and the fifth heat exchanger 5.

[0176] The second circulation pump 22 is, for example, a unidirectional pump. The second circulation pump 22 can be selectively switched on or off.

[0177] In passing through the secondary loop 20B of the heat transfer fluid circuit 20, the heat transfer fluid discharged by the second circulation pump 22 circulates successively in the first element 25 of the vehicle's electric traction chain, then in the fifth heat exchanger 5, and returns to the inlet of the second circulation pump 22.

[0178] The primary loop 20A and the secondary loop 20B are connected by several branch branches, allowing different configurations of the circuit 20 to be formed.

[0179] The heat transfer fluid circuit 20 includes a first branch 20C connecting the primary loop 20A to the secondary loop 20B. The first branch 20C connects: - a first connection point 51 located on the primary loop 20A downstream of the first element 25 of the electric traction chain and upstream of the first circulation pump 21, at - a second connection point 52 located on the secondary loop 20B downstream of the fifth exchanger 5 and upstream of the second circulation pump 22.

[0180] The heat transfer fluid circuit 20 includes a second branch 20D connecting the primary loop 20A to the secondary loop 20B. The second branch 20D connects: - a third connection point 53 located on the primary loop 20A downstream of the first element 25 of the electric traction chain and upstream of the first connection point 51, at - a fourth connection point 54 located on the secondary loop 20B downstream of the second element 26 of the electric traction chain and upstream of the fifth interchange 5.

[0181] The heat transfer fluid circuit 20 includes a third branch 20E connecting the primary loop 20A to the secondary loop 20B. The third branch 20E connects: - a fifth connection point 55 located on the primary loop 20A downstream of the heating device 30 of the heat transfer fluid and upstream of the fourth heat exchanger 4, at - a sixth connection point 56 located on the secondary loop 20B downstream of the second element 26 of the electric traction chain and upstream of the fourth connection point 54.

[0182] The heat transfer fluid circuit 20 includes a fourth branch 20F arranged on the primary loop 20A in parallel with the first element 25 of the electric traction chain.

[0183] In other words, the heat transfer fluid circuit 20 includes a fourth branch 20F connecting: - a seventh connection point 57 located on the primary loop 20A downstream of the fourth interchange 4 and upstream of the first element 25 of the traction chain, to - an eighth connection point 58 located on the primary loop 20A downstream of the first element 25 of the electric traction chain and upstream of the third connection point 53.

[0184] According to the illustrated example, the heat transfer fluid circuit 20 includes a set of three-way valves allowing the heat transfer fluid to be selectively directed to different parts of the circuit.

[0185] The heat transfer fluid circuit 20 includes a first three-way valve 45 arranged jointly on the primary loop 20A and on the second branch 20D.

[0186] The first three-way valve 45 is configured to selectively: - to allow the heat transfer fluid from the eighth connection point 58 to flow in the primary loop 20A towards the first connection point 51 and simultaneously to prohibit the flow of heat transfer fluid in the second branch of the bypass 20D, or - allow the heat transfer fluid from the eighth connection point 58 to flow in the second branch of the bypass 20D towards the fourth connection point 54 and jointly prohibit a flow of heat transfer fluid in the primary loop 20A towards the first connection point 51.

[0187] The third connection point 53 is part of the first three-way valve 45.

[0188] The heat transfer fluid circuit 20 includes a second three-way valve 46 arranged jointly on the secondary loop 20B and on the third branch of the bypass 20E.

[0189] The second three-way valve 46 is configured to selectively: - to allow the heat transfer fluid from the second element 26 of the traction chain to circulate in the secondary loop 20B towards the fourth connection point 54 and simultaneously prohibit circulation of heat transfer fluid in the third branch of the bypass 20E, or - allow the heat transfer fluid from the second element 26 of the traction chain to flow in the third branch of the bypass 20E towards the fifth connection point 55 and jointly prohibit a flow of heat transfer fluid in the secondary loop 20B towards the fourth connection point 54. The sixth connection point 56 is part of the second three-way valve 46.

[0190] The heat transfer fluid circuit 20 includes a third three-way valve 47 arranged jointly on the primary loop 20A and on the fourth branch 20F.

[0191] The third three-way valve 47 is configured to selectively: - to allow the heat transfer fluid from the fourth heat exchanger 4 to circulate in the secondary loop 20B towards the first element 25 of the traction chain and simultaneously to prohibit circulation of heat transfer fluid in the fourth branch of the bypass 20F, or - allow the heat transfer fluid from the fourth exchanger 4 to flow in the fourth branch of the bypass 20F towards the eighth connection point 58 and jointly prohibit a flow of heat transfer fluid in the primary loop 20A towards the first element 25 of the traction chain. The seventh connection point 57 is part of the third three-way valve 47.

[0192] According to one embodiment, the third three-way valve 47 is a proportional valve. In this case, the third three-way valve 47 allows the flow of heat transfer fluid from the fourth heat exchanger 4 to be distributed between a first part circulating in the first element 25 of the traction chain, and a second part, complementary to the first part, circulating in the fourth branch of the bypass 20F. The distribution between the first part and the second part can vary continuously depending on the position of a movable actuator of the valve. In a first extreme position of the mobile actuator, the entire flow of heat transfer fluid from the fourth exchanger 4 is directed to the eighth connection point 58, passing through the fourth branch of the bypass 20F. In a second extreme position of the mobile actuator, the entire flow of heat transfer fluid from the fourth exchanger 4 is directed to the first element 25 of the traction chain.

[0193] According to one embodiment, the third three-way valve 47 is a two-position valve, known as an on-or-nothing valve. In this case, the third three-way valve 47 allows the flow of heat transfer fluid from the fourth exchanger 4 to be directed either to the first element 25 of the traction chain, or to the fourth branch of the bypass 20F. Only one outlet at a time can supply heat transfer fluid.

[0194] Fig. 8 represents the heat transfer fluid circuit 20 according to the fourth embodiment, illustrated in Fig. 6.

[0195] According to this embodiment, the heat transfer fluid circuit 20 comprises a primary loop 20A for circulating heat transfer fluid, the primary loop 20A comprising successively a first circulation pump 21, a heating device 30 for the heat transfer fluid, the fourth heat exchanger 4, a first element 25 of the vehicle's electric traction chain.

[0196] The heat transfer fluid discharged by the first circulation pump 21 can circulate successively through the heating device 30, then through the fourth heat exchanger 4, then through the first element 25 of the vehicle's electric drive system, and can return to the inlet of the first circulation pump 21. The heat transfer fluid circuit 20 includes a secondary loop 20B for circulating the heat transfer fluid, the secondary loop 20B comprising successively a second circulation pump 22, a second element 26 of the vehicle's electric drive system, and the fifth heat exchanger 5. The heat transfer fluid discharged by the second circulation pump 22 can circulate successively through the second element 26 of the vehicle's electric drive system, then through the fifth heat exchanger 5, and can return to the inlet of the second circulation pump 22.

[0197] The first circulation pump 21 and the second circulation pump 22 are identical to the previous embodiment.

[0198] In this embodiment, the fifth heat exchanger 5 is arranged downstream of the third heat exchanger 3 in a direction of flow of the outside air stream Fe. In other words, the outside air stream Fe exchanges heat with the third heat exchanger 3, and the air stream having exchanged heat with the third heat exchanger 3 then exchanges heat with the fifth heat exchanger 5.

[0199] As before, the primary loop 20A and the secondary loop 20B are connected by several branch branches, allowing for multiple configurations of the circuit 20. The heat transfer fluid circuit 20 includes a first branch 20C connecting the primary loop 20A to the secondary loop 20B. The first branch 20C connects: - a first connection point 51 located on the primary loop 20A downstream of the first element 25 of the electric traction chain and upstream of the first circulation pump 21 - a second connection point 52 located on the secondary loop 20B downstream of the fifth exchanger 5 and upstream of the second circulation pump 22.

[0200] The heat transfer fluid circuit 20 includes a second branch 20D connecting the primary loop 20A to the secondary loop 20B. The second branch 20D connects: - a third connection point 53 located on the primary loop 20A downstream of the fourth heat exchanger 4 and upstream of the first element 25 of the electric traction chain - a fourth connection point 54 located on the secondary loop 20B downstream of the second circulation pump 22 and upstream of the second element 26 of the electric traction chain.

[0201] The heat transfer fluid circuit 20 includes a third branch 20E connecting the primary loop 20A to the secondary loop 20B. The third branch 20E connects: - a fifth connection point 55 located on the primary loop 20A downstream of the first element 25 of the traction chain and upstream of the first connection point 51 to - a sixth connection point 56 located on the secondary loop 20B downstream of the second connection point 52 and upstream of the second circulation pump 22.

[0202] The heat transfer fluid circuit 20 includes a fourth branch 20F connecting: - a seventh connection point 57 located on the primary loop 20A downstream of the third connection point 53 and upstream of the first element 25 of the traction chain - an eighth connection point 58 located on the primary loop 20A downstream of the fifth connection point 55 and upstream of the first connection point 51.

[0203] The heat transfer fluid circuit 20 includes a fifth branch 20G connecting: - a ninth connection point 59 located on the secondary loop 20B downstream of the second circulation pump 22 and upstream of the fourth connection point 54 to - a tenth connection point 60 located on the secondary loop 20B downstream of the second element 26 of the electric traction chain and upstream of the fifth interchange 5. The fifth branch of the 20G branch includes the sixth heat exchanger 6. The sixth heat exchanger 6 is located both on the refrigerant circuit 10 and on the heat transfer fluid circuit 20.

[0204] The heat transfer fluid circuit 20 includes a sixth branch 20H connecting: - an eleventh connection point 61 located on the fifth branch of the 20G branch downstream of the sixth heat exchanger 6 and upstream of the tenth connection point 60 to - a twelfth connection point 62 located on the primary loop 20A downstream of the seventh connection point 57 and upstream of the first element 25 of the electric traction chain.

[0205] The heat transfer fluid circuit 20 includes a set of valves allowing the heat transfer fluid to be selectively directed to different parts of the circuit.

[0206] The heat transfer fluid circuit 20 thus includes a first three-way valve 45 arranged jointly on the secondary loop 20B and on the second branch of the bypass 20D.

[0207] The first three-way valve 45 is configured to selectively: - allow the heat transfer fluid from the ninth connection point 59 to flow in the secondary loop 20B towards the tenth connection point 60 and simultaneously prohibit the flow of heat transfer fluid in the second branch of the bypass 20D, or - allow the heat transfer fluid from the third connection point 53 to flow in the secondary loop 20B towards the second element 26 of the traction chain and jointly prohibit a flow of heat transfer fluid in the secondary loop 20B towards the ninth connection point 59.

[0208] The heat transfer fluid circuit 20 includes a second three-way valve 46 arranged jointly on the primary loop 20A and on the third branch 20E. The second three-way valve 46 is configured to selectively: - to allow the heat transfer fluid from the first element 25 of the traction chain to circulate in the primary loop 20A towards the eighth connection point 58 and simultaneously prohibit circulation of heat transfer fluid in the third branch of the bypass 20E, or - allow the heat transfer fluid from the first element 25 of the traction chain to flow in the third branch of the bypass 20E towards the sixth connection point 56 and jointly prohibit a flow of heat transfer fluid in the primary loop 20A towards the eighth connection point 58.

[0209] The heat transfer fluid circuit 20 includes a third three-way valve 47 arranged jointly on the fifth branch 20G and on the sixth branch 20H. The third three-way valve 47 is configured to selectively: - allow the heat transfer fluid from the sixth heat exchanger 6 to flow in the fifth branch of the bypass 20G towards the tenth connection point 60 and simultaneously prohibit the flow of heat transfer fluid in the sixth branch of the bypass 20H, or - allow the heat transfer fluid from the sixth exchanger 6 to flow in the sixth branch of bypass 20H towards the twelfth connection point 62 and jointly prohibit a flow of heat transfer fluid in the fifth branch of bypass 20G towards the tenth connection point 60.

[0210] The heat transfer fluid circuit 20 also includes two-way valves. Each two-way valve comprises a single inlet and a single The primary loop 20A of the heat transfer fluid circuit 20 includes a first two-way valve 49 located downstream of the seventh connection point 57 and upstream of the twelfth connection point 62. The sixth branch 20H of the heat transfer fluid circuit 20 includes a second two-way valve 50 located downstream of the seventh connection point 57 and upstream of the eighth connection point 62.

[0211] The fourth connection point 54 is part of the first three-way valve 45. The fifth connection point 55 is part of the second three-way valve 46. The eleventh connection point 61 is part of the third three-way valve 47.

[0212] The thermal conditioning system circuit 100 proposed herein can operate in various modes. Some of these modes will now be described and illustrated in Figures 9 to 13.

[0213] In these figures, the portions of the circuit 10 in which a flow of refrigerant fluid circulates are shown in thick solid lines, while the portions in which the refrigerant fluid does not circulate are shown in thin dashed lines. Different arrows indicate the direction of refrigerant flow in the various sections of circuit 10 through which a refrigerant flow passes.

[0214] In steady state, the time variation of the refrigerant mass in a heat exchanger is zero. The refrigerant flow rate downstream of a heat exchanger is therefore equal to the refrigerant flow rate upstream of that heat exchanger. Similarly, there is no accumulation of refrigerant in an expansion valve, and the flow rate of refrigerant downstream of an expansion valve is equal to the flow rate upstream of that expansion valve.

[0215] Figure 9 schematically illustrates an operating method of the thermal conditioning system 100 of Figure 3, in a so-called 'heat pump' mode. In this operating mode: - a flow Qr of refrigerant circulates in the compressor 7 where it passes through high pressure, and circulates in the main loop A, successively in the first heat exchanger 1 where it transfers heat to the internal air flow Fi, in the second expansion valve 32 where it undergoes expansion and passes through a low pressure lower than the high pressure, in the fourth exchanger 4 where it receives heat from the heat transfer fluid, in the accumulation device 9 and returns to the compressor 7. - a flow Qc of heat transfer fluid circulates successively in the second element 26 of the traction chain, in the fourth exchanger 4 where it gives up heat to the refrigerant fluid, in the fifth exchanger 5 where it receives heat from the outside air flow Fe, and returns to the second circulation pump 22.

[0216] The refrigerant fluid is cooled in the first exchanger 1, which allows the interior airflow Fi to be heated and thus the passenger compartment of the vehicle. The refrigerant then evaporates in the fourth exchanger 4, the heat of vaporization being supplied by the heat transfer fluid of circuit 20. The heat transfer fluid, cooled by the evaporation of the refrigerant in the fourth heat exchanger 4, then circulates in the fifth heat exchanger 5 and is heated by heat exchange with the outside air Fe. The vehicle's passenger compartment can thus be heated using the heat extracted from the outside airflow Fe.

[0217] The first expansion valve 31 is in the closed position. The refrigerant flow rate in the second heat exchanger 2 is zero. The internal heat exchanger 8 allows heat exchange between the high-pressure refrigerant in the first heat exchange section 8A and the low-pressure refrigerant in the second heat exchange section 8B.

[0218] The first pump 21 of the heat transfer fluid circuit 20 is deactivated. The second pump 22 is activated. The heat transfer fluid circulates successively in the second pump 22, in the second three-way valve 46, in the second element 26 of the traction chain, in the fourth exchanger 4, in the third three-way valve 47, in the first three-way valve 45, in the fifth exchanger 5, and returns to the inlet of the second pump 22. The heating device 30 and the first element 25 of the traction chain are not traversed by a flow of heat transfer fluid.

[0219] Fig. 10 schematically illustrates a method of operation of the thermal conditioning system 100 of Fig. 3, in a mode called 'parallel dehumidification with assistance'. In this operating mode: - a first flow Qrl of refrigerant circulates in the compressor 7 where it passes through high pressure, and circulates in the main loop A, successively in the first heat exchanger 1 where it transfers heat to the internal air flow Fi, and divides into: — a second flow Qr2 circulating in the main loop A, successively in the first pressure regulator 31 where it undergoes expansion and passes to a low pressure lower than the high pressure, in the second exchanger 2 where it receives heat from the internal airflow Fi, and — a third flow Qr3 circulating in the second branch of the bypass C, successively in the second expansion valve 32 where it undergoes expansion and passes to low pressure, in the fourth exchanger 4 where it receives heat from the heat transfer fluid, and joins the flow of refrigerant fluid coming from the second exchanger 2, The total flow Qrl formed circulates in the accumulation device 9 and returns to the compressor 7. - A first flow Qcl of heat transfer fluid circulates in the first circulation pump 21, and circulates in the heating device 30 where it receives heat, - A second flow Qc2 of heat transfer fluid circulates in the second pump 22, circulates in the second element 26 of the traction chain, and rejoins the heat transfer fluid from the heating device 30, the total flow formed circulates successively in the fourth exchanger 4 where it transfers heat to the refrigerant, in the fifth exchanger 5 where it receives heat from the outside air flow Fe, and divides into: - the first flow rate Qcl of heat transfer fluid returning to the first pump 21, and - the second flow Qc2 of heat transfer fluid returning to the second pump 22.

[0220] The refrigerant cools in the first exchanger 1, which allows the interior airflow Fi to be heated and thus the passenger compartment of the vehicle. Part of the refrigerant then evaporates in the second heat exchanger 2, which cools the indoor airflow Fi. The indoor airflow Fi is thus dehumidified. Another part of the refrigerant evaporates in the fourth exchanger 4. In this operating mode, the heating device 30 is activated and heats the heat transfer fluid circulating in the circuit 20. The thermal power transferred between the heat transfer fluid and the refrigerant at the fourth heat exchanger 4 can thus be increased, thereby increasing the thermal power supplied to the interior airflow Fi. Furthermore, the heat losses from the second element 26 of the powertrain are recovered to heat the passenger compartment.

[0221] The low-pressure refrigerant flows in parallel in the second heat exchanger 2 and in the fourth heat exchanger 4. The distribution between the second flow rate Qr2 of refrigerant and the third flow rate Qr3 of refrigerant is controlled by adjusting the respective opening of the first expansion valve 31 and the second expansion valve 32.

[0222] The first pump 21 and the second pump 22 are both activated. The first flow rate Qcl of heat transfer fluid and the second flow rate Qc2 of heat transfer fluid meet at the fifth connection point 55. The flow rate The total flow formed by the combination of the first flow rate Qcl and the second flow rate Qc2 circulates successively through the fourth heat exchanger 4, the third three-way valve 47, the first three-way valve 45, the fifth heat exchanger 5, and reaches the second connection point 52. At the second connection point 52, the total refrigerant flow is divided. One portion flows through the first bypass branch 20C and returns to the inlet of the first pump 21. The remaining portion flows through the secondary loop 20B and reaches the second pump 22. The first element 25 of the traction chain is not traversed by a flow of heat transfer fluid.

[0223] In an alternative to this mode, the second pump 22 is stopped and the second flow rate Qc2 of heat transfer fluid is zero. The first flow rate Qcl of heat transfer fluid is then equal to the total flow rate of heat transfer fluid.

[0224] Thus, as an alternative to this mode of operation: - a first flow Qrl of refrigerant circulates in the compressor 7 where it passes through high pressure, and circulates in the main loop A, successively in the first heat exchanger 1 where it transfers heat to the internal air flow Fi, and divides into: — a second flow Qr2 circulating in the main loop A, successively in the first expansion valve 31 where it undergoes expansion and passes to a low pressure lower than the high pressure, in the second exchanger 2 where it receives heat from the internal air flow Fi, and — a third flow Qr3 circulating in the second branch of the bypass C, successively in the second expansion valve 32 where it undergoes expansion and passes to low pressure, in the fourth exchanger 4 where it receives heat from the heat transfer fluid, and joins the flow of refrigerant fluid coming from the second exchanger 2, The total flow Qrl formed circulates in the accumulation device 9 and returns to the compressor 7. - a flow Qcl of heat transfer fluid circulates in the first circulation pump 21, and circulates in the heating device 30 where it receives heat, then circulates successively in the fourth exchanger 4 where it gives up heat to the refrigerant fluid, in the fifth exchanger 5 where it receives heat from the outside air flow Fe, and returns to the first pump 21.

[0225] Fig. 11 schematically illustrates a method of operation of the thermal conditioning system 100 of Fig. 3, in a mode called 'first heat pump mode with assistance'. In this operating mode: - a flow Qr of refrigerant fluid circulates in the compressor 7 where it passes to high pressure, and circulates in the main loop A, successively in the first exchanger 1 where it gives up heat to the internal air flow Fi, in the second expansion valve 32 where it undergoes expansion and passes to a low pressure lower than the high pressure, in the fourth exchanger 4 where it receives heat from the heat transfer fluid, in the accumulation device 9 and returns to the compressor 7. - a first flow Qcl of heat transfer fluid circulates in the first circulation pump 21, and circulates in the heating device 30 where it receives heat, - a second flow Qc2 of heat transfer fluid circulates in the second circulation pump 22, circulates in the second element 26 of the traction chain, and joins the heat transfer fluid from the heating device 30. The total flow formed circulates successively through the fourth exchanger 4 where it transfers heat to the refrigerant, through the fifth exchanger 5 where it receives heat from the outside air flow Fe, and is divided into: - the first flow Qcl of heat transfer fluid returning to the first pump 21, and - the second flow Qc2 of heat transfer fluid returning to the second pump 22.

[0226] The circulation of the refrigerant fluid is, in this operating mode, identical to that of [Fig. 10]. The circulation of the heat transfer fluid differs from that of [Fig.9] in that the heat transfer fluid circulates in parallel in the heating device 30 and in the second element 26 of the traction chain.

[0227] In an alternative to this mode, the second pump 22 is stopped and the second flow rate Qc2 of heat transfer fluid is zero. The first flow rate Qcl of heat transfer fluid is then equal to the total flow rate of heat transfer fluid.

[0228] Thus, as an alternative to this mode of operation: - a flow Qr of refrigerant fluid circulates in the compressor 7 where it passes to high pressure, and circulates in the main loop A, successively in the first exchanger 1 where it gives up heat to the internal air flow Fi, in the second expansion valve 32 where it undergoes expansion and passes to a low pressure lower than the high pressure, in the fourth exchanger 4 where it receives heat from the heat transfer fluid, in the accumulation device 9 and returns to the compressor 7. - a first flow Qcl of heat transfer fluid circulates in the first circulation pump 21, and circulates in the heating device 30 where it receives heat, then circulates successively in the fourth exchanger 4 where it gives up heat to the refrigerant fluid, in the fifth exchanger 5 where it receives heat from the outside air flow Fe, and returns to the first pump 21.

[0229] Fig. 12 schematically illustrates a method of operation of the thermal conditioning system 100 of Fig. 3, in a mode called 'second heat pump mode with assistance'. In this operating mode: - a flow Qr of refrigerant fluid circulates in the compressor 7 where it passes to high pressure, and circulates in the main loop A, successively in the first exchanger 1 where it gives up heat to the internal air flow Fi, in the second expansion valve 32 where it undergoes expansion and passes to a low pressure lower than the high pressure, in the fourth exchanger 4 where it receives heat from the heat transfer fluid, in the accumulation device 9, and returns to the compressor 7. - a first flow Qcl of heat transfer fluid circulates in the first circulation pump 21, and circulates successively in the heating device 30 where it receives heat, in the fourth exchanger 4 where it gives heat to the refrigerant fluid, and returns to the second circulation pump 22 without circulating in the first element 25 of the traction chain. - a second flow Qc2 of heat transfer fluid circulates in the second circulation pump 22, and circulates successively in the second element 26 of the traction chain, in the fifth exchanger 5, and returns to the second circulation pump 22.

[0230] As in the previous operating mode, the heating device 30 is activated and heats the heat transfer fluid. The heat transferred between the heat transfer fluid and the refrigerant at the fourth heat exchanger 4 can thus be increased. The heat supplied to the interior airflow Fi can therefore be increased, resulting in faster heating of the vehicle's passenger compartment.

[0231] The circulation of the refrigerant fluid is, in this operating mode, identical to that of the previous operating mode.

[0232] The first pump 21 and the second pump 22 are both activated. A portion Qc2 of the heat transfer fluid circulates only in the secondary loop 20B. A complementary portion Qcl of the heat transfer fluid circulates only in a portion of the primary loop 20A and in the fourth branch 20F. The two circulation loops formed do not communicate with each other. The first three-way valve 45 and the second three-way valve 46 respectively block the circulation of heat transfer fluid in the second branch of bypass 20D and in the third branch of bypass 20E.

[0233] Figure 13 schematically illustrates an operating method of the thermal conditioning system 100 of Figure 4, in a so-called 'battery heating' mode. In this operating mode: - A first flow Qrl of refrigerant circulates in the compressor 7 where it passes through high pressure, circulates in the main loop A, and divides into: — a second flow Qr2 circulating successively in the first exchanger 1, in the second expansion valve 32 where it undergoes expansion and passes to a low pressure lower than the high pressure, in the fourth exchanger 4 where it releases heat from the heat transfer fluid, and — a third flow Qr3 circulating in the third branch of bypass D, in the third expansion valve 33 where it undergoes expansion and passes to low pressure, and joins the refrigerant fluid coming from the fourth exchanger 4. The total flow formed circulates in the accumulation device 9 and returns to the compressor 7. - a first flow Qcl of heat transfer fluid circulates in the first circulation pump 21, and circulates successively in the heating device 30 without receiving heat, in the fourth exchanger 4 where it receives heat from the refrigerant fluid, and returns to the first circulation pump 21. - a second flow Qc2 of heat transfer fluid circulates in the second circulation pump 22, and circulates successively in the second element 26 of the traction chain, in the fifth exchanger 5, and returns to the second circulation pump 22.

[0234] The low-pressure refrigerant at the outlet of the second expansion valve 32 heats the heat transfer fluid at the fourth heat exchanger 4. The hot heat transfer fluid heats the coil 25. The refrigerant exits the fourth heat exchanger 4 at low pressure and in a two-phase state. The injection of hot, low-pressure refrigerant at the outlet of the third expansion valve 33 both maintains a low-pressure level suitable for heating the heat transfer fluid by the refrigerant in the fourth heat exchanger 4, and closes the thermodynamic cycle, i.e., ensures that the refrigerant is approximately in liquid / vapor equilibrium at the inlet of the accumulator 9.

[0235] The distribution between the flow of refrigerant circulating in the fourth exchanger 4 and the refrigerant circulating in the third branch of bypass D of the circuit 10 is controlled by the respective degree of opening of the second expansion valve 32 and the third expansion valve 33.

[0236] According to an example of implementation of this mode of operation, the refrigerant circulates in the first exchanger 1 without exchanging heat with the internal airflow Fi. Thus, the heat given to the heat transfer fluid at the level of the fourth exchanger 4 can be increased, which allows the heating of the battery to accelerate. For this purpose, a movable flap, not shown, allows the indoor airflow Fi to bypass the first exchanger 1. Alternatively, the motor-fan unit which controls the flow rate of the indoor airflow Fi can be deactivated so that the flow rate of the indoor airflow Fi is zero.

[0237] According to another example of implementing this operating mode, the flow of heat transfer fluid from the fourth exchanger 4 is divided into: - a third flow Qc3 circulating in the first element 25 of the traction chain, and - a fourth flow Qc4 avoiding the first element 25 of the traction chain and joining the heat transfer fluid coming from the first element 25 of the traction chain. The total flow formed Qc 1 returns to the first circulation pump 21. This example corresponds to the example in [Fig. 13]. The two pumps 21, 22 are activated. The first three-way valve 45 and the second three-way valve 46 respectively block the circulation of heat transfer fluid in the second branch of bypass 20D and in the third branch of bypass 20E.

[0238] The flow rate of heat transfer fluid circulating in the first element 25 of the traction chain can be adjusted between 0% and 100% of the flow rate of heat transfer fluid coming from the fourth exchanger 4. The battery can thus be heated.

[0239] In the operating mode illustrated in [Fig. 13], the heating device 30 is not activated. In order to accelerate the temperature rise of the first element 25 of the traction chain, the heating device 30 can be activated.

[0240] Many other modes of operation, not described, can also be achieved.

Claims

1. Demands Thermal conditioning system (100) for motor vehicles, comprising: - a refrigerant circuit (10) configured to circulate a refrigerant, the refrigerant circuit (10) comprising: — a main loop (A) comprising successively, according to the direction of refrigerant flow: — a compressor (7), — a first heat exchanger (1) thermally coupled with an interior airflow (Fi) to a vehicle passenger compartment, — a first expansion valve (31), — a second heat exchanger (2) thermally coupled with the interior airflow (Fi) to the vehicle's passenger compartment, — a first branch (B) connecting a first connection point (11) located on the main loop (A) downstream of an outlet (7b) of the compressor (7) and upstream of the first heat exchanger (1) to a second connection point (12) located on the main loop (A) downstream of the first heat exchanger (1) and upstream of the first expansion valve (31), the first branch (B) comprising a third heat exchanger (3) configured to exchange heat with an outside airflow (Fe) to the vehicle's passenger compartment, — a second branch (C) connecting a third connection point (13) located on the main loop (A) downstream of the second connection point (12) and upstream of the first expansion valve (31) to a fourth connection point (14) located on the main loop (A) downstream of the second heat exchanger (2) and upstream of an inlet (7a) of the compressor (7), the second branch (C) comprising successively a second expansion valve (32) and a fourth heat exchanger (4) thermally coupled with a first element (25) of an electric traction chain of the vehicle, - a heat transfer fluid circuit (20) configured to circulate a heat transfer fluid, the heat transfer fluid circuit (20) comprising a fifth exchanger (5) configured to exchange heat with the outside air flow (Fe), in which the fourth heat exchanger (4) is arranged jointly on the second branch branch (C) of the refrigerant circuit (10) and on the heat transfer fluid circuit (20), and is configured to permit heat exchange between the refrigerant and the heat transfer fluid.

2. Thermal conditioning system (100) according to claim 1, wherein the main loop (A) includes a refrigerant fluid accumulation device (9) disposed downstream of the fourth connection point (14) and upstream of an inlet (7a) of the compressor (7).

3. Thermal conditioning system (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the main loop (A) of the refrigerant circuit (10) includes an internal exchanger (8) configured to permit heat exchange between: - the refrigerant circulating between the second connection point (12) and the third connection point (13), and - the refrigerant downstream of the storage device (9) and upstream of an inlet (7a) of the compressor (7).

4. Thermal conditioning system (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the refrigerant circuit (10) includes an internal exchanger (8) configured to permit heat exchange between: - the refrigerant circulating in the first branch (B) between the third exchanger (3) and the second connection point (12), and - the refrigerant circulating in the main loop (A) between the storage device (9) and the inlet (7a) of the compressor (7).

5. Thermal conditioning system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the refrigerant circuit (10) includes a three-way valve (40) arranged jointly on the main loop (A) and on the first branch (B).

6. Thermal conditioning system (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein the three-way valve (40) is integrated into the compressor (7).

7. Thermal conditioning system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 6 in combination with claim 2, comprising a third branch (D) connecting to a fifth connection point (15) disposed on the loop main (A) downstream of the first connection point (11) and upstream of the first exchanger (1) to a sixth connection point (16) disposed on the main loop (A) downstream of the fourth connection point (14) and upstream of the refrigerant fluid accumulation device (9), the third branch (D) comprising a third expansion valve (33).

8. Thermal conditioning system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 6 in combination with claim 2, comprising a third branch (D') connecting a fifth connection point (15') disposed on the main loop (A) downstream of the compressor (7) and upstream of the first connection point (11) to a sixth connection point (16') disposed on the main loop (A) downstream of the fourth connection point (14) and upstream of the refrigerant fluid accumulation device (9), the third branch (D) comprising a third expansion valve (33), and in which the main loop (A) comprises a sixth heat exchanger (6) thermally coupled with the outside airflow (Fe) and thermally coupled with the first element (25) of the electric traction chain.

9. A method of operating a thermal conditioning system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 8 in combination with claim 2, in a so-called "heat pump" mode in which: - a flow (Qr) of refrigerant circulates in the compressor (7) where it passes through a high pressure, and circulates in the main loop (A), successively in the first heat exchanger (1) where it releases heat to the indoor airflow (Fi), in the second expansion valve (32) where it undergoes expansion and passes through a low pressure lower than the high pressure, in the fourth heat exchanger (4) where it receives heat from the heat transfer fluid, in the storage device (9) and returns to the compressor (7), - a flow (Qc) of heat transfer fluid circulates successively in the fourth heat exchanger (4) where it releases heat to the refrigerant, in the fifth heat exchanger (5) where it receives heat from the outdoor airflow (Fe),and returns to a second circulation pump (22).

10. A method of operating a thermal conditioning system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 8 in combination with claim 2, in a mode called "parallel dehumidification with assistance" in which: - a first flow (Qrl) of refrigerant circulates in the compressor (7) where it passes through a high pressure, and circulates in the main loop (A), successively in the first heat exchanger (1) where it gives up heat to the indoor airflow (Fi), and divides into: — a second flow (Qr2) circulating in the main loop (A), successively in the first expansion valve (31) where it undergoes expansion and passes through a low pressure lower than the high pressure, in the second heat exchanger (2) where it receives heat from the indoor airflow (Fi), and — a third flow (Qr3) circulating in the second bypass branch (C), successively in the second expansion valve (32) where it undergoes expansion and passes through a low pressure,in the fourth heat exchanger (4) where it receives heat from the heat transfer fluid, and joins the refrigerant flow from the second heat exchanger (2), the total flow (Qrl) formed circulates in the accumulation device (9) and returns to the compressor (7), - a first flow (Qcl) of heat transfer fluid circulates in a first circulation pump (21), and circulates in the heating device (30) where it receives heat, - a second flow (Qc2) of heat transfer fluid circulates in a second pump (22), circulates in a second element (26) of the traction chain, and joins the heat transfer fluid from the heating device (30), the total flow formed circulates successively in the fourth heat exchanger (4) where it releases heat to the refrigerant, in the fifth heat exchanger (5) where it receives heat from the outside air flow (Fe), and divides into: - the first flow (Qcl) of heat transfer fluid returning to the first pump (21),and - the second flow rate (Qc2) of heat transfer fluid returning to the second pump (22).

11. Method of operating a thermal conditioning system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 8 in combination

12. with claim 2, in a mode called "parallel dehumidification with assistance" in which: - a first flow (Qrl) of refrigerant circulates in the compressor (7) where it passes through a high pressure, and circulates in the main loop (A), successively in the first heat exchanger (1) where it transfers heat to the internal airflow (Fi), and divides into: — a second flow (Qr2) circulating in the main loop (A), successively in the first expansion valve (31) where it undergoes expansion and passes through a low pressure lower than the high pressure, in the second heat exchanger (2) where it receives heat from the internal airflow (Fi), and — a third flow (Qr3) circulating in the second bypass branch (C), successively in the second expansion valve (32) where it undergoes expansion and passes to low pressure, in the fourth exchanger (4) where it receives heat from the heat transfer fluid, and joins the flow of refrigerant fluid coming from the second exchanger (2), the total flow (Qrl) formed circulates in the accumulation device (9) and returns to the compressor (7), - a flow (Qcl) of heat transfer fluid circulates in a first circulation pump (21), and circulates in the heating device (30) where it receives heat, then circulates successively in the fourth exchanger (4) where it gives up heat to the refrigerant fluid, in the fifth exchanger (5) where it receives heat from the outside air flow (Fe) and returns to the first pump (21). Method of operating a thermal conditioning system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 8 in combination with claim 2, in a so-called "heat pump with assistance" mode in which: - a flow (Qr) of refrigerant fluid circulates in the compressor (7) where it passes through high pressure, and circulates in the main loop (A), successively in the first exchanger (1) where it gives up heat to the internal air flow (Fi), in the second expansion valve (32) where it undergoes expansion and passes through a low pressure lower than the high pressure, in the fourth exchanger (4) where it receives heat from the heat transfer fluid, in the accumulation device (9) and returns to the compressor (7), - a first flow (Qcl) of heat transfer fluid circulates in a first circulation pump (21), and circulates in the heating device (30) where it receives heat, - a second flow (Qc2) of heat transfer fluid circulates in a second circulation pump (22), circulates in a second element (26) of the traction chain, and joins the heat transfer fluid from the heating device (30). The total flow formed circulates successively in the fourth exchanger (4) where it transfers heat to the refrigerant, in the fifth exchanger (5) where it receives heat from the outside air flow (Fe), and is divided into: - the first flow rate (Qcl) of heat transfer fluid returning to the first pump (21), and - the second flow (Qc2) of heat transfer fluid returning to the second pump (22).

13. A method of operating a thermal conditioning system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 8 in combination with claim 2, in a so-called "heat pump with assistance" mode in which: - a flow (Qr) of refrigerant fluid circulates in the compressor (7) where it passes through high pressure, and circulates in the main loop (A), successively in the first exchanger (1) where it gives up heat to the internal air flow (Fi), in the second expansion valve (32) where it undergoes expansion and passes through a low pressure lower than the high pressure, in the fourth exchanger (4) where it receives heat from the heat transfer fluid, in the accumulation device (9) and returns to the compressor (7), - a flow (Qcl) of heat transfer fluid circulates in a first circulation pump (21), and circulates in the heating device (30) where it receives heat, then circulates successively in the fourth exchanger (4) where it gives up heat to the refrigerant fluid, in the fifth exchanger (5) where it receives heat from the outside air flow (Fe), and returns to the first pump (21).

14. A method of operating a thermal conditioning system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 8 in combination with claims 2 and 7, in a so-called "battery heating" mode in which: - a first flow (Qrl) of refrigerant circulates in the compressor (7) where it passes through high pressure, circulates in the main loop (A), and divides into: — a second flow (Qr2) circulating successively in the first exchanger (1), in the second expansion valve (32) where it undergoes expansion and passes to a low pressure lower than the high pressure, in the fourth exchanger (4) where it releases heat from the heat transfer fluid, and — a third flow (Qr3) circulating in the third bypass branch (D), in the third expansion valve (33) where it undergoes expansion and passes to low pressure, and joins the refrigerant fluid from the fourth exchanger (4), the total flow formed circulates in the accumulation device (9) and returns to the compressor (7), - a first flow (Qcl) of heat transfer fluid circulates in a first circulation pump (21), and circulates in the fourth exchanger (4) where it receives heat from the refrigerant, and returns to the first circulation pump (21), - a second flow (Qc2) of heat transfer fluid circulates in a second circulation pump (22), and circulates successively in a second element (26) of the traction chain, in the fifth exchanger (5), and returns to the second circulation pump (22).

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